This Saturday marks the insanely commercialized/mostly made-up “holiday” of St. Valentine. Whether you’re with your sweetheart or flying solo this V Day, this week has got you covered with a great soundtrack of a whole lot of exciting lead singles (Alabama Shakes, Lord Huron, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Chromatics, Maribou State).
Check them all out below.
https://soundcloud.com/johnnyjewel/chromatics-just-like-you
Chromatics, “Just Like You”
Yesterday, Chromatics released the first single from their upcoming record, Dear Tommy, which member Johnny Jewel enthusiastically promoted with “I FUCKING LOVE THIS RECORD SO MUCH & I AM LITERALLY FOAMING AT THE MOUTH TO SHARE IT WITH YOU.” “Just Like You,” is a soft and sad electronic tune—kind of the perfect soundtrack for moping around, remembering your lovers lost.
Maribou State, “Rituals”
This is the first taste we’ve had from Maribou State, but if we can expect more like “Rituals” from the British duo’s upcoming debut, we’ll likely be coming back for seconds and thirds. Evoking the same sonic spirit as Dan Snaith and James Blake, “Rituals” balances striking production with embedded organic and electronic elements that manifest a mercurial, otherworldly scene through your speakers.
With their sophomore album set for an April release, this week Lord Huron released Strange Trails‘ first single, “Fool for Love.” The new track moves more than their earlier work, while at the same time retaining the familiar campfire vibes and warbled vocals. It’s chill.
Unknown Mortal Orchestra, “Multi-Love”
The Portland-based trio’s album’s title track and first single sees Ruban Nielson favoring a crunchy synthesizer over his signature idiosyncratic guitar work. The song also features some of Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s most prominent vocals yet, and a chorus with strong disco elements. Is psych-disco a genre yet?
Alabama Shakes, “Don’t Wanna Fight”
For the first single from their sophomore album Sound & Color, Alabama Shakes have decided to get in touch with their funky side. Brittany Howard—the southern group’s frontwoman, and all around powerhouse—slides effortlessly in and out of a ’70s R&B falsetto above a memorable baseline and groovy guitar riffs. After you get hooked by “Don’t Wanna Fight”‘s soulful sound, dig deeper and be touched by the lyrics.
