August 2017 – Page 3

Essentials: “Better Now” – Jordan Raf

If you want a perfect heater as the summer is winding down, lower your sunroof and take a cruise to the latest original by California-based artist Jordan Raf. Reminiscent of the soundscape presented in Views by Drake, “Better Now” seamlessly blends R&B, dancehall, hip hop, and pop that melts as it hits your ears. When the song reaches the… [continued]
Saint Audio Mixes #027: A L E J A N D R A

Strap in for a half hour of sonic twists and turns down a bass-filled path in our 27th guest mix. Saint Paul producer A L E J A N D R A is more than buzzworthy; she’s doing things with electronic music that remind me of when Sinjin Hawke and Rustie first burst onto the scene. A… [continued]
Essentials: “Water Me” – Lizzo

If you’re looking for an empowerment anthem to end your summer with, Lizzo’s new single is your answer. With cover art that’s as carefree as the song itself, “Water Me” is an energetic, danceable pop track that exudes confidence, body positivity, and self-love. The music video that accompanies the song is just as refreshing. In… [continued]
Pitchfork-Organized MCA Talks Coming This Fall for 50th Anniversary

If you are in the Chicago area this fall, mark your calendars for a star-studded affair at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Pitchfork-partnered In Sight Out talks are being held at the museum in celebration of their 50th anniversary. Specifically, In Sight Out is a discussion series on music, art, and culture, and showcases each… [continued]
Representation Matters – Just Ask Jai Wolf

a note about representation + visibility of minorities in the media✌🏽 pic.twitter.com/P997kTsv5g — Jai Wolf (@JaiWolfx) August 17, 2017 Moving Castle affiliate and producer Jai Wolf has never shied away from using his rapidly growing platform to discuss social issues. Whether it’s slamming alt-right white supremacist Baked Alaska in the DMs or providing insightful commentary… [continued]
Hear Tori Amos’s Plea To The “Climate Blind” In “Up The Creek”

The second single from Tori Amos‘s upcoming album, Native Invader, “Up The Creek” is a haunting environmental plea for the 21st century. Pulsing with an electronic take on Native American traditions, Southern Gothic and Flood Blues, the blend of genres creates a sense of supernatural surrealism that is while sonically different is still vintage Tori.… [continued]
Essentials: “Silence (ft. Khalid)” – Marshmello

If you were looking for happy hardcore samples or snappy synths, the latest effort by Marshmello does not contain sounds that are synonymous with his discography. In surprising fashion, the mystery producer delves into a crooner that sheds light on a darker subject matter—a contrast to his scintillating renditions. His cheerful approach in production provided an inkling… [continued]
Essentials: “Planetary Space Child” – Ruby The Hatchet

Ruby The Hatchet’s “Planetary Space Child,” the title track off their third album (due August 25th, from Tee Pee Records), finds the band taking their sludgy, psychedelic metal into the cosmos. The band’s sound is firmly rooted in 70s hard rock with a heavy doom vibe that often centers on occult themes, all heightened by… [continued]
Essentials: “Favorite (feat. VanJess)” – Brasstracks

Brasstracks teams up with femme duo VanJess for the sultry R&B track “Favorite”. Ivan and Conor never fail to impress with the way they skillfully incorporate jazz elements into their tracks (I’m still listening to “Fever” on repeat). The change of tempo makes the track interesting to listen to, instead of having the same bass beat for the… [continued]
Camp Flog Gnaw Is Back—And The Lineup Is UNREAL

Tyler, The Creator‘s annual Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival returns for its 6th year, with a lineup that redefines the meaning of “stacked”. Artists set to perform include Lana Del Rey, A$AP Rocky, Solange, Kid Cudi, Migos, Justice, Mac Miller, Earl Sweatshirt, Lil Yachty, 2 Chainz, Vince Staples, The Internet, Willow & Jaden Smith, Trash Talk,… [continued]