Shelley: Cooking With Grease Through the single “Cooking With Grease,” Shelley (fka DRAM) debuts a new name and a revamped sound. On lesser-known releases under his former moniker, Shelley (full name Shelley Massenburg-Smith) flexed his vocal prowess, but these performances were somewhat overshadowed by his rapping on hits like “Cha Cha,” “Broccoli” and “Cash Machine.” Now, with renewed direction and a refined sonic focus, Shelley …
For record label 4AD’s 40th anniversary covers compilation, Bills & Aches & Blues, folk rockers Big Thief deliver a touching rendition of The Breeders’ “Off You.” Pared back but powerful (quite like the original), the cover finds lead singer Adrianne Lenker breathing her signature sound into lyrics made famous by the inimitable Kim Deal. Lenker succeeds where others would fall short.
Arletis: Horses NYC-born, Berlin-based Arletis samples Erykah Badu’s “On & On” for her sublime, smooth single “Horses.” Made in collaboration with DJ and record producer Suff Daddy, the song borrows elements from neo-soul and old-school R&B to create a sultry, silken slow jam. The Last Morrell: The Party Anyone who’s ever been trapped at a party will resonate with the lyrics of London-based singer-songwriter The …
