In this week’s instalment of What’s Going On, we dive into the latest sonic offerings that have dazzled our ears over the past seven days. From highly anticipated albums to hot new singles that took us by surprise, join us as we round up the freshest tracks that deserve a spot on your new music playlist. Whether you’re a fan of big tentpole pop, indie rock, or the current club sounds, there’s something here for everyone. As always, if you dig what you hear, be sure to stream and follow the artists.
The XCERTS – Scottish alt-rockers The XCERTS are back with their fifth studio album Learning How To Live And Let Go, via UNFD. The three-piece band consisting of frontman Murray Macleod, bassist Jordan Smith, and drummer Tom Heron takes listeners on a sonic journey like no other as they lean more into their broader pop sensibilities and higher production values. From the anthemic album opener “GIMME” to the introspective ballad “Everything I Cannot Live Without” to the slick pop-rock of “Lovesick,” each song showcases the band’s evolution while staying true to its core sound. For long-time fans of the band and those that are new to The XCERTS, Learning How To Live And Let Go is a must-listen.
Check out the music video for The XCERTS’ “Lovesick” below.
Sofia Camara – Rising Canadian artist Sofia Camara just released the perfect track for late summer nights. The 20-year-old singer-songwriter teamed up with Juno-award-winning production duo Banx & Ranx for “Different”, her third release of the year. Banx & Ranx are known for their signature ECM (Electronic Caribbean Music) sound, which explains the light pop-reggae tinge on the breezy track. Most importantly, “Different” showcases Sofia’s versatility as an artist. Having mastered lush ballads and Hot AC fare like “Something Better” and “Never Be Yours,” it’s nice to see that Sofia Camara can also make listeners dance.
Listen to Sofia Camara’s new single “Different” below.
Doechii – Tampa native Doechii continues to be one of the most exciting artists on the scene today and her new single “Booty Drop” is only going to keep that momentum going. Tapping into the Jersey Club sound and featuring a sample of UNIIQU3’s banger “Bubble Gum,” “Booty Drop” is made for the dance floors. Devoted Doechii fans will have noticed that she performed the song as part of a medley at the 2023 BET Awards. If you can’t get enough, you can catch Doechii on the road this fall on Doja Cat’s Scarlet Tour.
Listen to Doechii’s new single “Booty Drop” below.
Sigrid – In 1988, Public Enemy told listeners not to believe the hype. In 2023, Norwegian pop singer-songwriter Sigrid is echoing those sentiments in her new single “The Hype.” The lush pop anthem belies darker and more cynical lyrics reflecting on the past six years of Sigrid’s time in the spotlight. Explaining more about what “The Hype” is all about, Sigrid states: “We’ve all been there, when you wonder if you’ve lived up to the expectations. I thought about the term Hype, in love and at work, and the questions you ask yourself of did you really live up to the hype.”
Listen to Sigrid’s new single “The Hype” below.
Live In Color – Abba. Roxette. Robyn. The list could go on. It’s a fact at this point that the Swedes have a knack for crafting great pop music. There must be something in the water over there. The latest Swedish act that needs to be on your radar is Live In Color. The Jönköping-based pop-rock outfit consisting of Jesper, Anton, Linus, Tim, and Melker just released their new single “Yes To Me.” With punchy vocals, big catchy melodies, and stunning synths, the track has a strong ‘80s feel that appears to be by design.
Listen to Live In Color’s new single “Yes To Me”’ below.
