GAYLE, Gracie Abrams, Cat Burns, And Other New Pop Songs To Get You Through the Week

Looking for some inspiration to get you through the beginning of another work week? We understand, and with some fantastic new pop songs, we’ve got you covered.

“Difficult,” Gracie Abrams

On “Difficult,” Gracie Abrams literally takes deep breaths: most of her lines about finding balance between her vulnerabilities as she enters adulthood are preceded by gasping inhalations, as if she’s gulping away her worries. The result is a performance steeped in fragile humanity, and possibly Abrams’ most moving, complete single to date. – J. Lipshutz

“Snow Angels” by GAYLE

GAYLE’s latest is all about the glorious messiness of youth, and contains the type of detailed songwriting that elevates “Snow Angels” above similar young-and-reckless anthems. Plus, GAYLE, who had one of the year’s biggest breakout hits with “abcdefu,” sounds like she’s enjoying the risks she’s taking. Lipshutz, J.

CodyLee( ) & SIKK-O – “DANCEa!”

CodyLee, a Tokyo-based five-piece made up of Hibiki Takahashi, Reno Ozaki, Rikiki, Kei Nishishima, and Teru Hara, gained international attention in 2021 with the release of “I Love You (),” which showcased their penchant for funky guitar riffs and infectious melodies. With the release of “DANCEa!,” the quintet expands on its upbeat sound, creating a lighter groove that subtly recalls the city pop era and sentimental J-drama soundtracks. – Bowenbank, Starr

“Break Up” by Citizen Queen

Citizen Queen has been laying the groundwork for a possible girl group resurgence for quite some time, but new track “Break Up” sees its members — Kaedi Dalle, Cora Isabel, Nina Nelson, and Kaylah Sharve — solidifying their place in the era’s eventual return. The girls’ a capella roots shine in the harmonies, with Kaedi as its anchor and Cora taking a step back from beatboxing to dazzle with her stunning tone — the sizzling, R&B-infused track focuses on ending a relationship with a disengaged partner, but they aren’t lamenting the loss: like the queens they are, they relish in the newfound time while putting their vocal agility to the test. – S.B.

Get The Latest Updates From The World Of Music, Movies, TV, Culture, And Fashion In Musical States Magazine. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And Linkedin To Receive Instantaneous Updates