A selection of new and/or relevant Pop and Pop-leaning tracks that have recently left an impression on us. For the full playlist click here
ALIA – “I’m Getting Off”
Vulnerability and defiance dance hand in hand on ALIA‘s debut single, “I’m Getting Off“. Steven Young‘s minimalist guitar licks serve as a bewitching backdrop, allowing ALIA‘s dynamic vocals to shine through. At times, it evokes the ambience of a séance, drawing listeners into a realm beyond typical indie offerings, relying more on the embrace of raw emotions and intimacy. Originally released as a timely Christmas anthem, the song empathetically addresses some universal struggles. This message, however, should transcend the festive season and be adopted throughout the year. ALIA‘s expressive approach beckons, inviting audiences to embrace a delivery filled with emotions. If you are craving authenticity and melody in your life this is a track for you.
Mia Van De Loo –
In the enchanting world of Mia Van De Loo, the single “Fairytale” emerges with captivating charm. The track’s instrumental allure and sugar-sweet vocals evoke a Scandinavian vibe, a surprising twist when considering the artist’s Mashpee, MA origins. The minimalistic arrangement proves mesmerizing, with a vocal melody that delves into hypnotic realms. Choosing a standout from the EP was challenging, especially with the delightful contrast of “Lullaby.” This less tense piece featuring bare vocals and a ukulele, was deserving of a spot on my child’s goodnight playlist. Mia‘s EP, “Open Book,” solidifies her as one to watch, seamlessly blending vulnerability with musical finesse, and showcasing a distinctive voice among her contemporaries.
Eastborough – “Tommy T”
Eastborough‘s “Tommy T” takes a refreshing dive into the indie-pop pool, oozing cool from the get-go. Stefanie Guzman, the Canadian artist behind the alias, makes a triumphant return from a self-imposed hiatus following the dissolution of her marriage. Armed with this knowledge, I was pleasantly charmed by the infectious optimism radiating through the speakers. The track personifies the butterflies felt in a budding romance. Imagine Hayley Williams mingling with Emily Hanes at a chic soirée—this is the music playing in their minds. With the full album ‘Year 0‘, Eastborough signals her re-entry into the Canadian (and global!) musical landscape. “Tommy T” stands as her eloquent anthem.
Rina Sawayama – “Flavour of The Month“
Rina Sawayama dropped her latest track “Flavour of The Month,” a new recording tacked onto the deluxe edition of her 2022 album “Hold The Girl.” The Japanese-British singer has accustomed us to tasty sonic treats with the occasional sour sting and this track is yet another sweet from her seemingly endless pick-n-mix bag. Produced by Rich Cooper, this pop treat is as smooth as melting chocolate, leaving a lingering sweetness on the tongue. Sawayama‘s vocals are a tantalising sugary blend as she bakes up a tale of fleeting love. Much like unwrapping a tasty treat, you’ve yet to try. Sawayama crafts a sonic sugar rush that is bad for your teeth but a delight for the ears.
Haux – “Senna”
In Haux‘s latest, “Senna,” the delicate charm of his earlier “Claire De Lune” single persists, now with a subtle uptempo twist. The quasi-whispered vocals elevate as the song progresses, a journey akin to Haux‘s own escape from the chaos of Los Angeles, vividly described as a place where the stars hide and movie stars live in elusive seclusion. This atmospheric single, part of the upcoming album ‘Blue Angeles‘, captures a moment of clarity, a light bulb going off in Woodson Black‘s mind, urging him to get out of the city of angels. Haux‘s introspective lyricism and dreamy falsetto continue to deliver poignant listening experiences.
