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.
“Moonlit Floor” — LISA
LISA’s new single “Moonlit Floor” is a short, funky dance tune that anyone can enjoy. The chorus is immediately recognizable as an interpolation of “Kiss Me” by alt-rock band Sixpence None The Richer. A vibrating synth and solid pop beat accompany LISA’s airy voice, creating an addictive and fulfilling experience.
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“Even (with Cat Burns)” — Rachel Chinouriri, Cat Burns
Chinouriri and Burns fixate on a classic rock vibe in their new single “Even.” A stirring chord progression and steady drums are reminiscent of Olivia Rodrigo’s popular breakup ballads, albeit with both artists retaining their unique voices. It’s emotional and uplifting, transporting the listener to a world of drama, love and strength.
“The Hard Quartet” — The Hard Quartet
The Hard Quartets’s self-titled debut album is an enjoyable, conversational album consisting of jagged guitar ballads and crisp vocals. The quartet is comprised of Pavement’s Stephen Malkmus, Chavez’s Matt Sweeney, Dirty Three’s Jim White and the Cairo Gang’s Emmett Kelly, creating an all-star alternative rock ensemble. The band encompasses a frayed indie-rock feel, with off-kilter melodies and sharp lyricism.
“Got a Story to Tell” — Thee Sacred Souls
Thee Sacred Souls encompass a captivating retro sound, overflowing with warmth and old-school charm. On their newest album, “Got a Story to Tell,” lust-filled vocals intertwine with rippling strings and vibrant harmonies to create a swirling and timeless display of soulful storytelling and emotional depth.
“After the First Kiss” — Faye Webster
Sprawling instrumentation and Faye Webster’s soft, melodious voice guide her newest single “After the First Kiss.” The song lends itself to a softer melody as Webster’s vocals delicately intertwine with the soft piano melody and steady drumbeat. The hypnotic repetition of the lyrics and the delicacy of Webster’s voice transforms the song into a fragile display of love and yearning.
“Cutouts” — The Smile
The Smile is a joint project from Radiohead’s Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood, and Sons of Kemet drummer Tom Skinner. The album evokes the familiar, foreboding, sound of Radiohead with diverse textures and discordant harmonies. Yorke’s silky falsetto is met with a dissonant whirlwind of instrumentation creating a jangling union of sounds similar to Radiohead’s “Kid A.” “Cutouts” is a prime example of the sonic greatness that comes from the likes of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood and Tom Skinner.
“Leon” — Leon Bridges
In his new album “Leon,” Leon Bridges synthesizes his unique voice within the genre of R&B. The album’s dynamic and soft instrumentals partner Bridges’ melodic and smooth vocals to create a mellow, charming product. Fantastic production that perfectly matches each song’s theme truly solidifies this album’s individualistic nature.
“The New Sound” — Geordie Greep
Black Midi’s Geordie Greep released his solo debut album “The New Sound,” a visceral experience of spiraling experimental sounds and textures. It’s weird and expressive, fusing together genres and breaking down barriers. It’s goading and impressive in its boldness and unpredictability, showcasing the depths of Greep’s creativity.
“Jaguar II: Deluxe” — Victoria Monét
Featuring 10 more songs in addition to the original’s 11, “Jaguar II: Deluxe” delivers more of the signature funk and R&B that Victoria Monét has become known for, along with some new, successful experimenting. The new songs on the album are groovy, captivating and even jazzy, and Monét transitions between styles while retaining her shockingly powerful voice. Anyone who was a fan of the original will find more to love here.
“Acadia” — Yasmin Williams
Guitarist Yasmin Williams delves deep into a wide range of folk music in her newest release “Acadia.” The songs are all layered with a complex assortment of melodies and beats, and William’s instrumentals dance across the top to create a surreal listening experience. The music clearly has influences from traditional folk but also utilizes interesting effects like subtle reverb to create a futuristic and fluid feel.
