This week’s music scene is bursting with fresh and exciting sounds that span a variety of genres. Whether you’re into the deep emotional journeys of heartfelt ballads, the electrifying energy of new electronic beats, or the unique blends that push musical boundaries, there’s something here for you. From introspective tracks that explore personal themes to high-energy anthems that get you moving, these new releases promise to offer something special. So, plug in and let yourself be swept away by the diverse and dynamic world of new music.
1. Paul Russell – Again sometime?
Paul Russell, the platinum artist known for his genre-blending sound, has dropped his debut EP titled Again Sometime?, marking the first chapter in a planned series of musical narratives. This EP unfolds a seven-scene love story, chronicling the arc of a relationship from its inception to a deep, enduring connection. Russell describes the EP as both a personal journey and a universal soundtrack for others navigating similar emotional landscapes. The collection features three new tracks alongside fan favorites like “Slippin,” a collaboration with Meghan Trainor, and “Say Cheese,” praised by HipHopDX as one of the year’s top hip-hop songs. With notable mentions including a summer remix of “Eat Pray Love” by Free Nationals and “Lil Boo Thang” joining former President Obama’s playlist, Russell’s sound is clearly resonating worldwide. His dynamic stage presence has been showcased through performances at the White House and alongside Teddy Swims in Europe, cementing his rising status in the global music scene.
2. TS Graye – “Someone Else”
TS Graye, the emerging alt-R&B star, has unveiled her latest single, “Someone Else,” a poignant exploration of the fragility inherent in relationships. Known for her introspective approach and evocative sound, Graye delves into the delicate interplay between love, loyalty, and vulnerability. In this new track, she reflects on the perils of complacency in relationships, likening them to a precarious house of cards that can collapse with just a few misplaced words. Graye’s rise from recording on her mother’s phone in Trowbridge to earning accolades from BBC Radio 1 and Apple Music underscores her evolving artistry and emotional depth. “Someone Else” follows her recent single, “Mother’s Genes,” and offers a taste of her upcoming EP, All For Love, promising a deeper dive into her personal and emotional journey. Graye’s music, inspired by the likes of Lana Del Rey and Frank Sinatra, continues to captivate audiences with its soulful authenticity and lyrical introspection.
3. Christine Elise – “I’ll Be Right Here”
Christine Elise, the Massachusetts-based singer-songwriter renowned for her emotionally charged performances, has released her latest single, “I’ll Be Right Here.” This new track marks a significant addition to Elise’s discography, showcasing her trademark blend of deep emotion and innovative musicality. The song explores themes of steadfast devotion and connection, highlighted by its poignant lyrics and stirring chorus. The single was crafted at Dreamworld Productions in Lynn, MA, with the production expertise of Doug Hammer, who also contributed piano arrangements. This collaboration between Elise and Hammer results in a seamless fusion of their creative visions. Christine Elise continues to carve out her place in contemporary music with “I’ll Be Right Here.”
4. Everyone You Know – “Think About His Mother”
The genre-defying duo Everyone You Know (EYK) has just unleashed their latest single, “Think About His Mother,” a track that combines gritty realism with electrifying beats. Siblings Rhys and Harvey, the driving forces behind EYK, deliver a dark and dramatic narrative that vividly captures the tension of a chaotic night out. Known for their unique blend of genres and sharp, narrative-driven lyrics, the British duo first made waves with their debut EP Cheer Up Charlie in 2018 and followed up with the Just For The Times mixtape in 2021. Their music has featured on FIFA 20, and they’ve performed at major festivals like Reading & Leeds. With “Think About His Mother,” EYK explores uncomfortable, real-life themes, offering a raw, spoken-word performance by Rhys set against Harvey’s intense, atmospheric production. Drawing inspiration from the industrial sounds of Nine Inch Nails, the track mirrors the escalating tension of its narrative, making it a standout addition to their discography.
5. Christian Nodal – PA’L CORA EP 01
Christian Nodal, hailed as the “New King of Mexican Music,” has just released PA’L CORA EP 01, a seven-track project that highlights his innovative blend of regional and global sounds. The EP’s centerpiece is “Un Besito Más,” a collaboration with rising Mexican artist Estevie. This release is the first installment in a multi-part series and showcases Nodal’s knack for merging mariachi, tumbado, bachata, pop, ballads, and bolero. Known for shattering stereotypes within Mexican music, Nodal continues to push boundaries with this EP, which also includes tracks like “Kbron y Medio,” “No Me 100to Bien,” and “La Intención” featuring Peso Pluma. Following a highly successful European tour, Nodal is gearing up for the PA’L CORA 2024 USA Arena Tour, beginning September 11. With an impressive slate of 25 arena dates across North America, including stops in Seattle, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, Nodal is set to bring his dynamic performances to a broader audience. His recent achievements include sold-out shows in Puerto Rico and a memorable collaboration with Andrea Bocelli.
6. Cian Ducrot – “Can’t Even Hate You”
Cian Ducrot has released his latest single, “Can’t Even Hate You,” a poignant breakup ballad that showcases his emotive vocal range and introspective lyrics. The Irish singer-songwriter’s new track, which has already amassed over 5 million views on TikTok, was launched with a groundbreaking performance using the Portals, a unique live-streaming concept that connected Dublin with New York City, Vilnius, and Lublin. This innovative debut reflects Ducrot’s knack for blending personal storytelling with stirring melodies, as evidenced by lines like, “You know how I know that I loved you too hard? Because I can’t even hate you for breaking my heart.” Ducrot, who has gained acclaim with his debut album Victory, which topped the charts in the UK and Ireland, will kick off his North American tour on October 3rd in Montreal.
7. Zedd – Telos
Zedd has released his highly anticipated third studio album, Telos. This 10-track album showcases Zedd’s signature dance-pop sound while also exploring a range of genres and musical textures. Telos features collaborations with a diverse lineup including John Mayer, Muse, Remi Wolf, Dora Jar, and a special reinterpretation of Jeff Buckley’s “Dream Brother.” The album, which blends elements of world music, jazz, and electronic, marks Zedd’s return after nearly a decade and is described as a culmination of his musical journey. To support the album, Zedd’s North American tour kicks off on September 6th with his renowned Zedd in the Park festival, which is returning for a two-night event. The tour includes sold-out shows in major cities and concludes at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in October.
8. Kim Deal – “Crystal Breath”
Kim Deal, a seminal figure in alternative rock known for her work with the Pixies and the Breeders, has recently released her debut solo album Nobody Loves You More. The album’s lead single, “Crystal Breath,” exemplifies how Deal has evolved her sound while staying true to her roots. Combining guitar stabs and rumbling bass with a filtered dance beat and choral vocal harmonies, “Crystal Breath” showcases Deal’s ability to innovate while maintaining the catchy hooks and memorable choruses that have defined her career. This track, and the album as a whole, highlight why Deal remains a significant influence in music, from the late ’80s to today.
9. James Bay — “Easy Distraction”
“Easy Distraction,” a collaboration between James Bay and Brandon Flowers of The Killers, is a strong indication that their songwriting partnership is one to watch. The track showcases Bay’s signature style of raw, emotional delivery over uplifting, expansive instrumentals. Bay describes the song as a reflection on recognizing the significance of someone too late but still yearning to express those feelings and maintain a connection despite challenges. This single follows the energetic “Up All Night,” a collaboration with Noah Kahan and The Lumineers, and is part of Bay’s upcoming album, Changes All The Time, set for release on October 4.
10. Allegra Krieger – “Came”
Allegra Krieger is set to release her new album Art Of The Unseen Infinity Machine in just over a week, and she’s shared one last single before the release: “Came.” The song explores themes of depression and feeling trapped in destructive patterns, but it also touches on the journey of breaking free from those cycles. Despite the song’s introspective and somewhat bleak lyrics about “the unraveling sense that you’re going nowhere,” Krieger’s performance is marked by a transcendent quality, offering a glimmer of hope and liberation.
