Cerrone: Kiss It Better

Super-influential French disco composer, Cerrone is making a comeback (somewhat akin to Giorgio Moroder’s) with his new record Red Lips. From it comes “Kiss it Better,” a boppy track with a serious groove. Coupled with candied vocals by British singer and DJ Yasmin, the song is certainly retro, but with a decidedly contemporary tinge. If you’re not familiar with Cerrone, it’s worth taking a look …

Baloji: Spoiler

An adroit convergence of funky jazz, French folk and traditional African music, “Spoiler” represents everything wondrous about Congolese-born, Belgium-based musician Baloji. It’s a powerful, playful track with plenty of appeal for its upbeat nature alone. That said, a thorough look at the (subtitled) lyrics reveals the song’s greater depth. “Spoiler” hails from Baloji’s forthcoming EP 64 Bits & Malachite, released 4 November on Bella Union.

Caroline Smith: Trying Not to Love You

The very talented Caroline Smith (who appeared on the super-catchy “Let ‘Em Say” with Lizzo) has just released new song “Trying Not to Love You.” The track includes gentle handclaps, smooth vocals and the frequently sampled “Woo! Yeah!” drum break—a commonly used sample that contains James Brown’s “Woo!” and Bobby Byrd’s “Yeah!” (That sample features in Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It)” and ultra-famously Rob Base …