5 fresh tracks for New Music Friday

Brexit’s a laugh, isn’t it? Have no fear – it’s New Music Friday, and we’ve put together a playlist of the five freshest tracks to drop this week.

With brand-spanking certified bangers from Archie Faulks, SHELLS, Arlo Parks, Theodor Black, and JW Ridley, it’s the perfect soundtrack to take your mind off the nation’s mounting political insecurity. Happy listening!

Archie Faulks ‘Hung Up’

Uplifting melodies and infectiously catchy, tongue-in-cheek lyricism: Archie Faulks reveals that he’s got a knack for charmingly exuberant pop on his third single, ‘Hung Up’.

The song and accompanying video come along with the announcement of his first headline tour this April – you can get tickets for that here.

Arlo Parks ‘Romantic Garbage’

Despite only having a couple of singles under her belt, singer-songwriter Arlo Parks is brewing up a storm of hype around the release of her debut EP, Super Sad Generation, on 5th April.

‘Romantic Garbage’ is a candid look at young love; embracing all of the insecurities, irrationalities, and intensities it brings. All to a positively sick, down-tempo electronic beat.

SHELLS‘Heart Beating’

Dynamically layered honeyed vocals, mounting production, and a driving, addictive chorus tell the bittersweet story of a relationship that isn’t quite working out on ‘Heart Beating’.

It’s the first offering from SHELLS’ since her EP, Shapes, dropped in 2016 – and we’re sure you’ll agree, it’s a triumphant return.

‘Heart Beating’ was penned in South African songwriting camp with the non-profit organisation, Star for Life, who operate in over 100 schools in southern Africa to support young people in living an AIDS-free life and help them to realise their dreams of success.

JW Ridley ‘Homesick (Out The Blue)’

Inspired by his time cohabitating as a property guardian in South London, JW Ridley’s latest offering contrasts life’s constantly shifting situations, such as seasons places, people entering our leaving our lives, with the internal things that never change.

It’s immersive and cathartic; carried beautifully by a steady rhythm guitar melody and Ridley’s distinct warm vocals.

Theodor Black ‘Weekends’

‘Weekends’ is a dark look at intimacy, lust and the complications of youth from South London rapper, Theodor Black.

With woozy, bass-drenched production that seeks to draw distinct focus to his contemporary poetic lyricism, it’s just another reminder of that Black is blazing a trail in the realm of experimental hip-hop.

Listen to our release day picks at the Music Crowns’ Spotify playlist.