Welcome to your weekly dose of What’s Going On, Biff Bam Pop!’s weekly new music roundup. From veteran ’80s rockers to current-day global chart sensations to indie darlings, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to stay tuned in to the ever-evolving music scene. As always, if you dig what you hear, be sure to stream and follow the artists.
Sans Soucis – Get ready to groove to the electrifying beats of “Sexed & Sexual,” the lead single from Sans Soucis‘ forthcoming debut album Circumnavigating Georgia. This London-based, Italian-born singer-songwriter delivers a provocative and irresistibly catchy electro-pop anthem that explores the complexities of sexual liberation and human desire. With a powerful message that shakes a fist at the patriarchy and anti-blackness, Sans Soucis takes listeners on a cathartic journey of self-discovery. As anticipation builds for the album’s release, fans can also look forward to experiencing Sans Soucis’ dynamic live performances on their UK and EU tour, culminating in a headline show at London’s Oslo on November 12th. Their album is due out later this year via Decca and we can’t wait to hear what they do next.
Sans Soucis says, “I wanted to explore how much influence society, that hyper-sexualizes and exoticizes non-white young people, has had on my upbringing. I thought about how much sex and sexuality defined the early days of my personal development and how little ownership I had over it. So, when the concept finally took a bit more of a shape, I realised all I wanted to do was to create a safe space for me to make sense of these experiences and to own these parts of myself, whilst moving away from shame and guilt.”
Photo Credit: Mahaneela Choudhury-Reid
Listen to Sans Soucis’ new single “Sexed & Sexual” below.
Abstract Crimewave – We’re in the midst of an Abstract Crimewave. No, don’t alert the authorities. Abstract Crimewave, the brainchild of Björn Yttling (Peter Bjorn and John) and Joakim Åhlund (Teddybears, Caesars), announces their return with “The Gambler” featuring fellow indie darling Lykke Li, the lead single from their forthcoming album The Longest Night. Featuring the aforementioned Lykke Li along with Chrissie Hynde and Dungen, the album is set to release on October 3rd via Chimp Limbs/Red Eye. Formerly known as Smile, the duo sees this album as a rebirth, marking a decade-long journey since their debut in 2012. With a rich history of collaboration and musical exploration, Abstract Crimewave promises a fresh sonic experience that’ll blow your socks off. If you don’t believe them, listen to “The Gambler.”
Listen to Abstract Crimewave’s new single “The Gambler” ft. Lykke Li below.
Arya Starr – Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr is out now with her highly-anticipated sophomore album The Year I Turned 21. Released on Mavin Records/Republic Records/Universal Music Canada, this GRAMMY-nominated artist’s latest offering explores themes of love, growth, and empowerment. Featuring the vibey Afro-R&B track “Last Heartbreak Song” with crooner Giveon, the album is hailed as Starr’s coming-of-age masterpiece. With personal storytelling and astonishing vulnerability, this record showcases her artistic maturity amidst a whirlwind year. The album also contains collaborations with global superstars Anitta, Coco Jones, and Seyi Vibez, among others.
On the album, Ayra Starr stated, “This is a coming-of-age story. The rollercoaster of emotions and genres intertwined tells the story of a 21-year-old African girl and superstar. Twenty one isn’t just an age, it’s a moment of change in your life. A time of necessary growth, hurt, realizing your power… love. Not everybody’s ’21’ happens at 21. Whenever it is for you; learn from it, feel through it… that’s what matters.”
Listen to Arya Starr’s new track “Last Heartbreak Song” ft. Giveon below.
charlieonnafriday – You know we’re fans of charlieonnafriday here at Biff Bam Pop!. The 21-year-old Seattle native, also known as Charlie Finch, is back with his latest single, “Warning Shot.” Returning to his roots after the viral success of “After Hours,” the rapper and pop singer-songwriter delivers a hip-hop-infused track featuring his signature melodic flow over a sparse beat and acoustic guitars. The song features Charlie pleading for his lover to give him a warning shot before she breaks his heart. Following the release of “When I’m Leavin’,” “Warning Shot” showcases Charlie’s evolution as an artist while staying true to his own unique style. Fresh off a successful European tour supporting Tate McRae, Charlie is gearing up to announce more live shows, cementing his status as one-to-watch in the music scene.
Listen to charlieonnafriday’s new single “Warning Shot” below.
The Police – There’s something special on the way for fans of The Police. Get ready to rediscover the magic of The Police’s iconic album Synchronicity with its global reissue on July 26th, 2024. This deluxe release offers fans an unparalleled experience, featuring a 6-disc Limited Edition Boxset packed with 55 previously unreleased tracks, rare memorabilia, and unseen photos. Originally hitting No.1 worldwide, Synchronicity and its chart-topping single “Every Breath You Take” broke records, becoming the most played song in radio history. The reissue will also be available as a 2CD Deluxe edition, 4LP Super Deluxe, and a variety of other formats. Three years in the making, this reissue, endorsed by the band, is a testament to their enduring legacy. New liner notes by esteemed music journalist Jason Draper offer fans an opportunity to dive even deeper into the making of this masterpiece.
Listen to The Police’s “King Of Pain (Demo)” below.
