A selection of new and/or relevant pop tracks that have recently left an impression on us. For the full playlist click here.
C’batch – “Trapped”
If you looked at the title and assumed it’d be a sad song, welcome to the club!
C’batch named the track “Trapped” and then spent three minutes devising an escape plan. With a swanky groove and lyrics that are simple enough to feel accidental but raw enough to feel true, C’batch bets on the production to elevate hopefulness. The vocals sound naturally polished, while the rhythm ticks away, creating slight tension that makes the chorus bash in 10x stronger.
It’s gritty but warm and unreasonably upright. C’batch just refuses to sit back down, fighting the everyday trap with sheer will.
Froshdada – “GAGA”
Froshdada’s “GAGA” is straight off the grill. It’s hot, spicy, and full of zest – food for the soul that can make you move without resistance.
The production isn’t overcrowded, but you won’t be able to say the same thing about a dance floor. The marimba toned rhythm along with a strong vocal pulse works together to give you two entry points. You pick either and get your groove on.
In a scene where Afrobeat is increasingly drowning in its own production, “GAGA” stands secure with a clean, essentials-only approach that’s commendable.
Lauren Eve – “You Friend”
Labels are overrated, and Lauren Eve agrees. With “You Friend”, she gets jazzy about wanting someone that loves her. No conditions apply.
It warms my soul to hear a good mix, and “You Friend” boasts a strong technical background with breezy instrumentals that could become the perfect cruise performance.
The lyrics don’t push too hard. Lauren takes the charm-first, logic-later route to state her needs with dewy vocals, making it impossible to disagree with her. By the time it’s over, you’re convinced that it was your idea all along.
Find our previous pop reviews here.
