You might still be riding high after last week’s massive dump of new music, but this week has plenty to offer as well. 2022 is off to a strong start, music-wise, and the momentum doesn’t have any signs of slowing down.
Metal vets Boris are back with a lush new album called W. The singles suggest a more atmospheric vibe from the black-metal greats that could appeal to a broader audience. David Bazan returned with a new, surprise-release album under his Pedro the Lion moniker, his first since 2019.
Self described “Connecticut hardcore” band Anxious are here with their debut album. It should strongly appeal to anyone who was thrilled with the festival poster for When We Were Young, which also dropped earlier this week. I wasn’t head over heels when I saw them last fall, but hoping the record can scratch that punk itch. Post-punk band Yard Act also have their debut record hitting stores and streaming services today. It sounds like a Rough Trade classic.
Dream-Pop icons Beach House also released the third chapter of songs that will make up their sprawling new album Once Twice Melody. This chapter includes five new songs from the band and will be the final tease until the full album is out in February.
The legendary Sonic Youth announced a new album of rarities from their final decade as a band and shared a track from 2000 called “In & Out.” It’s a looser, jammy track and features prominent vocal work from Kim Gordan. Electronic duo DARKSIDE also shared a previously unreleased track from last year’s Spiral. This track has more of a groove than expected and would’ve been a stellar standout on the record. Luckily, we can enjoy it now!
Black Country, New Road will release their sophomore album next month and this week they shared the epic track “Snow Globes.” An excellent song that hints at Godspeed You! Black Emperor-level of righteous, towering build-up with euphoric drums that give it an incredible amount of stamina.
Big Thief have shared yet another single from their forthcoming double album. “Simulation Swarm” continues to prove that the band has no boundaries and will explore many new territories on the new album. Daniel Rossen also emerged with the details of his first-ever solo album and shared the virtuosic lead single, “Shadow in the Frame.”
Fred again.. dropped a dance floor banger called “Lights Out” that features HAAi and vocals from Romy of the xx (whose solo album I’m still eagerly awaiting). It’s a stunning techno hit that feels destined for the club. Hatchie is also ready to soundtrack your next dance party with the sublime “Quicksand.” Get your groove on, folks, and dance the night away.
Finally, RIP to Meatloaf who passed away at age 74!
Albums:
Boris | W
Pedro the Lion | Havasu
Anxious | Little Green House
Yard Act | The Overlord
Jake Xerxes Fussell | Good And Green Again
Years & Years | Night Call
Songs:
Beach House | “Illusion of Forever”
Sonic Youth | “In & Out”
Daniel Rossen | “Shadow in the Frame”
DARKSIDE | “Ecdysis”
Black Country, New Road | “Snow Globes”
The Reds, Pinks and Purples | “Let’s Pretend We’re Not In Love”
Big Thief | “Simulation Swarm”
Nilüfer Yanya | “midnight sun”
Fred again.. | “Lights Out” (ft Romy and HAAi)
Hatchie | “Quicksand”
Camp Cope | “Running with the Hurricane”
Lana Del Ray | “Watercolor Eyes”
Animal Collective | “Strung with Everything”
Girlpool | “Lie Love Lullaby”
If you’re a Spotify user, you can listen to these songs (and more from 2022) here!