Did this week fly by for anyone else? We’ve barely calmed down since last week’s releases and there’s already a new batch of amazing projects to get into. We’re especially amped for the new Ryland James project and we’re sharing all the details below. While you scroll, listen to this playlist (created by Canada’s Drag Race star Tynomi Banks) for some extra endorphins. Happy Friday!
In A Dream (EP) by Troye Sivan
The six-song project includes pop-synth tracks like “Easy” along with tender tunes like “Take Yourself Home” (a UMUSIC team favourite). If you weren’t already missing pre-quarantine nightlife, dance anthems like “STUD” will pretty much guarantee that (don’t say we didn’t warn you). The Australian singer revitalizes (post) teenage angst across a beautiful array of ballads and bops. It’s always a treat to see an artist’s evolution before your eyes, and that’s exactly what we’re getting with In A Dream.
GET YOUR TROYE SIVAN MERCH HERE
Ryland James (EP) by Ryland James
The moment we (and thousands of other fans) have been waiting for has finally arrived. Ryland James, the self-titled EP from our favourite small town Canadian boy is out and it’s already making a splash. The lead single “Water” is an absolute hit and comes just in time for those last minute trips to the lake. After touring with giants like Alessia Cara, the Deseronto-born star is standing in his own light. The EP is a passion project showcasing everything from the singer’s gospel roots to his electric personality.
- Listen to the EP here
- Watch the “Water” music video here
- Follow Ryland on Instagram + Twitter + Tik Tok
“Feel” by FLETCHER
The S(ex) Tapes will be here in less than a month but that’s not stopping FLETCHER from sharing new music in the meantime. Her latest single, “Feel” dropped at midnight. If it wasn’t obvious from the track’s title, we’re encouraging you to have some tissues on deck before streaming this song. FLETCHER’s upcoming album is bound to be full of break-up anthems, and “Feel” fulfills the quintessential heartbreak ballad slot.
“petal pickin” by contradash
You can find contradash floating somewhere between the alt-pop and hip hop scene. You can also find him recording his own music, designing merch, making AR filters and being his own creative director. With that much talent, the sky is the limit and we’ll be paying close attention to upcoming projects from the emerging artist. For now, we’re thoroughly enjoying his newest single “petal pickin'”.
Campfire Chords (Album) by Arkells
Campfire Chords, the latest project from Arkells is available now. The 18 track album features stripped back renditions of some of their favourite and most popular songs as well as their latest single, “Quitting You”. When discussing the rationale behind revisiting their catalogue Arkells shared,
“We’ve never had time to make an “acoustic record” because we were too busy playing shows and focusing on new music. But we also knew that they felt really good to play in a stripped back way. All of our big rocknroll songs start with an acoustic or piano, so heading back to that place isn’t too much of a stretch.”
Arkells via Instagram
everything means nothing (Album) by blackbear
blackbear just dropped his 5th studio album everything means nothing. Following some major life changes like an introduction to fatherhood, public break ups, and newly found love, the alt artist channels it all into 12 candid tracks. The album includes familiar songs like “queen of broken hearts” and “hot girl bummer” and features some great collabs from Trevor Daniel and Lauv.
“What Makes A Woman” by Katy Perry
Between pregnancy, album promo, and sweet interactions with fans we really have to wonder when this woman sleeps. Katy’s been working overtime and we know the pay off will be worth it. We’re all eagerly waiting for her album Smile and are now one step closer to hearing the whole thing. “What Makes A Woman” is the fifth song Perry’s shared ahead of her forthcoming project and it’s dedicated to her unborn daughter (brb, we’re crying over here). The song is equal parts endearing and empowering and you have to listen!
SHOP KATY PERRY MERCH HERE
How are you spending the weekend and what songs will you be listening to? Let us know on Instagram @UMUSIC. See you next Friday!