July Music Releases — No Better Time for Dance, Nostalgia and Loneliness

July has been calmer compared to the previous months when it comes to music releases. Nonetheless, there were still a few albums and singles that stood out, so let’s go through them, shall we?

SINGLES

“Lucky”, Halsey

After Halsey’s first single off her new record talking about her struggle with chronic illness and feeling deserving of love, “Lucky” dives further into the famous aspect. Halsey promoted the second single for weeks before release, with the catchy chorus getting in everyone’s head. However, the rest of the lyrics address the speculations they have been put through as they were fighting chronic illness and heartache. It is a reminder that we don’t know what people go through, therefore it’s better not to make assumptions. Simply because they’re in the public eye does not mean that they don’t have a right to privacy and respect. 

“PASSENGER PRINCESS”, Nessa Barrett

Nessa Barrett has been releasing music constantly throughout the past years, and each one explores the intensity of emotions and the undying loyalty that comes with the love she has for someone. The production is a masterclass in summer anthems, with the song being made for late night summer drives with the windows down. Although short, the single leaves an impression that makes you want to replay it. 

“HARD TO LOVE”, Lilyisthatyou

Lilyisthatyou has established herself as a name in dance pop, with each new song bringing more pop perfection rhythms and truthful lyrics. “HARD TO LOVE” explores the self-questioning that comes with getting used for your body, but not having someone pursue a relationship. It is a feeling a lot of people can relate to, and while the production makes you dance, taking a deeper look into the lyrics makes the song hit harder. 

“Take It Slow”, Isaac Dunbar

Isaac Dunbar has been in the music industry since he was a teenager, and he keeps on evolving in his journey as an artist. “Take It Slow” talks about the expectation of moving fast in a new relationship, where Isaac asks the question, “Can we take it slow?”. It’s definitive of how relationships tend to go nowadays, especially in the queer community. 

ALBUMS

“Vertigo”, Griff

After two Vertigo EP’s, the remaining songs were added to make up a gorgeous album where each song has substance. Although I’ve listened to the EP’s on repeat, having the full album in order tells a story that brings me a lot of emotion. We start the album in this complex place of dizzying state of mind, nostalgia and sadness as Griff comes to terms with the end of relationships. There is an introspective look throughout the album, while taking us on journey towards healing. By the end, there isn’t a solution to the issues that were brought forth. What we get is precious advice that rounds up the storytelling — such as take life slow, and be kinder to your own person. 

“Charm”, Clairo

What struck me the most when listening to “Charm” was the musical production. It is unlike any album I’ve listened to before. While I recognise Clairo’s style with the alternative indie production, there are influences of jazz as well. It is very instrumental, with Clairo’s vocals coming in at the right time like honey. In terms of the narrative, we start the album with loneliness, and craving someone’s touch. “Slow Dance” is representative of what follows, which is falling in love slowly, while knowing it might not last. The loneliness persists throughout the album. The hesitant love comes to a point of breaking up, after which we see Clairo reflect on her feelings towards this person with nostalgia. It is a well-rounded record with a calming pace. 

“I Love You So F***ing Much”, Glass Animals 

Glass Animals’ album theme is based in space, with dream-like music production. The singles got me excited for the release, and Glass Animals did not disappoint. They followed through with the theme on the production and the lyrics. With “whatthehellishappening?”, they explain this indescribable feeling of extreme happiness, only to be cut off like their communication towards reality broke down as they dive into nostalgia. There’s a lot of love and heartbreak being explored on this record, considering scenarios of a broken relationship where they could’ve been happy. With the unique lyrics and the memorable music production, Glass Animals’ new album deserves the praise. 

“Big Ideas”, Remi Wolf 

Remi Wolf’s album takes inspiration from a lot of genres, but somehow makes it sound cohesive. Like the music production, the songs cover an array of subjects, from long distance relationships to queerness to changing emotions. The title of the album could not be more fitting, as “Big Ideas” is how I’d describe the project overall. Remi Wolf is a name to be keep your eyes on, her new music proving her talent and potential. 

If you missed out on the June releases, you can find all the music from that month here: