In the latest round of new music reviews, KEXP's Music Directors Chris Sanley and Alex Ruder introduce fresh releases added to their rotational playlist for the week of August 26, 2024. This week's additions showcase a diverse range of genres and notable artists, highlighting the evolving landscape of contemporary music.
Fontaines D.C. – Romance (XL Recordings)
The fourth studio album from the London-via-Dublin band features a haunting blend of sounds with a melancholic undertone, led by Grian Chatten's evocative vocals and intricate instrumentation. Romance aims to create immersive soundscapes that elevate their distinctive post-punk style.
Benny Trokan – Do You Still Think of Me (Wick Records)
Marking the debut solo project from Spoon member Benny Trokan, this album is a nostalgic journey through psych-rock and soul. Drawing from his extensive experience with various notable artists, Trokan injects a fresh pop perspective into his timeless sound.
Chime School – The Boy Who Ran the Paisley Hotel (Slumberland)
Andy Pastalaniec’s Chime School delivers a vibrant sophomore effort filled with jangly guitars and emotive lyrics. The album captures '90s nostalgia while showcasing strong songwriting.
Fake Fruit – Mucho Mistrust (Carpark)
The Oakland band’s latest effort blends punk and indie-rock, filled with honest, humorous lyricism. With a playful approach, the album positions Fake Fruit as a rising force in the independent music scene.
GIFT – Illuminator (Captured Tracks)
This New York five-piece explores a mixture of psychedelic dreamgaze and indie-rock, balancing upbeat tracks and introspective moments—demonstrating their diverse sonic capabilities.
illuminati hotties – POWER (Snack Shack Tracks/Hopeless Records)
Sarah Tudzin’s fourth album is a delightful collection of melodic indie-rock, rich with profound lyrics and catchy melodies, asserting her prowess as an artist.
Luna Li – When a Thought Grows Wings (In Real Life/AWAL)
The Korean-Canadian multi-instrumentalist offers a dream-pop album that integrates orchestral elements, navigating through lush soundscapes with her soothing vocals.
Thee Heart Tones – Forever & Ever (Big Crown)
Fronted by the young singer-songwriter Jazmine Alvarado, this debut album exudes nostalgic soul music, recorded with notable producers, bringing a fresh angle to Chicano Soul.
Body Meat – Starchris (Partisan)
This debut from Philadelphia's Chris Taylor showcases experimental pop and electronic soundscapes, delivering a unique and inventive musical experience.
To explore more about these albums and listen to KEXP's curated playlists, visit their official website: KEXP. For a deeper dive into the effects of music on culture and its artistic merit, the wider music community can also take a look at the reviews section for more insights and recommendations.