Songs Of The Week

We’ve compiled a list of the 5 songs you need to hear this week. In which you’ll find The Smiths’ guitarist gone solo, three sisters whose voices will stun you, a Mercury Prize-nominated artist and more. Check it out.

Ben Howard – Conrad

Could Ben Howard be about to release one of the best albums of the year? Given how impressive the two previously released songs ‘I Forget Where We Were’ and ‘End of the Affair’ were, it wouldn’t be much of a surprise. Here we are now with yet another fantastic new track from the English singer-songwriter’s sophomore LP. Yes, the intro does sound a tad like Coldplay’s ‘Strawberry Swing’, but the song is a whole different beast. It’s a dark, possessed song that sounds like it’s coming from the bottom of the sea. Mr. Howard, you had my curiosity but now you have my attention.

King Tuff – Headbanger

Kyle Thomas aka King Tuff returns with a new album entitled Black Moon Spell on 23rd September. ‘Headbanger’ is the third song taken from the record following ‘Eyes of the Muse’ and the title track. It’s also an almost certain hit. Built around a heavy guitar riff and the kind of garage rock production King Tuff has come to be known for, ‘Headbanger’ is pure delight.

The Staves – Blood I Bled

If you’re into Laura Marlin, Fleet Foxes and/or Joni Mitchell, you really should know about The Staves. Another English trio, very different from White Sands obviously, but just as exciting and inspiring. The three sisters have already supported Bon Iver on tour, and after releasing their debut full-length album Dead & Born & Grown in 2012, they’re now back with a new EP due for release in October. Title track ‘Blood I Bled’ is a charming song packed with heavenly voices and harmonies.

Johnny Marr – The Trap

Do I need to tell you who Johnny Marr is? Of course not, the man’s a legend. Last year saw the release of his proper debut solo album The Messenger, which was alright but by no means an exceptional record. Next month, Marr is putting out his new solo effort Playland, and after unveiling the catchy Electro-Pop song ‘Easy Money’, ‘The Trap’ was premiered on BBC 6 Music. It’s very different, and all the better for it. It’s mellower, with a psychedelic feel. Ride and The Stone Roses are not too far away.

Scroll to 53 minutes in to hear it. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04hgtw0

White Sands – Expect Nothing

Following on from the excellent single ‘Years’ premiered in June, English trio White Sands (technically a “supergroup”, made up of members of Mazes, Novella and Male Bonding) have just unveiled a new song from their upcoming debut 7” The Wait. ‘Expect Nothing’ does recall Sonic Youth but who cares when it’s so beautifully crafted? It’s lo-fi Indie Rock at its finest. Expect big things from this band.

By Brice Detruche
@BriceDetruche