Hey! Did you know that there’s an entire aspect of KCRW music discovery that you might be missing out on? Fear not, because our 5 Songs to Hear This Week newsletter is now a weekly feature on our website. Watch this space for rundowns of the five songs that you need in your life immediately, curated by KCRW Music staff. Don’t want to wait for your latest taste of fresh tunes? Sign up for the Friday newsletter here, and always be the first to know.
Allison Russell – "Demons”
Are you plagued by doubts? Insecurities? Fears? Girl, we know — and so does multi-hyphenate, all-around talent Allison Russell. Outside of making music, Russell expresses herself through activism and poetry — so it should come as no surprise that this alt-folk jam contains poignant layers of vulnerability, leagues of humanity, and metaphors that slap. Click play to feel seen, and give an extra glance to the excellent music video, which was designed by the team behind notable Beyonce music vids and Taylor Swift’s much-discussed Eras tour.
More: Will Beyoncé and Taylor Swift save the movie theater?
Ali Sethi & Nicolás Jaar – “Muddat”
Here at KCRW Music, we appreciate a fresh take on a long-held tradition. And that’s the case with this gorgeous and haunting track from composer/music savant Nicolás Jaar, who put his skills as a producer and beatmaker behind the magnificent vocal expressions of Pakistani singer-songwriter Ali Sethi. Rinse this track to experience a hypnotic plunge into the world of ghazal, traditional Islamic lyrical poems on themes of love.
Mildlife – “Musica”
Who tf are Mildlife, and where do I get more? Those were our questions upon first listen to this psychedelic, disco-jazz-funk journey through the cosmos. Some answers: they're Australian, they dont give a shit about the rules, and they’re here to take over your decks. Known for extended on-stage encores which inspired the stratospheric scope of this incredible track, Mildlife is sure to land on a festival or venue stage near you soon — so get your mind and body ready.
Fatal Jamz – “Fatal Attraction”
When attraction gets fatal — you know how it goes. Glam-rock/dream-pop project Fatal Jamz is the brainchild of singer-songwriter Marion Belle and producer Nicholas Allen Johns, conceptualized right here on the glittery streets of Los Angeles. Fans of New Wave heroes like The Cure, Morrissey, and New Order take note — this track has the synthwork and echoey guitar riffs that’ll make your heart sing. Completing this gauzy picture is a music video to fuel an ‘80s-inspired makeover and an afternoon of longing. Just… leave the rabbit out of it.
Cineplexx – “Oh No”
Oh yes! Argentinian electronic artist Cineplexx has a ton of music under his belt, but this upbeat nu-disco track breaks through as something for your pre-meeting pump-up. Featuring notes of surf rock, a toe-tappin BPM, and a follow-along video starring a fiery redhead living her best apartment life — which could be yours — this feel-good track’s your soundtrack for your next pajama dance party.