Somehow February is over and it’s time to take another look at some of the best releases of the month! I feel like February was filled with a lot of mellow music, so it’s great for aimless walks, sitting outside and contemplating life or just spending quality time with friends. There are some upbeat exceptions of course, but I guess you can save those for fun weekend things. Enjoy!
1. Favorite Color is Blue – Robert Delong, K. Flay (Released February 23, 2018) – Single – Electronic
Robert Delong has been a long time favorite of mine, so I was really excited to see some new music from him – it’s been a while. Over the past few months I’ve become familiar with K. Flay. That being said, I think this collaboration is absolutely genius. Both artists craft their electronic music very specifically, so being able to hear each of their distinct styles and how they compliment each other was an incredible experience. This song was well worth the wait.
2. Where the Light Begins – Sam Gorski (Released January 26, 2018) – Single – Djent
This is a song that’s diverse in sound within its genre which I find really appealing, especially for a seven minute song. Sections within the track are different, so it makes for a non-repetitive, exciting listening experience. I also really liked the additions of crow sounds, rustling trees and running water. It’s something I’ve never heard while listening to this genre, but it certainly sets the scene. He’s released some more singles over the month, so there’s more to check out if you enjoyed this.
3. Real World – Junior Empire (Released January 26, 2018) – Alternative
I remember listening to Junior Empire’s first song, West Coast, when it came out a couple of years ago. I really enjoyed it and constantly checked for an album to drop with no luck. They’ve released a couple more singles since then, but they have finally released that long awaited album, titled Junior Empire, that includes these singles and some new songs as well. Real World is one of the new songs and happens to be my favorite on the album. They’ve definitely progressed since their beginning by incorporating some more electronic elements but the piano is still prevalent (which made me like them in the first place) so I’m happy!
4. Human Beingz – Frills (Released February 8, 2018) – Indie
I would say this song is just another cool addition to your Indie playlist. It sounds great, has a good pace and the vocals are cool. There’s nothing too unique or special about it in my opinion but it’s just one of those enjoyable songs that keeps to the tracks you use to chill out.
5. Psycho Star – King Tuff (Released February 6, 2018) – Single – Indie
I stumbled across this song on an indie playlist, and upon listening it seems to have some garage and folk influence as well. I really enjoyed the mixture of sounds because it gave me that confusion I love when I can’t place a song into one of the genre boxes in my head. However, it does kind of remind me of the Growlers’ song I’ll Be Around. That’s a compliment from me though. The song has an upbeat tempo, but it’s not too overwhelming, so I think it would be great to listen to while spending time with people.
6. White Eyes – The Wombats – (Released February 9, 2018) – Alternative
One of the best things that happened this month was the release of the Wombats’ fourth album Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life. Whoo! I love all the songs on the album of course, but when I listened to the album all the way through for the first time, this song stuck out to me the most. It holds onto the Wombats sound but also includes the new work they’ve been showing off in this album. As usual, the bridge sounds amazing and the somber lyrics pair so beautifully with the energy of the music. If you like this song, you should definitely check out their album!
7. Getaway – Shiboski – (Released February 13, 2018) – Single – Lo-fi/Electronic
This is one of those songs that just makes your heart feel happy. The tune is so soothing and uplifting, so I like listening to it when I’m getting ready in the morning at an hour that’s earlier than I would like. It just reminds me of laying in a hammock at the beach or something, and the wind is blowing and the sun is out and everything’s great. It’s the definition of a short and sweet pick-me-up song.
8. Dusk – Whysp, Baribal – (Released February 15, 2018) – Single – Electronic
This is certainly another feel-good song, and it’s dreamy sound makes you feel like you’re a video game character exploring through a park in the snow. It sounds pretty crazy, but you’ll understand once you hear it. It’s a song with a lot of energy that somehow gives you a relaxed and positive attitude. It’s been really nice to come across these types of songs lately. I think all of us, as college students, need more of this kind of music in our lives.
9. Algernon – A Beacon School – (Released February 16, 2018) – Single – Indie
Whenever this song comes on, I just feel tempted to close my eyes and listen to it. It has such a great melody and the vocals are soft and smooth. Everything just flows together. It’s like you’re on a plane, looking out the window and watching yourself sail through the clouds.
10. Boo Hoo – Safa Gaw – (Released February 14, 2018) – Single – Rap
I hesitated to put rap as the genre for this song, because it’s definitely not traditional rap music. It has a sound that I’ve never really heard before and I appreciate that. I think electronic, rap, or alternative fans could enjoy this. It’s that upbeat want-you-back song with a new twist.
Honorable Mentions
- Lemon Glow – Beach House (Released February 15, 2018) – Single
- Know the World – Primitive Motion – (Released February 23, 2018) – From album House In the Wave
That’s all for this month! I hope the analogies weren’t too annoying. I just feel like it helps explain the feel of the songs so you can decide whether or not you want to check them out. Anyway, happy listening and come back next month for another batch of new releases. 🙂