Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of July 3, 2026

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome to the Fourth of July edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews!

As you begin to prepare to celebrate America’s 250^th birthday, here are some of the new albums and songs that you might need to incorporate into your barbecues and fireworks playlists.

SWAG LIVE FROM COACHELLA (Weekend I) by Justin Bieber

Last Friday, Justin Bieber surprised his fan base and music lovers by dropping a live album from his first headlining weekend at this year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The “Anyone” singer-songwriter primarily performed music from both SWAG and SWAG II, as well as several classic tunes, including “Beauty and the Beat.” He also brought out several of his collaborators, such as The Kid LAROI, Tems, and Mk.gee, throughout the show. As I listened to SWAG LIVE FROM COACHELLA (Weekend I), I may have judged SWAG & SWAG II too harshly. The live record showcases Justin at his best vocally and as one of his generation’s top recording artists. B+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “All I Can Take,” “SPEED DEMON,” “Go Baby,” “STAY,” & “Everything Hallelujah – Acoustic.”

 

“UNDER THE RHYTHM” by Adam Lambert

Adam Lambert will release his sixth full-length studio album, Adam, on July 10. His recent single, “UNDER THE RHYTHM,” is a haunting song that was co-produced by Pete Nappi, Jean Castel, and Tigri. I also enjoy the interpolation of ATC’s “Around the World (La La La La)” catchy chorus.  The song’s music video is brilliantly choreographed by former guest Richy Jackson and takes place in a real-life Arkham Asylum. “UNDER THE RHYTHM” has potential for being a song of Summer 2026. A

 

“Marry You Again” by Dan + Shay

Dan + Shay are a month away from releasing their seventh studio album, Young. The duo released their third single, “Marry You Again,” which they co-wrote with Matt Dragstrem and Rocky Block.  This tune is the song equivalent of Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s iconic 50 First Dates. “Marry You Again” is such a feel-good song that it will make fans smile and wish the “From the Ground Up” duo would crash their wedding to perform it! B+ 

 

“Another Drink” by Marshmello & Kelsea Ballerini

For the past several years, DJ Marshmello has been combining EDM and country music! After releasing songs with Kane Brown, Hudson Westbrook, and Thomas Rhett, he teamed up with longtime friend Kelsea Ballerini for “Another Drink.” This song is an infectious and delicious piece of ear candy!  “Another Drink” is perfect for a line-dance marathon and an excellent addition for both country and Top 40 radio and streaming playlists. A-

 

“Jealous Lover” by the Rolling Stones

Rock music legends The Rolling Stones will launch their twenty-fifth(!!) studio album, Foreign Tongues, next week! Their final pre-album-release song is “Jealous Lover,” co-penned by the iconic songwriting team of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. “Jealous Lover” is a superb song that showcases the iconic rock band’s signature swagger and Mick Jagger’s astonishing vocal performance. B+

 

“Little Miss Twain” by Shania Twain featuring Tanya Tucker

Two country music queens came together for an epic collaboration! Shania Twain invited Tanya Tucker to join her on the biographical “Little Miss Twain.”  The “Delta Dawn” singer gave me chills, and this song would make Shania’s mother (who predicted that her daughter would be the next Tanya Tucker) and fans of the “Up!” recording artist proud. B+

 

 

“Sick Ass Foo’s” by will.i.am featuring Lil Mr. E & Toxica

Will.i.am teamed up with Lil Mr. E of Foos Gone Wild and newcomer Toxica for the slick “Sick Ass Foo’s.” The “Mind Your Business” rapper produced the track and features infectious vocals along with sultry vocals from Toxica. “Sick Ass Foo’s” could be a sturdy candidate for one of 2026’s Songs of the Summer. A-

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are some recording artists and bands looking to shake up the music world.

 

FANTASYLAND by Mr. Fantasy

The enigmatic Mr. Fantasy has shaken up the entertainment industry with his infectious, joyful personality and has released his first album. FANTASYLAND is one of the best debut albums of 2026! This album brilliantly showcases Mr. Fantasy as a recording artist by fusing funk and synth-pop in spectacular fashion. Bravo, Mr. Fantasy and your impeccable team, you have several hits on your hands! A+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Only Girl,” “Do Me Right,” “Mr. Fantasy,” “Catapult,” “Body Talk,” & “One Last Night.”

 

COMING OUT by Kevin Le Pennec

Singer and harpist Kevin Le Pennec has a rising presence in the contemporary folk and world music scene. The award-winning performer released his latest album, COMING OUT, which features 12 songs exploring love, identity, and the freedom to be oneself. Le Pennec’s beautiful arrangements and vocals would put listeners in a calming and relaxing mood. COMING OUT should be incorporated into Pride celebrations for years to come.  B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “L’amour d’un cordonnier,” “Deux pommiers,” “Pride Flag,” “Coming Out,” & “Dans la lune.”

 

“If You Need Me” by Duelly

Emmy winner Chad Duell, who fans know from his 15-year run as Michael Corinthos on General Hospital, has entered the EDM chat as Duelly with his first single, “If You Need Me.” I love the pounding, hypnotic beats, and for “If You Need Me,” being his first single, it sounds like a Grand Slam that should be featured on various music and radio playlists. I hope that Duelly continues his music journey because he has the potential to shake things up! A-

 

“Happy Tears” by Quail P

Quail P wraps up this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews! The former college player from Macclenny, Florida, released his latest single, “Happy Tears,” produced by Grammy-winning producers Tricky Stewart and M.GeeZy. “Happy Tears” perfectly blended blues and gospel, delivering excellent results and a superb vocal performance from Quail P. B+

 

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