By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
Welcome to the first May 2019 edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews! We have a lot of music to digest, so let’s get this party started.
For the Throne: Music Inspired by the HBO Series Game of Thrones by Various Artists
To commemorate Game of Thrones’ final season, Columbia Records asked some of the world’s rising artists to create music inspired by the popular HBO series. Artists from alternative, country, pop, & rap musical genres deliver their takes on Westeros. Maren Morris’ lyrics “Kingdom of God” could easily be the show’s theme song, while SZA teamed up with The Weeknd and Travis Scott on “Power is Power.” Ellie Goulding showcased her dark side on “Hollow Crown,” while Mumford & Sons scored with a threatening “Devil in Your Eye.” The album’s’ MVP is producer Ricky Reed, who excellently co-produced eight of the album’s 14 tracks. I guarantee that both the Game of Thrones superfans and non-fans would definitely download this album. B+
Tracks to Download: “Kingdom of One,” “Power Is Power,” “Devil in Your Eye,” & “Pray (High Valyrian).”
Chip Tooth Smile by Rob Thomas
It has been four years since Rob Thomas released a studio album. However, the “Smooth” singer-songwriter’s fourth solo outing grow upon the same inspirational material that was featured in 2005’s …Something to Beand 2009’s Cradlesong. One of the significant concerns that I had while listening was that the songs started to sound repetitive. Also, I wished that Rob would have either welcomed guest artists or more slow-tempo tunes. Despite that minor tidbit, I believe that Rob Thomas continues to deliver superb songs and is one of the music industry’s underrated talents. B
Tracks to Download: “One Less Day (Dying Young),” “Timeless,” “We Were Beautiful,” & “Breathe Out.”
“If I Can’t Have You” by Shawn Mendes
Just one day before he joins Adam Sandler on Saturday Night Live, Shawn Mendes released his latest single: “If I Can’t Have You.” The track definitely has the same energy as most of his songs from his hit 2018 self-titled album. I believe that “If I Can’t Have You” continues Shawn Mendes’ hot streak, as hundreds of Top 40 radio stations and clubs might play it in heavy rotation until October. A-
“Rocket Man” by Taron Egerton
As a lifelong Sir Elton John fan, I am ecstatic to see the upcoming biopic: Rocketman. Actor Taron Egerton portrays the “Your Song” singer-songwriter. Billboard revealed the first single off of the film’s upcoming soundtrack: “Rocket Man.” The Kingsman: The Secret Service performer perfectly executed a stunning vocal performance that will give listeners chills. Rocketman is expected to bow into U.S. theatres on May 31. A
“ME!” by Taylor Swift featuring Brendan Urie
The New York Times reported that the 10-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter teamed up with the Panic! At the Disco frontman for a new single. “ME!” reminds me a little bit of a hybrid between two of Swift’s most notable songs: “Shake It Off” and “End Game.” Producer Joel Little co-wrote the track with Taylor Swift and Brendan Urie while co-producing “ME!” with the former. While I appreciate the sweet music production, I was left thinking: “Did I hear this song already?” I admire the “Look What You Made Me Do” singer-songwriter’s accomplishments and what she does for her fans, “ME!” is redundant. C-
“Stay (I Missed You)” by Walk off the Earth & Lisa Loeb
Following their successful collaboration with Sarah Silverman, Walk off the Earth joined forces with singer-actress Lisa Loeb. The quintet celebrated the 25th anniversary of Ms. Loeb’s hit song “Stay (I Missed You).” This collaboration gave me goosebumps from the first few notes. The group’s impeccable version of this song is probably one of my favorite cover songs of 2019! A
Artists to Watch
Artists to Watch is back! Here are the artists and bands that Jake’s Take believes is going to make an impact on the music industry.
Was It Even Real? By Olivia O’Brien
19-year-old Olivia O’Brien is shaking up the pop music world. Paper Magazine named her one of 100 women revolutionizing the musical genre. She released her first studio album, Was It Even Real? The “Inhibition” singer-songwriter will turn listeners’ heads with her honest lyrics and superb production. I believe that Olivia O’Brien will make a significant impact in the music industry and Was It Even Real? is the start of a great recording career. A-
Tracks to Download: “I Don’t Exist,” “Inhibition (omw),” “UDK,” “Just A Boy,” & “Call Me!”
“Human” by Kyd the Band
Last week, Nashville transplant Kyd the Band released his debut single, “Human.” Honestly, I believe that “Human” might be one of the best debut singles of the year. The song’s haunting lyrics blew me away. Also, I believe that Devin, the group’s vocalist, has a star vibe surrounding him. I cannot wait to see what he does next. A+
“Just for Kids” by Modern Love Child
Venice Beach-based alternative rocker Jonny Shane, Jr. is ready to make his mark on the music industry. Under the stage name, Modern Love Child, Jonny has created a hypnotic blend of surf rock and trance music that captures the listeners’ attention. “Just for Kids” is a strong single that will make music fans smile with pure delight. The track also showcases a sturdy future ahead for Modern Love Child. B+
“Lift Off” by Sammy Wilk
Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Sammy Wilk concludes this edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews. Sammy Wilk fell in love with hip-hop at a very early age and left his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska with hopes to chase his stardom dreams. He might make those dreams a reality with “Lift Off.” Sammy’s hook, “Who’s going to love us when this money is not around?” forewarn listeners about the pitfalls of fame, is probably one of the honest set of lyrics I heard this year. If he continues to put out quality tunes, Sammy could be a significant player in the music scene in a few years. A-
I do not own any of the clips that are featured in this article. They belong to the artists and their respective record labels.
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