Music of the Month: February 2018

Much like with reading, I’ve been in a bit of a music slump lately too. There just haven’t been many releases I was excited about in February. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy any music this month, just less than usual. Naturally, every month it’s guaranteed I listened to a lot of Demi Lovato and then varying amounts of other stuff. This month is no exception. So, from the songs to the artists, here is the music I’ve really been into this month:

“Good as Hell” by Lizzo: In preparation for Firefly 2018, I’ve slowly been going through the line-up and checking out all the artists that are going to be there. Lizzo is among those artists and this song was the first I ever heard by her. And, oh my god, it’s such a bop. It’s a song about leaving the men who don’t treat you well and embracing your fine ass self. Despite her lovely vocals, Lizzo sing-talks most of the song. Fortunately, it works. This song is happy and bouncy— pop/R&B as it should be. Give it a listen, if you haven’t.
“Never Tear Us Apart” by Bishop Briggs: So, it should come as no surprise to anyone that I hate Fifty Shades of Grey. The soundtracks, however? They’re a goldmine of pop perfection. This song is on the recently-released Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack and it. Is. Amazing. It’s dark and edgy, but in the best way. Bishop’s deep, soulful vocals growl over the track, eliciting passion and desperation. In fact, I’d go as far as to say this is one of her best songs yet! If any song from this soundtrack deserves “Love Me Like You Do”-levels of popularity, it’s this one.
“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” by Demi Lovato & Q-Tip: A cover of the classic duet between Elton John and Kiki Dee, this song is a breath of fresh air. Though no one is sure where or when it came from, the song was recently played on a small radio station. Demi sounds fantastic as usual and Q-Tip sounds great as well. The two make a really great vocal pair. While I don’t love the production, I’m still so glad to have this song in my life. Check it out for yourself!
“Volcanic Love” by The Aces: Another band heading to this year’s Firefly, The Aces are like HAIM for Beginners. They have that same ‘80s-esque indie pop sound as the latter, a sound that works especially well on this song. It’s just a really cute love song. If you like HAIM and MUNA, give these girls a listen too.
“Higher” by Whethan & Dua Lipa: This dark pop track is another song featured on the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack. Coincidentally, Whethan is also one of the producers on the line-up for Firefly. But, naturally, I’m here for Dua. Her deep, raspy voice sounds as great as ever on this song. She even hits some of her highest notes to date! Another great pop track from one of the best new pop stars in the game right now.
“White Flag” by Bishop Briggs: Despite being Bishop’s first obligatory “you can’t keep me down” anthem, she still manages to imbue the track with her unique Bishop-ness. She uses a lot of fire imagery and declares she “ain’t afraid to shed a little blood.” Even though it’s my least favorite song of hers so far, I still love it. As far as I’m concerned, Bishop Briggs can do no wrong.
Arctic Monkeys: I know, I know. How dare I say I ever went through an emo phase when I’ve only just recently gotten into the Arctic Monkeys? Well, I do what I want. And really, isn’t that the most punk rock thing of all? Anyway, I decided to give them a chance because they’re one of the headliners at Firefly this year. And now I love them. Oh my god, they’re so good. Among my favorite songs are “Arabella,” “Knee Socks,” “Snap Out of It,” “My Propeller,” and “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor.” Even though I’m probably the last person on Earth to listen to them, I still encourage you to check them out.
Royal Blood: Speaking of bands that are going to be at Firefly this year, these guys are great. They’ve got more of that awesome alternative rock sound that I’ve really been digging this year. I also really love their black-and-white aesthetic. So me. Some of my favorite songs of theirs are “Ten Tonne Skeleton,” “How Did We Get So Dark?” and “Hook, Line & Sinker.” Definitely check these guys out.
Flint Eastwood: And ending my list is a certain spaghetti Western-loving band and/or solo artist that is playing Firefly. I say “and/or” because some sources say Flint Eastwood is a brother/sister band, while others say it’s the stage name for Jax Anderson (the lead singer). I’m of the mindset that it’s both. Anyway, Flint Eastwood makes the kind of alternative pop that is my bread and butter. I love how unique and sassy it is. My favorite Flint Eastwood songs are “Queen,” “Secretary,” “Billy the Kid,” and “Glitches.” Believe me when I say Flint Eastwood is one band/artist that you need in your life.