JT’s New Music Reviews: Week of May 26, 2023

 

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome to the latest edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews! We got a lot of music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

 

Glory Days by Chapel Hart 

One year ago, Chapel Hart made history on America’s Got Talent (AGT) by being the first country music group to receive a Golden Buzzer. The trio (Danica Hart, Devynn Hart, and Trea Swindle) made it to the finals with their superb original tracks. Recently, Chapel Hart released their third studio album: Glory Days. This album is a breath of fresh air, and the group’s three-part harmonies and superb lyrics will make listeners tap their feet with delight. Among the album’s highlights include the title track, “American Pride,” the song that the trio performed on the AGT: Season 17 finale, and “Welcome to Fist City,” a tribute to country music icon Loretta Lynn. Ladies, I truly enjoyed Glory Days! Bravo, Chapel Hart! A 

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Glory Days,” “Dear Tequila,” “American Pride,” “Love in Letting Go,” & “Welcome to Fist City.”

 

The Album by Jonas Brothers 

Jonas Brothers dropped their sixth studio album, called The Album. The record features an all-star group of producers, including Jon Bellion, Pete Nappi, TenRoc, Daniel Tashian, and the Monsters & Strangerz. There are several strong songs, such as the soon-to-be iconic “Waffle House,” the 1970s funk-inspired “Miracle,” and the Jon Bellion-featured “Walls.” The Jonas Brothers delivered a superb pop album that has the potential to be in the “Best of 2023 – Pop Music” conversation. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Miracle,” “Walls,” “Celebrate,” & “Waffle House.”

 

Gag Order by Kesha

Kesha released her fifth studio album: Gag Order. This record is her darkest album as she vulnerably tackled her emotions while dealing with her legal battle with her mentor, super producer Dr. Luke. Gag Order features co-penned songs from Caroline Pennell, Justin Tranter, Skyler Stonestreet, and mom Pebe Sebert and music from Stuart Crichton, Stint, Jussifer, and Blake Slatkin. Meanwhile, Stereogum reported that legendary producer Rick Rubin executive produced the record. Gag Order showcases how Kesha has grown and matured as a recording artist. B+  

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Something to Believe In,” “Eat the Acid,” “Only Love Can Save Us Now,” & “The Drama.”

 

“Stuttering” by Jack & Jack 

Pop rap duo Jack & Jack are back! The Omaha, Nebraska natives released their latest single: “Stuttering.” This two-minute and nine-second song will make listeners dance and has great guitar licks along and excellent lyrics. “Stuttering” marks an epic new chapter in the duo’s fabled history. A- 

 

“Padam Padam” by Kylie Minogue 

International superstar Kylie Minogue will release her sixteenth studio album: Tension, on September 22, 2023. The “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” singer-songwriter’s first single off the record is “Padam Padam.” Written by Ina Wroldsen and Peter Rycroft and produced by Lostboy, “Padam Padam” is a hypnotic jam that combines EDM and synth-pop with superb results. B+

 

“Mourning” by Post Malone

Rapper-singer Post Malone’s fifth album, Austin, is scheduled to be released on my brother Aaron’s birthday! The second single off the “Standing in the Sun” performer’s record is “Mourning.” Longtime collaborators Andrew Watt and Louis Bell reunited with Post Malone to deliver an intriguing song about dealing with the consequences of attending late-night parties and drinking too much. “Mourning” is a superb track that will make its listeners bob their heads in delight. B 

 

“Happy People” by X Ambassadors featuring Teddy Swims & Jac Ross

X Ambassadors are beginning a new chapter in their career as part of the Virgin Music family. The rock band released a new song: “Happy People,” featuring Teddy Swims and Jac Ross. The song focuses on people trying to protect their happiness and peace while constantly bombarded with everyone’s seemingly “perfect life.” The harmonies between the band’s lead singer Sam Nelson, Teddy Swims, and Jac Ross, are superb and gave me chills. “Happy People” is one of the best songs that I heard this year so far! A+ 

 

Artists to Watch:

 

Jake’s Take’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are the latest recording artists to that are ready to shake up the music world!

 

“Te Oro” by Alba Musik featuring Tim Ries

Alba Musik is an NYC-based flamenco fusion duo with vocalist Bárbara Martínez and talented guitarist Albert Alabedra. “Te Oro” is the perfect summer track as Alba Musik brings flamenco across the Big Apple. Bárbara’s hypnotizing vocals, along with Albert’s superb guitar playing and saxophonist Tim Ries (who plays with the Rolling Stones)’s solos, make this energetic song spectacular! A

 

 

“Runaway” by Hunter Blair Ambrose 

Los Angeles-based recording artist Hunter Blair Ambrose dropped “Runaway” today. The New York native co-wrote the track with Jason Strong, who also produced and mixed the song. Hunter’s vocals remind me so much of Leona Lewis’s “Forgive Me” and “Bleeding Love.” Like the X Factor UK winner, Hunter Blair Ambrose has the potential to be a fantastic force in the pop music world. A- 

 

“I’m Not Dead” by Mason Wood

Indiana native turned Los Angeles resident Mason Wood released “I’m Not Dead.” When I first listened to the song, it reminded me so much of both Daft Punk and David Guetta at the height of their powers. “I’m Not Dead” is a catchy tune and will make listeners dance in their seats. I believe that Mason has a bright future in the EDM world. B 

 

“Calm Like Kim” by Spencer Elmer

UK-based rapper Spencer Elmer closes out this edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews! The 10K Projects-signed rapper paid homage to Kim Kardashian in the new song “Calm Like Kim.” Spencer’s hypnotic beats and classic “Kim” sayings showcased his creativity and why he is gaining a massive social media following. I am looking forward to seeing what Spencer does next. B+