Welcome back to Happy Mag’s Staffs Picks, where every Friday we highlight our favorite new music releases from the past week.
Another Friday comes to pass and the weekend awaits, we’ve made it friends! Before we clock off and crack a cold one, we have got another week’s worth of amazing new music releases to share with you.
From the highly-anticipated new EP from Leith Ross, to stunning new singles by Spencer Spark and Cash Savage and the Last Drinks, we have got some real treats for you today; so without further ado, let’s get into that sweet sweet music.
Cash Savage and the Last Drinks — $600 Short On The Rent
Cash Savage and the Last Drinks, the beloved Australian band known for their quintessential alt rock and witty storytelling, have once again captured the hearts of music lovers with their much-anticipated new album, So This Is Love. The album, with its distinct slacker-rock sound and genre-defying blend of folk, indie rock, and grunge, is already gaining critical acclaim, and the focus single, ‘$600 Short On The Rent’, hits particularly hard in the current socio-economic climate of rising costs and housing crises.
Spencer Spark — Wake Up
Spencer Spark has released Wake Up, an invigorating ditty that serves as the Sydney singer-songwriter’s second single of 2023. While the track is bound by groovy 808 drums and an overall 80s aesthetic, what Spark does in between these throughlines is anything but predictable, with the single offering what can only be described as a sonic sugar high — the kind of earworm that will perk up your morning commute and then some.
This Week in the Universe — Weightless
This Week in the Universe (TWITU) delivers a sublime electro pop melody with “Weightless,” featuring the captivating vocals of Wallace. The cinematic synth-pop track is a retro-futuristic marvel, blending modernity with nostalgia through lush synth arrangements and infectious beats. Wallace’s hella beautiful voice croons with emotion, evoking a sense of longing and introspection. TWITU’s signature technicolour synth-work and expansive drum hits create an otherworldly sound that transports listeners to new dimensions. “Weightless” is a true masterpiece, a universal goodness that is perfect for your Good Friday soundtrack, and a gem in the music universe.
Hector Morlet — We’re So Tight It Hurts
Boorloo/Perth’s very own Hector Morlet has graced us with a cosmic new single that is sure to captivate music lovers everywhere. Titled “We’re So Tight It Hurts,” this dynamic track features temperate Whitney style vocals and perfect indie pop electro sensibilities. From the first note, Morlet’s captivating melodies draw you in, accompanied by tight, textured beats and grooving bass lines that add depth and dimension to the track. Popping synthetic sounds add an otherworldly touch, while gliding vocals soar effortlessly. “We’re So Tight It Hurts” is a stellar example of Morlet’s artistry and a must-listen for fans of indie pop and electro music.
J-MILLA — Nicest
J-MILLA’s “Nicest” ft Thir13een is a vibrant explosion of energy, showcasing his unfiltered creativity and fearless musical prowess. With a synth-driven intro and West Coast vibes, this track is a powerhouse of originality. Produced by J-WESS, it features a catchy hook and sweet harmonies that add depth to its feel-good atmosphere. A bold and daring declaration of artistic talent, “Nicest” is a must-listen for those craving an electrifying musical ride.
Forest Claudette — Motor in the Sand
Forest Claudette’s “Motor in the Sand,” produced by Pip Norman, is a rich and textured blend of pop, hip hop, and R&B. The track’s pulsating beats, playful lyrics, and epic synth arrangement showcase Forest’s anxieties and self-doubt. Teaming up with Grey Ghost for the visual, Forest’s hypnotizing charisma shines, solidifying their status as one of the country’s most exciting new talents. The track is a powerful exploration of embracing chaos and acknowledging destructive thoughts, with Forest’s personal touch and collaboration with Pip Norman adding depth to the introspective lyrics.
Tanlines — The Big Mess
Tanlines, the dynamic duo comprised of Eric Emm and Jesse Cohen, make a triumphant return with “The Big Mess,” the title track from their highly anticipated album, set to release on May 19 via Merge. After an eight-year hiatus, Tanlines wastes no time in catching up with their signature blend of playful and introspective soundscapes. The song’s opening line, “It’s been a long time,” serves as a winky-sad nod to their absence while also setting the tone for their evolution as artists and as individuals. With thoughtful lyrics, infectious melodies, and a colorful melange of influences, “The Big Mess” encapsulates Tanlines’ unique and multifaceted musical identity.
Orbiting Human Circus — The Lost Angel
The Orbiting Human Circus, celebrate their latest single, “The Lost Angel.” Inspired by the wise words of a beloved grandfather, the song is a heartfelt love letter to the universal experience of love. Drawing on classic love songs like “Cheek to Cheek” and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” The Orbiting Human Circus (Julian Koster -of Neutral Milk Hotel), captures the essence of love in its purest form, a sentiment that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. With its sweet indie pop melodies and raw, open-hearted lyrics, the song evokes the spirit of Daniel Johnstone, inviting listeners on a journey of nostalgia and tender emotion. Grandpa’s words of wisdom continue to inspire, and “The Lost Angel” is a testament to the everlasting power of love in all its forms.
Tull Thunderhead — The Sea and the Sky
Tull Thunderhead’s latest EP “The Sea and the Sky” is a musical odyssey that defies easy categorization. Drawing from an eclectic mix of influences including country, alt rock, spaghetti westerns, and 60s surf, Tull Thunderhead’s music is a bold fusion of styles that pushes the boundaries of contemporary music. With a keen sense of timeliness yet a freshness that is truly their own, this EP showcases the band’s unrivaled depth and originality. From the thought-provoking imagery and nostalgic hooks of “Mary” to the introspective Cohen-esque perfection of “The Ant and the Bumble Bee,” and the raw, unfiltered emotion of “Into the Blue,” Tull Thunderhead’s musical prowess shines through in every track. “The Sea and the Sky” is a testament to their unapologetic approach to music-making, setting them apart as true innovators in the industry.
Leith Ross — Music Box
Leith Ross, the singer-songwriter hailing from outside of Ottawa, Ontario, unveils their latest single “Music Box” in an exquisite display of musical craftsmanship. The delicate strums of the guitar provide a gentle murmuring backdrop to Leith’s lilting vocals, as they deliver heartfelt lyrics with a sense of ethereal emotion reminiscent of a lullaby. The track resonates with a gorgeous refrain, drawing listeners into its personal and vulnerable narrative. With just the right amounts of Death Cab for Cutie-style riffs and Stella Donnelly-esque idiosyncrasies, particularly on ‘Guts’ Leith Ross showcases their unique blend of influences and artistry that keeps you captivated until the very end. “Music Box” is a captivating release that showcases Leith Ross’s prowess as an artist, leaving us eagerly anticipating what they will bring next to the musical landscape.
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