19-07-2025, 18:16
NEW MUSIC FRIDAY 18.06.25 #39
ALAMBRE PúA - Bad Bunny (6.6/10)
A Puerto Rican groovy track about past relationships, which doesn't go full-on funky but adds a layer of slower movement (slower then fast) to help bring across emotions more. I'll take it, but I don't think it was a good release choice as a single.
California—Maroon 5 (6.1/10)
This new era of Maroon 5 is now straying away from a radio-hit kind of sound and now going into love songs, and as much as this isn't something I hate, I think it's rather boring. This song needs something other than vocals and acoustics to power it, and like that, it just doesn't scream Maroon 5.
Perfectly - FKA Twigs (8.2/10)
Yeah, I can see myself getting more into this compared to Eusexia. I like that she still keeps her experimenting shine whilst making her music fun and passable for larger audiences! This song does exactly that with a danceable yet still partly "Eusexia"-like "feel. She described this song as the moment before orgasm; she also said that's how she wants to live her life: pure focus that feels like eusexia.
Eternity - Alex Warren (6.7/10)
Alex previewed a snippet of this, and now that I've heard the full thing, it already feels like I've heard it; that's how predictable the song was. I'm not saying it's a terrible song, but it's nothing apart from Alex's usual loud hook and vocals that sound exaggerated for the song's feel. This is still probably the best first impression I've gotten from the album's newer singles, though.
Madeline - Zach Bryan/Gabriella Rose (6/10)
Does Zach Bryan just make the exact same song every time? I'll be shocked to hear if he ever puts out anything new. And yeah, he has good songs, but they are all in some way, shape, or form the same acoustic country songs. This follows that way and lacks some more material.
1965 - Jessie Murph (2/10)
A pathetic quadruple attempt and trying this new side of her music where her screeches and intros now merge into becoming autotuned, sounding as if Charli XCX were a cat getting run over.
Out Out - Skye Newman (6.2/10)
Seeing her mysterious rise in popularity with songs that felt unfinished, I wouldn't be surprised if this followed that route. This isn't a bad song, but it's nothing more than vocals and piano doing what they always do.
I Can't Lose—Jonas Brothers (6/10)
I haven't enjoyed the Jonas Brothers to a decent degree in a while; as much as this isn't that great, it's still kind of a groove. It's got a big beat and a loud vocal hook that works well with the instrumental chorus and overall just at least an alright level of sound. I won't hate on it.
Tear Me Down—Joyner Lucas/Ava Max (7.2/10)
Joyner has a strong rapping presence that doesn't feel weak in any shape or force on this. I wish Ava got more time on the song; it feels like her name was just put on the song for the feature purpose, but regardless, it's still a decent feature. I like her tone on the hook.
MIAMI - Tommy Richman (8.2/10)
I'd say that this is the best song by Tommy Richman I've heard. It uses the same older-sounding vocal effects but instead has more disco and funk that add something that partly reminds me of MJ! Great song!
Been A Minute—Leigh-Anne (7/10)
This barely scrapes onto a 7/10 rating; it's got pop-girl, but it's giving more Tyla-Afro energy than something Leigh-Anne would put out, and it also feels quite dull for her, with the sound feeling like a dry texter.
Rabbit hole. - Goddard/Venbee (7/10)
Venbee's recent attempts at recreating fame, especially with the same duo from the "Messy In Heaven" collaboration, have felt half-baked. Her "Zero Experience" era had many songs that had depth and character… but nowadays it's a simple drum loop with the same regurgitated message that's even worse put out. That being said, this is the best thing she's put out in over a year.
All This Time - Sonny Fodera/Jazzy (7.3/10)
A fun summer EDM that I think has high chart potential, it has a summery piano along with a house vibe and an upbeat hook. Nothing unusual for the duo, but I still wouldn't mind something similar by them.
Head Shot/Gas In The Truck—Ishowspeed (7.8/10)
Surprisingly, two good songs that represent fast and clean hooks.
Woke Up—Trippie Redd (8/10)
I'm as shocked as you are that Trippie actually mastered the beat well instead of just slamming autotune onto anything. Wow! This is the first song I've ever liked (and really liked) by him. If you want a fun listen, then hear this!
ICED TEA—Young Nudy/21 Savage/Project Pat/Coupe (4.9/10)
TENGO CELOS—Myke Towers (7.2/10)
3am - Loe Shimmy/Don Toliver (4.4/10)
Loe's tuned voice never fails to piss me off, and the pace often sounds like talking instead of rapping. What good is that?
Why Is She Still Here? - Renee Rapp (6.7/10)
Drums and synths put together in an emotional sound that all feels like it's missing more of a spark.
Tiny Voice - Mae Stephens (7.5/10)
Mae Stephen has the ability to make fun-filled, danceable, and trendy songs, but she can't seem to stop her bad lyricism. I mean, c'mon, this is a grown woman singing about drawing "d*cks" in the bathroom. Despite that, I'll still rate it for being danceable.
Gifts—Snoop Dogg (4/10)
The flow is partially off, along with the sound effects feeling fit for a cartoon; it's a little too corny for me.
Oranges - Alex G (5.4/10)
Can I be the one to say that Alex G's music is just fine? It's just normal acoustic music, yet people obsess over him in the way AOTY does with Zach Bryan; it's not that deep.
IM YEAT - Yeat/BNYX (5.9/10)
So mid that you forget it after no time.
Zun Zun - J Balvin/Lenny Tavárez/Justin Quiles (6.7/10)
Started off with low expectations, as it had a very overused reggaeton pattern, but in the second half things got interesting.
Humbling—Michael Marcagi (6/10)
Michael hasn't appeared to change or become more diverse in sound since 2024's "Scared To Start" breakthrough; this is still basic folk.
Home Tonight—Sam Barber (5.6/10)
Similar to Michael Marcagi.
Boffum - Saweetie/J White Did It (5.5/10)
Feels very similar to something Latto would make.
Hi, everyone, leave please. - FLETCHERS (5.5/10)
Everything about this has an extreme resemblance to basic acoustic and partly produced pop; it's so half-baked.
Brutus - Em Beihold (6.8/10)
A fun little pop jam that sounds like if a Debbii Dawson song was more fit for a playful musical, this would definitely be a step up from other songs by her that sound more childish.
Your Eyes—Cian Ducrot (5.5/10)
It fits this era well with the high production and simple hooks. Cian's always going to put something as simple as "Shalalala" as the hook, so him making similar choices onto a song that reminds me of church music isn't unexpected. Probably the most boring thing from the album rollout yet.
You Can't Run From Yourself—AURORA (5.5/10)
Aurora's angelic and transcending feeling has disappeared from this, and I fear it may be because it's for an on-screen series. Whilst it's still an alright track, it sounds like one of the throwaways that was on C23's Bose X Nme collaboration.
Forever Ain't Long Enough - Max Mcnown (6.5/10)
Wow, this week's new music Friday is really shaping up to be one of the most generic release weeks ever, and moving onto generic American country like this didn't help either. At least there's a hint of passion in his voice.
I Can Die Now - Ruel (8/10)
Ruel talks about how he found love in an upbeat and fresh, fast mix of clicks and swift vocal manoeuvres.
Hangin' On - Dylan Gossett (5.5/10)
LOVE INSANE—MAX/JAY (ENHYPHEN) (3/10)
Overly poppy K-pop that sounds cringe and incredibly exaggerated to a fake level.
Carat Cake - Paul Russell (6.5/10)
Very predictable party radio-pop from Paul, especially with the voice speaking "Run it back!" At the end, very, very predictable.
Original - Malcom Todd (7/10)
Cry Cry Cry—King Princess (6.5/10)
Combust—Lauv (7.5/10)
I really enjoyed the softer mixing, where everything felt lighter and gave a more relaxed listen.
Swim Up Bar—Scotty McCreery (7/10)
Alright, nice Spanish & horn-like accompaniment to the country song, I'll take it since it's not generic.
This Is The Killer Speaking—The Last Dinner Party (5.8/10)
Toastyyy - Genia/Timbaland (8.1/10)
YOU KNOW... I'M MESSING WITH IT!! It's really giving FLO's energy with the smooth vocals on top of a stylish and very girl pop background, and most importantly, this is very danceable too! This could grow on me!
Ain't A Bad Life - Thomas Rhett/Jordan Davis (8.2/10)
A cheerful and bright country collab that is EASILY the two's best song that I've heard! I'm actually surprised at how much love and flavour this song sounds like it has! Very groovy, very true to country, and very replayable!
Watch Me Go - Lord Huron (7.5/10)
Blackberries - FISHER/Bbyclose (7.3/10)
You know, it's not bad, but it does feel like something I can find something similar to if I click on a Radio One
RAGE - PRESIDENT (8.2/10)
Yep, I'm not understanding the hate over this guy. Sure, he's had misses here and there, but occasionally he delivers something with a gripping and emotional hook that has a balanced level of catchiness, like this. The balance between producer settings and rock music is pleasant and really highlights talent!
KHE CALOR - Danna Paola (6.7/10)
Needle and Thread - Sam Short (6.3/10)
Elegantly Wasted—Hermanos Gutiérrez/Leon Bridges (8.1/10)
I don't think I've heard something quite like this before! A western blend of Latin soul into something that sounds fit for a western movie? And yet it has style and class instead of feeling like a cheap radio throwaway!
Tenner - Lojay (5.7/10)
EAST LA - will.i.am/Taboo (6.4/10)
It's a fun rap with a side of producer cuts that helped when stitched on. I don't like how it partly feels like a Will Smith song, though; it's off-putting.
Pucci - 41/Kyle Ricch/TaTa/ZEDDY WILL (2.8/10)
Both the two male rappers on this lyrically and vocally sound exactly like Ice Spice; I honestly think this song is the closest resemblance I've ever heard to "Ms. Poopie" herself. And yeah, this is awful and really odd.
Loveless—Gorgon City (5/10)
I don't think it could be any more apparent how uninspired this is.
Última Noche—Bad Gyal/Ozuna (6.9/10)
TUMBAO—Dei V (7/10)
Letting Go—Above & Beyond/Malou (2/10)
I wouldn't be surprised if this was AI-generated; it's soulless garbage with a cover that brings out the AI even more. After all, since it's in a Spotify playlist, I'm now even less surprised.
1995 - Freddie Gibbs/The Alchemist (7.3/10)
No Blickout—Chuckyy (2/10)
This feels like if Eminem tried to rap fast whilst on heavy drugs. I don't even know how people release something that's so lacking in originality apart from a poor pace. Rap crap.
Enigami—Luna Li/Mei Semones (6.9/10)
Very relaxing and brain nourishing, despite the guitar plucks not always fitting the set route of a clear and beautiful aesthetic.
I LOVE UR GF—Joel Corry (5/10)
The AI slop cover says it all...
Whiteboy Sh*t - Tom MacDonald (0.7/10)
Tom Macdonald continues to compare himself to Marshall Mathers and support the guy who's probably trying to cover his name on a certain client list.
ALAMBRE PúA - Bad Bunny (6.6/10)
A Puerto Rican groovy track about past relationships, which doesn't go full-on funky but adds a layer of slower movement (slower then fast) to help bring across emotions more. I'll take it, but I don't think it was a good release choice as a single.
California—Maroon 5 (6.1/10)
This new era of Maroon 5 is now straying away from a radio-hit kind of sound and now going into love songs, and as much as this isn't something I hate, I think it's rather boring. This song needs something other than vocals and acoustics to power it, and like that, it just doesn't scream Maroon 5.
Perfectly - FKA Twigs (8.2/10)
Yeah, I can see myself getting more into this compared to Eusexia. I like that she still keeps her experimenting shine whilst making her music fun and passable for larger audiences! This song does exactly that with a danceable yet still partly "Eusexia"-like "feel. She described this song as the moment before orgasm; she also said that's how she wants to live her life: pure focus that feels like eusexia.
Eternity - Alex Warren (6.7/10)
Alex previewed a snippet of this, and now that I've heard the full thing, it already feels like I've heard it; that's how predictable the song was. I'm not saying it's a terrible song, but it's nothing apart from Alex's usual loud hook and vocals that sound exaggerated for the song's feel. This is still probably the best first impression I've gotten from the album's newer singles, though.
Madeline - Zach Bryan/Gabriella Rose (6/10)
Does Zach Bryan just make the exact same song every time? I'll be shocked to hear if he ever puts out anything new. And yeah, he has good songs, but they are all in some way, shape, or form the same acoustic country songs. This follows that way and lacks some more material.
1965 - Jessie Murph (2/10)
A pathetic quadruple attempt and trying this new side of her music where her screeches and intros now merge into becoming autotuned, sounding as if Charli XCX were a cat getting run over.
Out Out - Skye Newman (6.2/10)
Seeing her mysterious rise in popularity with songs that felt unfinished, I wouldn't be surprised if this followed that route. This isn't a bad song, but it's nothing more than vocals and piano doing what they always do.
I Can't Lose—Jonas Brothers (6/10)
I haven't enjoyed the Jonas Brothers to a decent degree in a while; as much as this isn't that great, it's still kind of a groove. It's got a big beat and a loud vocal hook that works well with the instrumental chorus and overall just at least an alright level of sound. I won't hate on it.
Tear Me Down—Joyner Lucas/Ava Max (7.2/10)
Joyner has a strong rapping presence that doesn't feel weak in any shape or force on this. I wish Ava got more time on the song; it feels like her name was just put on the song for the feature purpose, but regardless, it's still a decent feature. I like her tone on the hook.
MIAMI - Tommy Richman (8.2/10)
I'd say that this is the best song by Tommy Richman I've heard. It uses the same older-sounding vocal effects but instead has more disco and funk that add something that partly reminds me of MJ! Great song!
Been A Minute—Leigh-Anne (7/10)
This barely scrapes onto a 7/10 rating; it's got pop-girl, but it's giving more Tyla-Afro energy than something Leigh-Anne would put out, and it also feels quite dull for her, with the sound feeling like a dry texter.
Rabbit hole. - Goddard/Venbee (7/10)
Venbee's recent attempts at recreating fame, especially with the same duo from the "Messy In Heaven" collaboration, have felt half-baked. Her "Zero Experience" era had many songs that had depth and character… but nowadays it's a simple drum loop with the same regurgitated message that's even worse put out. That being said, this is the best thing she's put out in over a year.
All This Time - Sonny Fodera/Jazzy (7.3/10)
A fun summer EDM that I think has high chart potential, it has a summery piano along with a house vibe and an upbeat hook. Nothing unusual for the duo, but I still wouldn't mind something similar by them.
Head Shot/Gas In The Truck—Ishowspeed (7.8/10)
Surprisingly, two good songs that represent fast and clean hooks.
Woke Up—Trippie Redd (8/10)
I'm as shocked as you are that Trippie actually mastered the beat well instead of just slamming autotune onto anything. Wow! This is the first song I've ever liked (and really liked) by him. If you want a fun listen, then hear this!
ICED TEA—Young Nudy/21 Savage/Project Pat/Coupe (4.9/10)
TENGO CELOS—Myke Towers (7.2/10)
3am - Loe Shimmy/Don Toliver (4.4/10)
Loe's tuned voice never fails to piss me off, and the pace often sounds like talking instead of rapping. What good is that?
Why Is She Still Here? - Renee Rapp (6.7/10)
Drums and synths put together in an emotional sound that all feels like it's missing more of a spark.
Tiny Voice - Mae Stephens (7.5/10)
Mae Stephen has the ability to make fun-filled, danceable, and trendy songs, but she can't seem to stop her bad lyricism. I mean, c'mon, this is a grown woman singing about drawing "d*cks" in the bathroom. Despite that, I'll still rate it for being danceable.
Gifts—Snoop Dogg (4/10)
The flow is partially off, along with the sound effects feeling fit for a cartoon; it's a little too corny for me.
Oranges - Alex G (5.4/10)
Can I be the one to say that Alex G's music is just fine? It's just normal acoustic music, yet people obsess over him in the way AOTY does with Zach Bryan; it's not that deep.
IM YEAT - Yeat/BNYX (5.9/10)
So mid that you forget it after no time.
Zun Zun - J Balvin/Lenny Tavárez/Justin Quiles (6.7/10)
Started off with low expectations, as it had a very overused reggaeton pattern, but in the second half things got interesting.
Humbling—Michael Marcagi (6/10)
Michael hasn't appeared to change or become more diverse in sound since 2024's "Scared To Start" breakthrough; this is still basic folk.
Home Tonight—Sam Barber (5.6/10)
Similar to Michael Marcagi.
Boffum - Saweetie/J White Did It (5.5/10)
Feels very similar to something Latto would make.
Hi, everyone, leave please. - FLETCHERS (5.5/10)
Everything about this has an extreme resemblance to basic acoustic and partly produced pop; it's so half-baked.
Brutus - Em Beihold (6.8/10)
A fun little pop jam that sounds like if a Debbii Dawson song was more fit for a playful musical, this would definitely be a step up from other songs by her that sound more childish.
Your Eyes—Cian Ducrot (5.5/10)
It fits this era well with the high production and simple hooks. Cian's always going to put something as simple as "Shalalala" as the hook, so him making similar choices onto a song that reminds me of church music isn't unexpected. Probably the most boring thing from the album rollout yet.
You Can't Run From Yourself—AURORA (5.5/10)
Aurora's angelic and transcending feeling has disappeared from this, and I fear it may be because it's for an on-screen series. Whilst it's still an alright track, it sounds like one of the throwaways that was on C23's Bose X Nme collaboration.
Forever Ain't Long Enough - Max Mcnown (6.5/10)
Wow, this week's new music Friday is really shaping up to be one of the most generic release weeks ever, and moving onto generic American country like this didn't help either. At least there's a hint of passion in his voice.
I Can Die Now - Ruel (8/10)
Ruel talks about how he found love in an upbeat and fresh, fast mix of clicks and swift vocal manoeuvres.
Hangin' On - Dylan Gossett (5.5/10)
LOVE INSANE—MAX/JAY (ENHYPHEN) (3/10)
Overly poppy K-pop that sounds cringe and incredibly exaggerated to a fake level.
Carat Cake - Paul Russell (6.5/10)
Very predictable party radio-pop from Paul, especially with the voice speaking "Run it back!" At the end, very, very predictable.
Original - Malcom Todd (7/10)
Cry Cry Cry—King Princess (6.5/10)
Combust—Lauv (7.5/10)
I really enjoyed the softer mixing, where everything felt lighter and gave a more relaxed listen.
Swim Up Bar—Scotty McCreery (7/10)
Alright, nice Spanish & horn-like accompaniment to the country song, I'll take it since it's not generic.
This Is The Killer Speaking—The Last Dinner Party (5.8/10)
Toastyyy - Genia/Timbaland (8.1/10)
YOU KNOW... I'M MESSING WITH IT!! It's really giving FLO's energy with the smooth vocals on top of a stylish and very girl pop background, and most importantly, this is very danceable too! This could grow on me!
Ain't A Bad Life - Thomas Rhett/Jordan Davis (8.2/10)
A cheerful and bright country collab that is EASILY the two's best song that I've heard! I'm actually surprised at how much love and flavour this song sounds like it has! Very groovy, very true to country, and very replayable!
Watch Me Go - Lord Huron (7.5/10)
Blackberries - FISHER/Bbyclose (7.3/10)
You know, it's not bad, but it does feel like something I can find something similar to if I click on a Radio One
RAGE - PRESIDENT (8.2/10)
Yep, I'm not understanding the hate over this guy. Sure, he's had misses here and there, but occasionally he delivers something with a gripping and emotional hook that has a balanced level of catchiness, like this. The balance between producer settings and rock music is pleasant and really highlights talent!
KHE CALOR - Danna Paola (6.7/10)
Needle and Thread - Sam Short (6.3/10)
Elegantly Wasted—Hermanos Gutiérrez/Leon Bridges (8.1/10)
I don't think I've heard something quite like this before! A western blend of Latin soul into something that sounds fit for a western movie? And yet it has style and class instead of feeling like a cheap radio throwaway!
Tenner - Lojay (5.7/10)
EAST LA - will.i.am/Taboo (6.4/10)
It's a fun rap with a side of producer cuts that helped when stitched on. I don't like how it partly feels like a Will Smith song, though; it's off-putting.
Pucci - 41/Kyle Ricch/TaTa/ZEDDY WILL (2.8/10)
Both the two male rappers on this lyrically and vocally sound exactly like Ice Spice; I honestly think this song is the closest resemblance I've ever heard to "Ms. Poopie" herself. And yeah, this is awful and really odd.
Loveless—Gorgon City (5/10)
I don't think it could be any more apparent how uninspired this is.
Última Noche—Bad Gyal/Ozuna (6.9/10)
TUMBAO—Dei V (7/10)
Letting Go—Above & Beyond/Malou (2/10)
I wouldn't be surprised if this was AI-generated; it's soulless garbage with a cover that brings out the AI even more. After all, since it's in a Spotify playlist, I'm now even less surprised.
1995 - Freddie Gibbs/The Alchemist (7.3/10)
No Blickout—Chuckyy (2/10)
This feels like if Eminem tried to rap fast whilst on heavy drugs. I don't even know how people release something that's so lacking in originality apart from a poor pace. Rap crap.
Enigami—Luna Li/Mei Semones (6.9/10)
Very relaxing and brain nourishing, despite the guitar plucks not always fitting the set route of a clear and beautiful aesthetic.
I LOVE UR GF—Joel Corry (5/10)
The AI slop cover says it all...
Whiteboy Sh*t - Tom MacDonald (0.7/10)
Tom Macdonald continues to compare himself to Marshall Mathers and support the guy who's probably trying to cover his name on a certain client list.