Check out buzz’s picks for the top 10 new music releases of the past week, updated weekly. The list consists of the best songs, albums, EPs and music videos from all genres of music. Feel free to let us know if we missed anything.
“take me by the hand” — Oklou ft. Bladee
“take me by the hand” is the newest single from French musician Oklou’s upcoming album, “choke enough.” It’s an otherworldly track composed of hypnotic electronic instrumentation and warbled autotune. Dance-pop, mixed with electronica, creates a shimmering pop song, with Bladee adding a dream-like aspect that enhances the overall atmosphere.
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
“Keep Me Satisfied” — Jungle
Jungle is back with vibrant melodies, expressive lyrics and fluid instrumentation in its newest single, “Keep Me Satisfied.” The song encapsulates the pulsing groove of its last album, “Volcano,” which recently earned the trio a BRIT Award for Best Group. The funky rhythm and sleek vocals invite listeners to express their energy on the dance floor.
“LIE DOWN..” — Saya Gray
In October, Saya Gray announced the release of her upcoming album, “SAYA,” which will drop on Feb. 21. She recently released the newest single off of this album, “LIE DOWN..,” a mellow song enhanced by Gray’s soothing vocals. The song has a quiet presence, basking in the reserved melody of the guitar and gentle taps of the percussion. Just over five minutes long, it takes on a reflective tone, with Gray ruminating on love and desire.
“Trouble” — Sharon Van Etten
“Trouble” is the newest single from Sharon Van Etten’s anticipated album, “Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory,” which comes out in early February. The song has an ethereal quality, with velvety synths and a delicate bassline. In an Instagram post, Van Etten describes the song as being “about the idea of having to coexist with people you love who have opposing views… .” Van Etten’s husky voice further enhances the song’s delicacy, which creates something that exudes beauty in its fragility.
“Bear Trap” — MIKE
New York songwriter, rapper and producer MIKE is known for his hazy beats and illusive rapping quality. His newest single, “Bear Trap,” highlights MIKE’s abilities as a rapper and his musical evolution over the years. The song sees MIKE at his most vulnerable, rapping about his feelings of isolation and helplessness over a laid-back beat. “Bear Trap” is the newest single from his latest album “Showbiz!,” set to be released Jan. 31.
“Slow Motion” — Marshmello, Jonas Brothers
Their second track together after their 2021 hit “Leave Before You Love Me,” “Slow Motion” sees the Jonas Brothers collaborating with the faceless DJ for a quick but sweet single. Twenty years after their formation in 2005, the Jonas Brothers show no sign of slowing down as they plan to kick off their official anniversary tour later this year.
“Ankles” — Lucy Dacus
Lucy Dacus debuted the single off her upcoming album on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on Wednesday, with a music video dropping right after. “Ankles” brings modern music and visuals together with an older, grander energy. The percussive strings in the background of the track give Dacus a unique and original sound, further showing her strength as she performs again for the first time since touring with her band, boygenius.
“Focus” — John Summit ft. CLOVES
The former University student collaborated with Australian singer-songwriter CLOVES to create a catchy EDM track. John Summit wrote in an Instagram caption, “I haven’t been this hyped about a single in a while,” and that while the song has a “chiller vibe” than his usual high-energy beats, the excitement surrounding it brought something special. CLOVES complements Summit’s musicianship well, making it a unique track for both of their discographies.
“Rushmere” — Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons prepare to drop their first album in seven years with leading single and title track “Rushmere.” It will be the band’s first album without banjo player Winston Marshall, who left the group in 2021. A heartwarming music video accompanied the single, on which the group commented, “I think this has been the most prolific two years we’ve ever had as a band.”
“It’s a Mirror” — Perfume Genius
Ahead of his new album “Glory,” Perfume Genius has released the single “It’s a Mirror,” representing a mental spiral of unchanging thoughts. The track presents a strong start for the singer, who is preparing to go on tour this summer. Exploring various styles and genres, the song almost has a country twang, an entirely different vibe for the alternative artist.