“Lean On,” Major Lazer and DJ Snake featuring MO: A total summer anthem, I like the warm synth chords with that buildup to the drop in the chorus. I also really like MO’s feature as her vocal range is solid and fits in perfectly with the electronic production. I remember listening to this song often when I was a teenager, and I rediscovered it when I heard it at a store in London.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqeW9_5kURI
“Land of the Free,” - Jacquees featuring 2 Chainz: Since this week was the week of Fourth of July, it only makes sense to put a somewhat patriotic track on it. Well patriotic is a bit of a stretch, because it’s a classic R&B love song featuring a solid rap verse from 2 Chainz. It samples singer Jacquees’ rendition of the national anthem at a basketball game, but I think the song is strongest with Jacquees’ verses. I discovered this song a few years ago, as one of my coworkers at my old job played it all the time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDRMhhnIJqc
“Heaven’s a Lie,” - Lacuna Coil: Another great gothic metal track from Italian band, Lacuna Coil. I love the heavily distorted guitars, epic violins, and dramatic tone of the track. Cristina Scabbia has an amazing voice, and the chorus sung by Andrea Ferro is super catchy. It’s the lead single off of their 2002 album, Comalies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4qvtu-Mb_Y
“Giving In,” - Adema: Another 2000s metal track that I enjoy, this is the band Adema’s first single from their debut album. I like the guitar riffs on this track, and the chorus is incredibly catchy. I also love the thrashing drum beat of the song as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTOKnYNI3tU
“Depressed,” - Lonelyboys: A song that’s not only depressing, but one that samples a cover of “Pure Imagination,” from the film, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Unfortunately, I discovered it through TikTok, which I try to avoid, but it’s a raw song and I enjoy it.