Singles for the Weekend – 8/21

The first week of school comes to an end. What this the longest week in recorded human history? Possibly. Now’s the time to kick back, let your hair down, and settle into these new singles for the weekend.

Telemarket – Odds and Ends

This pair of Telemarket singles feels like such a strange dream. Tender, achy vocals lull over sleepy rock on “Hello Hello Girlfriend”. “She’s the One” is a wound-down, lingering take on the Ramones’ song of the same name.

JR JR – “Basketball”

I’ll take any chance to reference High School Musical, and this one is warranted. “Basketball” is sporting big “Bet On It” energy with bouncing-ball beat.  The track comes from the teased SWISH EP.  Take the Kurtis Blow original, then make it space arena appropriate.

CHAI, Hinds – “UNITED GIRLS ROCK’N’ROLL CLUB”

If you’re missing ‘Girl Power’ ala the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe”, then get on this track as soon as possible. Like our beloved Spice Girls, this international collaboration is a playful mix of different personalities. Spanish group Hinds and Japanese band CHAI shape rock into a fun, empowering number.

DREAMERS – “Teddy Bear”

Through the use of a child-like metaphor, DREAMERS explores toxic traits in a relationship.  This track has the spacey guitars and electronic styles that their “cosmic rock” label so aptly describes. You don’t have to wait around like a stuffed animal, “Teddy Bear” is available for streaming.

The Neighbourhood – “Devil’s Advocate”

This music video truly closes an era for The Neighbourhood.  Spoiler alert: they burn the upside-down house symbol – the logo long associated with the group.  It’s truly Chip’s time to shine (and shine he does).  This new era seems to be marked by silver makeup and shimmering glitter.

Chloe Moriondo – “i want to be with you”

This single is a coming-of-age story within itself. Pair that with a music video that hones in on the angsty, youthful vibe of the song, and this one will have you dancing through the streets all weekend long. Just stay safe, yeah?

London Grammar – “Baby It’s You”

Maybe you reserve your weekends for yearning.  I’m not here to judge. This will soundtrack your longing with soft electronic beats and the line “Nothing else matters”.

Father John Misty – “To S.” / “To R.”

Papa is back with double singles.  These are some of Tillman’s newest releases following this year’s Anthem and Off-Key in Hamburg. Like the familiar songs of I Love You Honeybear, “To S.” is a lush ballad with notes of darkness.

Arlo Parks – “Hurt”

This track reflects on the temporariness of pain.  With a voice both powerful and soothing, “Hurt” shines hope into darkness. Arlo Parks has mentioned working towards an album during quarantine, so make sure to keep an eye out for more.

Phoenix – “Identical”

This catchy little number is going to be featured in upcoming Sofia Coppola film, On the Rocks. Phoenix vocalist Thomas Mars is married to Coppola, and the band have written for her films before.