Fresh from the playlist:
“In Ruins” by Fol Chen–This L.A. band is relatively new on the scene, but this song shows that they’re already masters of the pop hook. “In Ruins” is pop with a lot of drama, but it’s not overwrought or pretentious. The female lead doesn’t let her jaded view of love dim her hopes that someone will just take her dancing. Which brings us to our next song…
“Dancing on My Own” by Robyn–For my money, Swedish artist Robyn is one of the best electropop artists of the past decade. Her music is the most delicious ear candy, but it possesses a hint of tartness that separates her stuff from forgettable Top 40 pap. “Dancing on My Own” is a continuation of the crying-on-the-dancefloor vibe that Robyn explored in the gorgeous 2008 single “With Every Heartbeat.” The beat on this one is more upbeat and playful, throwing some mirrorball glitter on the singer’s broken heart.
“Rill Rill” by Sleigh Bells–Sleigh Bells is the buzz band of the moment, turning heads with songs that are densely constructed layers of distortion that stand in stark contrast to the honeyed vocals of singer Alexis Krauss. “Rill Rill” is one the band’s more accessible tracks; a mellow guitar sample melded with Krauss’ dreamy girl-group delivery of lyrics that sound like they might have their origins in a schoolyard chant. There’s a lot going on in this song, but the total effect is blissful summertime pop.
