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 February’s playlist on splainer’s Spotify.
‘Dance Alone’ by Sia, Kylie Minogue: The two pop queens get together for an easy-listening dance track that leans more towards Sia’s songwriting sensibility. A feel-good way to start your day, Kylie’s sweeter vocals add a satisfying contrast to Sia’s throatier voice. You’ll catch yourself humming this one while taking a walk or doing your chores.
‘The Alibi’ by Dylan: The up-and-coming English musician crafts fun pop tracks with relatable lyrics. This is one power-pop anthem with an uplifting bridge and all the works. It’s not surprising it’s taken over the top hits playlists and overall streaming platforms. We can see this effortlessly placed in so many chick flick scenes as well!
‘A Promise’ by Meernaa: The Sade influence in the vocals is very apparent here. We love this song for its calming elements, nature-inspired lyricism and pleasing pace. The synths and piano provide a mellifluous medley here as well. It makes one want to escape into a meadow or go for an idyllic spring picnic!
‘Most of the Days’ by Anoushka Maskey: The slide guitar does it for us. Also, the harmonica! It’s a refreshing take on Bob Dylan-inspired folk. Powered by Sikkim-bred singer-songwriter’s raw vocals, the song addresses the panic each of us experiences when surrendering ourselves in relationships..
‘HEAVEN’ by The Kid LAROI: His first single of 2024, the Justin Beiber collaborator returns with a deeply personal offering with minimalist production. The Australian singer/ rapper offers an affirmation of his love for life–perhaps inspired by his recent illness. It’s simple with a straightforward message, probably why it’s on so many editorial playlists as well.
‘Training Season’ by Dua Lipa: Teasing her upcoming album, the second single called ‘Training Season’ has been dropped by British pop star Dua Lipa. She’s teamed up with Australian record producer Kevin Parker of Tame Impala for this album. The stuttering synths, the subtle disco beat and the repetitive pre-chorus make for a signature psychedelic influence.
‘Rare’ by Bullion and Carly Rae Jepsen: 80s nostalgia is writ large on this collaborative track. While the use of synths reminiscent of the decade has been in trend for the last few years—it’s mostly limited to only sonics. Bullion and Jepsen deployed even the singing style of the 80s which takes us back in time. Just soak in the retro-futurism vibes and relive one of the most innovative musical eras of the yesteryears.
‘Money’ by Ditty: The Indian indie artist sounds like Icelandic indie-folk musician Emilíana Torrini on this new release. An ardent ecological activist—nature themes are innate to Ditty’s work. The refrain of “there will be things that money won’t buy” offers a refreshing change to the crass materialism of our times.
‘Beautiful Things’ by Benson Boone: An early breakout hit of 2024—the song moves from a piano and plucking guitar ballad to an electrifying riff that clashes halfway in. Boone’s vocals glide from sweet to masterfully potent. This is a love song about gratitude. We’re thankful for it, as well.
‘16 CARRIAGES’ by Beyoncé: Queen Bey may be going Country, but her powerful R&B vocal delivery stays constant in this maximalist production. This is one of the first two singles she freshly dropped in the lead-up to the release of her new album—’Act II’. We appreciate the cross-genre sound and the sassy Bey we all know and love.
‘Floating On A Moment’ by Beth Gibbons: Haunting and emotive, this track by the lead singer of Portishead is an intimate inner conversation about the journey of life. It becomes more uplifting in the second half when a children’s choir is added to the arrangement. Simple lead guitar is accentuated by a jaunty vibraphone for a feeling of—well, we’re not sure. Is this a happy song or a sad one? We leave you to decide.
‘Get Down’ by Kid Kapichi: This punk rock number gets you in the first ten seconds. There is charming sing-song rap at the beginning of every verse. Some people say rock and guitar music is dead. We feel it’s only been lacking experimentation. Bands like Kid Kapichi prove the haters wrong on this absolute bop with clever production, punchy lyrics and some good ol’ (guitar) shredding.
February'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:
‘Pilot EP’ by Chrms: The Mumbai-based producer shows a more playful side of his production with his second EP that leans towards hyper-pop–with a generous helping of sub-bass. Released by the UK label Hypercolour Records, ‘Pilot EP’ consolidates Chrms' reputation as a global electronica talent. Be sure to check out the 3D scan of his face in the artwork.
‘What Now’ by Brittany Howard: The frontwoman of rock/soul act Alabama Shakes has grown into her own with her solo output. This second album from the singer-songwriter traverses soul, blues, jazz, house and funk—the genres of Black music that have been the blueprint for current American music. Possibly one of the best albums to come out this year, Howard’s voice is ethereal–even as the subtle rock and thumping house get you grooving.
‘Wall of Eyes’ by The Smile: If you love Radiohead or Thom Yorke, you can’t miss this supergroup release featuring Johnny Greenwood and drummer Tom Skinner. It’s contemplative and dark in parts—with enchanting jazz breaks. A reflective listen, we suggest you reserve this prog-rock album for the days when you need a cathartic release.
‘COMING HOME’ by USHER: This one’s feel-good all the way. With tracks titled ‘I Am The Party’ to ‘Keep On Dancing’ to ‘Bop’ it promises a whole lotta R&B goodness. The 20 tracks are retro and modern at the same time–with homage to the best of 90s Usher. As proven at the NFL Super Bowl show, Usher is stronger and more back than ever!
PS: Standout tracks from each album have been added to splainer’s February 2024 playlist on Spotify!
