CAUSTIC COMMENTARY: Beach Fossils, Foo Fighters, Bully, Blonde Redhead, Fly Anakin & More

Photo by Hana Mendel

After the extended weekend made these last few days crawl by at a pace that could be described as glacial at best, a Friday packed with new releases like this was a necessity. That summer air is making quite the entrance this time around with a thick stickiness that could only be tolerated under the shade of a tree. This Friday saw some of music’s coolest acts come out of the woodwork to provide the perfect soundtrack for these extended days. Just when I was thinking it was going to be a slow week for releases, the collection of new releases featured here today is nothing short of exactly what you need to get excited for the weekend, even if it isn’t a long weekend like one we were enjoying only a few days ago. 

Check out Glide’s picks for the best new music of the week below: 

Yussef Dayes (Feat. Tom Misch) – “Rust” 

Black Classical Music 

The release of drummer Yussef Dayes’ solo debut is right around the corner but the wait feels longer every day as anticipation rises. Black Classical Music is set to be released on September 8 and is shaping up to be one of the better jazz releases we’ll see in 2023. The latest single “Rust” has Dayes teaming up with long-time collaborator Tom Misch for a subtle yet potent display of chemistry between the musicians. 

Synthia – “You & I”

Single

From the brilliant minds of Leon Michels and the Big Crown Records team comes the latest project from the super-producer. Synthia is labeled a “supergroup” by the label and the latest single brings in the lush voice of MALLA to compliment the off-kilter soul of the arrangement.  The hushed vocals dance with the wonky synth chords as “You & I” feature dense and experimental textures. 

Blonde Redhead – “Snowman”

Sit Down For Dinner

Blonde Redhead is gearing up for their first studio album since 2014 and debut for their new label Section1. Sit Down For Dinner is set to be released on September 29 and the first single from the LP is a dream-like pop escapade. “Snowman” is atmospheric and plays on ambiance as much as anything else, creating the sensation of floating as soon as you press play. 

High Pulp (Feat. James Brandon Lewis) – “Dirtmouth”  

Days in the Desert 

Following up on their impressive 2022 LP, the ensemble that is known as High Pulp is crafting some of their best music to date. Days in the Desert will arrive on July 28 and the latest single features deep grooves and head-spinning rhythms. “Dirtmouth” is an expansive single that refuses complacency with a preference for syncopation and masterful musicianship. The single plays on syncopation while keeping a tight format, allowing “Dirtmouth” to bend and twist at the musicians’ will. 

Fly Anakin (Feat. Demae) – “Things Change”

Skinemaxxx (Side B)

Coming only a few months after the incredible Side A, Virginia’s Fly Anakin is bringing us the second part of his Skinemaxxx double LP. Skinemaxxx (Side B) continues the collaborative relationship of Anakin and producer Foisey as the duo exercises their long-standing chemistry on the first single from the upcoming release. “Things Change” is a moody track that comes with a cloudy instrumental that emphasizes the sharp-witted lyrics and bright delivery of Anakin, along with another perfect hook from the vocalist. Skinemaxxx (Side B) will be released on July 28 via Lex Records. 

Witch – “Nshingilile”

Zango

We can now finally hear the newest LP from Witch in full and it is as mesmerizing as our wildest dreams. Zango features 10 stirring examples of blazing rock & roll that melt the experiences of a world traveler down to face-melting melodies. “Nshingilile” features harmonious vocals gently placed over frantic guitar strumming and a neck-breaking drum pocket anchoring the whole track. 

Flyte – “Defender”

Single

If you haven’t listened to the music of Flyte before, you’re in for a treat. The London-bred outfit has made a name for itself with arrangements that range from folky acoustic to large pop ballads, their latest single focuses on the first example. “Defender” is the first official single from the band since their stellar 2021 LP and focuses on the incredible songwriting Flyte has at their disposal. The gentle acoustic guitar glides you through the emotional story that unravels in the lyrics. 

Bully – “A Love Profound”

Lucky for You

Coming off of the fantastic new LP from Bully is a song that scoffs at complacency and displays the maturity of the band. The frantic “A Love Profound” features a melody that jumps from spoken word to passionate belting. The distortion of the arrangement breaks down only to be built again, all while the vocals continue to do backflips through a wall of neck-breaking drums and searing guitar strumming. 

Foo Fighters – “The Glass”

But Here We Are

Being lifted off of Foo Fighters’ most emotional and heaviest album in years, “The Glass” sums up the emotional roller coaster of But Here We Are. The anticipated release from the legendary band did not disappoint to any degree and allowed the band and fans to experience the loss of Taylor Hawkins as one. “The Glass”  is a rock ballad for the century, Dave Grohl’s vocals are delivered with teary-eyed gusto as the longing in his voice is elevated by a minimal but still hard-hitting arrangement. 

Beach Fossils – “Feel So High”

Bunny

Beach Fossils has emerged with a collection of songs that are perfect for walks in the hot summer. Bunny comes at the perfect time and “Feels So High” is the exact anthem needed. The beautifully crafted track feels like laying in your bed after a long stint away from home, the aloofness in the lyrics is greeted with a plush instrumental, a signature of Beach Fossils. 

Kid Cudi – “Porsche Topless”

Single

Kid Cudi has been busy over the past few years, with two albums and a Netflix under his belt. Cudi isn’t slowing down just yet as he releases yet another triumphant single. The horn-drenched track features an energetic Cudi weaving his deep vocals through a collection of drum patterns that create kinetic energy. 

Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway – “Next Rodeo” 

City of Gold 

Only one year removed from her critically acclaimed Crooked Tree LP, Molly Tuttle already has a new collection of songs for us to dig our spurs into. City of Gold is set to be released on June 30 via Nonesuch Records and “Next Rodeo” is the slow-burning country ballad that doubles as our next look into the LP. The single is playful yet expertly crafted, with an arrangement that line dances with Tuttle’s sweet vocal delivery. 

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