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 from the last two weeks. Let the music speak, and let the weekend begin in style.
Current Swell – “I’m A Mess”
Current Swell returns with a captivating new single, “I’m A Mess”, showcasing the band’s ability to blend raw emotion with their signature West Coast indie rock sound. As part of their freshly released EP “Peacekeeper”, this track dives into deeply personal territory while maintaining an infectious groove that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic. Produced by Gus Van Go, “I’m A Mess” highlights the band’s knack for crafting songs that resonate with heartfelt honesty, anchored by a raw bass tone and a free-spirited vibe. With poignant lyrics reflecting the imperfect beauty of life’s chaos, this single underscores why Current Swell continues to connect with audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, “I’m A Mess” is an unmissable glimpse into the exciting new chapter for these Vancouver Island trailblazers.
Mariami – “Devil’s Coming Down”
Mariami makes a powerful statement with her latest release, “Devil’s Coming Down”, a track that not only showcases her distinctive artistry but also marks a pivotal moment in her musical journey. Fully embracing her role as a producer for the first time, she has taken the reins on every element of the song, from playing the keys, guitar, and synths to overseeing the mixing process. This raw and unfiltered piece is a reflection of Mariami‘s artistic independence and her ability to fuse her Georgian soul roots with modern, progressive sounds. Drawing from her heritage, she weaves Indo-European melodies into a lush, contemporary sonic tapestry, crafting an electrifying soundscape that feels both timeless and groundbreaking. The song radiates intensity, with Mariami‘s vocal delivery exuding both strength and vulnerability, pulling listeners into the emotional core of the track. The production envelops you with its layered textures, showcasing a seamless blend of traditional influences and bold experimentation. “Devil’s Coming Down” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem of empowerment and artistic vision, a testament to Mariami‘s journey from her Georgian homeland to the vibrant creative spaces of New York and LA. With this release, she redefines her sound and cements her place as a trailblazer in the Indo-Pop genre.
Meagre Martin – Frankie
Berlin-based indie project Meagre Martin, led by African-American musician and songwriter Sarah Martin, continues to captivate with their latest single, “Frankie”. A highlight of their upcoming EP, “Up To Snuff“, set for release on February 14th, the track builds on the band’s signature blend of lo-fi and new-Americana. “Frankie” channels shoegaze-inspired textures, weaving ethereal melodies with playful rhythms, while its introspective lyrics explore themes of submission, trust, and vulnerability in love. Dubbed a “simp(le) anthem“, the song celebrates the beauty of surrender and the complexity of passion, giving nostalgia a fresh, strong twist. Following an impressive 55 live performances in 2024, including a standout set at Pitchfork London, Meagre Martin proves their ability to turn catharsis into a musical experience both intimate and transcendent.
Oh My Sun – “All I Can Do”
Oh My Sun returns with their sophomore single “All I Can Do”, a heartfelt exploration of nostalgia and loss. Following the acclaimed debut “5 Pieces”, the track delves into the memories we hold of those who once shaped our lives but are no longer present. With 70s-inspired vocal harmonies, bluesy guitar licks, and a massive singalong chorus, “All I Can Do” embodies a timeless, Fleetwood Mac-esque warmth. The duo captures the innocence of childhood memories—days that felt endless, moments shared with larger-than-life personalities—and reflects on how their essence lingers within us. It’s a deeply emotional, yet uplifting anthem that carries the universal longing for connection and the enduring impact of cherished relationships.
Say Lou Lou – “Blue Ruin”
Say Lou Lou returns with their captivating new single “Blue Ruin”, a standout from their much-anticipated album Dust. The track unfolds like a cinematic moment, narrating the emotionally charged confession of a woman revealing to her partner that she’s fallen for someone else. Trapped in a stifling car ride, the protagonist battles her partner’s anger and her consuming guilt, a story brought to life with raw demo vocals that eschew polish for authenticity. Musically, “Blue Ruin” marries mid-2000s indie pop vibes with echoes of Madonna’s Ray of Light, blending atmospheric production with lush guitars. It’s a bittersweet yet invigorating opening to an album that redefines gloomy indie pop with its intimate storytelling and sonic depth.