Music of the Month: April 2018

Even though I haven’t been listening to much new music, the music I did listen to was excellent. From singles to full albums, I have to say… I have pretty damn good music taste. But enough preamble. Let’s just get right into my recommendations:

“No Tears Left to Cry” by Ariana Grande: This song was a bit of a grower for me. When I first listened to it, I thought it was decent but didn’t live up to Ariana’s previous first singles. However, after a couple listens, I fell completely in love. This song is a love letter to ‘90s dance pop. It even has a touch of R&B. Ariana’s voice is at peak performance, whether she’s belting out high notes or sing-talking a quick refrain. Thematically, it’s about feeling good after going through a rough time. It’s quite liberating to sing along to. This song is an absolute bop and if you haven’t heard it yet, who even are you?
“ICY GRL (feat. Kehlani) [Bae Mix]” by Saweetie: Despite just coming out a few days ago, this song is already a favorite. Who would’ve thought Kehlani had a good flow for rap? Honestly, I don’t have much to say for this one. Just know that these two dominate and I just might have to check out more of Saweetie’s work. Definitely give this song a shot.
“Yours” by Now, Now: This ‘80s-inspired anthem is sleek and well-produced. It’s a cute little ditty about being in love. It’s so bouncy and fun, a great song for the summer. If you’re a fan of bands like HAIM and MUNA, this is the song for you.
“Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters” by The Killers: Another entry on the collection of revamped Elton John classics, this one is a power ballad. Brandon Flowers’ voice is as great as ever, full of rich emotion. The song is about finding home in New York City and opening your eyes to places you’d never considered before. It’s strangely anthemic for such a slow song. This is definitely one of the better cuts off this compilation.
“Faking It (feat. Kehlani & Lil Yachty)” by Calvin Harris: This R&B pop jam is about two exes both pretending they’ve moved on— or trying to anyway. Kehlani sounds great as always, not a note out of place. I could take or leave Lil Yachty, but Calvin Harris’ production has never been better. This song is a collaborative match made in heaven.
“On the Low” by Tove Styrke: And here we have the return of my favorite Swedish pop star. This song, as the title suggests, is very lowkey. A great synth-y bass carries the song forward, as Tove’s lithe vocals dance over the track. It’s a cute song and definitely in my top five Tove Styrke tracks.
Church of Scars by Bishop Briggs: This was one of my most anticipated albums of the year and it did not disappoint. Bishop’s debut is everything that’s great about her: rich and soulful vocals, clever use of motifs, and mind-blowing production. If you’d like to see my in-depth thoughts, check out the review I did. Otherwise, just know that this is one album every alternative fan should have in their rotation.
Anastasia Cast Recording: As you probably remember from my review, I went and saw Anastasia on Broadway in April. I really enjoyed it, so I went home and downloaded the soundtrack. And I’m obsessed with it. It’s so good. I can’t stop listening to it. Honestly, I think this musical just shot itself up into my Top 5. It’s that good. Seriously, whether you grew up on the animated film or not, this is one musical you’ll want to get into.
The Neighborhood: This month I finally got into the popular alternative band The Neighborhood. I really like their laidback vibe. Jesse Rutherford’s voice is a soothing croon, a sound you could float away on. I also love how they combine and juxtapose real instruments with synths and autotune. I’ve only been able to review their most recent album, but it still offers more of my thoughts on the band and their sound. Among my favorite songs are “Sweater Weather,” “Daddy Issues,” and “Scary Love.” Great songs by a great band. I’d love to see them live one day.
Hilary Duff: I was feeling pretty nostalgic this month, so I put a couple of Hilary Duff’s albums on my phone (namely, her self-titled and Dignity). It really reminded me of how much I loved her music. And honestly? Dignity is pop perfection. I’m so glad I let my original idol back into my life.