New Music Treats: Songs for the Beginning of Spring

April 11, 2023
CASTEL

Hey, y’all, though I took a week off, the bops did not stop coming! Debuts, returns, singles, and more as we jump into the spring season and the submissions for the song of the summer begin!

In the Rap Realm:

CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST: THE ESTATE SALE x Tyler, The Creator (3/31)

As a new era inches forward, Tyler does something he never had before and releases the throwaways from his Grammy-winning album. Packaged as Call Me If You Get Lost: The Estate Sale, the ever-methodical artist cleans house with stunning tracks and visuals. We have to wonder why these were throwaways and ask is it time Tyler is discussed amongst the Legends in his rap bracket.

Key Track: "SORRY NOT SORRY," an apologetic ode to his shortcomings, but also a boastful warning that he low-key does not give a fuck.

Estate Sale on Spotify

I’M REALLY LIKE THAT x DJ Drama (3/31)

DJ Drama is back in his album bag after reigniting the bug with Tyler The Creator. With a star-studded cast and minimal background interaction by Drama, just how I like some of these producer / DJ artists.

Key Track: "FMFU", which brings together kingpins Wayne and Gucci Mane.

I'm Really Like That on Spotify

SREMM 4 LIFE x Rae Sremmurd (4/7)

On their fourth installment of Sremm Life, Rae Sremmurd is having as much fun as possible.

Key Track: "Flaunt It/Cheap", the Mike Will Made double track that genuinely showcases the dual talents of the duo.

Sremm 4 Life on Spotify

“Mean B*tch” x Ken The Man (3/31)

Nothing I love more than a braggadocios chick on a hard beat, and Ken is ferociously letting us know what it is and what it definitely isn’t.

“4Eva” x Kaytranada x Amine (Katramine) (4/7)

The first fire installment from their joint project Katramine featuring Pharrell makes a strong case for the first song of the summer. The project slated to release in May will definitely take over the season.

“WTF” x YoungBoy Never Broke Again x Nicki Minaj (4/7)

The two team up again on a mild diddy, calling out the real from the fake. Honestly, you know we came here for the Nicki feature! “All them internet games turns boys to memes.” I giggled.

“Search & Rescue” Drake (4/7)

Back in his messy bag and with a Kim Kardashian clip discussing her divorce, rap’s favorite butch queen is back with another joint for ya girls.

“Lizzo Shemix” CupcakKe x Layton Greens x Moone Walker

Showing mad love to our plus-size beauties and Lizzo’s infectious dancing, this team takes us to the late-night vibe in the club.

Boppin with the Pop and R&B Queens:

IN PIECES x Chlöe (3/31)

On her debut project, Chlöe Bailey proves even more that she is a numerous threat even on her own! She sings, writes, mixes, and produces on the project, establishing and solidifying her accent into pop stardom.

Key Tracks: Heart On My Sleeve is an interlude that furthers my obsession with Chlöe producing.

In Pieces on Spotify

PORTALS X Melanie Martinez (3/31)

Evolving from her childhood themes and aesthetics, Melanie takes us into the magical universe of Portals with songs about existentialism, growth, and finding oneself while getting lost.

Key Track: “Faerie Soiree,” a trippy bop that captivates with its beat and allows you to run into fantasy with the subject theme.

Portals on Spotify

“FKA Mess” x Abra (3/31)

Abra returns with house and synth-pop tracks showcasing her growth and personal style.

“Calm & Patient” x Jhene Aiko (3/31)

Remaining firmly in her lane, Jhene preaches what has worked out for her in love and continuously thanks the blessings her life has received.

Dancin in the Alternative:

“Lick It” Proper Villains x N2N x Valerie Valentine (4/7)

Proper Villains take us to the dance floor with this techno-house banger.

Lick It on Spotify

“Can’t Tame Her - DJ Small 732 Jersey Club Remix” Zara Larsson x DJ Smallz 732 (4/7)

A Jersey club mix will always end up on the playlist, especially mixed with the pop princess Zara.

“Never Felt So Alone” x Labrinth 4(7)

Labrinth has had a real hold on this dream dance-pop genre, but teaming up with Billie Eilish and Finneas makes so much sense in this ethereal work.

“Whenever I Want” x Mura Masa (4/7)

Mura puts their foot in this dance track with a really freeing message, “I am allowed to f*ck up whenever I want.”

“One Touch” x Bambii (4/7)

Rounding out our new music for the week is Bambii, back on the scene after an epic Hör Berlin set with this siren-synth-filled dancehall sampled track.