The long holiday weekend flew by, but that's how just how these things work... and yet, when the end arrives, it still manages to catch me by surprise. I hope everyone was able to squeeze in some time for family and friends, perhaps even some live music? We're working with a short week and that should make this Weekly Tune-Up even more enjoyable than usual. Let's touch on a few of the tunes that have me buzzing.
The long awaited mixtape from Chance The Rapper was initially released a few week's back via Apple Music as a free download, but had its proper more widespread release this past Friday via Spotify and Google Play. Chance's Coloring Book has a fun title that matches most of its content, a surprisingly spiritual offering with a positive message that's quite different than most of the hip-hop albums that have come out (and due to be released) this year. I chose "Summer Friends" for its summery flow -- and because it's one of the best tracks off the album. I recommend you give Coloring Book a chance.
It's been six years since Wolf Parade has delivered new material, and the wait is finally over. OK, it's only an EP with four songs but they all sound damn good. The Montreal indie rock band went on indefinite hiatus in 2011, so you'd think all that time would've prompted more fruitful creativity (at least a full album), but beggers can't be choosers. Wolf Parade didn't reinvent their sound, just cleaned out the some of the dramatics, and the track included here, "Mr. Startup," has a nostalgic New Wave quality.
If you've been paying attention, you've likely noticed my affection for Yumi Zouma as previous Tune-Ups have featured some of their singles. Now, we have a proper full length record, Yoncalla. Their sound is safely nestled within the synthpop genre but with a more laid-back approach and chill vibe that makes for excellent background music, though it's far from boring. There is warm lofty feel about Yoncalla that evokes French pop group Phoenix, but with more pause. Yoncalla is the perfect album for a lazy summer day.
When you first hear the new Eagulls LP, Ullages, it's likely you'll do a double take and wonder if it's The Cure. OK, maybe that's a little dramatic, but lead singer George Mitchell is definitely channeling Robert Smith and I'm pretty sure he doesn't care how obvious it is. I'm not knocking Ullages, in fact, I think it's solid record and a definite change of pace from the band's self-titled album. Gone are the loud shouts and post-punk anthems, replaced by heavier driving melodies and '80s gothic lyrical content. Ullages is full of gloom, loneliness, moans and towering builds. I'm all in.
1. Chance The Rapper, "Summer Friends" Feat. Jeremih, Francis and the Lights
2. Wild Beasts, "Get My Bang"
3. Fear of Men, "Sane"
4. Red Hot Chili Peppers, "The Getaway"
5. LA WOMEN, "Hurricane Love"
6. Wolf Parade, "Mr. Startup"
7. Islands, "Outspoken Dirtbiker"
8. Yumi Zouma, "Text From Sweden"
9. The Kills, "Siberian Nights"
10. Kristin Kontrol, "Smoke Rings"
11. Fyfe, "Colour"
12. Eagulls, "Euphoria"
13. Leif Erikson, "Never Get You Out of My Mind"
14. Whitney, "No Matter Where We Go"
15. Gold Panda, "In My Car"
