Wonderland.

WONDERLIST

New music from Chloe x Halle, Lil Baby and Jorja Smith in this week’s playlist.

Chloe X Halle drop their new album Ungoldly hour
Chloe X Halle drop their new album Ungoldly hour

Chloe X Halle – “Forgive Me”

Someone just hand these sisters all the awards because their new album Ungodly Hour is a gift we never knew we needed. The Beyoncé-approved duo, provide us with heavenly harmonies and intricate beats for this classy R&B album. Stand-out tune “Forgive Me” is a yes all-round from us, with echoing melodies and sophisticated arrangements – you’ll be breaking the repeat button all week.

Lil Baby – “The Bigger Picture”

The Atlanta-hailed rapper has had a massive 18 months – having featured with Drake and Travis Scott on various tunes. Now the trap rapper is back as he addresses the ongoing protests and police brutality in his new tune “The Bigger Picture”.

Opening up the song with various news broadcasters reporting on nationwide protests, Lil Baby references George Floyd and Breonna Taylor’s death over sharp snares and atmospheric synths. With all the proceeds going towards the Bail Project and the National Association of Black Journalists. – how can we not stan.

Jorja Smith – “Rose Rouge”

Pop-soul singer Jorja Smith is back, covering St Germain’s “Rose Rouge” for Blue Note Records upcoming album Re:imagined. Transporting us to an underground jazz club, Jorja’s signature rich soulful voice burst through the jazzy foundations of the tune, against a background of mesmerising drums and pianos. The Londoner has been relatively quiet since her hit with Burna Boy last year, and we are eager to hear more.

Pop Smoke – “Make It Rain”

While his debut posthumous album has been pushed back until July 4 due to the current protests against racial inequality, Pop Smoke’s camp are teasing us with a new track “Make It Rain”. With Pop Smoke’s signature husky voice and fast tempo flow, “Make It Rain” delivers hard-hitting lines from the rapper on an arresting beat. With industry giants such as 50 Cent and Roddy Rich tipped to feature on the pending album – mark your calendars as it is set to be a major day in hip-hop.

Teyana Taylor ft Iman Nuez – “Wake Up Love”

Penning a touching tribute to their adorable daughter Junie, the two hip-hop stars join forces for their latest single. Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert marry their talents on this smooth sailing tune, with soul-stirring lyrics and honeyed vocals against a backdrop of contemporary soul. Rumoured to be taken from her upcoming album, Teyana Taylor did not disappoint on this stunning track.

Aluna – “Warrior”

Her first solo tune had us obsessed and now the singer is back teaming up with producer and singer-songwriter SG Lewis. Taken from her upcoming debut solo album, the fearless dance record combines Aluna’s signature synth-pop production with powerful and catchy lyrics.

Jonah Yano – “strawberry!”

Taken from his upcoming debut album souvenir, Jonah Yano explores his Japanese heritage in this alt-rock tune. With heavy percussions and static chord progressions, Jonah mixes elements of electronica with jazz for a stunning soulful tune. Accompanied by a moody music video, Jonah Yano is quickly becoming one of our favourite artists with this impressive track.

Rosa – “Blow”

Touching upon his personal battles with mental health, the Amsterdam-based newcomer shows vulnerability on his thought-provoking new tune. Filled with raw and emotional lyrics, Rosa opens up on his battles with addiction on this alt R&B tune, against a background of thumping bass lines and iconic samples. Fans of Frank Ocean and Kid Cudi will love this.

Dennis Floyd – “Alien”

Multi-platinum international artist Dennis Lloyd is back with his first single of the year “Alien”. Serving as a taster from his upcoming debut album, Floyd delivers an introspective hit with catchy lyrics against a backdrop of fine-tuned guitars and manipulated vocals. With his highly-anticipated debut album on the way – watch this space.

Camelphat & ARTBAT – “For A Feeling” (Kaleidoscope Orchestra remix)

Remixing Camelphat & ARTBAT’s stunning tune “For A Feeling”, is the string ensemble Kaleidoscope Orchestra. The classical rendition shows each member performing in their living room, topped with impressive and mesmerizing vocals from RHODES. The emotional tune leaves us in awe at heartwarming strings and saccharine performance – and we’re obsessed.