This January, we started the year off well with releases like a new Ethel Cain album and Lucy Dacus’ lead single for “Forever is a Feeling”. Though there are a few I did not include (such as Mac Miller’s “Balloonerism” which deserves an honorable mention), these were the ones that I particularly enjoyed.
#8
“Orlando in Love” by Japanese Breakfast
The lead single “Orlando in Love” differs heavily from what Japanese Breakfast is known for; it’s still mostly upbeat except with a more drawback production that varies from the poppy sound that they’re known for. This song teases what we might expect to hear in their new album “For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)” which comes out on March 21.
#7
“Limerence” by Lucy Dacus
Though this is such a slow song, “Limerence” came alongside the lead single, “Ankles”. However, it was absolutely necessary because she does have such a contrast between her songs. Though a majority are sad, we can look at her most recent album, “Home Video”, and see that even songs directly next to each other in the track order are entirely different, such as the piano driven track “Christine” and the loud, upbeat track “First Time” which is what I really appreciate about the release of this song specifically; It gives us a good taste of what her album will sound like without just releasing an upbeat song that will get people talking about the album.
#6
“Room of Fools” by FKA Twigs
Though my favorite on “EUSEXUA” is one of the singles “Drums of Death”, I felt it was only proper to add a song that was actually released in January. “Room of Fools” is an instant club hit and draws clear influence from a visionary of our time, Björk. The vocals are very similar but FKA Twigs stays unique because of the sound that she has maintained throughout her career, especially on this album.
#5
“Sylvia” by Julien Baker & TORRES
This song’s sound is completely different from what both Julien Baker and TORRES have ever explored before. Though both mainly have a more indie rock style, the combination of them together has somehow become country. Personally, I am entirely biased towards loving this song; I was a cowboy for Halloween and my cat’s name is Julien Baker. The use of pedal steel and mandolin create a more drawn back energy while still maintaining a more upbeat, country sound with the drums that come later in the song. Julien Baker is known for her amazing harmonies and this is really displayed in “Sylvia” as TORRES takes lead vocals. Their vocals complement each other well, leaving listeners ready for more after this second single for their album “Send a Prayer My Way” which comes out April 18.
#4
“I Want You (Fever)” by Momma
Momma’s sound has stayed pretty consistent since their debut: loud instrumental with steady, almost whispery vocals. This song maintains this while also including some unique additions. The use of a reversing audio is heavily used in this song which gives it a more off putting sound and symbolizes the meaning of the song of going back to someone over and over again. Overall, “I Want You (Fever)” still sounds like it was made by Momma, but stays interesting due to the unique production they’re exploring.
#3
“Ankles” by Lucy Dacus
If you’re someone like me who loves listening to sad girl music, the release of a new Lucy Dacus album has been long anticipated, so I had to include both singles released in January. This single gives us a peak at the new sound she is exploring on her new album, “Forever is a Feeling,” which comes out March 28. The production on this song is similar to songs on “Historian” like “Nonbeliever” with its orchestral intro that becomes more digitally produced. Despite it being heavily pushed into my queue by Spotify’s algorithm, this song is enjoyable no matter how many times you listen to it.
#2
“Sports Car” by Tate McRae
Tate McRae has always been one of those artists that I’ve never really understood the appeal of their music. However, this song has entirely changed my mind. Though the lyrics are simple, the production is unique and fun. I’ve already added it to all of my getting ready playlists next to artists like Charli xcx and Chappell Roan.
#1
“Vacillator” by Ethel Cain
When “Perverts” came out, I decided to fully immerse myself in the experience by not doing anything else besides listening to the album. I stared at a wall for the full 89 minutes and I felt like I was experiencing a slow, painful death. Despite this, “Vacillator” is more relaxing than the rest of the songs and gives the listener a nice break in the album from the scary ambient noise. Although I thought “Perverts” was an excellent piece of art, this is the only song that has any real replay value. I’ve had this song on repeat since its release due to its calm instrumentation and Ethel Cain’s hypnotizing vocals that make it easy to listen to.
