A selection of new and/or relevant Pop leaning tracks that have recently left an impression on us!
Angela Sclafani – “Make A Monster“
Angela Sclafani‘s track “Make A Monster” is undoubtedly pop, although it admittedly leans more towards the indie side of things in comparison to most of the selections on this list. Parallels can be drawn to fellow New Yorker Regina Spektor, but in contrast to her, the track is less focused on piano dexterity and more on the melodic balance of the song with a slightly distorted guitar in the background further serving to distinguish the track from contemporary releases. “Make A Monster” is taken from the fabulous ‘History’ EP
Raymond Revel – “Quicksand“
While researching an upcoming introducing Raymond Revel I found myself returning over and over to “Quicksand“. While the track feels like a bit of an outlier when viewed in the context of the California native’s more recent discography I was drawn to the hypnotic bassline, the out-front vocals and the playful melodies. Yet another gem in the singer-songwriter’s repertoire.
Sarah Carton – “Beaches On The Thames“
When I first set eyes on the cover and title of “Beaches On The Thames” I was unsure about what this was going to sound like but I was expecting something quite atmospheric. Clicking the play button was a revelation. Over an old-timey sounding piano sample and a repetitious beat, Sarah Carton delivers each line carefully like she is clarifying her thoughts by putting them out there. Undoubtedly this track feels like a product of lockdown simultaneously conveying the anxiety of isolation and unwavering hope that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Comparisons with The Streets and Kate Tempest are already been made and lyrically this is quite apt. From a production perspective, we hear a lot of blog-hero George Pringle in this too.
Nouel – “Milky Way“
Nouel describes her own sound as “sleepy folk” and while that label certainly fits her debut also hints at so much more. Built on a nuanced setup of piano, acoustic guitars and brush-stroked drums the track is elegant throughout with the Swedish singer-songwriter’s lyrics seemingly floating through the air. Despite the track dealing with loss, or at the very least the feeling of longing, the gentle vocals manage to feel welcoming and embracing. Simply put, “Milky Way” is a gorgeous track that will make you want to pick up the phone to connect with a long lost friend.
DENM – “Bless Your Heart (Acoustic)”
The OG version of “Bless Your Heart” is a rhythmically strong track that is built on a strong vocal melody and a relentless beat. Though it sounds counterintuitive the acoustic version he released in the same period turns the aforementioned vocal into a whisper yet retains all of the magic of the original. This version is ideal for the inevitable comedown.
