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.
“California” - Lorde
A standout on Lorde’s Solar Power, “California” is the star’s rejection of celebrity life and fame, which she carries out on the breeziest, west coast-sounding beat imaginable.
“4 Page Letter” - Aaliyah
The late R&B star’s music has always been ahead of the game, and the sultry groove of “4 Page Letter,” newly arrived to streaming services, is no exception.
“Joni” - SZA
SZA casually released three new songs this past weekend, including this stunning guitar-plucked tune that pays homage to Joni Mitchell.
“Worst (I Assume)” - JoJo
JoJo may be admitting she’s messy when it comes to relationships on her latest song, but “Worst (I Assume)” is also proof that she can do no wrong when it comes to releasing bops.
“Unlock It” - Abra ft. Playboi Carti
The cult NYC singer makes her major label debut with “Unlock It,” a gritty and thumping track with a guest verse from Playboi Carti.
“Sierra Nights” - Kevin Abstract ft. Ryan Beatty
Brockhampton’s Kevin Abstract and singer Ryan Beatty weave together a romantic, dusk-hour tune about chasing dreams and relationships.
“Talking Dust Bowl Blues” - Waxahatchee
Waxahatchee gives a spirited cover of Woody Guthrie’s “Talking Dust Bowl Blues” for the singer’s upcoming reimagined album Home In This World: Woody Guthrie’s Dust Bowl Ballads.
“The Wave” - Bedouine
A seaside ballad full of flute, gentle guitar, and Bedouine’s gentle vocals, “The Wave” is better than pressing a seashell to your ear.
“Bloody Future” - Kilo Kish
Art-pop singer-songwriter Kilo Kish explores a man vs. machine future combined with climate change on this stirring and synth-y new song.
“Something In The Water” - Boys World
The TikTok beloved Boys World reminds us yet again that the best time to be a girl group stan is now!