Navigating the ever-expansive realm of new music can feel like a Herculean task. With a deluge of weekly releases, from full albums to daily singles, it’s easy for gems to slip through the cracks. Fear not, music enthusiasts – every Monday, we curate a roundup of the week’s standout tracks that demand your attention.
This week brought unexpected drops from heavyweights Drake and André 3000, making it a stellar week for music aficionados. Let’s dive into the musical highlights that deserve a spot on your playlist.
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Drake — “Evil Ways” Feat. J. Cole
In a week that proved bountiful for fans of dynamic collaborations, Drake and J. Cole stole the spotlight. Following the release of the video for “First Person Shooter,” the duo surprised fans with a fresh joint effort on For All The Dogs Scary Hours Edition. The result? The lively and self-congratulatory track, “Evil Ways.”
André 3000 — “I swear, I Really Wanted To Make A “Rap” Album But This Is Literally The Way The Wind Blew Me This Time”
The return of André 3000, the revered Outkast member, is a musical event to savor. While some may find it surprising, his latest project, New Blue Sun, takes a departure from rap. Embracing instrumentals and a flute-focused approach, André 3000 delivers a sonically adventurous experience once you move beyond expectations.
BIBI and Becky G — “Amigos”
Last week witnessed a cross-genre collaboration as K-pop star BIBI and Latin music icon Becky G joined forces on “Amigos.” While stylistically more aligned with Becky’s signature sound, the track showcases the strengths of both artists, creating a harmonious fusion.
Tate McRae — “Exes”
Fresh off her Saturday Night Live appearance, Tate McRae is riding high. Beyond the SNL stage, she announced a new album, unveiled a 2024 tour, and dropped “Exes,” a pure-pop gem signaling her evolution and departure from past relationships.
Daft Punk — “Lose Yourself To Dance (Drumless Edition)” Feat. Pharrell Williams
For those enchanted by Daft Punk but averse to drum-heavy tracks, rejoice. The defunct French duo presents a “Drumless Edition” of Random Access Memories, providing a unique perspective on classics like “Lose Yourself To Dance” and redefining their iconic sound.
Bleachers — “Alma Mater”
Jack Antonoff’s Bleachers make a bold statement with a non-debut self-titled album. Collaborating with Lana Del Rey on the lead single, “Alma Mater,” they craft a meditative, mid-tempo track that sets the tone for the upcoming LP.
The Smile — “Wall Of Eyes”
While Radiohead takes a back seat, Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood’s side project, The Smile, takes center stage. With a debut album in 2022 and a second one on the horizon, the recently announced “Wall Of Eyes” LP, accompanied by the eerie title track, ensures their prolific presence.
Sabrina Carpenter — “Cindy Lou Who”
Holiday traditions get a fresh injection as Sabrina Carpenter introduces new songs on her “Fruitcake” LP. Drawing inspiration from the iconic “How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Cindy Lou Who” is a brief, evocative, and emotionally charged ballad.
Tyla and Travis Scott — “Water (Remix)”
South African sensation Tyla’s breakout year continues with the success of “Water.” Taking it a notch higher, she recruits Travis Scott for a smooth remix, elevating the track to new heights.
MJ Lenderman — “Hangover Game (Live)”
MJ Lenderman, with his recent live album “And The Wind (Live And Loose!),” offers a masterclass in concert energy. He shares insights into the dynamics that make a live album unforgettable – a fusion of audience enjoyment and band camaraderie.
Stay tuned for your weekly dose of musical discoveries, where we sift through the noise to bring you the gems that define the ever-evolving landscape of sound.
