These are all the songs I listened to while writing most of the album. Typically I’ll listen to one of the songs I’m most intrigued by and will try to vary up drum patterns and add my own flare with the guitars. Once I have the general mood of the song, that’s when the lyrics start to become apparent on what the idea is about.
What? The title didn’t make this obvious?
K.
This month threw so much talent in our face, and 2021 really feels like something special because of it. Check out some of the best music videos we have seen this month, and check back all year to re-visit 2021’s first releases! Including videos from Bailey Bryan, Evan Stanley, Planned Dilemma, ALPHA HOPPER, and more.
London-based singer-songwriter, CLOVES, does not wait to ask for permission in her newest track and accompanying music video, “Sicko”. Every aspect of the artist’s persona demands attention. With vibrant pink hair, disjointed dance movements and an occasionally-pained facial expression; the twenty-four year old makes it hard to look away during the duration of her three-minute-long production.
In her music video, the Australian-born singer peels back the layers of what it means to be an outsider. We are first introduced to her character via the television: an immediate suggestion to cast judgment onto the girl we see through the screen. We are then brought in for a closer look at the haunting side of isolation and loneliness, and the frailty of it all. Most interesting of all: despite the sadness behind CLOVES’ words, we are led to a chorus that resembles the melody of a lullaby, and there is somehow a sense of acceptance of the singer’s depressed state.
Like a really good horror movie you can’t stop yourself from watching, CLOVES’ “Sicko” touches on the scarier subjects in life– but you can’t help but be obsessed nonetheless.
Bluesy, beautiful rock music. The debut release from Erica Reese – an enchanting, danceable track titled “I Know Now” – is truly a statement for the artist, who comes off as an old soul and someone who has lightyears more experience than she does. Blending a 90s grunge rock nostalgia with robust vocal abilities and a more upbeat tempo has made this track an immediate add to your playlist. Let the soulful lyrics keep you grounded as you enjoy the rhythm of this particularly endearing debut.
There is a unique cadence to Nainnoh’s vocals that immediately draws you into the psychedelic, genre-bending, soulful work she creates. Her Eastern European upbringing, of course, influences those vocals, and has played an essential role in the type of Georgian folk, indie psych touches we get from her music. With her new track “Vital Illusions,” there is a beautiful, meandering quality from the composition that allows you to sort of melt into the soundscape and absorb the song’s energy as it plays.
What a way to start off 2021 for the talented songstress.
Nainnoh’s self-titled debut is due out April 2021.
If it’s been a second since you let yourself get totally wrapped up in melancholy, Zoe Wees’ single “Girls Like Us” is the perfect opportunity to get all up in your feels. The woman’s insanely rich vocals glide across a dance beat, as her heartbreak is laid out for all to witness.
The accompanying music video? Even more intense and dramatic. Gorgeous jewel tones inform the visuals, as Wees can be seen singing, crying, having makeup removed, and singing her lungs out over a variety of striking backdrops.
It moved me to tears.
“It’s not always good to think about how you look to the rest of the world,” shares Weed. “It’s much more important to think about how you feel inside. It is not easy to call yourself beautiful but being confident helps you to accept and love yourself.”