Every week, we bring you #SOUNDCHECK — your destination for the best new music that hit the web over the course of the week. Because you should always be prepared when someone passes you that AUX cord. This week's roundup features 10 of our favorite emerging and established artists. Turn up, tune in, and tune out.
Even back in 2015, it seemed like Chloe x Halle would be destined for big things. After all, Beyoncé signed them to her label, Parkwood Entertainment, that year; the projects they've shared since have consistently demonstrated their sisterly strengths. So it's unsurprising, but wonderful all the same, that their newest album Ungodly Hour is another beautiful example of the magic their voices make. The record's title track, which we highlight ahead, feels like truly weightless pop — a leavening for heavy times, if only temporarily.
Also included after the jump: Pop Smoke's posthumous single "Make It Rain," a track that makes the void his death left feel all the more staggering; and sweet crooning from rap's masked bard, RMR. Click through and dive in.
"Ungodly Hour" - Chloe x Halle
Chloe X Halle are at their peak on the weightless pop of "Ungodly Hour."
"Make It Rain" - Pop Smoke, Rowdy Rebel
Pop Smoke's posthumous "Make It Rain" builds upon a legacy that's already staggering.
"unconditional" - Shygirl + Arca
A digital confrontation from London's Shygirl, and Arca.
"Boys Don't Cry" - KEY! ft. Bobby Raps
Your favorite rapper's favorite rapper, Key!, catches a soft wave on his latest.
"Silence" - RMR
This should play during every golden hour.
"night swimming (demo)" - Soccer Mommy
Soccer Mommy's demo of "night swimming" is less polished, but stunning all the same.
"Letting Me Down" - Margo Price
Margo Price's country is for city kids that crave wide open spaces.
"Uh Huh Yeah" - Katie Wood
Glam art rock in the style of Kate Bush.
"Dirty" - Rico Nasty
Another banger from Rico Nasty.
"hellbound" - Dua Saleh
Sudanese-American artist Duah Saleh wields her gravely voice like a weapon.