Song of the Week

The Ballad of Matt & Mica | Magdalena Bay

I haven’t been able to get this album out of my head for the past month! This hook is so infectious.

Beautiful Boy | The Last Dinner Party

Me too, me too. (and one of the best debut albums I’ve seen in this decade!)

Image | Magdalena Bay

Absolute bop; I don’t think I gave this album the flowers it deserved when it first came out. Imaginal Disk has been on repeat for me!

Like The End | James Blake

This song feels immense. It’s so beautiful, yet it also makes me feel so hopeless.

Balloon | Tyler, The Creator, Doechii

I never had a chance to spotlight a CHROMAKOPIA song when it first came out. Doechii’s infectious energy makes this a standout in a standout album cycle.

tv off | Kendrick Lamar, Lefty Gunplay

What a victory lap - the “MUSTAAAAAAARD” is just the cherry on top. Also just an incredible album - Kenny is an absolute hitmaker.

Ma Meilleure Ennemie | Stromae, Pomme

Wow, what an ending to an absolutely stunning show. And I always love to see Stromae win!

Skurrr | MIKE, Tony Seltzer

Effortlessly smooth.

whatcha gotta say | thủy, Blxst

Feel like she’s so underrated - absolute bop!

Buttons | Lyn Lapid

Killer hook, and some hilarious social media promo.

Roc Steady | Megan Thee Stallion, Flo Milli

Just as fun as it sounds - Megan kills it on a beat that feels very Flo!

In The Living Room | Maggie Rogers

Stellar single, and an absolutely stellar concert performance! Maggie is an absolute diva live!

Locals (Girls like us) | underscores, gabby start

An absolutely infectious genre-mashing earworm that re-entered my rotation. Can’t help but smile!

Wassup | Powers Pleasant, Jasiah, Tkay Maidza

Leagues above the average producer album!

Let's Go Back | Jungle

Such a smooth single in the vein of Back On 74. Stellar!

Toast | CLAUDIA

Such a catchy set of runs in the hook!

DENIAL IS A RIVER | Doechii

Unhinged and at her best!

CRAZY | LE SSERAFIM

Absolute house bop.

No Broke Boys | Tinashe

Tinashe has just been so fun lately!

Fantasy | Luna Li

Serene and ethereal. And produced by Scott Zhang!! Thank you Muthu :)

Beaches | beabadoobee

Album is filled with absolute earworms - perhaps her best yet!

NISSAN ALTIMA | Doechii

These swamp sessions are a treat - lethal tempo, beat, and flow.

either on or off the drugs | JPEGMAFIA

Absolutely in his pocket with a gorgeous sample flip.

Where Them Girls At | Megan Thee Stallion

Straightforward Megan banger, as expected.

No Problems | Ginger Root

Just delightfully groovy - excited for this album!

Add Up My Love | Clairo

Holy shit, this Clairo album is so good. The perfect instrumentals for her vibe.

Black Cherri | Suzi Wu, Zac Carper

Another brain-tickler à la upbeat 100 gecs and burbank house.

Any Way | L'Impératrice, Maggie Rogers

Fastueux, superbe, luxueux.

The girl, so confusing version with lorde | Charli XCX, Lorde

She’s back, and she’s back! Surprised (and hooked) by the vulnerability.

Forbidden Feelingz | Nia Archives

Went on a massive Boiler Room binge this week, and it shows.

Speed of Light | dhruv

I originally slightly doubted this single, but it really grew on me - dhruv (and his production taste) really doesn’t miss.

Sexy to Someone | Clairo

Me too, Clairo, me too.

Étouffée | Vince Staples

Vince yet again is in his pocket - buttery smooth flows and laid-back beats with his own flavour of social commentary.

LUNCH | Billie Eilish

Surprise bop? Hard and soft?

Steel | Matt Champion, Dora Jar

Out of left field, but probably my favourite post-BROCKHAMPTON album from the boys so far!

Not Like Us | Kendrick Lamar

Absolutely devastating; I can’t believe I’m here for this pop culture moment. So many thoughts.

Jokes On Me | Audrey Nuna

Brilliant execution of what I think is a pretty crowded sound.

dancinwithsomebawdy | ericdoa

Did not expect this out of Eric at all, but this is an absolute bop - we’ll take those.

R&B | English Teacher

Reminds me of Wet Leg in the best way possible!

No Machine | Adrianne Lenker

Serene, beautiful, and a tinge of sadness - exactly what I expected.

16 CARRIAGES | Beyoncé

Album is a great balance of vulnerability and absolute bops!

Like That | Future, Metro Boomin, Kendrick Lamar

How could I avoid this? Kendrick is hungry - there is no big three. Metro brings a surprising flip on a generally overplayed sample.

violet | Marianne Ross

This is very Mitski/boygenius/beabadoobee/Laufey-core… I’ve been played…

Goddess | Laufey

You already know…

Von dutch | Charli XCX

It’s Charli, baby…

OMG | Suki Waterhouse

Earworm chorus and the right balance of grunge - excited for this album!

Marigold | Mia Day

Shoutout Mia!

Tragedy | dhruv

How does this man never miss??

Despair, Hangover & Ecstasy | The Dø

Can you believe that this song is almost a decade old? I can’t.

whiplash | 2hollis

Another brain-tickler!

née-nah | 21 Savage, Travis Scott, Metro Boomin

In an era where each of these artists are slightly off their peak, this song is an absolute pleasure, a return to form.

Not My Fault | Reneé Rapp, Megan Thee Stallion

Another absolute bop. I’m not sure why Reneé seems to have a grip on online music discourse right now, but I’m all for it!

Every Day Is The Worst Day Of My Life | The Lemon Twigs

Facts.

Night Shift | Lucy Dacus

A sombering and belt out crying song to end 2023.

Vampire Empire | Big Thief

Such a powerful earworm with an eclectic chorus. Can’t believe this isn’t attached to an album (yet?).

Otro Atardecer | Bad Bunny, The Marías

Never gave this song its flowers when it first came out, but better late than never! Feels like a Marías featuring Bad Bunny in my favourite way.

we're all eating each other | Juliet Ivy

Bright and nihilistic. Great job on a debut EP!

Not Strong Enough | boygenius

Been on a bit of a boygenius kick this past week, and I can’t believe that this wasn’t already an SOTW!

bloom | ネクライトーキー

Enjoyed the new Scott Pilgrim more than I thought I would!

Don't Know How To Keep Loving You | Julia Jacklin

Truly crushing.

Cobra | Megan Thee Stallion

Megan continues to kill the sad and introspective hot girl music from Traumazine.

To Summer, From Cole - Audio Hug | J. Cole

Maybe one of the sweetest rap songs I’ve ever heard?

But Not For Me | Chet Baker

Been on a massive Chet Baker binge this week!

A Night To Remember | beabadoobee, Laufey

The duo I never knew I needed? And excited for Laufey’s potential feature run.

What's The Time Where You Are | Troye Sivan

Just another straight bop.

Fucking Depressed | Bad Daughter

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EVERYTHING IS RED | Koven Wei

I triple-taked when I saw this randomly; what a surprise from an old neighbour. Proud of him!

Nachts wach | Miksu / Macloud, makko

Is this what language envy feels like? What an absolute bop.

1-800-Nas&Hit | Nas, Hit-Boy

The end (?) of a mind-blowing era. I don’t think we’ll see a six album run like this any time soon.

While You Were Sleeping | Laufey

Of course she’s done it again. Jealous of my friends who saw her live in LA!

Charge It | ENNY

ENNY’s flow is absolutely pristine; she excels on these laid-back beats.

踊り子 | Vaundy

Bye Boston (and the work bestie)! What a smooth, danceable song.

Oh No Darling! | Sarah Kinsley

As my summer winds down, gotta give it to one of my songs of the summer. Shoutout Becky!

ABC | Polyphia, Sophia Black

This song is such an earworm: the perfect balance of Polyphia’s insane technical skill and a piece that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

HEARTBREAKER CLUB | City Girl, tiffi, Highvyn

The City Girl x tiffi combination is elite.

Come Over | Carly Rae Jepsen

She’s back :)

Rush | Troye Sivan

Absolute bop.

Hunned Bandz | Tanukichan

Laid-back, relaxing, and chill rock - perfect for a hot summer.

FUNKFEST | grouptherapy.

This gives me BROCKHAMPTON levels of excitement! What a flexible and unique album.

Professor X | Dave

Nuts beat, and the “Little man want to jump on FIFA, so I’m close to the sun like Icarus” line has me cackling.

Nails | Saint Levant

Saint Levant’s genre-bending trilingual rap is smooth as butter. The music video definitely made me chuckle.

All I Wanted | Paramore

Ugh, this emo rock era was a time. Love Paramore.

From The Start | Laufey

I cannot underscore how amazing Laufey is. Elegant, charming, beautiful.

The Hillbillies | Baby Keem, Kendrick Lamar

Glad to see the pgLang boys having fun.

Daydreaming | NxWorries, Anderson .Paak, Knxwledge

Quite excited for this album, it’s another win for .Paak!

Master P | KAYTRANADA, Aminé, Big Sean

bop bop bop

MOTHERLESS | Killer Mike, Eryn Allen Kane

Painful, but also great timing.

Love, Try Not To Let Go | Julia Jacklin

Breaking a too-long streak of rap with a punchy, powerful, and almost overwhelming moden power ballad.

Gang Gang Gang | Jack Harlow

It surprises me just how many people (including Fantano!) are missing what this song is about: a critique of “brotherhood” and its lack of accountability. Coming from an all-boys school that was hyperfixated on brotherhood above all else, this song hits too close to home. Really wasn’t expecting this from Jack Harlow!

For DOOM | Open Mike Eagle

On a massive rap binge recently, and so naturally tending towards OME!

Prom Night | Chance the Rapper

This for everybody’s fucking prom night.

pg baby | redveil

On a redveil grind.

SORRY NOT SORRY | Tyler, The Creator

Beautiful music video for a beautiful era of rap.

Kingdom Hearts Key | JPEGMAFIA, Danny Brown, redveil

I have never cackled so much while being thoroughly amazed by a project’s production. This one is closer to easy listening compared to … some of the other songs. Those scare me.

Slipping Into Darkness | Hit-Boy, The Alchemist

Alchemist over a Hit-Boy beat, Hit-Boy over a Alchemist beat. Beautiful.

Weight | redveil

This is top-notch production; one of the more innovative soul samples I’ve listened to!

Eye Know | De La Soul, Otis Redding

Can’t believe that De La is finally back. What a classic!

Tally | midwxst, Denzel Curry

It’s not polished, but it’s fun.

Chameleon | Dark Dazey

To me it’s wild that Fantano has now reviewed Dark Dazey. Feels like I’m seeing a band blow up in real-time!

OutRight | Wild Party

Super slow week and not much new music. This song is almost a nostalgia trip à la Two Door Cinema Club.

CUFF IT | Beyoncé

Shoutout Beyoncé for nabbing the most Grammys ever.

Two Tens | Cordae, Anderson .Paak

It’s not RNP, but it shouldn’t be. Smooth!

GOATED. | Armani White, Denzel Curry

Denzel imbues a simple beat and chorus with inventive wordplay, effortlessly switches flows, and that signature Denzel energy.

Shinunoga E-Wa / 死ぬのがいいわ | Fuji Kaze / 藤井風

So late to the trend, but what a medley of pop, jazz, and rap production.

One Mic One Gun | Nas, 21 Savage

Been bumping this for the past month. What a great way to squash a beef!

King | Florence + The Machine

Can’t believe I missed this!

Gorilla | Little Simz

Will never say no thank you to more Little Simz.

Kill Bill | SZA

Finally, new SZA - and it’s stellar.

Look Out! | Peach Pit

Smooth and serene for a sleep-filled Seattle.

Feel The Fiyaaaah | Metro Boomin, A$AP Rocky, Takeoff

Stellar sample. Somber, neat alphabet verse from Takeoff. Album’s not perfect, but Metro is definitely back.

うっせぇわ | Ado

Absolutely out of this world vocal range and production! I’m much too late to this bandwagon.

First Time | Nas

Nas & Hit-Boy run it back on KD3 and the quality is still there. Unparalleled.

Die For You | Joji

And I hope it’s true

As The World Caves In | Matt Maltese

It’s hard to reconcile how absurd this song premise is with its beauty; I love both Matt and Sarah’s versions. Does feel like things are caving in :/

patience interlude | Baby Keem

a stellar deluxe

Sideways | Carly Rae Jepsen

crj crj crj

HEAD | Devon Again

in my head

Heavenly Father | Isaiah Rashad

i tried | slowthai

KAZINO | BIBI

How did I miss this when it came out?

Forgot About | Priya Ragu

how could

Stoked | Weston Estate

huge weston estate week

Still | Kenny Beats

I’ve loved following Kenny ever since The Cave and his Twitch stream. LOUIE is his raw creativity, love of the art, and playfulness all bundled in a tight beat pack. Stellar.

Crack Sandwich | JID

JID dances around the beat like it’s ballet, doesn’t pull punches like it’s boxing, and tackles tough subject matter like it’s football - entrancing.

Budget | Megan Thee Stallion, Latto

I don’t know what’s more killer: Megan’s flow or the sample.

SAN FRANCISCO SIDEWALK | Tiffany Day

Close by, a different production style, and introspective noise. Love.

ENERGY | Beyoncé, Beam

This album has an energy out of this world - everything the Drake album wanted to be.

Shatter | Maggie Rogers

Maggie Rogers is back with a fiery passion. Love every minute of this album.

Timeless | Ambar Lucid

An admittedly subpar album cover hides one of the smoothest hooks I’ve heard this year, and probably, ever.

Beware of the Dogs | Stella Donnelly

Something about this album and this song just hit different. There’s a pain and timbre in her voice that’s patently unique.

TAKE A CHANCE | DOMi & JD BECK, Anderson .Paak

It seems like just yesterday that I saw DOMi and JD hang out with Kenny Beats on stream. There’s something unique about their music. They make me feel old.

hollaback bitch | Mura Masa, Shygirl, Channel Tres

Absolute earworm from three artists perfectly in their zone.

Sorry | Deb Never

Surprised this is Deb’s first appearance!

Glimpse of Us | Joji

Fast week, slow song.

Cash In Cash Out | Pharrell Williams, 21 Savage, Tyler, The Creator

Infectious hook, but the standout feature is the music video.

Music For A Sushi Restaurant | Harry Styles

What an awful week to wrap up. This song was a highlight, though.

Listening To Me Sing | Jacklen Ro

Great seeing them (and Dark Dazey, Even Kevin, Lola Rice) live. This song in particular was stellar; the Spotify mix doesn’t do it justice.

Auntie Diaries | Kendrick Lamar

It is remarkably good that one of the largest names in the music industry centers an entire song on transphobia and trans support. Time will tell how this will age, and there are some things I’m not qualified to comment on; nevertheless, impactful.

Father Time | Kendrick Lamar, Sampha

An astounding portrait of toxic masculinity.

The Heart Part 5 | Kendrick Lamar

IT’S HAPPENING.

Forever | HAIM

In-person HAIM was a completely different vibe - congrats on 15 years to them!

Dreamin Of The Past | Pusha T, Kanye West

Push on Pharrell and Kanye is a murderous combination.

END OF THE WORLD | MICHELLE

A stellar album front to back - the personality of someone who’s always the wholesome life of the party.

Love It If We Made It | Rina Sawayama

Everything I love about a good cover - innovating on the core identity of the song with a very novel, Rina-like twist.

BROKEN PLATES | Tiffany Day

“LOVE. LOVE! SICK. SICK!” hits different live.

Instant Crush | Daft Punk, Julian Casablanca

Wow, I’ve forgotten just how stellar this album is. Daft Punk really are legends.

Close Your Eyes | Kim Petras

Cursed song enters the rotation.

Since I Left You | The Avalanches

Since I Left You was on constant rotation during an otherwise terrible finals week.

Your Type | Alvvays

Antisocialites returns to SOTW in great fashion!

HAZARD DUTY PAY! | JPEGMAFIA

I’m so glad this song is finally on streaming; Peggy weaves his flow through a stunning sample.

Life's a Bitch | Nas, AZ, Olu Dara

title

MAGIC | Vince Staples, Mustard

Beat and flow feeling like magic.

Silver into Rain | Luna Li, beabadoobee

Stellar combo.

Going Bad | Meek Mill, Drake

Been saying “lot of Murakami in the hallway” too frequently as of late.

Walkin | Denzel Curry

Denzel murders a stellar sample.

Surround Sound | JID, 21 Savage, Baby Tate

Please give us the new JID album!!

Chaise Longue | Wet Leg

What a song!

Go Away | Omar Apollo

Chromeo and Omar Apollo is an absolutely stellar production collab, and it shows.

Happier Than Ever | Billie Eilish

In love with the mood and build-up of this song. The “that shit’s embarassing” hits different.

Neon Guts | Lil Uzi Vert, Pharrell Williams

I’ve been obsessed with Pharrell’s 4-count recently, and this song is a prime example.

burbank house | tsubi club

Brain tickling.

Futon | Ūla

How can you make a futon cute?

Blue Gatorade | Dark Dazey

This is my “other people’s Spotify Wrappeds” find of the year. This song is so serene and beautiful.

PISTOLWHIP | spill tab

Live spill tab was stellar, as was this song. Love Claire!

Jam & Butterfly | DPR LIVE, Crush, eaJ

Haven’t gotten around to really listening to Silk Sonic or Red; still riding the HITC high.

Fairy Tale | Seori

Hearing this live (or even on a loud speaker) is absolutely insane. Prob my fave find from HITC!

Charmander | Aminé

I’m down for hyperpop Aminé.

get off my dick | Zack Fox, Kenny Beats

It’s times like these that I reconsider making this a public blog.

Diablo | Mac Miller

This Faces re-release is absolutely nuts. Has made my week and will likely dominate my 2021 rotation. Diablo is so smooth.

Grade A | spill tab, JAWNY

Super excited to see spill tab soon!!

Lucy | Yenkee

Something special!

DOLLA SIGN SLIME | Lil Nas X, Megan Thee Stallion

Lil Nas X is on a roll, and he deserves every single bit of it.

scapegoats | Baby Keem

Album has surprisingly been in heavy rotation for me. Keem is such a breath of fresh air for this new age of rap.

Miss Understood | Little Simz

Easily AOTY material for me. Little Simz cements herself as the best of the best, no contest.

Story 2 | clipping.

The changing time signature on this song is so nuts.

family ties | Baby Keem, Kendrick Lamar

Smokin’ on top fives, stop playin’, I’m that guy

the sky is pink | jenny nuo

it’s been a slow music week for me, so i’ll give a shoutout :)

Every Summertime | NIKI

Did I impulse buy Head in the Clouds tickets? Mayhaps.

Where'd All the Time Go? | Dr. Dog

Reminded of this song by a friend. Title’s true!

Break It Off | PinkPantheress

something something too much time on music note app

Hypotheticals | Lake Street Dive

Hypotheticals is insanely catchy. Rachael Price’s voice layers over a beautiful medley of keyboards and strings. The bassline is so groovy. And, above all, the song’s progression is perfectly timed. Immaculate.

High Beams | Tkay Maidza

Tkay is absolutely killing it (and one of my fave rising stars) - she effortlessly blends innovative beats, graceful singing, and absolute bars. Can’t wait for a full album.

ARE YOU WITH THAT? | Vince Staples

I have enjoyed streaming VINCE STAPLES by VINCE STAPLES. Truly, VINCE STAPLES by VINCE STAPLES has been one of my favourite Vince Staples projects.

Little by Little | The Marías

The Marías knock it out of the park with their debut studio album. They blend together dreamy synths, a powerful but mesmerizing bass, and María’s hypnotizing voice to paint their signature sound.

Metropolis | Logic

A friend reminded me of this song, and other than the slightly-cringe outro on Tarantino movies, the flow is still as smooth as it was seven years ago.

HEAVY METAL | Paris Texas

A late shoutout, but HEAVY METAL deserves it and more. Paris Texas tie up noise rap in an aggressive yet palatable package.

Far Away | EASHA

I did end up going Far Away! But beyond that, EASHA is definitely someone to look out for - her groove is so springly and joyful.

CALONE | Tiffany Day

Tiffany Day is just so catchy. Bop after bop after bop.

astrid | glaive

I think I’ve played this song over 30 times in the past two weeks?

good 4 u | Olivia Rodrigo

Officially joining the Olivia Rodrigo hype train. SOUR is joining AOTY contention for me.

Runnin Runnin Runnin | Biskwiq, YBN Nahmir

Biskwiq has one of the best trap-to-lo-fi flips that I’ve heard in a while!

Durag Activity | Baby Keem, Travis Scott

durag activity

Shot You Down | Isaiah Rashad, Jay Rock, ScHoolboy Q

One of my friends says that this song makes them feel invincible, and I can’t disagree.

OK | 6 Dogs

I’m not sure exactly why, but after watching this Lyrical Lemonade video this song played on repeat in my head. RIP.

waves - Tame Impala Remix | Miguel, Tame Impala

Something about this remix just sticks.

CHAIN ON | BROCKHAMPTON, JPEGMAFIA

I’m not entirely sure if we’re at SATURATION levels, but I am never one to complain for more BROCKHAMPTON. Peggy is a great addition too!

Big Boss Rabbit | Freddie Gibbs

I’ve been on an absolute Gibbs binge these past few weeks; his flow is speedy but buttery smooth in this song.

Don't Need You | Genesis Owusu

Quirky, but a vibe.

Freeze Tag | Terrace Martin, Robert Glasper, 9th Wonder, Kamasi Washington, Phoelix

Slow week, slow song. An amazing team creates an amazing blend of jazz, soul, r&b, and rap.

Leave The Door Open | Silk Sonic, Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak

What a duo, smooth af. Don’t want to get too hyped, but this could be AOTY …

Whats Next | Drake

It’s like clockwork. The culture vulture drops another banger, and I begrudingly put it into the playlist.

Cocaine Parties | Freddie Gibbs, Madlib

Freddie absolutely bodies one of Madlib’s best beats. If only we got Madlib, Freddie, and Kendrick … (note: this song was taken off of Spotify shortly after, presumably from sample clearing issues)

Skegee | JID

JID cements himself as one of the best of the new wave: conscious lyrics, buttery smooth flow, and unique production.

Is It Any Wonder? | Durand Jones & The Indications

Continuing the Black Pumas-adjacent trend. Serene.

Morning Coffee | Chevy, Nalba

A bright-ish song for a not-so-bright-ish week.

Colors | Black Pumas

Black Pumas is a huge find for me; along with the Alabama Shakes, they have this entrancing approach to modern soul, blues, and rock that’s rare to find.

Punching Bag | Wallice

I use this word a lot, but this song is really an earworm. Super excited to see their second song!

Super Rich Kids | Frank Ocean, Earl Sweatshirt

It’s been a huge Frank Ocean kinda week for me.

Marinate | Zack Fox

I have no justification. This song is just hilarious.

Crush | Duckwrth

The groove and bassline for this song is just so danceable. I know I’ve said this a lot, but I really mean it.

All Caps | Madvillain, MF DOOM, Madlib

RIP to a legend. All Caps when you spell the man name.

80's makeout session | dacelynn

It’s been a slow-ish week, so here’s a slow-ish bedroom pop song.

Don't Get Chipped | Vince Staples

Finals gave me little time to listen to new music, and I ended up leaning back on some Kenny Beats production. Giving FM! the shoutout it deserves!

82 92 | Statik Selektah, Termanology, Mac Miller

Can’t believe I hadn’t heard of this song before! Vintage Mac, Statik Selektah brings his best. And look at that album cover.

YOU'RE SO FUCKING MEAN TO ME | Tiffany Day

Is Tiffany Day OVERDRAMATIC? Maybe. Is this song a bop? Yup.

真夜中のドア〜Stay With Me | Miki Matsubara

A fitting 100th song. A bubbly, danceable, melodic voice and groove. A perfect example of jazz-infused city pop. A reminder of my (artificial) Japanese roots.

FOOL'S GOLD | Aries

Aries is my guilty pleasure, and FOOL’S GOLD is my pyrite. The pieces just come together so well on this song.

Sangria | $NOT, Denzel Curry

Production is absolutely insane, $NOT definitely punches above his weight, and Denzel absolutely kills his verse. Amazing flute sample.

MORE | K/DA, Madison Beer, (G)I-DLE, Lexie Liu, Jaira Burns

I can’t believe it, but I’m actually stanning a virtual kpop group from Riot Games. What a time to be alive.

positions | Ariana Grande

stream positions

I Keep Calling | James Blake

A new type of serene.

LAX | Vulfpeck

Oh my, this song is just so catchy and danceable. Joey Dosik brings some great vocals to an immaculate bassline.

Runnin | 21 Savage, Metro Boomin

This album? Absolutely nuts. Best trap release front-to-back this year, and 21 + Metro is always a lethal combination. Love the innovation here.

Scholarships | Drake, Future

What a Time to Be Alive. 5 years!

Don't Wanna | HAIM

Damn. This album is awesome. HAIM maintains catchy pop bops (like Don’t Wanna) but also playfully explore their boundaries.

You Can Get It | BUMPER

This is something that I never knew I wanted but absolutely blew me away: Japanese Breakfast with happy-go-lucky production and vocals makes my day.

ok on your own | mxmtoon, Carly Rae Jepsen

Two pop queens absolutely kill it. Song has only been out for a day or so, and it’s already dominated my week.

THE BADDEST | K/DA, (G)I-DLE, Bea Miller, Wolftyla

Hm, this is awkward. Am I ashamed? Maybe. Am I really ashamed? Absolutely not. Love the addition of Bea Miller too!

Woodlawn | Aminé

Aminé continues being an interesting and unique voice in the rap game. Great confident banger.

CUT EM IN | Anderson .Paak, Rick Ross

Paak just … doesn’t miss. Running circles on the game.

Soul Food II | Logic

I can’t believe I actually enjoyed a new Logic release. A fitting end to his career, though I doubt he’s done for good.

ROYL | Chloe x Halle

This album is just straight bangers and anthems from front to back. Absolutely nuts for a sophomore album with this much creative control; definitely want to hear more.

exile | Taylor Swift, Bon Iver

This song is by two undergound indie artists, Taylor Swift and Bon Iver. You probably haven’t heard of them, I can’t blame you.

Shine | Joey Bada$$

Need some Shine. Joey is back.

Politics & Violence | Dominic Fike

At this point, they seem to be one and the same. Smooth AF song though.

Heat Waves | Glass Animals

Late nights in the middle of June.

North Pole | Injury Reserve

RIP Groggs.

Lockdown | Anderson .Paak

Still topical. Still relevant. .Paak is back.

Song 33 | Noname

Noname x Madlib is insane, and this is by far the smoothest, chillest call-out I’ve ever heard. Still topical, still relevant.

Institutionalized | Kendrick Lamar, Bilal, Anna Wise, Snoop Dogg

Still topical, still relevant.

Fuck Tha Police | N.W.A.

Seems topical. Black Lives Matter.

damn right | Little Simz

Little Simz never ceases to drop quality track after quality track. One of the few rappers that I’m still excited about.

If Only | Raveena

If silk had a voice, Raveena has it. Absolutely absurd.

goodnight n go | Ariana Grande

It’s funny, because I haven’t had a good night’s sleep, and I can’t go anywhere. Still, a dreamy song - if too dreamy.

with you | seth arlan

This song hits harder than I expected it. Nice summer vibes, laid-back instrumentals, and cute lyrics.

Tokyo Love Hotel | Rina Sawayama

Rina’s new album is superb, a debut that she’s definitely deserving of. A solid AOTY contender for me!

Gimme Love | Joji

Joji’s very hit-or-miss for me, but this one is definitely a hit. An absolutely infectious nighttime hook.

My Love | Anna of the North

A super uplifting, danceable, all-around feel-good song. Shoutout to Jessica for the rec!

Animal Spirits | Vulfpeck

The Beautiful Song. Reminds me of going outside with people, which is something I miss.

Faith | The Weeknd

I’ve been on a Weeknd binge all week (and Weeknd); After Hours is like a perfect period piece.

XS | Rina Sawayama

Another bop from Rina, no surprise here.

Talk Is Cheap | Chet Faker

One of the best songs of the past decade, and written/performed/produced by only one person. Nick Murphy is a polygot with his vocal range, serene and gripping production, and impactful lyricism.

Dragonball Durag | Thundercat

Thundercat is an amazing bassist. This song just has good vibes, and that’s something I think we all need right now.

ringtone (remix) | 100 gecs, Charli XCX, Rico Nasty, Kero Kero Bonito

This is peak internet.

death bed | Powfu, beabadoobee

A pretty creative spin on Coffee that’s been stuck in my head for the past two weeks. Lyrics are a melancholy kind of sad.

Nothing in Return | Monsune

I’ve been on a Monsune binge this week! Definitely looking forward to his concert this spring break!!!

I Would Do Anything For You | Foster The People

A catchy, danceable, feel-good bop. Classic Foster The People, but without the dark undertones.

Shoota | Playboi Carti, Lil Uzi Vert

I’ve listened to this song more than 20 times in the past two weeks. It’s mind-numbingly infectious.

Gotta Have It | JAY-Z, Kanye West

Kanye chops up this sample beautifully and absolutely kills his first verse. WTT is slowly moving up my Kanye rankings.

Blue World | Mac Miller

A painful, but well-deserved sendoff. Cements Mac’s legacy. RIP.

Lost In Yesterday | Tame Impala

Have you ever heard of Tame Impala? They have this one song, “The Less I Know The Better”, but you probably haven’t heard of it.

Dreams Tonite | Alvvays

I don’t think I’ve gotten tired of the “saw you in a dream” trope yet, and Alvvays makes one of the best of the genre.

Digital | IDK

Shit slaps. Entire album seamlessly alternates between banger and introspection.

Toronto | Snoh Aalegra

It’s good to be back.

Sugarplum Elegy | NIKI

Just, wow. NIKI keeps on blowing my mind. Super happy this finally got released to Spotify, just in time for the holiday season.

Otis | JAY-Z, Kanye West, Otis Redding

JAY-Z is back on Spotify - what more can I say.

Blinding Lights | The Weeknd

Excited for our resident Toronto sadboi to be back!

OUTTA MY MIND | Monsune

I can’t get this melody outta my mind. Absolutely infectious, smooth & sweet.

Alaska | Maggie Rogers

This week has been a Maggie Rogers kinda week.

COMMA$ | LORD$OFDOGTOWN

A posse cut with an infectious flow and beat. Reminds me of SWEET in the best way possible.

The Games We Play | Pusha T

After a disappointing Kanye release, I needed to be reminded that Kanye still could make good music. Pusha T’s solid-as-always lines never hurt.

ringtone | 100 gecs

I really can’t explain why I like 100 gecs, but they’ve been stuck in my head this past week. Probably the weirdest music I’ve heard this year. gecgecgec.

I Don't Miss You At All | FINNEAS

Maybe the most unconvincing song of all time. Kinda nuts how much young talent this family has, between FINNEAS and Billie - it’s almost unfair.

La La Lost You | NIKI

NIKI is absolutely killing it.

For Real | Mallrat

An adorably cute, positive song. “And you didn’t even wanna die once this week” is a strange but graceful hook.

Vossi Bop | Stormzy

Punchy one-liners, solid flow, and a very catchy beat. Stormzy brings the bread and butter of a chart-topping rap song.

White Mercedes | Charli XCX

Charli’s back baby.

Tenderness | Jay Som

Anak Ko has been on repeat for me this past month. Jay Som is definitely an underrated gem, and I’m excited to hear more and more from her!!!

Indigo | NIKI

Wow, I’m just addicted to this song. Love the sugary-sweet synths and the colourful chorus.

dream of you | mxmtoon

I am unbearbly excited for the masquerade. maia hasn’t disappointed yet!

SUGAR | BROCKHAMPTON

The BROCKHAMPTON boys are back, and they’re sad.

suburban wonderland | BETWEEN FRIENDS

I’m glad that I’ve left the ‘burbs, but there is something special about it that I miss.

Closer To You | Clairo

Some of this album is just… so sad. Clairo rips out emotions with minimal production and vocals.

Sunday Best | Surfaces

This is just such a feel good song. It’s got me feeling blessed, never stressed. And you bet it’s got me on my sunday best.

4EVER | Clairo

I’ve fully become a Wallows and Clairo addict at this point. 4EVER will tide me over until I listen to Immunity.

Are You Bored Yet? | Wallows, Clairo

Wallows x Clairo is like the Ed Sheeran collab album for softbois. I can’t believe I just typed that sentence.

Hands Down (Reprise) | The Greeting Committee

The original is one of my favourite songs, so I can’t believe that I discovered the reprise so late. Hands down my favourite cute song.

Selfish | Little Simz, Cleo Sol

GREY Area is one of the only rap albums where I’ve added every single song to my playlist. Little Simz hits hard, but most importantly, she hits consistently.

Cocoa Butter Kisses | Chance the Rapper, Vic Mensa, Twista

i think my quality of life has significantly improved now that acid rap is back on spotify

— matt wang (@welcomemattwang) June 30, 2019</blockquote>

Chinese New Year | SALES

Chinese New Year was a long time ago, but I’m still down. SALES sells me on an amazing hook and a raw sound.

Feels Right | Carly Rae Jepsen, Electric Guest

You thought I wouldn’t be rocking new Carly? She doesn’t stop embracing core elements of electro pop to keep on making bops.

3 Nights | Dominic Fike

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention this absolute earworm. I want more Dominic x BROCKHAMPTON.

Oom Sha La La | Haley Heynderickx

I Need to Start a Garden.

EARFQUAKE | Tyler, The Creator

IGOR is unabashedly raw, emotional, and personal. Tyler presents a fresh take in an oversaturated rap scene, and a possible AOTY.

Grilled Cheese | Peach Face

Grilled Cheese is an absolute earworm; I’m surprised that this is Peach Face’s only song on Spotify, ‘cause it’s so damn catchy.

I Like (the idea of) You | Tessa Violet

Tessa Violet drops another summer bop, filled with lovesick lyrics and production that makes you wanna dance.

prom dress | mxmtoon

New mxmtoon? Emotional vulnerability? Minimal production? Beautiful vocals? Instant banger.

Boyer | Kevin Abstract

The BROCKHAMPTON boys do it again. Energetic production, vibrant vocals, and personal slices of Kevin’s life.

Distant | Wayllo

Someone I went to high school with dropped a single, and it’s fire. Reminds me of Snakehips, Major Lazer, and Louis the Child, in the best way possible.

Hookers | Tierra Whack

Tierra brings a refreshing and whacky take on contemporary rap, delivering a deeply emotional and passionate performance in just one minute.

Butterflies | Kacey Musgraves

I’m a bit late to the party, but Kacey Musgraves weaves together a beautifully melancholic pop-country album - chock full of tearjerkers and “aww” moments.

bad guy | Billie Eilish

Billie brings a unique, consistent, and pretty spooky sound: a welcome addition to a pop scene filled with bland mediocrity, and from a 17 year-old no less.

Upside Down | Jack Johnson and Friends

Was surprised that this wasn’t a Metro Boomin’ collab, because this shit slaps.

Pristine | Snail Mail

Pristine is yet another addition to simp session bedroom pop and indie rock - as cliché as it sounds, you really do feel her pain.

No Drug Like Me | Carly Rae Jepsen

Carly’s back with more bops. What else can I say.

Locket | Crumb

Locket is a tantalizing earworm, a combination of smooth rock and jazz-like elements that’s been stuck in my head for the past few weeks.

Forever Always | Peter Cottontale, Chance the Rapper, Daniel Caesar, Madison Ryann Ward, YEBBA

A surprisingly star-studded feel-good song - something that definitely helps with a rough week of work.

Gimme The Loot | The Notorious B.I.G

Considering the prominence of “Gimme The Loot” as a producer tag and adlib, I thought it’d be nice to take it back to the OG. Biggie is just a straight killer on this track.

5% TINT | Travis Scott

Travis weaves together a spooky vibe with a haunting piano chord, barebones beats, and his signature eerie autotune.

You Only Like Me With The Lights Out | Avid Dancer

Strong, raw guitars and an equally raw voice addictingly convey a truth that nobody wants to hear.

Rivers and Roads | The Head and the Heart

A much-too-relatable emotional ballad about missed friends and love songs - bread and butter for any university student.

Lovers Rock | TV Girl

Lovers Rock is entrancing, smooth pop at its best - something I imagine in the background of an upscale restaurant.

Ruin Your Night | Sorcha Richardson

This is the catchiest sanger (sad banger) I’ve heard so far. The lyrics are so simple, yet so depressing.

Crush | Tessa Violet

Crush is what I love about modern pop: innovative and flashy production backed by simple but effective lyrics.

Loving Is Easy | Rex Orange County, Benny Sings

Rex Orange County makes another catchy and relatable love ballad.