New Music Releases
The music industry has been abuzz with the latest releases, from Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ album to Jack White’s surprise album ‘No Name’. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most notable new music releases, from established artists to newcomers.
Charli XCX – "Guess"
Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ album has transformed from a clubby cult classic to a mainstream phenomenon, with its sense of cool and galactic power sparking discussion on its potential impact on the presidential election. The latest remix, "Guess", features Billie Eilish, and is a testament to Charli’s mission to keep it light and fun, despite the new patina of Importance. The song is a playful, flirtatious track with a catchy electroclash beat and a wink to Daft Punk’s "Technologic".
Okaidja Afroso – "Àbòr Édiń"
Okaidja Afroso, a Ghanaian singer-songwriter, has released a new album, "Àbòr Édiń", which showcases his childhood language, Gãdangmé, and his mastery of modern technology and cultural fusions. The six-beat handclaps and bass riffs of "Kasoa" draw inspiration from Moroccan gnawa music, while the vocal harmonies exult in computerized multitracking.
Yemi Alade – "Tomorrow"
Yemi Alade, a Nigerian songwriter, has made it her mission to draw on languages and styles from across Africa and beyond. "Tomorrow" is a burst of optimism with a seize-the-moment spirit, featuring a fusion of Nigerian Afrobeats, South African amapiano, and rich South African-style choral harmonies.
ASAP Rocky – "Jessica Pratt"
ASAP Rocky has teamed up with retro-leaning folk singer-songwriter Jessica Pratt on a new track that’s a natural evolution of the early 2010s’ sampling of Beach House. The song features a sing-songy beat, catchy guitar riffs, and a misty, atmospheric croon.
Jane’s Addiction – "Imminent Redemption"
Perry Farrell has revived Jane’s Addiction with the original lineup, releasing a new song, "Imminent Redemption", that’s a blatant, canny, and noisy 1990s nostalgia trip. The video uses vintage concert footage, and the song features a rumbling drumbeat, echoey guitar swoops, and a hint of mischief.
Jack White – "That’s How I’m Feeling"
Jack White’s surprise album, "No Name", is a throwback to classic rock, with brawny riffs, vocals that work themselves up to hysteria, and production that’s noisy and immediate. "That’s How I’m Feeling" is a four-chord stomp about staving off self-doubt, with distorted guitar sounds and a dash of theology.
Miranda Lambert – "Alimony"
Miranda Lambert enforces marital fidelity with her twangy, traditionalist honky-tonk shuffle, "Alimony". She warns that a straying spouse will find himself not only impoverished but on the losing side of a Texas pun.
MJ Lenderman – "Joker Lips"
MJ Lenderman’s off-kilter observations are enveloped in a haze of melancholy, but there’s a comforting, wool-blanket warmth to the tone of his guitar and the broken croak of his voice. "Joker Lips" is a wry, laid-back tune with a hint of woolly socks.
Kacey Musgraves – "Irish Goodbye"
Kacey Musgraves has released a new song, "Irish Goodbye", which is a call for forgiveness and solidarity carried by a steadfast bass vamp and muffled drums, with a backdrop of echoey guitars and hints of distant sirens.
Meshell Ndegeocello – "Trouble"
Released on what would have been James Baldwin’s 100th birthday, Meshell Ndegeocello’s new album, "No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin", gathers musicians and poets for an audio sequel to a musical theater work she created in 2016. Structured as a ritual, the album features spoken-word interludes and multiple lead singers, with "Trouble" standing out as a call for perseverance and solidarity.
Seefeel – "Sky Hooks"
Seefeel, an English band, has emerged with a new song, "Sky Hooks", which previews their first album since 2011, "Everything Squared". The track features hypnotic loops, austere beats, and distorted guitar textures, creating an eerie and amorphous atmosphere.
Conclusion
This month’s new music releases have shown a diverse range of styles, from retro-leaning folk to African fusions, and from 1990s nostalgia to electronic experimentation. These releases demonstrate the creativity and versatility of the music industry, with established artists and newcomers pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds.
FAQs
Q: Who is Charli XCX?
A: Charli XCX is a British singer-songwriter and record producer known for her experimental and eclectic style.
Q: What is the significance of James Baldwin’s birthday in Meshell Ndegeocello’s new album?
A: James Baldwin’s 100th birthday marks a milestone in American literary and civil rights history, and Meshell Ndegeocello’s album "No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin" honors his legacy by gathering musicians and poets to create an audio sequel to a musical theater work.
Q: What is the common thread among the new music releases?
A: The new music releases showcase a sense of experimentation, exploration, and creativity, whether it’s retro-leaning folk, African fusions, or electronic experimentation.
Q: Who is Kacey Musgraves?
A: Kacey Musgraves is an American country pop singer-songwriter known for her critically acclaimed albums and poignant songwriting.
Q: What is the significance of the "Irish Goodbye"?
A: The "Irish Goodbye" is a term that refers to a silent, unannounced departure, and Kacey Musgraves’ song "Irish Goodbye" explores the theme of forgiveness and solidarity.
