I’m not talking about my love life, I’m talking about new music!
Underoath
“Cycle” – If Underoath keeps releasing new singles, they aren’t going to have anything new to listen to in January when their album drops! I’m only kidding, I’ll take all the songs whenever they want to release them. This new track features Ghostmane, who I’ve only ever heard of by name, but he fits seamlessly into this song. In fact, if you’re not really paying attention it’s kind of hard to tell when his vocals start. That’s how similar he sounds to Spencer Chamberlain – way cool! All in all, this track is a lot heavier than their last album, but it’s excellent. I’ve seen some people compare this song to how their album Disambiguation sounded and I’d have to agree. Nothing wrong with visiting the past, especially when it sounds this good! With every new song that they’re releasing, I’m getting more and more excited for the new record.
The Wanted
“Rule the World” – Before I even get into this new single, let’s just talk about the fact that it’s a NEW SINGLE! The Wanted broke up in 2014, so their reunion was a very pleasant surprise. Sure, they will never be on the same level as One Direction, but I actually met these guys back in the day and they are hella impressive. I was also surprised to see them back together after learning that member, Tom Parker, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. It sounds like it will never go away, but I was happy to learn that it’s shrunk a bit and is being well managed at the moment. In following all the guys on social media, it seems like they picked up right where they left off and are having an awesome time being back together. It warms my heart. This new single isn’t my favorite, but you bet your butt that I pre-ordered that greatest hits album (with other new songs!)!
Alt-J
“Get Better” – Wow, what a heartbreaking song. This new track is quiet, soft, and so, so very sad. He sings of watching someone they love in pain and telling them they will get better. It’s a great sentiment to hear even though it’s clear in the song that this loved one unfortunately did not get better. In the end, it’s an encouragement to himself, and I think ultimately, to others. There was even a nice line dedicated to all the frontline workers seamlessly tucked in there. While this was a little slow for my taste, I can’t ignore how beautiful and heart-felt it was. The video was quite unique for it, too. It’s all done in a sort off pixelated cartoon style. Perhaps trying to lighten up such a heavy song, but I found it never took away from the sentimentality. This song certainly had the back of my throat burning and tears welling in my eyes, but it’s definitely worth a listen.
Glass Animals
“I Don’t Wanna Talk (I Just Wanna Dance)” – I mean as soon as this song starts, the bass line hits you and yes, I did want to dance. I like that Glass Animals have new music out so soon after the release of Dreamland. And look, since I didn’t end up going to see them on tour late this summer, this is as good as it’s going to get for me. Someday I will see them live! Overall though, the song is a little forgettable for them and very pop. Not that I’m crapping on all pop, I just think of their back catalog and know they can do better. Maybe this is their future though, and I might just have to be okay with it.