A selection of new and relevant tracks that have recently left an impression on us!
Jordana – “Signs“
With its chilled vibes and lo-fi instrumentations “Signs” by Jordana reveals more and more with each listen. Lyrically and vocally on point, the song seamlessly floats out of the speakers filling a gap between Kate Nash and Clairo. Ostensibly about a real-life encounter with someone who allowed/allows astrology to determine their life, Jordana recounts the meeting with a knowing wink.
DoPlay – “Let You Go”
Back at the tail-end of 2020, we featured Princeton based artist DoPlay and his debut single “Games“. Back then we marvelled at the utter confidence the young artist exuded on what was, after all, his debut track. On the follow up “Let You Go” he opts for something a lot less brooding but in no way less sophisticated. Led by a Latin-leaning beat and some choice horn samples, the track turns up the sex appeal but doesn’t shake the “serious” songwriter form. With a mighty earworm of a chorus, this is more great work from an artist that is quickly rising in our estimations.
Dez Money – “Lost“
With its sparse instrumental and quasi haunting vocals “Lost” is a track that makes you turn your head. Within the body of his work, this is perhaps the most sparse composition, while still showcasing the Los Angeles artist’s penchant for dramatics. Superficially the lyrics are about being alone on a deserted island but on this one Dez Money explores themes of isolation which is particularly fitting given the recent pandemic. “Is there anybody out there?”
The Harmaleighs – “Don’t Panic“
The Harmaleighs is the Nashville based duo of Hayley Grant and Kaylee Jasperson. Their second album ‘She Won’t Make Sense’ is chock filled with little timeless indie gems that excel at the intersection of these two voices. Perhaps the standout moment is “Don’t Panic“, a track I’ve added to several playlists over the years. Despite its classy veneer the track deals with the serious topic of battling one’s inner demons, something Grant is all too familiar with, but it is a brave stance to take. Fans of Camera Obscura and Belle & Sebastian are sure to love this.
Ren x Chinchilla – “How to Be Me”
Over a minimally strummed guitar and a haunting cello line Ren and Chinchilla duel it out with intersecting vocals. The result is a crescendo of emotions that grabs the listeners attention and never really let’s go. The term cinematic is often overused but this track would not sit out of place in a dramatic plot twist scenario. I trust the big wigs at the movie/tv studios are already on it
