Though you probably have been blasting “Beautiful Soul” by Jesse McCartney this whole week to get you pumped for his performance at Warren Live, let’s not forget about all the new music released in the past two weeks. It’s safe to say February has been a musical month, from the release of Black Panther’s soundtrack to a tear-jerking cover of “Moon River” by Frank Ocean. We’re here to help you keep up.
“The Ways” by Khalid and Swae Lee
Released: February 9, 2018
For fans of: Kehlani, SZA, Daniel Caesar
Released as part of the highly anticipated soundtrack accompanying the also highly anticipated movie Black Panther, “The Ways” features quite a distinct tone and sound compared to the other tracks on the album. In contrast to the predominant hip-hop and rap genres found throughout Black Panther: The Album, this track lies in the R&B genre and is just smooth and sleek all around. Khalid is the main vocal artist on this song, and his unique dulcet tone creates a relaxed tune about trying to win over a love interest. In addition, the light percussion and electronic pulsing notes add to this chill vibe. Swae Lee sings one of the verses, with a few lines from Kendrick Lamar, and their contributions add a welcome shift that amplifies the overall flow of the song. – Arun Dhingra
“Lemon Glow” by Beach House
Released: February 14, 2018
For fans of: Perfume Genius, Real Estate, DIIV
Through an Instagram post, we now know that Beach House’s new album is set to release this upcoming spring. If that isn’t enough to get you pumped, listen to how their newly released single “Lemon Glow,” like many (all?) of Beach House’s songs, makes dreamy, warped guitars and melancholy keyboards a beautiful couple. Their latest studio album releases Thank Your Lucky Stars and Depression Cherry were both released in 2015, making it a year of excessive swaying, dreaming, and feeling. Beach House is a duo unique in their artistry; their simple and slow beats take you to new places and ignite foreign thoughts. “Lemon Glow” stays true to their craft and excites different pieces of my mind. Beach House, we are ready for you. –Ana Magallanes, @_anamagallanes
Other Bops to Consider:
“Christopher and 6th” by Blood Orange // For fans of: Toro y Moi, Twin Shadow, Lower Dens
“Cute Thing” by Car Seat Headrest // For fans of: Alex G, Parquet Courts, Porches
“Nameless, Faceless” by Courtney Barnett // For fans of: Frankie Cosmos, Arcade Fire, Angel Olson