When I’m not writing music reviews I spend my time working at the local library. Oddly enough, one of the only places that doesn’t have music playing ambiently. It’s an odd reminder of the impact music has on people even subconsciously. In retail they play happy songs because it increases customers’ intention to spend money. Calm and soft music has the opposite effect, instead encouraging customers to take their time. It’s not only the genre of music that has an effect of behavior either – everything from volume to whether it’s minor or major can change your behavior without realizing. Isn’t music neat!?! Enough lecturing for today however, the reason you’re here is for 7 of the best songs to come out this week. As always, stay safe and enjoy this week’s New Music Sunday!
Will Killen » Deathbed
Delicate, easy-going vocals set the tone on ‘Deathbed’
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The stark beauty of Will Killen’s latest release contrasts the almost morbid theme in a unique and beautiful way. Instead of dwelling on the tough emotions of death, it instead focuses on how the last thoughts running through his mind are about an unnamed “you”. The texture never thickens beyond the strings/vocals leaving every last note or lyric sitting gently on your palette. Bordering on poetry, the story-telling was phenomenal and fit the somber atmosphere perfectly. Not only that, but everything felt vital for the story. There weren’t any needless lyrics or complicated chords – instead the song embodies the phrase “Simplicity is bliss”.
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Ally Cribb » Bigger
Ally Cribb’s presence on ‘BIGGER’ gives the song it’s incredible energy
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High energy and catchy lyrics keep ‘BIGGER’, the latest release from Toronto-based singer/songwriter, feeling fresh and exciting. As her commercial debut it shows off her powerful voice and songwriting in an excellent way. The chorus is easy to pick up on and will have you singing along by the end of the song. One of my personal favorite parts was how easily the spotlight was passed around – occasionally allowing backing vocals or guitars to step to the forefront and become the focal point. Every voice was unique and contributed to the song’s awesome cohesiveness and catchiness.
Make sure to connect with Ally Cribb on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
Bottle Rockets » When I Tell You
Light and easy to listen to, ‘When I Tell You’ rocks!
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The groove on newly formed band, Bottle Rocket’s new song is electric. High-energy and catchy, I found ‘When I Tell You’ stuck in my head days after first listening. All of this is possible partly because of the phenomenal mixing. Every different voice/instrument had its own spot in the sound-sphere allowing each to stick out in the texture. Not only that, but they also blended (contradictory I know) almost seamlessly. The vocals soared over top while the rhythm section moved as a single unit to support the energetic lyrics. A perfect song to turn around a bad day and get you singing along without a care in the world.
Make sure to connect with Bottle Rockets on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
Brick Blair » On The Zooms
Easy going vibes keep ‘On The Zooms’ relaxing and beautiful
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An ode to the hardships many of us have faced over the last year, Brick Blair combines beauty and delicacy in a uniquely relatable way on his new song ‘On The Zooms’. Busy guitars contrast elegant vocals on this soothing release. Other than the electronic drums and content matter, the song has an air of traditionality to it. When paired with the long, flowing melodies – the entire vibe is beautiful and relatable. Plus, it does so without losing the almost nostalgic at points theme. Between the beauty and unique twist of modern and traditional sounds, ‘On The Zooms’ is bound to put a smile on your face.
Make sure to connect with Brick Blair on Facebook » Instagram
Israel Nke » Evergreen
Israel Nke is the type of cool that makes you feel cool for listening to him
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Clocking in at just over 2 minutes, Israel Nke demonstrates quality over quantity on his newest release, ‘Evergreen’. Driven by a bass line that will drop the floor out beneath you and rapid-fire bars this song kicks ass. The instrumental is interesting yet minimalistic allowing Nke to shine above all else. Besides being minimalistic it was consistent, with no crazy vibe changes or fluff. Additionally, the lack of a chorus bends and twists the traditional definition of song structure. I thought Israel Nke’s flow was cool and fit the vibe phenomenally. Oddly enough, despite the energy of the raps, the whole song felt relaxed and comfortable.
Make sure to connect with Israel Nke on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
MiG 15 » Rolling Thunder
Upbeat, exciting and cool – ‘Rolling Thunder’ will stay stuck in your head all day
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The cohesiveness of ‘Rolling Thunder’ is only overshadowed by MIG 15’s incredible talent. The melodys would pull me in and leave me entranced. Exciting vocals bring energy and push the song through its different moods. To call it catchy would be an understatement – even the background riffs and transitions are awesome. From the versatile guitar lines to the fun and interesting drum groove the vibe is the first priority. Every last note and chord matches the energy of everything going on around them without sacrificing lyricism or the groove resulting in the awesome, unforgettable song.
Make sure to connect with MiG 15 on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
Nadia Moon » The Last Goodbye
‘The Last Goodbye’ is full of emotion, showing off Nadia Moon’s incredible talent.
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Nadia Moon wastes no time at all setting the sultry atmosphere on ‘The Last Goodbye’. A rock steady jazz section supports and deepens the colorful texture. From the trumpet solo to Moon’s powerful vocals, every new melody felt like a conversation. Not only catchy and pretty, but honest and approachable as well. When paired with the layered vocals, everything seemed to come together and move as a single voice. I found myself entranced for the entirety. Another great release by Nadia Moon and perfect for any fan of Jazz, pop, RnB or music in general.
Make sure to connect with Nadia Moon on Facebook » Instagram
