New Music Friday, Playlists

New Music You May Have Missed from April 2021

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Best New Music from April 2021
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.

April was stacked with five New Music Fridays, running straight through to the very last day of the month. No surprise, then, that this month’s playlist clocks in at over seven hours, featuring the hottest new releases from Demi Lovato, Ariana Grande (who had a busy month releasing collabs with both Demi and The Weeknd), Majid Jordan and two incredible Olivias — Olivia Rodrigo and Olivia O’Brien.

What are you waiting for?! Grab your headphones or speakers, press play and dive into my selection of tracks you’re sure to love.

* deja vu by Olivia Rodrigo *

Hot off the heels of her mega successful debut solo single “driver’s license,” young songstress Olivia Rodrigo is continuing her reign as one of the most promising new artists of the year with “deja vu.” The infectious pop song is filled with clever shade to a boring ex who couldn’t be bothered to change up his game with his new girl. Repeating date nights and showing her the same shows? Come on, dude! Get 👏 it 👏 together!

While live shows are still a thing of the past (for now), you won’t want to miss Olivia’s highly anticipated BRIT Awards performance May 11, just days ahead of her album’s May 21 release date.

* That’s When (feat. Keith Urban) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault) by Taylor Swift *

Your inner country heart is about to be absolutely thriving! Taylor Swift and Keith Urban’s voices sound enchanting together on this newly released ‘From The Vault’ track featured on Tay’s re-recorded ‘Fearless’ album. It feels like a crime that this song has been under wraps since the original album release in 2008! Better late than never, right?!

* So I Lie by Miguel *

Tell a friend (“or two,” he suggests): R&B mastermind Miguel is back. After re-releasing a trio of three-track EPs tied to his signature Art Dealer Chic moniker, the April release of ‘Art Dealer Chic 4’ gave fans some hints of new material, including standout single “So I Lie.” On the track, which is described as “very much a new beginning” for the singer, Miguel gets introspective and raw singing about “the walls [we] build out of fear of being torn down” and ultimately learning how to rise above, put on a brave face and, eventually, breathe again.

Looking for more Miguel? In an interview with Genius, the star shared he still has hard drives (plural!) filled with unreleased music. I’m certainly looking forward to hearing every last track he’s hiding in the vault! ☺

* Sociopath by Olivia O’Brien *

Singer-songwriter Olivia O’Brien debuted her newest release in a unique way, originally sharing an extended snippet of the song in February on TikTok as part of a quest to have fans select their favourite of two potential singles — the angsty “Sociopath” and anthemic “Bitch Back” — through social media interaction. In the viral battle of the songs, “Sociopath” came out as the winner and was released as a single earlier this month. Although the song gives me Halloween vibes 👻, I know I’ll have it on rotation all year long!

Both “Sociopath” and “Bitch Back” are set to be released on Olivia’s forthcoming sophomore album ‘Episodes,’ which will be released in two parts starting in May.

* Waves of Blue by Majid Jordan *

Whatever you’re listening to right now, pause it! “Waves of Blue,” the latest single from Majid Jordan, is a beauty of a song that sounds equally new and nostalgic and is giving fans renewed hope for an EP or album by the summer. In a statement, the Canadian OVO Sound duo shared, “‘Waves of Blue’ is like staring at the ocean. You’re not in the water, but you’re still getting carried away by its currents.” The track’s title embodies the song’s overall vibe of wanting to love someone and be lost in that love, which is also what you’re guaranteed to feel about this song after just one listen. (I genuinely listened to this song four times in a row writing this paragraph!)

* Save Your Tears (with Ariana Grande) (Remix) by The Weeknd *

You read right: Save your tears because The Weeknd and Ariana Grande, friends and star collaborators, have reunited for the official remix of this ‘After Hours’ fan favourite. This is the pair’s third collab following the 2014 release of “Love Me Harder” and 2020’s ‘positions’ hit “off the table,” and you know what they say—third time’s definitely the charm. Queue up this hit as your go-to post-pandemic karaoke song and join me in manifesting a full-length joint album!

* Dirty Laundry by Parson James and JoJo *

Magic always happens when you work with your best friend. For confirmation, look no further than “Dirty Laundry,” the new instantly repeat-worthy single from singer-songwriter BFFs Parson James and JoJo. “THIS SONG LIVES RENT FREE IN MY BRAIN,” JoJo tweeted — and I’m 100% on board. I only wish it was longer!

https://www.instagram.com/p/COTWeTMjJ3A/

Album of the Month: Phoenix by Charlotte Cardin

“I had to burn everything that I was / Just to come back like a phoenix,” sings Montreal-based artist Charlotte Cardin on the opening track of her debut album. Well worth the wait, ‘Phoenix’ is a beautiful 45-minute journey through the singer-songwriter’s five-year artistic journey in bringing the album to life. Touching on themes like love, lust, heartbreak and self discovery, Charlotte delivers it all: sassy bops like “Passive Aggressive,” groovy pop tunes like “Meaningless” and “Daddy,” plus signature ballads including the standout track “Anyone Who Loves Me,” which is just begging to be performed live.

Luckily, you can solidify your love for the album—and satisfy your live event craving—with The Phoenix Experience, Charlotte’s intricate virtual show which is available to watch on demand via Moment House until May 3 at 11AM EDT.

New Artist of the Month: NEW CITY

If you think you know NEW CITY, think again. It’s time to get reacquainted with the Canadian indie pop trio, back this month after a two-year hiatus with a fresh sound and a fresh face courtesy of new band member Chase Ellestad. “Losing My Mind” is as hypnotizing and catchy as the lyric video above suggests. Get ready to put this song at the top of your spring/summer playlist, and look out for much more music from the guys later this year!

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New Music Friday, Playlists

New Music You May Have Missed from March 2021

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Best New Music from March 2021 blog post
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.

Step aside, sports fans: Us music aficionados have our own version of March Madness (and it’s arguably way more entertaining!). Thanks to the arrival of spring, this is the time of year when our favourite artists’ new releases become the soundtrack to warmer temperatures and beaming sunshine. I couldn’t ask for anything better!

Check out more than five (!) hours of the best new music you may have missed this March via the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to hear a selection of tracks you’ll soon have on repeat. There are no excuses to have a boring playlist, especially at the start of a new season.

* Leave The Door Open by Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak as Silk Sonic *

What do you get when you bring together the impeccable vocal talents and smooth groove of R&B superstars Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak? Meet the new super-duo Silk Sonic. Bruno and Anderson kicked off March with “Leave the Door Open,” a repeat-worthy, retro-tinged jam and the first taste of their upcoming ‘An Evening with Silk Sonic’ album. Make no mistake — you need to “Leave the Door Open” on your playlist for this hit!

A bonus video for your viewing pleasure: Bruno and Anderson’s GRAMMYs performance — their only performance of “Leave the Door Open” to date — was beyond dreamy. Watch and you’ll understand why!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMdCZ7sHK8f/

* Sacrifice by Bebe Rexha *

How far would you go for love? On her new single “Sacrifice,” Bebe Rexha makes it clear she’s looking for an all-in or nothing type of romance. “Say goodbye to every other girl in the night behind you / Now you’re mine / Tell me what you’re willin’ to sacrifice,” she sings. It’s an undeniable dance-pop bop and I can’t wait to hear what’s next in this new Bebe era.

* Cowboys by Charlotte Lawrence *

If you’re a follower of this blog, you’ve seen me shout out Californian singer-songwriter Charlotte Lawrence countless times. She put out her first single in 2017, but it was 2018’s viral hits “Just The Same” and “Stole Your Car” that gave her global momentum. Charlotte continues to carve her own lane with her new statement-making sophomore EP, ‘Charlotte.’ My personal favourite track, “Cowboys,” describes the feeling of being lost and wondering where you stand with someone — and if you want to stand with them at all. Hear these songs and more performed live on Charlotte’s Moment House livestream shows April 15 and 16.

* Peaches by Justin Bieber feat. Daniel Caesar and Giveon *

Every spring, there’s at least one early contender for the year’s song of the summer. “Peaches,” the latest single off Justin Bieber’s new album ‘Justice,’ is quickly checking all the boxes, featuring an irresistibly catchy chorus and guest verses from trending R&B artists Daniel Caesar (a fellow Canadian 🇨🇦) and Giveon. Another surefire sign of success? The #PeachesMakeupChallenge is quickly blowing up on TikTok and Instagram, courtesy of its creator Hailey Bieber.

* You All Over Me (From the Vault) by Taylor Swift feat. Maren Morris *

As the April 9 release of ‘Fearless (Taylor’s Version)’ quickly approaches, Taylor Swift has revisited “the vault” of her sophomore album to share a never-before-heard song. “You All Over Me,” a track that sounds equal parts new and nostalgic and is especially reminiscent of the fan-favourite ‘1989’ song “Clean,” was reimagined with background vocals from Tay’s friend and country chart-topper Maren Morris. Look forward to five more unreleased songs from the vault on the final 26-track album!

* Dancing with the Devil by Demi Lovato *

Demi Lovato has never been one to shy away from vulnerability and her new single “Dancing with the Devil” is no exception. The title track for Demi’s new YouTube Originals documentary, and the second track off her forthcoming album ‘Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over,’ chronicles the realities of a rollercoaster relapse — lying to yourself about your limits, giving in when you shouldn’t, and fighting for your life knowing this shouldn’t be the end. It’s gut-wrenching to hear, but Demi has said it was cathartic putting the experience into words. “I wrote it in November 2018 and I’ve just been waiting for the world to hear it,” she told Zane Lowe on his Apple Music show. Look out for the full album dropping April 2!

Album of the Month: Spaceman by Nick Jonas

Nick Jonas’ third solo album is a testament to both connection and isolation; songs like “Heights” and “If I Fall” chronicle the beautiful moments of starting a relationship and committing to something special, while “Spaceman” and “Don’t Give Up On Us” speak to lockdown and long-distance life (Nick’s wife Priyanka Chopra-Jonas has been working on various film projects overseas). The creative and clever song transitions are reason enough to listen to ‘Spaceman’ from start to finish, but I also had the chance to ask Nick about how this album can be best enjoyed during a recent Twitter Spaces interview. In short, grab a drink, get your headphones and “go on the journey.”

Must-listen songs: “Don’t Give Up On Us” (the most catchy opening track you’ve heard from a Jonas), “This Is Heaven” (a fan favourite that Nick debuted while doing double-duty as host and guest performer on SNL), “Nervous” (a solid closer about feeling forever giddy around your favourite person)

New Artist of the Month: PJ Harding

Critically-acclaimed Australian songwriter and producer PJ Harding can proudly call Noah Cyrus one of his biggest fans and, as of this year, a trusted creative partner. After meeting at a writing camp in Bali in 2018, the pair joined forces to write music for Noah’s 2020 EP ‘The End of Everything’ — but there was something even more special to be explored. PJ and Noah’s latest release, “You Belong to Somebody Else,” takes us one step (or song) closer to their forthcoming collaborative EP, ‘People Don’t Change.’

“The first day we started together … Noah said to me that day that we should start a band. I thought she was kidding, but two years and many songs later we’ve actually done just that!” PJ shared on Instagram.

“He’s the most talented dude I’ve ever partnered with,” Noah recently said of PJ following the release of their first joint single, “Dear August.” “I genuinely admire him as a writer, singer, musician, and artist. Writing songs before, I honestly felt a little lost. It felt special to go back to my roots and make something with guitar and piano like what my dad made me listen to as a kid.”

Though there is no release date set for the EP, PJ has shared there are at least four more songs to come. I’ll be looking out for them to share on future playlists!

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New Music Friday, Playlists

New Music You May Have Missed from February 2021

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Best New Music from January 2021 blog post
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.

February is the month of love… and there’s no denying that I’m in love with the fab new singles recently released by the likes of Jessie Ware, Martin Garrix and Tove Lo, Dua Lipa and Nick Jonas. Check out more than four hours of the best new music you might have missed on the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to hear a selection of my most played faves.

* Remember Where You Are (Single Edit) by Jessie Ware *

Why release a music video when you can release a short film for your new single? The closing track off her career-changing album ‘What’s Your Pleasure?,’ Jessie Ware’s “Remember Where You Are” is a gorgeous tribute to finding comfort in the little things and hanging on to hope despite living in some of the most hopeless times. It’s a warm hug in the form of a song.

* Pressure by Martin Garrix feat. Tove Lo *

If clubs were open, this edgy new Martin Garrix x Tove Lo collaboration would be an absolute smash. You should know it by now, but wear your mask(s), wash your hands and social distance… PLEASE!!!

* Happy Hour by Felix Cartal feat. Kiiara *

Vancouver-born DJ/producer Felix Cartal recruited longtime fan and friend Kiiara for his latest star collab, a “melodramatic emo anthem” (Kiiara’s words!) about feeling a little (or a lot) out of control and treating every hour just like it’s happy hour. Honestly, we can toast to that—it’s been a hard year, but just know that we’ll all get through this. Think of the many actual Happy Hours we’ll soon be able to enjoy!

https://twitter.com/felixcartal/status/1365087200937869313

* We’re Good by Dua Lipa *

The newest addition to your ~thank u, next~ playlist, Dua Lipa’s latest single is full of clever references (“We not meant to be like sleeping and cocaine,” for one) all making it clear that the relationship is over, so it’s time to end things amicably. If not? Boy, bye!

* Caution by KAYTRANADA *

Haitian-Canadian DJ/producer KAYTRANADA surprise released an upbeat new single (“just a beat,” he humbly writes), and it’s our first sampling of fresh, original music since the star’s mega-successful 2019 sophomore LP ‘BUBBA.’ KAYTRANADA is heading into the month of March at an all-time career high—he’s up for Best New Artist at the GRAMMY Awards, airing Mar. 14, and I’m rooting for a local victory!

* Spaceman by Nick Jonas *

Everything we’ve experienced in the past year since the start of the pandemic has certainly felt otherworldly. Nick Jonas captures that sensation perfectly in his new solo single, “Spaceman,” the title track off his upcoming album due out Mar. 12. You can’t help but agree when Nick sings, “Mask off minute I get home / All safe now that I’m alone / Almost like a spaceman.” I definitely never thought of our reality that way! 👨‍🚀

P.S. If you’re a fellow Jonas Brothers superfan, don’t fret — the guys have reassured us they “all have a ton of exciting stuff coming (together and apart 😉).” Well, boys, don’t hold back… tell us everything!

* Last Love by Sinéad Harnett *

I shouted out Sinéad Harnett as an Artist to Watch in 2021 back in January around the time she was finishing work on her eagerly-awaited sophomore album. I’m happy to report back that we officially have a date for when we can expect so many new jams! ‘Ready is Always Too Late’ is set to drop May 21, and we have our first taste of the new record now thanks to lead single “Last Love.” In her own words, “Last Love” is about the “1 step forward, 2 steps back” emotional rollercoaster of feeling single and liberated yet still being hung up on the memory of your ex. We’ve all been there (even if you didn’t actually date them!).

ICYMI: Check out four other artists to watch in 2021!

Album of the Month: Life Support by Madison Beer

Madison Beer’s debut album has been years in the making. Her first and only EP, ‘As She Pleases,’ dropped in 2018, following her debut single in 2013. But ‘Life Support,’ the end result of that extended tease, is a meticulously well-crafted and generous 17-track pop album showcasing the L.A-based artist’s confidence in her sound and story. Highlights include “Effortlessly,” which highlights Madison’s breathy, and well, effortless, vocals, as well as hit single “BOYSHIT.”

New Artist of the Month: Sam Fischer

Days before his new collaboration with Demi Lovato was announced, Australian artist Sam Fischer was still relatively unknown to the mainstream masses. His 2019 single “This City” is what initially catapulted him to TikTok fame (plus remixes with Nico Santos, Anne-Marie and Kane Brown, among others), and landed the singer, who says at the time he felt “defeated” by L.A., a sweet contract with RCA Records. Defeated no more!

Sam and Demi have since joined forces to take Sam’s sound and their new single “What Other People Say” to the next level, most recently appearing together on The Ellen Show. The beautifully-written song describes the downfalls of losing yourself due to societal pressures and the desire to “fit in” and “be liked.” Sam puts it beautifully in this Genius annotation:

if I could talk to kid Sam Fischer i’d tell him to keep being his beautiful, flamboyant, talented, confident self and not listen when he was shamed and bullied for just being himself. I felt like it was my fault that I was the way I was, like the way I was living wasn’t right and I was a really angry and sad kid behind closed doors. i’m in therapy now and i’m so grateful for that because i’m able to unravel so much of the pain and embarrassment I felt for just being myself. working on my happiness and loving myself every day now!

Sam is evidently here to stay and I can’t wait to hear what’s next!

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Playlists

Last Minute Valentine’s Day Playlist

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iPhone screen shows Spotify playlist of Valentine's Day songs

Here’s a simple Valentine’s Day checklist:

Locked in your date(s) (works for both Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day!)? Check! ✔

Picked out an outfit? Check! ✔

Updated your playlist? Uh-oh… ✖

If a soundtrack to your Valentine’s Day plans is all that’s missing, I have you covered! Check out my 31-track Last Minute Valentine’s Day Playlist on Spotify.

Below, press play on five new love songs featured on the playlist that are worth swooning over!

* Love Story (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift *

While Taylor Swift’s fans enjoyed two new albums, folklore and evermore, and a Disney+ special in 2020, they were simultaneously analyzing every release, social media post and interview for hints of when her biggest undertaking to date would drop. As of this month, we finally have the first single tied to Taylor Swift’s pledge to re-record all of her old music, “Love Story” (Taylor’s Version), and it’s just as magical as the 2008 original. In fact, in this new context, the song plays as a love letter to her fans—and a testament to the artist she has grown into today. There’s much more to come soon: Taylor’s re-recording of her sophomore album Fearless is set to drop April 9.

* Carried Away by Surf Mesa feat. Madison Beer *

Have you ever found yourself getting ‘carried away’ falling head over heels for someone? You’re not alone. Tropical dance producer Surf Mesa’s latest TikTok-ready smash, featuring Madison Beer, perfectly captures that heart-fluttering feeling of new love and finding someone who just gets you.

* 34+35 Remix by Ariana Grande feat. Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion *

Bringing together three of music’s “it” girls, this jam of a track is 100% NSFW and cuts no corners in making it’s message clear. V-Day dates, listen up (and do the math)!

* Chasing After You by Ryan Hurd with Maren Morris *

Country’s newest power couple, Ryan Hurd and Maren Morris, have released their first official duet—a vulnerable ballad chronicling a relationship that is full of push and pull but entirely worth the chase. It’s the unofficial official “situationship” song.

* Feelings and How to Destroy Them by iamnotshane *

Take it from iamnotshane: “No one can hurt you if you reject them first.” Consider this your anti-Valentine’s Day anthem. We all need one sometimes!

Shout out the love songs (and anti-love songs) that have captured your heart in the comments below — or tweet me @angelamcleanx!

Don’t forget I post the hottest new song and album releases on my Instagram Story every Friday night at 12AM EST! See you there next week for more music I’m sure you’ll love. 👋

Happy Valentine’s Day xx

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New Music Friday, Playlists

New Music You May Have Missed from January 2021

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Best New Music You May Have Missed from January 2021 blog cover
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.

We’re starting off the new year right with new releases from the likes of Justin Bieber, ZAYN, Ariana Grande, Vance Joy and JoJo. Check out more than four hours of the best new music you may have missed from January in the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to listen to a few highlights.

* Anyone by Justin Bieber *

Justin Bieber gave his fans a sweet holiday treat dropping a new single, “Anyone,” on Jan. 1. What a way to ring in the New Year!

Wondering what’s ahead for JB in 2021? This is Justin’s fourth song release since last year’s uber-successful ‘Changes’ album and it’s already confirmed these new tracks are part of the path to JB6. ‘Changes’ was released on Valentine’s Day 2020 and, looking at the calendar, it definitely seems like we may need to keep our eyes peeled to Justin’s socials throughout February. 👀

* Vibez by ZAYN *

ZAYN released his long-awaited new album ‘Nobody Is Listening’ this month and its lead single “Vibez” is 100% the vibe. If you’re just checking out the album, the album’s two collaborations, “When Love’s Around” featuring Syd and “Windowsill” featuring Devlin, are real standouts. That said, it’s truly an album to be enjoyed and experienced from start to finish, so go listen and thank me later. 😊

* Talk You Down by Charlotte Lawrence *

If there’s anything more impressive than Charlotte Lawrence’s never-ending string of infectious singles (“Slow Motion” was everything), it’s her beautifully choreographed music videos — and her latest for “Talk You Down” was filmed after just one rehearsal.

Like this song? You won’t have to wait much longer for more. ‘Charlotte’ the EP is set for release March 5.

* Lento (Brabo Remix) by Lauren Jauregui feat. Pabllo Vittar *

If you thought you loved former Fifth Harmony member Lauren Jauregui’s Latin bop “Lento,” wait until you hear this new remix with Brazilian star Pabllo Vittar. It’s still a smoking hot dance moment but with new flavour for the new year. Yes, yes, yes. 🔥

* New Love by Silk City feat. Ellie Goulding *

Megastar producers Diplo and Mark Ronson have *finally* reunited to reignite the flame on their joint project Silk City and I guarantee you will have new love for the new track. As the follow-up single to 2018’s smash hit “Electricity” with Dua Lipa, “New Love” featuring Ellie Goulding is the must-have song on your playlist if you love fun, shimmery pop tunes, a catchy chorus, and a beat that makes you want to dance around your kitchen like no one’s watching (guilty!).

Speaking of comebacks, I’m super excited to see what other musicians will make a big return to the charts in 2021. Fingers crossed Adele and Lorde are on that list. 😉

* Don’t Judge Me by FKA twigs, Headie One and Fred again.. *

FKA twigs’ new single is a beautiful song with a powerful reflection on our very politically-charged 2020. British rapper Headie One has several particularly impactful lines in his verse: “There’s been a million speeches / No justice, no peace, ’cause we in pieces / Officer, am I allowed to breathe here?” (The latter is unfortunately still too common a question.)

* Could This Be Love by Elliphant *

On her new single “Could This Be Love,” Swedish alt-pop singer Elliphant questions a dying love, navigating an internal debate on whether tension, sadness and hours of watching “every YouTube clip I find on cute puppies” are normal in a real romance. While I don’t have the answer for Elliphant, there’s certainly no questioning my love for this song. (See what I did there?)

Album of the Month: #7DJ (7 Días En Jamaica) by Maluma

When it’s cold and dark outside, I love listening to upbeat, tropical music to bring back memories of summer and warmth. Colombian artist Maluma must agree because his new album (and first release of 2021) is inspired by a week-long trip to Jamaica pre-pandemic. This is the perfect easy, cohesive listen to satisfy your dancehall/reggaeton-pop craving!

New Artist of the Month: Arlo Parks

British retro-soul artist Arlo Parks built up a following in 2020 thanks to incredible singles like “Eugene” and “Tangerine,” a collaboration with Glass Animals. But it was ultimately Arlo’s gentle yet intriguing voice combined with introspective, diaristic lyrics that earned her critical acclaim and several “one to watch” honours.

Arlo’s newly-released debut album ‘Collapsed In Sunbeams’ supersedes the hype, presenting an artist who, at age 20, is just starting to face the rollercoaster of life but remains confident in herself, her sound and her intentions. It’s a beautiful thing to hear and a light in these dark times. I’m already looking forward to more!

ICYMI: Check out five other artists to watch in 2021!
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