We recommend: The best new global music
Editor’s Note: We’ve pulled together the best new tracks and albums—both international and Indian—that dropped in the last four weeks. Tune into January’s playlist on splainer’s Spotify.
‘Beautiful People (Stay High)’ by Black Keys: Indie rock icons the Black Keys return with the lead single off their upcoming album ‘Ohio Players’. It’s the first of new music from the band since 2022 and is a good glimpse into the riffy and highly singable sonics they have in store for us.
‘Can’t Get Enough’ by Jennifer Lopez: Pop diva JLo keeps getting better with time! Enjoy this tune to your morning cuppa or an evening stroll. Lopez’s RnB roots stay strong on this one with a hint of aughts nostalgia.
‘Not My Fault (ft Megan Thee Stallion)’ by Reneé Rapp: The highly anticipated rebooted Mean Girls (2024) musical comedy has some hidden gems in their OST, with this one being a highlight. Megan Thee Stallion and Reneé Rapp create pop-rap sassy drama—perfect for your workout jam or girls night in.
‘It’s So Good’ by Jamie xx: British producer Jamie xx of the alt cult band The xx returns with his first single of 2024—also the artist’s first solo output since 2022. Footwork heavy and an evolving jam—its BPM picks up halfway for a great underground electronica vibe.
‘Girls Night’ by Dot.: Indie singer-songwriter Aditi Saigal who goes by the moniker ‘Dot.’ for her acting and music work, released a fresh yet nocturnal pop number. With the recent acclaim from her film debut in ‘The Archies’—we believe she’ll amass a number of stans in the coming time. Never too early to have bragging rights on being an OG fan!
‘100 Million’ by DIVINE, Karan Aujla: This Hindi-Punjabi hip-hop track will make you wanna pump this up on long drives on a freeway. DIVINE’s verses are raw and fierce while Aujla’s feature giving Dilli vibes in the best way.
‘Mehsoos’ by The Tapi Project: A poignant and melodic journey, this is a great Indian indie discovery. Lead vocalist Swati Minaxi’s crooning is hypnotic and the instruments subtle. You’ll love to get lost in this one.
‘Untidy Creature’ by Sleater-Kinney: 90s rock mavens Slater-Kinney have a wonderful new album ‘Little Rope’ out. This is a standout angsty track with masterful lyricism and reflective exploration. And yes, there’s an easy-going and very solid guitar outro to look forward to!
‘yes, and?’ by Ariana Grande: This one’s giving January bop of the season vibes. Grande shakes off the critics and media discourse with dance music and improv nods. Sing-speak and provocative lyrics come together to brew a pop earworm we believe you’ll be looping for some time to come.
‘Lego Ring’ by Faye Webster, Lil Yachty: Sad indie girlie Faye Webster collaborates with mumble rap artist Lil Yachty for the one of the least unexpected pairings we expected for 2024. The track is inventive and will surprise you. Webster’s yearning lyrics are present and so is the country-esque alt rock. Lil Yachty’s vocals are a refreshing addition.
January’s best new albums
It isn’t always about a single. Below are the album releases of the past month that are worthy of your extended time and attention:
PS: Standout tracks from each album have been added to splainer’s 2023 playlist on Spotify!
‘Orquídeas’ by Kali Uchis: Dream pop, reggaeton and spanish ballads come together on this very wholesome album. Listen up for the synth-pop, 90s House and spanish guitar tracks as well. Mexican singer Peso Pluma’s unique vocals add a refreshing change of pace through the album on track ‘Igual Que Un Ángel’. It’s nice to have a feel-good album to start off the year with!
‘Saviors’ by Green Day: Punk rockers Green Day have dropped a new album after four years and this one’s as rebellious as their music from the aughts. Billie Joe Armstrong’s vocals sound better than ever and power-packed drums from Tré Cool make the record an instant classic. ‘Saviors’ is a testament to the fact that the trio is tight and still rocking up 2024!
