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We’ve put together a list of some of the best music releases of the past month. Take a look at our faves, and check them out on Apple Music!
365 – Katy Perry & Zedd
Katy Perry makes her pop comeback with her new collaboration with Zedd – “365”, and doesn’t disappoint. The feel-good earworm of a track begins with a bouncy, electronic beat as Katy seemingly enters a new era of music, sounding vocally incredible – better than ever before, in fact. Luckily, the song doesn’t sound like every other Zedd song the producer has released in recent memory; the way that they’ve combined forces to create a song that showcases the individual genres we’ve came to love from both the artists is a true statement to their creativity. One thing I have to point out about the record is the hook – it’s incredible, one of the most infectious I’ve heard in recent years; it seems old school Katy Perry is back, and sure to take the charts by storm.
thank u, next – Ariana Grande
Six months after the release of Sweetener, Ariana Grande returns with her fifth studio album, thank u, next. Shortly after Sweetener‘s release, Grande’s world began to crumble, breaking off her engagement to fiancé Pete Davidson, shortly after the death of ex-boyfriend Mac Miller. The album is a glorious pop rush, staying sonically consistent throughout – I’d consider over half the track list as standout tracks. “NASA” is an excellent space-oddity bop about Grande’s orbit, while the dancehall-tinged “bloodline” posits the idea that perhaps getting engaged after a few months isn’t essential, and “ghostin” is a heart-breaking electro-tinged ballad that is gorgeously intimate amongst otherwise mostly upbeat songs. While Sweetener was a wide-scale pop statement from a pop superstar, thank u, next is a real woman going through her emotions – and sounding incredible doing so.
Handmade Heaven – Marina
Marina ended her four-year hiatus from music with a bold and gorgeous new single, “Handmade Heaven”, a first taste of what’s to come from her forthcoming studio album LOVE + FEAR releasing in April. It’s a different direction than I expected from Marina (who recently dropped the ‘and the diamonds’ from her name), but I absolutely love it. The track is a melodic pop ballad with very cinematic production, that sonically lingers somewhere between Electra Heart and The Family Jewels eras, while also seeming to elevate her sound and cite influence from her friend Lana Del Ray. Although the song isn’t anywhere near as commercial as her previous singles like “Primadonna”, it’s something her fans will cherish.
I’m So Tired – Lauv and Troye Sivan
Rising pop singer/songwriter Lauv teams up with Troye Sivan for the charismatic “I’m So Tired”. The track is a rhythm-filled pop song with commanding, tasteful and chill vocals, adding to the vibes established by the production work. The same can be said for Troye, who has the same approach on his verse. The best part of the song is without doubt the infectious chorus, perfected by both artists compelling vocal performances and a groovy backdrop – this song should be a hit.
What have you been streaming?
Ben Wilkinson 