Summer is almost over and we’re in the midst of Labor Day long weekend, so there’s no better time to bust out some new tunes. This week’s instalment of What’s Going On features five sizzling tracks that are perfect for your holiday playlist, whether you’re hitting the beach, hosting a backyard barbecue, or just kicking back and relaxing with the AC on. As always, if you dig what you hear, be sure to stream and follow the artists.
Saint Blonde – Alternative rock band Saint Blonde have just signed with Pale Chord / Rise Records, joining a distinguished roster that includes Spiritbox and Holy Wars. The band hailing from Denton, Texas is out now with their label debut single “Trendsetter,” produced by Courtney Ballard (5 Seconds of Summer, All Time Low). The track explores the fleeting nature of contemporary art and expression. With big riffs and deep introspective lyrics, “Trendsetter” is a sharp critique of overconsumption and the commodification of creativity. Since forming in 2018, the band, consisting of members Hunter Fitch, Tre Rollins, Alexander Hernandez, Tyler Lee Cooper, and Kyle Cade, has evolved from jangly pop to a more fleshed-out and expansive sound.
“We feel super grateful to have a team around us now that not only shares the long term vision we have for the band artistically, but also allows us to lean into some of the things that make us unique,” the band shares. “Instead of trying to force a sonic quality or viral moment, they’ve allowed us to just be Saint Blonde. And to us that’s really valuable and special.”
Listen to Saint Blonde’s new single “Trendsetter” below.
Pearl & The Oysters – Los Angeles-based duo Pearl & The Oysters are out now with “Cruise Control,” the third single from their upcoming album Planet Pearl. The track’s accompanying David Gutel-directed music video features the duo, Juliette Pearl Davis (Juju) and Joachim Polack (Jojo), embarking on a quirky West Coast road trip, culminating in a visit to an ostrich farm. Inspired by a secret bebop cut, “Cruise Control” has an upbeat jazz-pop sound contrasted by darker, cynical lyrics. Planet Pearl represents a major shift for the pair, reflecting on mental health and feelings of alienation while still maintaining their playful energy.
Jojo of Pearl & The Oysters states: “It sometimes feels like the only way to stay sane in a world that clearly isn’t, is to go through the motions in a highly desensitized ‘automatic pilot’ mode. In that respect, “Cruise Control” is pretty cynical because it equates the feeling of freedom and excitement one can experience zipping through the highway with a form of voluntary ignorance, which we ultimately don’t wish upon anyone.”
Listen to Pearl & The Oysters’ new single “Cruise Control” below.
Mabel – UK pop sensation Mabel is out now with her new single “Chat,” via Polydor Records/Universal Music Canada. After a stunning debut performance of the track at Notting Hill Carnival, Mabel’s latest offering is one of her strongest yet. Co-produced by Stryv, “Chat” is all about slowing down romantic relationships and savoring meaningful conversations. With its African-inspired rhythms and Mabel’s songbird vocals, “Chat” stands out among the singer’s recent output. The accompanying Toby Haygarth-directed visuals capture the joy and vibrant colors of Notting Hill Carnival.
Speaking on the new single, Mabel shares: “‘Chat’ is a song for the summer. A simple love song because the best kind of love doesn’t have to be complicated. When you find a person that you can say all the things on your mind to and that all consuming feeling takes over.”
Listen to Mabel’s new single “Chat” below.
41 – New York hip-hop collective 41 is closing out the summer with their high-energy single “Green Hair Girl” featuring Dee Billz. The track combines a melodic keyboard loop with a pulsating groove, propelling rapid-fire rhymes and a highly chantable hook from TaTa, Jenn Carter, and Dee Billz. Lines like “I’m here for the money” stand out as instant earworms, continuing 41’s run of releasing irresistibly catchy tracks. Dee Billz is fresh from his hit “Beckham,” while 41 continues to make waves with anthems like “Trick” and “Scatter.” The Brooklyn-based crew is elevating the next generation of hip-hop with their dynamic energy and fresh sound. We love that!
Listen to 41’s new single “Green Hair Girl” featuring Dee Billz below.
Andye – Ethiopian-born and Toronto-raised artist Andye returns with his new single “All To Myself,” released via Universal Music Canada. Marking his first release in over a year, the track ushers in a new chapter for Andye with a slick, breezy pop sound. “All To Myself” indulges in the thrill and turmoil of the chase in love. Andye describes it as a “toxic record,” exploring pride, vulnerability, and jealousy against an energetic beat. The accompanying music video reflects the track’s tension and passion, showcasing intoxicating and euphoric moments of love. With over 3.6 million streams and a significant social media presence, Andye is poised for another standout chapter.
Listen to Andye’s new single “All To Myself” below.
