Weekly Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6QygcpRwfxfq8xtA5c5yTm 

Jacob’s picks 

1. Turnstile – “MYSTERY”
2. Boldy James, The Alchemist, Benny The Butcher – “Brickmile To Montana”
3. Halsey – “You asked for this” 

Hardcore punk band Turnstile has created something classic with “MYSTERY.” This anthem is a perfect throwback to the earlier days of hardcore punk with so much energy and passion. The production feels wildly coherent, and the vocals are remarkable.  

“Brickmile To Montana” sees rappers Boldy James, Benny The Butcher and producer The Alchemist on their A-game. The beat courtesy of The Alchemist feels dangerous for anyone on the other side of the track, while Boldy and Benny exchange bars and flows that many aren’t able to match. 

Produced by experimental legends Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, Halsey has entered new and welcome ground. Reznor and Ross do production wonders on “You asked for this,” the track has an older punk feel, with the production being just as loud as the invigorating vocals from American singer-songwriter Ashley Nicolette Frangipane, aka Halsey. The track is as meaningful as it is fun and has the feeling of a future classic for Halsey. 

Ariel’s picks

1. Olivia Rodrigo – “brutal”
2. Steve Lacy – “Dark Red”
3. Drake, Future, Young Thug  – “Way 2 Sexy”

One of the fans’ top choices for her debut album “Sour,” “brutal” brings youth and realization of normalizing being present in society, especially in the generation we’re living in today. The song plays a nostalgic alternative pop-punk tune,while she lists the insecurities she faces while still being a teenager – a relatable anthem for an audience that needs their experiences and insecurities to be heard. 

From Steve Lacy’s first extended play, “Dark Red” is an R&B/soul anthem written by the man himself that expresses his infatuation towards his partner and not wanting her to leave. A situation that many have encountered and have heard in various songs, Steve’s original music generates a new wave of an endlessly heartbreaking occurrence.

Not long after releasing his new album, Drake’s “Way 2 Sexy” has already become a trending song for TikTok users to create endless entertaining content. The song begins with the original “I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred, then is led by Future’s chorus of switching the original lyrics to fit a more bougie and successful perspective holding one’s pride. A catchy song that will have everyone singing, Drake’s evolution in his style of music has influenced many. 

Madelaine’s picks

1. Sufjan Stevens – “Heirloom”
2. Pond – “Sweep Me Off My Feet”
3. Mallrat – “Charlie”

“Heirloom” comes off of Sufjan Stevens’ EP, “All Delighted People,” released in 2010. Stevens is a multi-talented alternative indie singer-songwriter who is probably best known for his album “Illinois.” This song is full of warm folk-sounding acoustic guitar and whispery vocals.

Psychedelic indie rock band Pond is perfect for any Tame Impala fans, as Kevin Parker used to be a member and member Jay Watson is currently a part of both bands. The band is no stranger to the synth style that Tame Impala is known for, but they still take different styles when it comes to vocals. This song has that synth sound as well as heavy rhythmic drums.

Mallrat is an Australian indie pop artist with an incredibly unique silky smooth and soothing voice. In “Charlie,” the artist, also known as Grace Kathleen Elizabeth Shaw, experiments with lo-fi electronic beats and imagery through the song’s lyrics. 

Kyron’s picks

1. Drake – “No Friends In The Industry” 
2. Rod Wave, Lil Durk – “Already Won”
3. Andy Grammer – “Damn It Feels Good To Be Me”

“No Friends In The Industry” comes off of Drake’s latest album “Certified Lover Boy”’ and is an underrated gem when compared to other songs on the hit album. Reminiscent of previous works where the Canadian rapper uniquely displays his rap skills, the track is clever and smooth yet assertive in its lyrics. 

Rod Wave and Lil Durk team up to bring a celebratory jam. With descriptive imagery and enchanting vocals, Rod Wave continues to sing his blues whilst embracing his current success and fame. “Already Won” is a piece about living in the moment yet never forgetting how far he’s come. 

“Damn It Feels Good To Be Me” is an upbeat appreciation of oneself. Andy Grammer delivers a wonderful pop single highlighting the importance of individuality. With both a catchy beat and chorus, this song is a must when people need a reminder of the magic residing in them. It’s also perfect for kicking off those much-needed weekend breaks.