The Drop – RL Grime, N.E.R.D, & Party Favor

The Drop is us cutting through the massive jungle of new music that’s been released over the last seven days.  We sharpen our proverbial machetes and cut through the shit to get you to the content that you need to be listening to.

This is The Drop. 

-Control Forever

RL Grime & Daya – “I Wanna Know”

My favorite song on the drop this week comes from one of my favorite DJs, RL Grime. He shows us his pop side with the help of Daya who is becoming well-known to accompany many DJs on their tracks. The song, “I Wanna Know,” is empowering with its gigantic chorus and a rewarding drop that reminds us of the RL Grime we know and love. This is the first excerpt off of Grime’s upcoming album due for release this year (date not yet confirmed).

Troye Sivan – “Strawberries & Cigarettes”

Troye Sivan can do no wrong for me; his tenderness in lyrics matches so cohesively with his delivery on every song he releases. “Strawberries and Cigarettes” is another featured song on the Love, Simon soundtrack, and it takes us through the motions of a relationship that has ended. It is a slow jam ’80s pop love story that Sivan tells in the most effortless way.

Party Favor & Baauer – “MDR”

This one is for the drum and bass heads. If you want some in your face drops and a nasty collection of twists and turns through the bass-ridden universe, then this track from Party Favor and Baauer has it all. Just when you think the song is reaching its final innuendo, it takes another turn for the deep. “MDR” is a must listen for any hype needs, and for sure a weekend starter.

Snakehips & St. Rulez – “Cruzin'”

Smooth dance music that showcases R&B and hip-hop remedies is the Snakehips specialty. Their newest release, “Cruzin,” is exactly that; a well-blended vibe made for an afternoon drive with no destination.

Whethan & Broods – “Be Like You”

This new track, “Be Like You,” from Whethan and Broods is a haunting and gritty release that I was not expecting. Whethan is turning into such a versatile artist with every release, and this track is another testament to that. Broods delivers a smokey vocal over Whethan’s heavy synthed beat, making this track one of the best new releases this week.

N.E.R.D, Rihanna, & Drake – “Lemon” (Remix)

I feel like this drop would not be complete without the remix of one of my favorite songs with the addition of one of my favorite rappers. Drake opens the N.E.R.D track with a new flow bringing the song to an even higher level.

The Chainsmokers – “Everybody Hates Me” 

The DJ Duo has been rapidly releasing music in 2018, and it is a very different side to these guys. The lyrics and concept remind me of the early 2000s “Scene” genre where emotional and personal words were matched with the alternative tones of music. The Chainsmokers are taking that similar notion, but pairing it next to a massive orchestral and synth filled drop on “Everybody Hates Me.” This is a lane of The Chainsmokers that becomes increasingly more captivating with every listen.

Anna Lunoe – “Blaze of Glory”

If you haven’t heard of Anna Lunoe yet, this is the perfect intro to her vibe. The wavy and energetic track has Lunoe as the frontman vocalist, and she is bringing all of the heat. A pop heavy beat with the flare that Anna Lunoe brings to all of her music, make this latest release a definite one to keep on repeat.

Kygo & Miguel – “Remind Me to Forget”

Anything Miguel touches turns into something beautiful and heartfelt. The post-breakup anthem makes the end of a relationship seem a lot less dark with the uplifting instrumentals from Kygo. It’s one of those songs that could have you dancing with tears in your eyes, while Miguel sings you through the struggle and Kygo gives you the light at the end of the tunnel.

George Ezra & First Aid Kit – “Saviour”

Another new release from indie singer-songwriter, George Ezra, has rounded out the string of singles before his album, Staying at Tamara’s, comes out later this week. “Saviour” features First Aid Kit on the vocals, giving it the extra folk backing that I already love in Ezra’s music.

NOTD & Bea Miller – “I Wanna Know”

NOTD is taking electropop to newer heights on their latest release, “I Wanna Know.” Bea Miller takes over on vocals with her cool tones and pop excellence, while the booming beat makes the song explosive and infectious. A song to be listening to non-stop.

Kaskade & Charlotte Lawrence – “Cold as Stone”

A perfect thrilling storm comes with Charlotte Lawrence’s vocals on the emotionally heightened track, “Cold as Stone.” A new wind of music from Kaskade that is unlike anything he has previously put out in a while. He takes us on the journey of future bass in the eyes of Kaskade, and the heartbreak of falling out of love.

The Decemberists – “I’ll Be Your Girl”

I am so happy to have music again from the Decemberists, and their newest album is just what I needed. “I’ll Be Girl” is the album titled track, and also my favorite song from the band. A sweet and charming track that finishes up the album with a wink and a kiss. A coastal guitar riff and easy acoustics make this song an easy listen that reminds me of why this band is so great.

Valentino Khan – “Lick It”

Bass house takes a dirty twist, and Valentino Khan didn’t just think of a clever name to go along with it. The latest track, “Lick It,” from Khan has all the likes to be the song played at every party this summer. The infectious sounds and groovy beats make it another banger from the DJ that will have people up and moving on the dance floor.

-Morgan B.