Explore all aspects of love in this week’s New Music Friday selection.
1. Chappell Roan: “The Giver”
Chappell Roan is back with a long-awaited country release, “The Giver.” Fans knew about this song after seeing her perform it on Saturday Night Live months ago, and now it is officially out with a signature quirky lyric video. Chappell’s southern roots and semi-yodeling vocal style shine through this comical commentary on being a “giver.”
2. Bon Iver, Danielle Haim: “If Only I Could Wait”
Indie artist Bon Iver teamed up with Danielle Haim for “If Only I Could Wait.” It is a dreamy, atmospheric soft rock track, highlighting the vocalist’s deep and soothing vocal tones. The lyric video featuring a sketch animation in outer space perfectly captures the infinite, lush beauty of the instrumentals. In the second half, Iver and Haim layer verses as if answering each other’s thoughts.
3. Felly: “Black Shoes”
Connecticut-based Felly returned with his new single, “Black Shoes.” A beachy guitar welcomes the listener, invoking images of a summer paradise. Black shoes, tattoos, and a “barbwire heart” capture his attention, almost like a warning. Does he enjoy the storm that is this person, or does he run? He contemplates abstractly over this gentle instrumental.
4. Precious Pepala: “First Love”
English pop artist Precious Pepala brings delicate heartbreak with “First Love.” She belts over a filtered piano, asking where her place is in someone’s heart: “Am I just here because she isn’t? / If I’m not her, am I forgiven?” The bridge peaks with energy, emphasizing the swirling thoughts in Precious Pepala’s mind. To feel truly precious and appreciated can be a rare thing.
5. Knox: “50/50”
Singer-songwriter Knox reminisces on the good times in “50/50.” The layered chorus vocals give off an anthemic feeling, bursting with emotion. He points out the difficulties of unrequited effort in a relationship, a feeling everyone has experienced at least once: “Give me a little / Meet in the middle / Show me you’re with me / I just need 50/50.”
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