Songs on Repeat - A Monthly Music Review - January 2024
January's been a bit of a rollercoaster, and as the highs and lows unfolded, my playlist became the anchor, grounding me through it all. If you know me, you know my roots are deeply embedded in pop-punk. However, lately, I've found myself entangled in the soulful embrace of Neo-Soul and R&B, and I'm here for it.
Back when I first moved to San Diego, my friends and bandmates introduced me to Neo Soul, and that's when the love affair began. Tom Misch was the first artist they threw my way, and damn, I fell hard for the genre. This genre, with its eclectic mix of influences, feels so modern and cool, especially with many artists hailing from the UK – a testament to the global connection music brings. Now, it stands shoulder to shoulder with my longtime love, pop-punk. Here's what's been keeping me sane this month:
Undercover by Sam Wills
This track has been dominating my playlist for well over a month, carving out a permanent residence in my mind. There's an irresistibly cool vibe to it, thanks to a rhythmic, bouncing repetition that's hard to shake off. Sam Wills brings a seductive touch with his smooth, silky vocals, creating a composition that is the soundtrack to a secret midnight rendezvous - a musical portrayal of a secretive, casual affair.
So Cool by Rueben James:
"So Cool" by Rueben James effortlessly exudes a jazzy and laid-back vibe that's simply irresistible. It's like a musical eye-roll, a sly response to anyone in need of a reality check. As a UK pianist and singer, Rueben James crafts "So Cool" as a an R&B song with a jazz infusion. The track not only showcases James' natural talent for compelling storytelling but also highlights his ability to weave catchy hooks into his music. There's a unique sophistication in the way this song nudges someone to check their ego.
Shy by Leon Bridges:
Introduced to me by friends when I first landed in San Diego, Leon Bridges has always been a vocal luminary in my music taste. "Shy" is about two people sharing a mutual attraction but struggling to express their feelings. The lyrics weave a narrative of longing and a desire for a connection that goes beyond the surface. In essence, "Shy" is a heartfelt expression of the universal desire for a deep, authentic bond—a message that encourages vulnerability and sets the stage for an intimate connection between two kindred spirits.
Pressure by James Vickery & SG Lewis:
Like an espresso shot for the soul, "Pressure" by James Vickery and SG Lewis is my remedy for days that demand an energy boost. The mix of R&B and electronic beats creates an irresistible sound, awakening both the senses and the spirit. Despite the seriousness of the lyrics, the upbeat melody still serves as an energetic mood booster. This dynamic track proves that music can be both a mirror reflecting reality and an escape into the rhythmic world.
Goodie Bag by Still Woozy:
"Goodie Bag" by Still Woozy is like stumbling on a hidden gem. The song is the brainchild of Sven Eric Gamsky, an American singer and songwriter hailing from Moraga, California. The quirky lyrics and upbeat vibe bring a fun twist to my usual playlist, living up to Gamsky's reputation for crafting music that's easy on the ears. The song mixes electronic and acoustic elements, a seamless blend of indie-pop goodness. NME has given it the tag of "psychedelic bedroom-pop," and IQ dubs it "genre-bending." And you know what? They're spot-on.
Pretty Please by Dua Lipa:
Okay, let's talk guilty pleasures. "Pretty Please" by Dua Lipa has me hooked, and I'm not even a pop music fan. Surprisingly enough, even for someone not typically glued to pop tunes, this track has got me completely captivated. There's an undeniable allure, an intoxicating blend of sensuality and fun that makes this song stand out.
Heaven Sent by Movements:
Ah, Movements – my ride-or-die in the realm of music. "Heaven Sent" is a departure from their usual weighty musical narratives, presenting a melodic and playful twist that provides a breath of fresh air. Known for delving into intense topics like mental illness and death, Movements surprises us with a track that embraces the lighter side of life, and sometimes, that's just what your playlist needs.
While I've always resonated with Movements' profound and often somber songs, and relate to them more than I'd care to admit, “Heaven Sent” is a reminder that even in the depths of intense musical exploration, there's always room for a bit of light-hearted fun.
In the wise words of Patrick Miranda himself, "this song is about wanting to f*ck."
Caffeine by Jack Kays:
Wrapping up my January musical journey is the magnetic "Caffeine" by Jack Kays. While it might appear as a bit of an outlier, I'm absolutely hooked on Jack's distressing vocals and the infectious upbeat tempo. "Caffeine" tells the tale of meeting someone in high school and the rollercoaster of emotions that ensue as feelings develop. If my memory serves me right, this track might just be Jack's now-wife, the person he met back in the high school days. There's an undeniable charm in peeling back the layers of an artist's personal thoughts, and I'm all about Jack's vulnerability with his audience. It adds that extra layer of connection, making the song not just a part of my playlist but a glimpse into the artist's soul.
So, that's the lowdown on my January playlist. From the catchy beats of "Undercover" to the confessional vibes of "Caffeine," each song is a chapter in my musical diary. Let's see what February brings to the mix. Stay tuned!