Every week, there are thousands of new songs hitting the airwaves — and it’s just too much for your two ears to handle. With all those options, you can’t be wasting your time on tracks that deserve a thumbs-down click.
But don’t worry, we’re going to save you the hassle. We listen to some of the most-hyped and interesting songs each week, and tell you which are worthy of your precious listening time.
Bob Dylan —I Could Have Told You
Recent Nobel Prize winner Bob Dylan is preparing a three-disc album of Frank Sinatra covers calledTriplicatefor release later this year, and recently put out a breathtaking cover of the balladI Could Have Told Youto whet our collective appetite. A gorgeous blend of pedal steel guitar and upright bass, Dylan’s vocals flow gently over the surface of the track, with the iconic songwriter saving the more gravelly side of his voice until the final refrain.
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Mac Demarco —This Old Dog
Canadian songwriter Mac Demarco retains his classic vintage-inspired sound onThis Old Dog, a pulsating new single with punchy drums, warm acoustic guitar, and simple vocal hooks. Soft and inviting, it’s a perfect way to relax amid hectic midweek moments, calming your nerves with a sea of supple analog tones.
The Underachievers —Gotham Nights
In the past five years, the hype surrounding thowback ’90s-style hip-hop has tempered, giving way to a slew of younger, trap-influenced sounds. But that news apparently never reached Brooklyn-based duo The Underachievers, whose latest cutGotham Nightsfeels like a lost single from Jay Z’s debut albumReasonable Doubt. Jazzy samples and a deep boom-bap beat pair so well with the duo’s syncopated vocal rhythms that you’ll have a tough time hiding a huge, nostalgic smile.
Future Islands —Ran
This week’s best workout cut comes from Baltimore-based synth pop group Future Islands, who employ a driving blend of acoustic and digital drum sounds to propel you through every step, lift, or push-up. The first single from the band’s upcoming fifth studio albumThe Far Field,Ranis a show of vulnerability and strength, with punchy tenor vocals and cool ’80s-style synth tones creating an extremely repeatable package.
Father John Misty —Ballad of the Dying Man
Poignant songwriter Father John Misty shared a follow-up to last week’s politically-influenced singlePure ComedywithBallad of the Dying Man, a lyric-driven song that centers on musings about life’s end. Piano and acoustic guitars are eventually joined by gospel choir backgrounds, with somber, investigative lyricism tying a big, black ribbon around the thoughtful funeral dirge.
That’s it for now, but tune in next week for more tunes — and check out our playlist loaded with our recent selections below:
