New Music Releases: Weekly Roundup
Each Friday, music critics from The New York Times share their thoughts on the most exciting new tracks of the week. Check out our curated Playlist on Spotify (or find us under the profile: nytimes) and on Apple Music. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Amplifier, our twice-weekly guide to both new and classic songs.
FKA twigs, ‘Perfect Stranger’
In her latest track, FKA twigs teams up with a talented array of electronic producers, including Koreless, Stargate, Ojivolta, and Stuart Price, to craft “Perfect Stranger.” This song explores the allure of anonymity in intimate encounters, as she compellingly expresses, “I’d rather know nothing than all the lies / Just give me the person you are tonight.” The production is polished and more accessible than her previous works, yet her ethereal, whispery vocals communicate an underlying tension and vulnerability that captivates the listener.
Cymande, ‘Chasing an Empty Dream’
Originally formed in London in 1971 by Caribbean musicians, the British funk band Cymande made waves until their breakup in 1974 after releasing three influential albums. They reunited in 2014, long after their sounds had been sampled by hip-hop icons like the Fugees, Wu-Tang Clan, and De La Soul. Their new track, “Chasing an Empty Dream,” which is set to appear on an upcoming album in January, revives the socially conscious spirit of 1970s R&B. With a conga-driven Afro-Caribbean groove, sweeping disco strings, and sharp horn arrangements, the song serves as a poignant reminder to seek depth beyond superficial fame. “Everybody chasing fame, with no message for the young to hold onto,” the lyrics caution, encouraging listeners to reflect on the lessons of the past through its rich musical tapestry.
Kelly Lee Owens, ‘Love You Got’
Kelly Lee Owens returns with “Love You Got,” a track that showcases her unique blend of ethereal vocals and pulsating electronic beats. The song captures the essence of love’s complexities while enveloping the listener in a dreamlike soundscape. Her ability to intertwine heartfelt lyrics with innovative production makes this track a standout in her discography, further solidifying her reputation as a distinctive voice in the contemporary music scene.
