Here are our top 5 songs to stream this week.
Janelle Monáe and Wondaland Records – Hell You Talmout
Art always serves as expression, but it’s capable of capturing so much. When something strikes a chord with an artist, they can channel that into their craft and turn it into a statement. That’s exactly what Janelle Monae and the Wondaland Records roster have done with Hell You Talmbout, a track that tackles the bubbling issues of racial relations and police brutality.
Music is at it’s best when it has power and passion behind it. You won’t find a track that feels more infused with emotion than Hell You Talmout, a powerful protest song that turns the names of black citizens slain by police into a chant demanding action. It serves both as a way to remember the names of those lost and make sure they are not forgotten, but it’s also a rallying cry for those who want change. Packed with anger, fear, disenchantment, and frustration, it’s an incredible statement that demands attention.
AFX – simple slamming b 2
Last year’s release of Aphex Twin’s Syro marked the first album in more than 13 years from legendary British electronic musician Richard David James. It seems as though he’s been in a groove ever since, because he’s been churning out new music left and right. The latest comes in the form of an EP under the alias AFX. It’s a different name, but the song has plenty of the trademark sounds that makes James a favorite, from his grimy synth bass to the track’s chugging pace.
Jamie Woon – Sharpness
Jamie Woon made his debut more than four years ago with his first album Mirrorwriting. He’s been mostly quiet since then, but the neo-soul singer has crept back into the limelight with Sharpness, a silky-smooth R&B throwback that melds a ’90s vibe with modern effects. It’s a feathery jam, lightweight and floating, and it’ll have your head nodding from the moment you hit play. If his second album can carry on in the same way, it’ll be a strong sophomore showing.
Shabazz Palaces – The Mystery of Lonnie the Døn
If you’re ever looking for new music, make a point to pop over to the Adult Swim Singles series. The television network best known for its insane animated lineup has been recruiting some great underground artists for collaborations. The latest is rap duo Shabazz Palaces. They find a dark, haunting sound on The Mystery of Lonnie the Døn, with a ghastly, moaning sound standing in between the verses and reverberating vocals.
GEMS – Living as a Ghost
If you haven’t heard of GEMS yet, you likely will soon. The shadow pop duo from Washington D.C. just have a sound that you can imagine hearing everywhere. The pair have their first album on the way, titled Kill the One You Love. Living as a Ghost is the first teaser from the full-length record, and it’s one that should have you ready for more. The dreamy vocals of Lindsay Pitts rise up atop Clifford John Usher’s production, which bounces from an airy approach to a rougher sound that tries to consume the track.
That’s it for now, but check back every week for more new tunes to stream!
