The first New Music Friday of April is off to a great start. This week, our staff picked tracks from The Marías and PinkPanthress as well as albums from DJO and Stella. We hope you enjoy!
“Back To Me” by The Marías
After debuting “Back To Me” on the road while opening for Billie Eillish, The Marías have finally released “Back To Me.” The psychedelic soul group started a frenzy after the first time they played prior to its release. Clips went viral all over TikTok which led to fans begging the band to drop the song. The song sits on a darker and heavier side than their usual dreamy sound. Lead singer Maria, longs to get back with an old lover. The band surprised fans with a double release: a second song “Nobody Knew.” This release comes ahead of the band’s Coachella performance in just under a week.
“Tonight” by PinkPantheress
Hyper-pop star PinkPantheress has dropped her first, solo single of the year. “Tonight” is the follow up to the stars’ collaboration with Shygirl “True Religion.” On “Tonight” the singer gets sexy and fun with a pulsating beat, a dreamy synth and sensual vocals. The song is beyond groovy; it would be impossible to not dance to it on a night out. A soft string intro starts the song matching the single’s artwork where PinkPantheress wears a victorian style gown. Is this hinting at a new era?
“Upside Down” by 54 Ultra
“Upside Down” is the brand new single from indie soul artist 54 Ultra. His fresh take on retro soul seamlessly fuses music from all eras to create a sound that’s fresh and smooth. The brass section in the song gives it the nostalgic feeling from music in the 1920s. From the way he dresses to the way he sings and produces his music, 54 Ultra continues to create a fresh take on a sound and aesthetic loved by many. In celebration of his new release, 54 Ultra is playing a free show at the Silver Lake Lounge on Saturday April 5th.
“Caramel” by Sleep Token
“Caramel” is the brand new single from alternative metal band Sleep Token. This is the second single from their upcoming album Even In Arcadia. Sonically, the song explores a wide range of sound. The track starts with an almost latin infused beat, punk vocals and the signature metal sound fans know and love bring the song to a close. All the musical influences work quite well together making for a unique listening experience and an unforgettable track.
Adagio by Stella
Adagio is the fifth studio album from Greek artist Stella. The record is of light drums and soft strings making for a dreamy listening experience. Stella sings in English and in Greek throughout the record. On some tracks, the musician incorporates psychedelic synths and layers her harmonies beautifully. The singer showcases several elements of her voice and her sound. Adagio is a gorgeous record.
The Crux by DJO
The Crux is the brand new album from musician and actor DJO. On The Crux, DJO explores brand new sounds that channel 60s and 70s baroque pop, rock. Sonically the record sounds like it perfectly would have fit in the time period that influenced the album. Throughout the record, listeners are given rad guitar solos and anthemic rock choruses. This release comes ahead of DJO’s upcoming performance at Coachella next weekend along with his current tour.
Which release is your favorite this week?
