Greetings readers, and happy Halloween 🎃! I can’t believe it’s the end of October already, it seems as though I blinked at the end of August and here we are.
I have a bit of a confession to make… I realised recently that I haven’t actually done a ‘Tracks of the Month’ since June! Truthfully, I didn’t see the point of doing one as part of my ‘Jammin’ In July’ series as all the songs I would’ve included were ones that I’d reviewed throughout the month anyway, and August and September we’re pretty much a continuation of that.
However, I’m getting back into the swing of things, so I’m going to take you through the songs I’ve been listening to non-stop this month.
James Arthur – Say You Won’t Let Go
James Arthur is back. The 2016 comeback kid, who won the X Factor in 2012, enjoyed limited success before going off the grid after a series of controversies. However, instead of letting it get the better of him, he fought his way through and is back on top with new single ‘Say You Won’t Let Go.’ The 28 year old even managed to resign with Simon Cowell’s record label, Syco Music, and has won his way back into the hearts of millions with this guitar-led, emotional love ballad.
The lead single from second studio album ‘Back From The Edge’, ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ held the #1 for four consecutive weeks – and it’s not hard to figure out why. Brimming with passion and conviction the song is beautifully poignant and it hits you right in the chest. Arthur’s vocals shine throughout, from the husky tone of his lower register to his flawlessly soft falsetto, combined with the acoustic accompaniment gives the track a delicately powerful quality. If all the songs are as fantastic as this I’ll definitely be getting my hands on the upcoming album.
Favourite lyrics:
The whole thing, it’s too beautiful to be picked apart!
Little Mix – Shout Out to My Ex
Formidable pop foursome Little Mix premiered their new single ‘Shout Out To My Ex’ on week two of the X Factor’s live shows – and they certainly aren’t pulling any punches. The lead track from their upcoming new album ‘Glory Days’, is an empowering break-up anthem full of attitude. ‘Shout Out To My Ex’ is ridiculously catchy, with a powerful driving beat and an explosive, anthemic chorus that you can’t help but sing along to.
The lyrics, although scathing, do have an edge of humour to them – almost as if the girls are poking fun at everyone who did them wrong now that they’re ‘over it,’ giving it a very uplifting quality. Each member shines in their respective part of the song, and the harmonies interspersed throughout show that their vocals complement each other brilliantly. It’s fun, sassy, sexy and a massive middle finger to that ex – I’m sure we’ve all got one ;). It makes me smile every time I hear it, and after knocking James Arthur off the #1 spot, it looks like I’m not the only one.
Favourite lyrics:
‘I hope she gettin’ better sex, hope she ain’t fakin’ it like I did, babe.’
‘Here’s to my ex, hey, look at me now, well, I I’m all the way up, I swear you’ll never bring me down.’
Charlie Puth ft. Selena Gomez – We Don’t Talk Anymore
After topping the charts with tracks like debut single ‘Marvin Gaye’, featuring Megan Trainor, and ‘See You Again – a collaboration with Wiz Kalifa – singer/songwriter and producer Charlie Puth has now teamed up with Selena Gomez for newest single, ‘We Don’t Talk Anymore.’ The Tropical House track describes the story of anyone who has been left high and dry by a potential love interest, either by a break-up or (to put it into 2016 speak) being ghosted.
However, despite the theme, it’s anything but downbeat. The underlying pulsing beat gives the song just the right amount of kick as Puth and Gomez’s vocals blend beautifully together, accompanied by a predominantly breezy, mellow, summery vibe. This is actually an August favourite; it’s the perfect song to chill to on a hot summer’s day and I’m sure it’s something a lot of people can hugely relate to – I know I do.
Favourite lyrics:
‘Should’ve known your love was a game, now I can’t get you out of my brain, oh it’s such a shame that we don’t talk anymore.’
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Twenty One Pilots – Heathens
Following their commercial success with Top 10 hit ‘Stressed Out’, Schizoid-Pop duo Twenty One Pilots are back with the lead single from anti-superhero movie Suicide Squad, no less. ‘Heathens’ is a dark and haunting track, combining a hip-hop-esque drum beat, a sprinkling of synths, rap vocals and an injection of rock vibes; all of which come together to create something very eerie. The slightly creepy nature of the lyrics also fits the theme of the song, and the movie, really well; I think it’s a great match. It took a while for me to jump on the band-wagon with this one, but it has definitely grown on me in a big way.
Favourite lyrics:
‘You have trust issues not to mention, they say they can smell your intentions.’
‘And now they’re outside ready to bust, it looks like you might be one of us.’
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As always, thanks for reading, what songs have you been loving this month? If you would like to keep up to date with my upcoming posts come and join me on:
🙂
Sophie Brown. 