Today marks the first New Music Friday of September. Going through all the new releases that dropped today, the options felt endless. I can’t think of a better problem to have. This week, we have another surprise second surprise album from Justin Bieber. We also selected fresh new tunes from Tame Impala, Lola Young, and plenty of others.
SWAG II by Justin Bieber
Just when we thought Justin Bieber didn’t have any more surprises up his sleeve, he dropped SWAG II just days after the announcement. This album comes two months after SWAG. While we can’t get enough of the whole album, one track captured our attention. “Speed Demon” opens the record with an assertive tone. Bieber assures his relentless ambition and momentum. In the midst of all the criticism and rumors, the singer reflects on his growth and personal stage. Many say that this is Justin’s comeback and we couldn’t agree more.
“Loser” by Tame Impala
Along with Tame Impala’s second single “Loser,” came the announcement for a brand new record. Deadbeat drops October 17th. Kevin Parker, the mastermind behind Tame Impala, gave fans a second taste of what he’s been cooking up in the studio. Parker fuses a downtempo psych-rock sound that is undeniably groovy. Lyrically, this track continues the vulnerable songwriting we heard on the last single “End Of Summer.” In case you missed it, Cheyenne gave us a whole run down of “Loser.” Check it out here!
SPIDERS by Lola Young
Now that hot girl summer is approaching an end, we have to gear up for sad girl autumn. Luckily for us, Lola Young is getting us in our feels on her brand new single “SPIDERS.” Young leans into a 90’s style grunge production. The song is gritty and raw; everything we love about Lola. She sings about fear, self-sabotage and longing. We’ve heard these themes in many of her previous releases, and her songwriting always hits the spot. Her vocals are raspy, striking every heart string, maybe causing a few tears to fall down your face.
Anemoia by SG Lewis
After what has felt like months, SG Lewis has finally dropped his long awaited third album, Anemoia. Gorgeous is the first word that comes to mind after listening to the project front to back. Sonically, Lewis paints a cotton candy sky that you want to dance under forever. The lush, tropical production and ethereal vocals from collaborators like London Grammar, Shygirl Oliver Sim transport you to paradise. Without a doubt, this is SG’s best work to date. I can’t think of a better album to play while saying farewell to summer.
“Tiramisu” by Don Toliver
This week’s roundup continues with “Tiramisu” by Don Toliver. After circulating a snippet, fans can finally listen to the full track. On “Tiramisu,” Toliver brings immaculate vibes with a blend of dreamy, mellow RnB. The song is sweet just like “Tiramisu,” mirroring a sultry metaphor. This one will be on repeat all weekend.
“All About Me” by Jalen Ngonda
Wrapping up this week’s listen is Jalen Ngonda’s new single “All About Me.” Ngoda fuses reggae and soul elements to create a vibrant sound. His vocals are sultry, luring you in with a voice over as the song begins.
We hope you love this week’s picks as much as we do. We’ll see you back here next week for another roundup!
