Irish singer-songwriter, James Vincent McMorrow, releases a new album called “Grapefruit season” and makes the list of hot new albums for some. PHOTO CREDIT: spotify.com
Campus is finally up and running once again, and I’m back with more monthly music reviews, starting with some September highlights.
Irish singer-songwriter James Vincent McMorrow joined my Spotify rotation in 2016 after I discovered his breakthrough album “Post Tropical.” His recent release, “Grapefruit Season,” gives fans a glimpse into his personal realities of heartbreak and mental health. This collection includes a gripping mix of hip-hop and folk influence that not many artists can pull off. McMorrow’s strong falsetto sits at the forefront of each track, and is complimented by alternating techno and acoustic backings. Overall, it’s a must-hear album.
My personal favorite song from “Grapefruit Season” would have to be “Headlights.” In fact, it might be one of my top songs from 2021 so far. There’s a subtle background beat that compliments McMorrow’s intimate lyrics. This track is a constant build up of instrumental layers, and the introduction of brass elements is the cherry on top.
Colony House is an alternative-indie band whose music first hit the shelves in 2014. Their newest EP, “Rotten Tomatoes,” sways towards more of a punk feel and embraces a 1980s synth era appeal. This release has all the elements of standard rock n’ roll, mirroring bands such as Depeche Mode and Coldplay. The quartet makes one thing very clear: simplicity, when used correctly, can be the key to a hit album. Lyricism sits at the forefront of “Rotten Tomatoes.” The musicality is impressive, of course, yet does not take away from the messages embedded between the lines.
I would choose “Automatic (feat. Fleurie)” as my favorite track. The addition of a soprano harmony mixed with the romantic sway rhythm is addicting. Fleurie’s voice delivers the powerful lyrics with grace, and the bridge is striking on all fronts.
English triple-threat Cynthia Erivo is known best for her Tony Award-winning performance as Celie in “The Color Purple” on Broadway and her Oscar nominations for her original song and performance in “Harriet.” Her debut album, “Ch. 1 Vs. 1,” is a contemporary game changer. Each song tells a unique tale of Erivo’s life experiences and current outlook on life. She reaches for all genres in this 12-track collection, stretching from pop to soul, and even teases some acoustic fingerpicking, which I’m a sucker for.
That being said, “Sweet Sarah” is my top choice from this album. Erivo’s harmonies are elegant and flattering when paired with guitar arpeggios and piano chords. Plus, how could I not love a tune dedicated to my sister’s name?
We have all heard the 2015 hit “Scars To Your Beautiful” by pop artist Alessia Cara. She steps it up with “In The Meantime,” an album that stands out with smooth song transitions and an independent groove. Cara is known for having powerful vocals, which stands true in this release, and is amplified by techno beats and isolated harmonies. “In The Meantime” can be compared to Ariana Grande’s popular album “Positions,” which is quite the compliment coming from a HUGE Grande stan.
Track eight, “Middle Ground (feat. CHIKA)” takes the number one spot. It’s an intriguing, sensual song filled with jazz motifs that pull me in. I had never heard of American rapper CHIKA before her feature, and now I’m utterly obsessed with all of her music, in addition to Cara’s.
Check back in next month for some more of my favorite music releases.