First Listen Fridays – Sinéad Harnett, Phoebe Bridgers, and More New Music (26/6/26)
As June comes to a close, we have been hit with a heatwave that is intense and overbearing. However, we have some new tunes to give you, as First Listen Fridays looks to distract you from melting into a puddle. Whether the returns of Phoebe Bridgers and Sinéad Harnett, some classy old-school vibes from Dani Offline and Olympia Vitalis, or something in-between, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, try to relax, and enjoy the best new music to come out today and this week.
Phoebe Bridgers – Lost Boys
It has been almost four years since her last solo release and six years since her last LP, but fans can rejoice that there is a new Phoebe Bridgers record on the way. The first taste of this new era is ‘Lost Boys‘, a tranquil ballad that reflects on escaping the pressures of the world. Production-wise, it creates a sense of indie-like whimsy, and as the title suggests, a desire not to get older and drive away from ageing. Her melancholic delivery is always pleasant to the ear, but leaves me, as a 28-year-old, feeling somewhat mournful for my youth. This song takes you on a journey both lyrically and musically, and has me intrigued for what else is to come.
Buy the track here.
Sinéad Harnett – Foreign
Also making her return this week is Sinéad Harnett, with her first solo material in a couple of years. That slowly-paced electronic keyboard melody eases you in, before the drum beat brings the energy. The angelic vocals then come in and really shows it’s worth on the chorus, hitting those high notes expertly. Sinéad puts in a passionate performance, highlighting her feelings for this person. A great return for one of the U.K.’s most talented R’n’B artists.
Buy the track here.
Steve Lacy FT. SZA – is it cool?
Gearing up for a new album release, Steve Lacy has teamed up with SZA for the latest insight into what is to come. The wavey production utilises some intriguing-sounding synths that make for some spacey R’n’B. He sounds so good on the chorus, as he states he can’t be trusted in a relationship because he can’t even trust himself. There is a lot of openness and vulnerability in his words, before SZA comes in for a short but sweet cameo. They harmonise nicely at the end, bringing another nice single to a close.
Buy the track here.
KOJ – PUNK PANTHER
I love me a rock/rap crossover, whether it be artists like AJ Tracey using heavy guitars at their Glastonbury set or Native James blending rap and punk. Another artist following in that mold is KOJ, with this, his first release of the year. The sirens and loud guitars work alongside his Scouse delivery, making for a track that is anthemic in nature. He brings the right kind of confidence and passion for Terell Farrell’s production, and has me pointed in his direction for further releases.
Buy the track here.
Dani Offline – weary soul
A Brummie from the other side of the Atlantic, Dani Offline is a voice to be reckoned with. Bringing that chilled-out, late-night jazz bar feel, she brings a classic sound while giving her own spin on it. The strain on her voice matches this tale of feeling left out and alone without that special someone. Dani and Will Henley-Dias have done a good job in utilising instruments like the piano to match the vibe and elevate the song. A lovely soul cut and a future star for sure.
Ni/Co – to be loved
We have covered this duo numerous times over the years, and we will continue to do so, as they keep dropping good music. This melodic piece of indie-pop sees both project their feelings for one another, as musical and real-life partners. As you’d expect from a long-term musical partnership, they know how to get the best out of each other and complement one another. A great ballad that is full of ardor and performance, these two remain as musically strong as ever
Carly Rae Jepsen – On Wires
One of Canada’s greatest pop artists is back, and still making catchy anthems to sing along to. ‘On Wires‘ has a bit of a traditional-pop feel to it, as Carly indicates that she doesn’t want something just casual. That chorus hits like a tornado, with the note held nicely by our lead alongside those rousing guitars. This artist has a knack for making those songs that stick in your head, and this one is no different.
Buy the track here.
Olympia Vitalis – Baby Blues
And to conclude this week (and June), we have this gorgeous performance from Olympia Vitalis. The soothing instrumental and that classic raspy vocal delivery is terrific, showcasing an artist who knows how to use her skills to the maximum. Storytelling-wise, we get lyrics about someone who is going through it post-birth, a topic that certainly deserves the spotlight. Our lead delivers it in a powerful and respectful way, which gives the theme the right sensitivity, whilst remaining musically on point. Ahead of their latest EP, this artist has shown their musical prowess and ability to deliver important topics.
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