David Bowie – Blackstar
At this point in his career David Bowie can do whatever he wants but it’s reassuring that he has chosen to continue to record phenomenal music. “Blackstar” is the title track from his forthcoming studio album, set for release on 8 January 2016, and is one of his more outré tracks. “Blackstar” is a sprawling exploration of several genres and its accompanying video is typically beautiful and befuddling.
Fletcher – Live Young Die Free
Most students struggle to muster the energy to get out bed but not Fletcher, a fulltime student at NYU, who has managed to find the time to record several insanely catchy pop tracks. “Live Young Die Free”, her follow-up to summer smash “War Paint”, is deliriously empowering. The kind of song that makes you want to take on the whole world or at least have the best day ever. Keep the hits coming Fletcher.
Christina Milian ft. Snoop Dogg – Like Me
Christina Milian is finally ready to make her musical comeback. Millian is set to drop her EP 4U on 4 December, her first studio record since 2006’s So Amazin’. “Like Me” is a super-sweet piece of bubble-gum R&B. On the track Milian sings: “Because can’t nobody do it like me.” Very true. Welcome back Christian Milian.
Monica ft. Missy Elliott – Code Red
Here’s another very welcome return to music – Monica’s “Code Red”, the title track from her first studio album since 2012’s New Life. To spoil Monica fans further, the Polow Da Don-produced track features a few guest verses from Missy Elliott. Code Red will be released on 18 December and features collaborations with Lil Wayne, Timbaland and Akon. The perfect Christmas present.
Lafawndah – Tan
Lafawndah, one of the latest signings to Warp, has announced details of her new EP Tan and dropped its title track. Like her debut EP Chili, the initial recordings for Tan began on island with a minimal studio set-up. Lafawndah channels her many disparate influences to create a sound that is entirely her own. Tan will be released on 5 February 2016.
Chelsea Effect – Good Enough
Chelsea Effect is the new musical project from Emerald Isabella and “Good Enough” is her debut release. “Good Enough” is a break-up track of the highest order. The track features layered synths and drums and a chorus that, despite its bleak message, is like a rush of blood to the head.
Equals – No Ordinary Love
It takes a considerable amount of gumption and skill to cover Sade but Equals more than rise to the occasion. The cover, which is a remarkable re-imagining of a classic, is taken from the Hackney based band’s EP Old Habits, released via Fresh Selects/Senseless Recordings. The track features production from James Low and sublime lead vocals from Ade Omotayo.
Whinnie Williams – Too Strong (Acekeyz re-work)
“Too Strong”, the new single from Whinnie Williams, was co-written with pop production powerhouse Future Cut. Williams has previously recorded under the name Sunday Girl but her latest incarnation has seen her receive plaudits from every corner of the internet. This utterly perfect re-work comes from Acekeyz.
Frances – Borrowed Time
Frances has called in the production services of Howard Lawrence (Disclosure) for her latest track “Borrowed Time”. This is a super-slick slice of dance-pop and a brilliant showcase for Frances’ voice. This is a new, but very pleasing, direction for Frances who is usually found behind the piano. Excellent stuff.
Lion Babe – Where Do We Go
“Where Do We Go” is the latest track from New York duo Lion Babe. Lion Babe is able to channel to the spirit of Studio-54 without sounding like a throwback. “Where Do We Go” will have you doing The Hustle all the way down to the dancefloor.
Conrad Sewell – Hold Me Up (Cash & David Remix)
British-born Conrad Sewell first came to world’s attention when he lent his voice to Kygo’s smash “Firestone”, so it’s no surprise that his vocals lend themselves perfectly to an insane remix. This one, remixed by Cash & David, is potent enough to power a person through even the most gruelling spin/aerobics/jazzercise class.
M.I.A. – Borders
A new track from M.I.A. is always welcome. Love her or loathe her she has one of the strongest voices in music. M.I.A has been teasing a new album, titled Matahdatah, and it’s already sounding excellent. This should tide you over while we await more details.
Adele – Chasing Pavements (SBTRKT remix)
ICYMI Adele released a new album. To celebrate this, SBTRK unearthed a 2008 remix of “Chasing Pavements” that he found while “looking through old hard drive files”. Who knows what other wonders are lurking on that hard drive. Enjoy this in all its glitchy (hometown) glory.