The musical gods have been very good to me this year, that’s all I have to say.
Highly Suspect
“New California” – In the run-up of the band’s upcoming album, The Midnight Demon Club due out in mid-September, they have released two more new singles! I have no idea what the full track list is going to look like, but four songs before the album drops? I’m hopeful. Anyways, this first single is vastly different from the other two released. I was a fan of the tambourine clearly heard at the beginning, and I loved the synths played during the intro. After that, it kind of morphs into a more gritty sound, and Johnny Stevens’ voice takes on a much smoother quality. The song is talking all about how stupid people are in California these days, and if you’re in on the joke, then you can definitely laugh about it.
“Ice Cold” – This second single actually pairs up quite nicely in some ways to “New California.” Aside from being complimentary to the first single, this too sounds vastly different from all the other releases off the album. It seems like it’s shaping up to be something really eclectic – I’m here for it! If this song’s chorus doesn’t immediately get stuck in your head, did you even really listen to it? I don’t think so. Overall, the song gave off a mix of 80s and Tokyo alt-pop vibes. I can’t wait to hear what’s next!
Two Door Cinema Club
“Lucky” – I love me some Two Door Cinema Club! It’s definitely been a hot minute since the band released an album, but we won’t have to wait much longer! Their fifth full length effort, Keep On Smiling, will be released Labor Day weekend. Alex Trimble’s vocals are so unique and lovely that it’s hard not find what he’s singing to be enjoyable. That is still the case here on this fun, upbeat, and very catchy track. Despite all of those good things going for it, the song itself is somewhat forgettable. I’d still totally listen to it whenever it came on, though!
Panic! at the Disco
“Local God” – This one reminded me a lot of the second single, “Middle of a Breakup,” released from Panic’s upcoming album. From what I’ve heard so far, it sounds like he’s really trying to channel a musical into these songs, and…that’s not my jam. At all. I like that the song hits again on the history of the band and their hometown, but ultimately I found this to be generic, pop punk garbage.
Phoenix
“Alpha Zulu” – No clue what the name of this song means, but I’m just stoked that Phoenix is finally releasing new music! I believe this means a new record is on the way, which is great considering it’s been six years since Ti Amo came out. What’s also wonderful is how freaking catchy this song is! One listen and that chorus was stuck in my head for the rest of the day. This new track is just making me more excited to see them at Austin City Limits this fall!