New music Monday: February 8, 2020
Each week the content writers for KCPR.org are going to publish a playlist containing a new song recommendation from each of them.
1. WHAT A DAY – BEN HOWARD
Recommended by: Eden Baker
As the weather chills out, it is important to focus on keeping your spirits up. In this Jack Johnson/Jason Mraz-esque single, Ben Howard uses upbeat lyrics and melody to remind listeners of the positivity in the world around them. I would recommend this song to anyone who is stressed or sad and just needs to take a minute to remind themselves of the beauty in the world around them.
2. Good Grief – Hayley Williams
Recommended by: Sophia Pattison
This is such a beautiful song off of Williams’ new album. It is about losing someone and trying to accept what is now gone. The lyrics really depict what one might be feeling after a loss even to those who have never lost something before. It is a slow and soft song that is soothing to listen to but might be sharp to hear.
3. Tally-Ho – Psychedelic Porn Crumpets
Recommended by: Evan Gattuso
Jack McEwan, the frontman for Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, stated that he wanted the band’s new album “SHYGA! The Sunlight Mound” to be “one big lift.” The album’s second song, “Tally-Ho,” provides that euphoric come-up, similar to a high-speed, windows-down joyride on Highway 1. “Tally-Ho” also teases the trippy and eccentric glitchiness that prevails later in the album. Watch the claymation music video for the full experience.
4. Cludder – JID
Recommended by: Lilly Leif
This was a track that JID performed during some of his virtual concerts that are now on streaming services. It features JID with his usual wit over a hard hitting piano. Fans are hoping the release of this track indicates a new JID album in the works.
5. The Way I Like You – Sadie
Recommended by: Jenna McCarthy
Sadie’s voice in and of itself already makes me want to cry from the sheer fact that I could never produce the sounds she does so effortlessly. Produced in her bedroom, this bubbly single reminds you of how it feels to have a crush on someone new.
6. Velvet Leaves – Puma Blue
Recommended by: M. Alex De La Cruz
The young UK singer transforms an airy indie pop melody into a teary-eyed soul ballad before our very ears on “Velvet Leaves.” He then announced the release of his newest full length, “In Praise of Shadows.” The mellow keys and his soft voice are almost enough to induce a trance, then the listener is jolted to life by energetic drums and jazzy guitar strums.
7. The Kids We Knew – Rostam
Recommended by: Kallie Kidder
As a long-time Rostam fan, the release of his latest single “The Kids We Knew” had me ecstatic. This song has a really laid-back, sunshine feeling – one that is perfect for cruising with the windows down. Rostam wrote the track while recovering from Covid-19 last year and he has shared about how different generations have responded and/or will respond to climate change.
8. Social Debris – Alice Cooper
Recommended by: Emily Brower
Alice Cooper continues to release music that is socially and politically charged, while still holding true to his rebellious routes. Cooper maintains his classic hard rock sound while also incorporating updated beats and lyrics.
9. Jus Know – PARTYNEXTDOOR ft.Travis Scott
Recommended by: Alina Jafri
This song is a part of PARTYNEXTDOOR’s album that just came out. The instrumentals used in the song make it feel like they’re echoing in your head. The song fits his tendency of transporting you to another reality.
10. Chasing Birds – Foo Fighters
Recommended by: Tessa Hughes
“Chasing Birds” is the slowest song off of the Foo Fighter’s newest album “Medicine at Midnight.” While the whole album feels relatively experimental, this one is stands out because of prevalent drum rhythms that end up giving it almost a smooth jazz feel. It keeps this relaxed melody throughout and never picks up, which is, again, untraditional for the band.
11. Do U Mind? (Leave the Light On) – Fleece
Recommended by: Jaxon Silva
For starters, this a very smooth bedroom pop track and is great for lounging around while you are stuck inside with your quarantine vibes. However, it’s also warm too – which generates a very coalescent feeling that’s sweet to be around.
