Welcome to the fourth edition of WVUM Radio’s Playlist of the Week, a list of the ten best songs out right now according to WVUM music directors Jordan Abrams and Peter Melero.
José James – “Kissing My Love” from Lean On Me (Blue Note)
James creates a celebration album of Bill Withers with 12 of his most classic tracks. James is known for his R&B and funk sound, but he tries to stay true to Withers southern-jazz sound throughout the project.
Jungle – “Beat 54 (All Good Now)” from For Ever (XL)
Rolling Stone magazine best describes the funky electro-duo as “supra-Pharrell falsettos over bouncy bass lines and light, airy funk-pop.” Our MD, Jordan, is Pharrell’s biggest fan so his influence being shown in new production is very exciting.
Jerry Paper – “Your Cocoon” from Like a Baby (Stones Throw)
Warped, jazz-inflected melodies straight from the mind of one of modern indie’s great eccentrics. Features production from BADBADNOTGOOD keyboardist Matthew Tavares.
Sahababii – “Anime World” from Squidtastic (Casting Bait)
Chicago rapper continues his career in the right direction with his new album. Clear influences by Young Thug over watery beats make this album a must-listen.
Shmu – “Lead Me to the Glow” from Lead Me to the Glow (Self-Released)
This technicolor earworm is goofy, flamboyant and beaming with joy. Recommended for those who love experimental pop that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Tropa Magica – “Koopa-Cabras” from Y La Muerte De Los Commons (Self-Released)
Classic 8-Bit video game aesthetics level up some choice latin funk.
Marie Davidson – “Work It” from Working Class Woman (Ninja Tune)
Marie Davidson is a woman who works hard, and she lets us know loud and clear over a classic, mechanic techno beat.
Ryan Hemsworth – “This Feeling ft. Marco McKinnis” from Elsewhere (Secret Songs/Last Gang)
Canadian electronic musician & producer Ryan Hemsworth has released Elsewhere, his first full-length since 2014. This pop and bass inspired project is flooded with features such as Nebu Kiniza, Joji, and many more.
Eric Copeland – “Mateo” from Trogg Modal, Vol. 1 (DFA)
Disco never died, it morphed and multiplied into the staggering number of electronic genres we know today. Eric Copeland uses old-school synths to give a new school interpretation to the genre.
Cat Power – “Woman (feat. Lana Del Rey)” from Wanderer (Domino)
Two generations of indie women join forces to sing a raw tune about real women.
To listen to this week’s songs, click here.
WVUM 90.5 FM is the student-run radio station of the University of Miami. To get involved, stop by their music staff meetings Mondays at 6 p.m. in the WVUM office or visit wvum.org/apply.