Late Summer Hits and a Singer-Songwriter Extravaganza Highlight This Week’s Top New Music Playlists
August is a month of catching up, especially after a summer that deserves more credit. Local musicians have been making waves with their latest releases, showcasing a variety of sounds and styles that are worth a listen.
Brother Ali brings his signature preacherly cadence to his latest track, “Mysterious Things.” Despite rubbing guilty consciences the wrong way, Ali’s introspective lyrics delve into past relationships with insight and acceptance. Backed by soulful Ant beats, the bluesy guitar lick in this song is particularly catchy.
Crush Scene takes a country turn with their latest single, “Price of Being Cool.” Following their surprising cover of “Jolene” last year, the band incorporates rollicking piano and a bold sax accompaniment reminiscent of old-school tunes. While their musical direction seems to be evolving, Crush Scene promises genre-jumping in the future, keeping listeners on their toes.
Dylan Hicks & Small Screens offer a musical journey with “Moth and Rust” from their album Avian Field Recordings. The band’s music sprawls in various directions, combining planned compositions with improvisational elements. This particular track tells a story of a man who visits a carnival alone, experiences a series of losses, and quotes Biblical verses in moments of despair.
Hailing from Duluth, Sophie Hiroko presents “Ashes,” a track from her July album, To the Core. Describing her style as “tender bubble grunge,” Hiroko’s song captures a sense of regret without falling into melancholy. The poignant lyrics reflect on sorrow and self-medication, creating an emotionally resonant atmosphere.
In the realm of non-local picks, Hayes Carll’s “Progress of Man (Bitcoin and Cattle)” stands out for its inspirational yet sardonic tone. Featured on his latest album, We’re Only Human, Carll delves into human excess and its impact on the environment. With clever rhymes and soulful fiddle accompaniment, this track offers a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary issues.
Tyler Childers shines in “Oneida,” a standout track from his album Snipe Hunter. Known for his witty and insightful lyrics, Childers crafts a narrative about courting an older woman who reminisces about old movies and nostalgic moments. His tender vocal delivery adds depth to the song, creating a poignant listening experience.
Ryan Davis & the Roadhouse Band deliver a melancholic yet compelling track with “New Threats From the Soul.” At first glance, Davis’s music may seem casual, but his careful songwriting shines through in this emotional piece. Reflecting on a relationship that was prematurely ended, Davis captures the essence of heartbreak and introspection in a nine-minute ballad.
In memory of folk icon Michael Hurley, his posthumous release Broken Homes and Gardens features the track “Fava.” Known for his quirky folk style and distinctive falsetto, Hurley’s music resonates with authenticity and charm. This collection of tracks showcases his timeless artistry, leaving a lasting legacy in the folk music scene.
James McMurtry’s latest album, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, offers poignant reflections on American society in tracks like “Sons of the Second Sons.” With a sharp eye and witty tongue, McMurtry dissects the American empire and its descent, placing blame on the descendants of settlers. Through his candid lyrics and evocative storytelling, McMurtry paints a vivid picture of societal flaws and introspection.
Finally, in the category of Worst New Song, Laufey’s “Silver Lining” fails to impress with its faux jazz and show tune influences. As the Icelandic-Chinese singer ventures into pop territory, her music lacks the depth and artistry of her counterparts. While attempting to showcase a torchy style, Laufey’s music falls short compared to other contemporary artists in the genre.
Overall, this collection of music highlights the diverse talents and sounds emerging from both local and non-local artists. From introspective rap to country ballads and folk melodies, these tracks offer a glimpse into the creative landscape of today’s music industry.