ListenUp
Summer vibes by Weezer, a smooth tune by Mabel, sad farewell to Joni Sledge and more in our weekly musical round-up
Flying Mojito Bros: Rodeo Cósmico Mix
Get your lava lamp out and enjoy this trippy, psychedelic mix from DJ outfit the Flying Mojito Bros (aka producer/musician Ben Chetwood and DJ Jack Sellen). Aptly named “Rodeo Cósmico,” this ’70s-influenced, spaced-out mixtape comes complete with an acid-tinged video. Seamlessly blending psychedelia, country, funk and disco together—it’s a breezy, fuzzy and groovy vibe that will certainly get you in the mood for a lounge room boogie.
Mabel: Finders Keepers
The first track from her Bedroom EP, Mabel’s “Finders Keepers” certainly has some ’90s R&B influences but it’s decidedly current-day—thanks to modern pop flourishes. With an intro from MC Kojo Funds, the track is bouncy and tropical throughout. The British singer (who happens to be iconic vocalist Neneh Cherry and Massive Attack producer Cameron McVey’s daughter) spent time in Sweden studying music, which is possibly where she picked up the knack for glittery, saccharine pop. Bedroom is set for release 26 May.
Sister Sledge: We Are Family
This week the sad news emerged that Sister Sledge member Joni Sledge has passed away. While the disco outfit had plenty of hits (from “He’s the Greatest Dancer” to “Lost in the Music”), there’s little doubt their best-loved tune is the positively charged “We Are Family.” The 1979 track was the first that Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards ever wrote for another band, and the sisters didn’t disappoint—with sweet vocals and a delightfully earnest video of the three dancing on Roosevelt Island.
Weezer: Feels Like Summer
Whether it’s summer where you are, or you schlepped through slush today, Weezer’s new song “Feels Like Summer” will have you feeling warm inside. Deciding to skip springtime altogether, the beloved American four-piece has created a cheery tune with a pop hook—and it will appear on their 11th album, which is due to release this summer. The band is also in the middle of a big tour across the USA and over to Europe later in the year.
Katy Perry: Chained to the Rhythm (Hot Chip Remix)
Full disclosure: we weren’t the biggest fans of Katy Perry’s recent “Chained to the Rhythm,” but this unexpected remix, courtesy of CH favorites Hot Chip, morphs it into a delightful, purring house track that will have you boogying in your seat. The reworked version remains faithful to the pop tune’s essence and message, but certainly adds a little bop. It’s a very welcome and sunny soundtrack to the upcoming weekend.
Here We Go Magic: D
Song number 53 of the Our First 100 Days album featuring Angel Olsen, Toro Y Moi and more, Here We Go Magic’s “D” is a slow-burning tune with Luke Temple’s familiar, sublime vocals floating atop. Perhaps our favorite to come from the collaborative album, it’s yet another poignant song. The record is available for a $30 donation and the proceeds will go to several organizations—from The People’s Climate Movement to All Above All, Cosecha, Southerners on New Ground, Hoosier Action and Revolutions Per Minute.
ListenUp is a Cool Hunting series published every Sunday that rounds up the music we tweeted throughout the week, also found in Listen. Hear the year so far via Cool Hunting Spotify.
