FIVE TRACKS YOU NEED TO LISTEN TO NOW

Have you ever experienced a situation where a particular song lingers in your mind, seemingly playing over and over again? This phenomenon, often referred to as “earworm,” can be quite annoying at times, but there are certain songs that seem to stick in our heads more than others! Here are five songs that have been stuck in my mind on replay the last few weeks…

1. MANNEQUIN PUSSY – “SOMETIMES“

Standing out with its combination of gritty 90s grunge influences and ethereal vocals, Mannequin Pussy create a captivating blend of contrasting elements on their latest album “I Got Heaven”. The layered textures and softer sounds add depth and complexity to my favourite track off the album “Sometimes”, making it both nostalgic and innovative. Check out the video below…

2. Jungle – “Back On 74”

Jungle’s single “Back on 74” was released on 28 July 2023 by Caiola and AWAL as the fourth and final single from their album Volcano. Josh Lloyd and Thomas McFarland wrote it, along with Lydia Kitto, who joins the band as a new member. In the UK and New Zealand, it reached the top 40. As a result of a performance at the 2024 Brit Awards, the track and its video went viral on TikTok in late 2023 and early 2024. This song has been stuck in my head for weeks and the video is incredible. When it comes to music, I have a sweet spot in my heart for soulful oldies, jazz, and those classic sounds. The nostalgic melodies and rhythms Jungle have created, transport me back to a bygone era, evoking memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the joyous moments shared with loved ones. It’s a beautiful reminder of the enduring power of music to connect us across generations.

3. JESS LOCKE – “UNCOMFORTABLY HAPPY “

It has been an agonisingly long three years since Jess Locke released new music, but she is back with her fourth album and a punchy new single.

As for the album itself, it’s titled Real Life, and came out on May 3 via Dot Dash and Remote Control. Following 2021’s Don’t Ask Yourself Why, the 11-track album is described as “a melancholic exercise in introspection that deals with alienation, impermanence, despair and darkness, and also revelation”.

4. Bleachers – “The Backwards Heart”

“The Backwards Heart” is the second vinyl-only bonus track from the 2024 self titled album “Bleachers” . Bleachers was founded in 2014 by musician Jack Antonoff. The band are known for their anthemic and nostalgic sound, has released several well-received albums including “Strange Desire” and “Gone Now”. Antonoff is also a member of Fun and serves as songwriter and vocalist for the band. “The Backwards Heart,” one of the band’s most popular songs, features introspective lyrics and catchy melodies. With its emotional depth and signature style, the song represents Bleachers’ finest work in my opinion.

5. ROYAL OTIS – “CLAW FOOT“

Australian guitar-pop duo Royel Otis hails from Sydney. Founded in 2019, the band consists of Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic. Prior to releasing Pratts & Pain, their debut studio album, they released three EPs including Sofa Kings. “Claw Foot” is a bonus track from their debut album and blends guitar-driven pop with catchy melodies. Their music is characterised by upbeat rhythms, relatable lyrics, and a fresh, youthful sound. Think of it as a fusion of indie rock and pop, perfect for sunny days and road trips!