This week’s New Music Friday is nearly overwhelming. The amount of sex, seduction and raw power coming from artists only further proves the pandemic’s innate inspiration for creators across the globe. From R&B candy to blink and you miss them Hip Hop one-liners, this week has been nothing but juice.
Album(s) of the Week:
JAGUAR – Victoria Monét
At long last, co-writer and friend of thank u, next and Ariana Grande, respectively, Victoria Monét delivers her album JAGUAR. Vocally versatile, superior in lyricism, and enveloping in sex appeal, the concise collection is just about all Monét needs to break out.
For fans of: Ariana Grande, Khalid, SZA
Limbo – Aminé
Aminé’s latest album is miles away from the sound of his debut GoodForYou. Largely constructed around the most popular hip hop renderings of the last few years, Aminé pushes himself with a more personal, at times compellingly languid, project. Deeper and more personal, it adds depth to an artist some may only know from his surface level singles.
For fans of: J.Cole, Juice WRLD
Dreamland – Glass Animals
Sad, introspective and thoughtful, Dreamland is another album that will go on to mark the times it was created in. Like how i’m feeling now and Women in Music, Pt. III before it, the album takes an approach unique to isolation and it’s impact on the psyche. The results are extremely worth it.
For fans of: Mac DeMarco, Tame Impala
Single(s) of the Week:
“WAP (feat. Megan Thee Stallion)” – Cardi B
Perhaps Cardi B’s most aggressively explicit single to date, “WAP” is the long awaited collaboration from the rapper and fellow rising star Megan Thee Stallion. Not only a hilarious and abrasive song, it’s also a smart business move for both women.
For fans of: Nicki Minaj, MIGOS
“Daylight” – Joji, Diplo
An unexpected delight, “Daylight” combines the forces of Joji and prolific producer Diplo. The song is very reminiscent of the latter’s EP California, backing melancholic lyrics with the sunny disposition that permeated throughout the aforementioned project. Another gem in a summer of incredible one-offs.
For fans of: Dominic Fike, Jaden
“Impact (feat. Robyn, Channel Tres)” – SG Lewis
The left field collaborations continue this week with this trio. Dancepop’s Robyn, house’s Channel Tres, and EDM’s SG Lewis join forces for a single that blends the sounds of each artist in a mostly successful manner. Though maybe overpacked, its another strong track from SG Lewis.
For fans of: RÜFÜS DU SOL, Jai Wolf
“Monte Carlo” – Remi Wolf
Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow! Remi Wolf doesn’t sleep. Shortly after releasing her absolute smash of an EP I’m Allergic To Dogs! the creative songstress returns for a hip hop inspired jam chock full of zingers and enough charisma to make this one of a kind artist a superstar.
For fans of: Mk.gee, Ryan Beatty
“Rager teenager!” – Troye Sivan
A huge improvement over his last single “Easy,” “Rager teenager!” returns Sivan to the world of “Take Yourself Home.” Definitely inspired by his frequent collaborator Charli XCX, the single blends the complexities of the emotional spectrum through dual lyrics that feel equal parts euphoric and depressing.
For fans of: Charli XCX, FINNEAS
“Acquí Yo Mando” – Kali Uchis, Rico Nasty
Kali Uchis continues down the Spanish language route to much success. After she dropped the astonishing “Solita,” the singer enlists Rico Nasty for another absolute banger. It will be incredibly interesting to see if this sound dominates her forthcoming second LP.
For fans of: Rosalía, Jorja Smith
“What U Need” – JoJo
JoJo, an often under the radar R&B/Pop force, has delivered yet again. Similar in style to her recent subtle hit “Man,” “What U Need’ is sultry, sexy and a lot of fun. JoJo deserves the comeback she’s worked so hard for.
For fans of: Cassie, Ciara
“BACK FOR ME” – Reece
Reece continues the narrative of “Boy Don’t Cry” on his latest single “BACK FOR ME;” this time with more confidence and closure. “BACK FOR ME” is a dominant kiss off to a partner who clearly regrets his decisions. Only broadened by its production, the lyricism and vocals are another showcase of an artist ready to take his audience to the next level.
For fans of: Troye Sivan, BROCKHAMPTON, FINNEAS
