It’s still stay-at-home orders and debating over wearing masks in the United States, and some of the latest songs continue to reflect major quarantine vibes. On the other hand, new releases from Koffee and Pink Sweat$ exuding summer and night-out vibes bring us to a completely different head space of thinking about future plans once this global pandemic subsides. Let’s take a look at this week’s music spotlight.
The Shortlist:
Listen to this week’s spotlight on Spotify
OHIO
Ever had the urge to dance like no one is watching? After his release of Mayday for his homemade 1 album, Crush is back again with another song and video filled with quarantine vibes. While the former is filled with clips of home videos and cute shared moments with friends and family, “OHIO” is a more cinematic-style music video of the artist free-styling an interpretive dance, to say the least. The music itself elicits the feeling of crawling up the walls to relieve boredom; the lyrics and video continue to add onto the hyperactive effect. The short silence before the bridge feels similar to a moment of returning to reality but ultimately diving back into a daydream. This song is for a late-night crazy dancing alone, or, given the current state of affairs, a day-time dancing on the empty streets as the neighbors watch enviously.
Before the premiere of the music video, Crush and Band Wonderlust jammed in a countdown live to anticipate the release. You can see “OHIO” live here.
No More Pain
Though known more for songs like “Dance Like Jay Park” and “Drippin,” Ted Park also has a few tracks dedicated to his family and hardships. “No More Pain” is another one to add to the list. In this song, he addresses the challenges his family has faced, as well as his experience becoming an artist. This release is one for introspection but also to remind us to keep pushing forward.
Selene
Part two of her concept album Moonchild, NIKI is back with a sensual anthem that’s meant for anyone looking for a song to add to their feeling myself playlist (we all have one, don’t be shy). Nostalgic music trends are making a strong comeback in 2020, and “Selene” isn’t an exception. Dancing a little west coast swing, playing air guitar, or performing in the shower is in the books for this smooth bop.
Lockdown
“Lockdown” is the quarantine vacation vibes that you never knew you needed until it arrived. Contrary to the visuals seen in the first featured videos, Koffee takes us around island-life with friends while still encompassing the feeling of being at home, unable to satisfy our wanderlust. Take this latest release with you the next time you cruise around town for a change of pace from being stuck inside.
The Prelude EP
Riding on the same retro vibes as “Selene,” Pink Sweat$ has a new EP that contains all the flavors you need for any chill night in (or out, for any non-US readers). Starting off with some great jams to head bop with, “Give It To Me” and “Icy” evokes memories with friends skating at the roller rink or doing late-night fast food runs. “Not Alright” hits different with lyrics that describes what we’re all feeling during this pandemic. Finally transitioning to the second half of the EP, we’re hit with a conclusion that targets the softer side (and the feels, especially for the single pringles out there). Not only are there two new love songs, “At My Worst” and “Lows,” the artist has slipped in a previous release, “17.” From love to quarantine feels to hang outs, we get the all-in-one package with The Prelude.
My personal favorites: “Icy” and “Feels.”
Chai & Chimes 