This week I bring you some tracks
to listen to whilst you dig out your nuclear bunker as we all prepare for the
next four years of global tension followed by Kanye West’s inevitable
presidency. THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT!
THE BEST:
‘Don’t Move’ – Campbell
Auckland pop artist Campbell comes
through with this ethereal number featuring some husky vocals that erupt for a satisfying
hook ‘Stop, stand still/Don’t move’.
The Kiwi singer travelled all the way to London to record this (that’s
commitment). The brooding beat meanwhile comes courtesy of Basement Jaxx
producer Simon Ratcliffe.
‘Losing My Mind’ - Sølv
More ethereal pop – this time from a Danish songstress named Sølv (translates as ‘silver’). Frosty synths serve as a background for the artist’s slinky vocals. I only discovered this jewel because it happens to be the next track that automatically plays on Soundcloud after ‘Don’t Move’.
‘Versace on the Floor’ – Bruno Mars
This smooth cheese slice of Boys-II-Men-revivalism
is going to have girls (and guys) worldwide dropping their panties. It’s the
Bruno Mars I’ve been waiting for. Much better than pop-reggae Today-I-Don’t-Feel-Like-Doing-Anything
Bruno Mars. And much better than psychotically infatuated I’d-Catch-A-Grenade-For-You
Bruno Mars.
‘2100’ – Run the Jewels ft. Boots
In the light of a certain man coming to power, badass US rap duo Run the Jewels have released this punchy anti-war single. El-P has explained on Twitter: ‘for everyone who is hurting or scared right now. here is a song we wrote months ago. We weren’t planning on releasing it yet but… well it feel right, now’.
‘How Much Time’ – Seprona
Juicy distorted guitars and strident
strings make up some of the many layers to this loud and powerful new rock tune
from Liverpool lads Seprona. Fervent northern-inflected vocals drive the track
along: ‘You seem so drawn to my answer
machine’. With a lot of rock bands going overly minimal, Seprona’s
maximalist approach is pretty refreshing.
THE WORST:
‘Sensual Pansuit Anthem’ – Lena Dunham
This pro-Clinton song is so
horribly awkward, it’s no wonder so many people voted Trump. Well done Lena
Dunham – we hold you solely responsible.