“Stone Love,” - Pepper: A track from Hawaii-based reggae/ska band, Pepper, I discovered this track through Apple Music’s “Inspired by Sublime,” playlist, and it got me into the band’s music. There’s definitely some similarity to Sublime, but I really like Pepper’s sound. The guitar solo, as well as the ska-style pianos and organs give the track a lot of character.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99UPD3z7hcA
“Nomad,” - Clairo: I randomly discovered this track through the Apple Music shuffle, and I instantly loved it. I like the acoustic sound of the track, the folk-like elements, and the lyrical concepts of loneliness and heartbreak, likening it to being a nomad. I don’t know how I missed out on this record as it came out almost two months ago, expect a review of it soon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eg4FWiow2Ak
“A.D.H.D.,” - Kendrick Lamar: Many people first heard this song in the video game, Grand Theft Auto V, and I’m glad it was included, as it’s one of Kendrick’s best tracks, from perhaps his most under appreciated album, Section.80. I’ve enjoyed Kendrick’s music since I was 12 or 13, at the time his breakthrough classic of an album, good kid, m.A.A.d city. I really like the drugged out production and lyrical theme of the crack epidemic.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjlFqgRbICY
“Lightning,” - Charli xcx: Ever since I first listened to her most recent record, Brat, I’ve started to really become a fan of Charli’s music. I need to listen to the rest of Crash, but this track and “Good Ones,” are two favorites of mine so far. I really like the liberal use of autotune, and string arrangements. The harps and wide range of synthesizers give the track a retro feeling to it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJTv1KZrbuQ
“Thank You for The Venom,” - My Chemical Romance: A track from an album I reviewed earlier this year, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, this one might be one of the most underrated songs on the entire album. No matter how much people like MGK try to “revive,” pop-punk, nobody will be able to do it like MCR, and the other pioneers of the genre.