Welcome to "Thank God It's Friday" where we dive into the latest musical releases that have been setting our "earing pupils" on fire. As we bid farewell to another exciting week, we can't help but celebrate the incredible tracks that have graced our ears in recent weeks. From infectious pop hits to electronic and rock-ish stirring records, this post is dedicated to showcasing the best of the best. Get ready to discover your new favourite songs and let the music take you on a captivating ride. It's time to turn up the volume and embrace the magic of these incredible releases. Let the music speak, and let the weekend begin in style.
Cereus Bright – Only You
Cereus Bright is back with a captivating new release, “Only You,” from his upcoming album “Anything“. This expansive and soulful track, crafted by songwriter Tyler Anthony, delves into the raw emotions of vulnerability and the intimate connections we share with others. Anthony’s lyrical depth shines through as he explores the delicate balance of closeness and vulnerability, capturing the essence of how those who mean the most can also have the greatest impact on us. Inspired by his recent life changes, including a bold move from Knoxville to Mexico City, Anthony’s fresh perspective is evident in the intricate production and emotive delivery of “Only You“. Sounding like a mix of dream pop with the chill vibes of Mac DeMarco, the track promises to be a standout in Cereus Bright‘s catalogue, highlighting his growth as an artist and his commitment to authentic, heartfelt storytelling.
Chinese American Bear – Feelin’ Fuzzy
Chinese American Bear, the Seattle-based C-pop duo comprising married couple Bryce Barsten and Anne Tong, crafts eclectic bilingual ear candy that seamlessly blends Mandarin and English. Originally creating music for fun, their breakout singles “Hao Ma” and “Dumpling” garnered over 200,000 listens, leading to a deal with China’s largest indie label, Modern Sky. Their music, marked by a charming DIY spirit, merges Chinese mando-pop with Western indie pop, capturing a strong cross-cultural joy.
Now, they’ve signed with the UK independent label Moshi Moshi and released their new single, “Feelin’ Fuzzy (毛绒绒的感觉)“. This track, inspired by Tong’s immigrant upbringing, contrasts lyrics about teenage fun with spoken Chinese segments echoing her mother’s strict rules. This song perfectly showcases Chinese American Bear‘s appeal: expertly constructed, infectious pop music infused with a unique, relatable perspective.
I AM SOPHIA – Starseed
In a moment when the world’s gaze turns skyward, captivated by the possibility of extraterrestrial encounters, I AM SOPHIA presents an innovative sonic landscape: Cosmic Pop. Her music transcends earthly confines, inviting listeners on a celestial voyage through uncharted galaxies, all while grounding them in the shared tapestry of human existence.
Her forthcoming debut EP, “Alien Being Human“, promises to be a celestial revelation, slated for release this June, followed by a stream of singles throughout 2024. Leading the charge is the ethereal anthem “Starseed“, a cosmic reinterpretation of The Weeknd’s iconic “Starboy.” Inspired by her upbringing in Hawaii and the wisdom of its elders, “Starseed” serves as a cosmic manifesto, celebrating humanity’s universal origins in the stars. With its avant-pop infusion and cosmic resonance, I AM SOPHIA‘s music serves as a potent reminder that we are all celestial beings, connected by the cosmic threads of the universe.
Pet Snake – New Arrivals
Pet Snake (aka Evelyn Halls of Clean Cut Kid) returns with a bittersweet new single, “New Arrivals“. Drawing musical inspiration from The Cranberries, this sentimental indie anthem poignantly captures the emotional turbulence of losing touch with friends as they embark on the journey of parenthood. With the evocative line “new arrivals stealing all our friends“, Halls encapsulates the sense of loss that accompanies these life changes. The track has already garnered attention with airplay from BBC 6 Music’s Huw Stephens and Lauren Laverne. Recently, Pet Snake supported Bill Ryder Jones on his March UK/EU tour and is set to grace the stages of Get Together, Yawn Again, and Twisterella festivals. Halls’ solo endeavour blends indie folk, grungey pop, and early 2000s emo, offering a sadly beautiful sonic experience that resonates deeply, especially in the stirring outro vocal ad-libs that channel the spirit of Dolores O’Riordan.
Tatum Gale – Chickadee Eye
Tatum Gale unveils his latest single, “Chickadee Eye”, a sensible-power and introspective track that marks his first solo release in nearly two years. A heartfelt plea to a loved one, blending affected acoustic piano with muted electronic production. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and contemplation, with Tatum‘s evocative voice resonating through lines like “Suddenly you disappear / I don’t really feel you here / even though you’re right here“. As the piano melody gently guides listeners through a meditative bridge, the track resolves with a hopeful sentiment: “What do you spy, my angel? / Chickadee eye / What do spot outside? / I’ll try to come outside“. A single that not only showcases Tatum Gale‘s distinctive blend of jazz-influenced chord structures and innovative sound design but also serves as a preview of his upcoming EP, also titled “Chickadee Eye“ set for release in fall 2024. Fans of Vegyn, Caribou, and James Blake will find much to admire in Gale’s unique fusion of indie electronic and melodic sensibility.
Vacant Weekend – Funny Dad
Following the buoyant release of their indie track “Talk“, Vacant Weekend returns with the emotionally charged single “Funny Dad” released the past May 31st. This Manchester-based trio’s latest offering is a poignant glimpse into their eagerly awaited summer EP, released via the Cosmic Glue label. “Funny Dad” stands out as what the band describes as their closest approach to a ballad, melding raw emotion with their distinctive indie sound. The track features bright guitar instrumentation that perfectly complements lead singer Alex’s captivating vocals, creating a soundscape that evokes sunlit road trips and carefree drives. Despite its vibrant exterior, the song delves into themes of loss and indifference, captured through a stream-of-consciousness lyrical style that highlights the organic and vulnerable nature of its creation. The second insight into their new EP, “Funny Dad” not only showcases Vacant Weekend’s musical evolution but also their journey of self-acceptance and resilience, a single that sets the tone for a summer of high-energy, cathartic music from a band poised for greatness.