hot: Chvrches
‘Clearest Blue’
The third single from Chrvches long-awaited second album Every Open Eye, Clearest Blue encapsulates what Chrvches does best. Passionate lyrics, Lauren Mayberry’s otherworldly vocals, and a slickly produced electro accompaniment build to a climax that is at once epic and commands you to dance as violently as possible. ‘Clearest Blue’ will inevitably be a huge, emotional highlight on their upcoming live tour.
NOT: Paloma Faith
‘World In Union’
World In Union, the rousing theme song for the Rugby World Cup has taken on many forms, but none quite like England’s 2015 attempt. Usually an anthem that stirs up excitement, Paloma Faith’s version is more likely to empty the stadium than pump it up. Faith’s excruciating yowling for the high notes fights for dominance with a confused ‘instrumental’ backing track. Avoid the full version attack at all costs.
Long shot: Run the Jewels
‘Paw Due Respect (Blood Diamonds Remix)’
Meow The Jewels, Run The Jewels’ new album, started as a comedy Kickstarter and ended with a modern-day masterpiece. The album is a remix of their 2014 album Run The Jewels 2, but with the added bonus of copious cat noises. ‘Paw Due Respect’ sits along many feline themed songs, but manages to succeed as more than a novelty single. Well controlled cat mewling accompanies the violent rap, culminating in a surreal dark-comedy hit.
FORGOT: London Grammar
‘Wasting My Young Years’
I stumbled across London Grammar in a dusty Spotify playlist reigniting an obsession with the 2013 single ‘Wasting My Young Years’. Hannah Reid’s haunting vocals nail the melancholy atmosphere that combine to create the perfect ode to youth. The song develops into a dramatic meld of voice and instrumental, then is unafraid to pull away to a mournful and melodic end.