Welcome to 'Weekly Favorites' – my brand new Monday roundup of the tracks that have captured my attention over the past week. With several new albums released and a busy week of music exploration, I've compiled my top picks from May 13-20. Here are the songs that stood out to me this past week.
Together by DJ Premier & Chance the Rapper
A collaboration many wondered why it didn't happen earlier, Chance the Rapper continues his streak with his latest three singles, all of which have been very well received. This track, in particular, is a poetic piece—a beautiful ode to family. The delivery is laid-back yet effectively conveys its message.
FromHere by NxWorries
NxWorries (pronounced "no worries") is a dynamic duo composed of recording artist Anderson .Paak and record producer Knxwledge. Their latest track features Snoop Dogg and October London, presenting a compelling Neo-Soul piece that resonated with me from the very first beat. I am eagerly anticipating their upcoming album, "WHY LAWD?".
Outubro by Esperanza Spalding & Milton Nascimento
This highly underrated track is a superb Neo-Soul piece by Esperanza Spalding and Brazilian singer-songwriter Milton Nascimento, also known as Bituca. It’s a truly moving and heartwarming song. I am very much looking forward to their upcoming album, "Milton + Esperanza".
Honey by Troye Sivan
Troye Sivan is back with a new single, “Honey,” which sounds just as sweet and lovely as its title suggests. It really makes me want to fall in love again. While the production could be better, overall it’s a very catchy tune that stayed with me this week.
Dispose Of Me by Omar Apollo
This is a smooth track that showcases Omar Apollo’s vocals in the best light possible. I much prefer this one to his previous release, and it has heightened my anticipation for his upcoming album, "GOD SAID NO." Apollo's ability to blend soulful melodies with emotive lyrics makes this track a standout for this week.
2009 by Carb on Carb
Carb on Carb is my latest discovery, and I’m really pleased with what I’ve heard so far. This track is from their new album, 'Take Time', which I have replayed a few times since I first heard it a few days ago. I would recommend giving this album a try if you prefer emo records.
Neon Pill by Cage the Elephant
The latest album by Cage the Elephant, 'Neon Pill,' continues their track record of decent but not quite exceptional music. While there are a few catchy songs on the album, this one in particular stood out to me.
L'AMOUR DE MA VIE by Billie Eilish
The latest album by Billie Eilish, 'HIT ME HARD AND SOFT,' is something I would like to discuss in depth at a later time. However, for now, I can say that I was pleasantly surprised by the maturity and sound she presented. The production is top-notch, and the tracks are quite catchy. 'L'AMOUR DE MA VIE' stood out to me the most, particularly with its outro, which took a whole different turn that I really enjoyed and have continued to replay.
Floating on a Moment by Beth Gibbons
What an exceptional creation! This album (Lives Outgrown) truly enhanced my admiration for Beth Gibbons, if that's even possible. This blend of Chamber Folk, Art Rock, and Singer-Songwriter styles offers something raw and profoundly beautiful. Inspired by deep grief and trauma, these songs immerse us in autumnal weariness yet occasionally illuminate with enthusiasm and light. Among them, 'Floating on a Moment' stands out as my favorite.
Samurai by Lupe Fiasco
This brief glimpse of the upcoming album 'Samurai' has left me eager for more. As a devoted Hip Hop enthusiast, I am eagerly anticipating its release, especially considering that this year has seen a relatively sparse selection of Hip Hop albums. However, this single promises exciting things to come.
A Psychic Wound and Feast Of Tongues by Los Campesinos!
Another album I am eagerly anticipating is 'All Hell,' set to release in July 19. With two singles already released, which I've thoroughly enjoyed and have continuously played, I am excited about what the full album will offer. If you haven't yet discovered Los Campesinos! and you appreciate indie music, I highly recommend giving them a listen.
I Don't Fear Hell by Shellac
As the final record to feature Steve Albini, this remarkable blend of noise, post-hardcore, and math rock encapsulates everything I love about rock music. It's modest, straightforward, and effectively delivers its message. 'I Don't Fear Hell' particularly stood out to me, despite its dark connotations considering the circumstances.
Genie by Crumb
'AMAMA' is the latest album by Crumb, an indie band from Brooklyn. This somber mix of psychedelic music and dream pop has truly enhanced my mornings. With engrossing vocals, far-out rhythms, and psychedelic melodies, the band has crafted an original sound that is delightful to listen to. 'Genie' is my favorite track at the moment.
COPY COLD by Mach-Hommy with Black Thought feat. Quelle Chris
#RICHAXXHAITIAN is the latest masterpiece by Mach-Hommy, one of the most underrated rappers of all time. Hip hop enthusiasts have a strong contender for Album of the Year with this release. 'COPY COLD' stands out as my favorite track from the album.
The Heart by Lip Critic
'Hex Dealer' is the latest album by the alternative/indie band Lip Critic. This album is a blend of digital hardcore, synth, hardcore punk, experimental, and industrial hip hop, providing a frantic musical experience. 'The Heart' is my favorite track so far.
With Disease by Pallbearer
Pallbearer has returned with an inspiring album, 'Mind Burns Alive.' It is a blend of doom metal, progressive rock, and slowcore. Pallbearer has crafted a sophisticated and captivating record, solidifying their place as one of modern metal's most innovative and distinctive acts. 'With Disease' is my favorite track.
Back In My Bag by Rapsody
'Please Don't Cry' is the newest album by Rapsody. This record is a compelling journey of self-empowerment and might be her most comprehensive work yet. It features a well-balanced blend of hip hop, neo-soul, and jazz. 'Back In My Bag' is one of my favorite tracks from the album.
Giant's Despair by One Step Closer
I really appreciate the work One Step Closer put into their latest record, 'All You Embrace.' This album signifies a clear advancement for the band in every respect. Although there's still room for growth, they demonstrate remarkable potential and offer more variety than in their previous projects. The track 'Giant's Despair' resonated with me the most.
My Mood Wave by The Lovely Eggs
The latest noise pop release from The Lovely Eggs may come across as a bit amateurish, trippy, or even psychedelic, but it's undeniably fun to listen to. 'My Mood Wave' is my favorite track.
Forever Now by The Avett Brothers
The Avett Brothers' self-titled latest album feels somewhat underwhelming, yet it's still a solid effort from the American folk rock band from Concord, North Carolina. The track "Forever Now" resonated with me perhaps even more than the rest of the album.
Gordon, WI by Rous.
"God Plays His Piano Drone" has quickly become one of my favorite records of the past week, or possibly even the month. This blend of dream pop, shoegaze, and piano rock truly captivated me and introduced me to Rous. I'm eagerly anticipating more music from this newcomer. The track "Gordon, WI" left the strongest impression on me.
Scared by Joywave
Permanent Pleasure" represents the latest offering from this indie rock band hailing from Rochester, New York, formed in 2010. Conceptually, the album is refreshingly unconstrained, allowing for a more creatively freeform approach. This results in moments of innovation within its sound palette. "Scared" stood out to me as my favorite track.
Bull's Eye by Manapart
"Bull's Eye" marks the latest single release from Manapart, a metal band that seamlessly blends the familiar sound of Nu Metal with ethnic Armenian melodies. This newest single stays true to their distinctive style and characteristics, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying it.
The past week was brimming with new releases from already popular artists and plenty of indie gems that truly caught my attention. How has your week been? What old or new music have you been listening to?