By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
The week of March 17, 2014 is the busiest week for new music…so far this year!
Some of my favorite artists dropped exciting new albums and amazing singles that should be included in your music library.
Enrique Iglesias goes bilingual for his latest studio album. (Album cover property of Universal Republic Records)
Sex & Love by Enrique Iglesias
When it comes to listening to the Latin Heartthrob’s tenth studio album, music fans should expect to be listening to two different albums. Honestly, I love Enrique as an artist, but at the same time I felt that he went overboard on the Spanish tracks. On the positive side, he co-wrote every song on the album and had strong support from Pitbull, Flo Rida, the Cataracs and Kylie Minogue (more on her later). I wished that next time that Enrique released two separate albums. B
Tracks to Download: “There Goes My Baby,” “Beautiful,” “Turn the Night Up” & “Bailando”
Supermodel by Foster the People
Everyone expects so much from a sophomore album. Los Angeles-based alternative band Foster the People returned to the music scene with a strong album. Co-produced by group founder Mark Foster and Paul Epworth, the band expanded on their sound and proved that they are no one-hit wonders. The enchanting synths and superb guitars will entice the listener to keep the album on repeat. A-
Tracks to Download: “Ask Yourself,” “Coming of Age,” “Pseudolgica Fantastica” & “Best Friend”
Kylie Minogue called in some heavy hitters for impeccable “Kiss Me Once.’ (Album cover property of Warner Bros. Records)
Kiss Me Once by Kylie Minogue
Watch out, Shakira and Xtina! You have some competition in the form of Kylie Minogue in the beloved international Voice coach category. The current Voice UK and upcoming Voice Australia coach delivered a stunning pop record (and twelfth studio album). She successfully recruited A-list producers and songwriters such as Sia Furler, Pharrell Williams and the Monsters and the Strangerz to produce quality ear candy. Her vocals still sound divine and I hope that Kylie comes to Kansas City with her upcoming tour later this year. A
Tracks to Download: “Into the Blue,” “I Was Gonna Cancel,” “Sexercize,” “If Only” & “Kiss Me Once”
“Blue Smoke” by Dolly Parton
On May 20, Dolly Parton will release her 42nd studio album. The title track, “Blue Smoke,” shows Ms. Parton at her finest. The impeccable bluegrass sound will transport viewers back to the mountains of Kentucky. This track will definitely put a smile on your face. A-
Will Champlin’s “Last Man Standing” is the “Jake’s Take” Song of the Week. (Album property of Infant Soul Music)
“Last Man Standing” by Will Champlin
My Song of the Week is “Last Man Standing” by Will Champlin. Will continues to showcase his incredible songwriting and arranging abilities throughout the track. Music fans would also appreciate that Will showcased his vocal range in “Last Man Standing.” I loved hearing his falsetto. I (along with millions of Champs) cannot wait to see Will release a full-length studio album soon! A+
“Chandelier” by Sia
One of the most unique voices in today’s music industry is Sia Furler. While a majority of her listeners know her songwriting skills through “Diamonds,” “Loved Me Back to Life” and “Perfume,” Sia became a prominent figure due to a little known 2011 hit called “Titanium.” Her first single off her upcoming studio album, “Chandelier,” showed of her amazing talents. I hope we get a strong record from her because Sia is the millennial generation’s Carole King. A
I do not own the clips of the songs that are sprinkled by the artists. They belong to the artists and their respective record companies.
