Tours are on hold. Clubs are closed. Album releases being pushed back. But you can't stop the music. Here's a playlist of some of my favorite new songs to brighten these times of self-isolation.
"Levitating," Dua Lipa
The "New Rules" singer's sophomore album Future Nostalgia is a disco-pop sugar rush, and this track will have you itching for dance clubs to finally reopen.
"Reason to Be Reasonable,"
Peter, Bjorn & John
The Swedish pop wunderkinds are back, and their unmistakable sound — retro drum tones, strummy guitar, funky bass — is like sinking into a warm bath.
"Crawling in My Skin," Soccer Mommy
Sophia Allison is a naturally somber songwriter, and though this track is about her struggles with sleep paralysis, the melody and overall sentiment aren't downcast at all.
"Paper Cup," Real Estate
For a band that's usually pensive and autumnal, the New Jersey indie-rockers deliver a bright ray of AM pop sunshine.
"Witches," Waxahatchee
Katie Crutchfield's new LP is her most glass-half-full collection of songs in a while, and this cut already sounds like an alt-country classic.
"Processed by the Boys," Protomartyr
Protomartyr's sonics are heavy enough to make you feel a weight on your chest, and though this mini epic might sound dire, it's almost therapeutic.
"On the Floor," Perfume Genius
Mike Hadreas' latest single is lush and playful, with loping guitar, glistening pop harmonies and a Hammond organ whispering in the background.
"People, I've Been Sad,"
Christine and the Queens
The timing of the new track by the burgeoning French electro-pop stars is eerie, a bittersweet ballad about isolation and distancing that's tres relatable right now.
"Wake Up Call," Circa Waves
This British rock band hasn't blown up in the States, but their new double album Happy Sad is loaded with hooks.
"Who Ever Said," Pearl Jam
Eddie Vedder and company are back, and this opening track on their album Gigaton is a blast of grungy fresh air. ♦
THIS WEEK'S PLAYLIST
Some noteworthy new music hits online and in stores April 3. To wit:
PURITY RING, Womb. The Canadian electro-poppers were slated to play Spokane June 1, but recently postponed the tour for this album.
THUNDERCAT, It Is What It Is. Truly a title for our times from the multi-talented 'Cat.
TESTAMENT, Titans of Creation. Bay Area thrash legends are still rolling hard and fast on their 13th album. (DAN NAILEN)
