We’re officially a month into 2024 and that means it’s time for a New Music Alert. If this February Alert is anything to go by, 2024 is looking mighty fine. Like, really, really fine.
And to get into the Valentine’s mood, we’ve picked out some songs about love: its highs, its lows, and everywhere in between. Here’s your February New Music Alert, from our heart to yours.
Medium Build | “Crying Over U”
Just in time for the Season of Love, Medium Build’s latest single is a brooding reflection of a past lover. Alaska’s Nick Carpenter could cry about a breakup, he even thought about it, but instead he’ll turn on the TV and get stoned. On the surface, the lyrics may come across as apathetic, but deep down, the song is an attempt at hiding one’s feelings because the heartbreak is too real. We’ve all been there.
AJ McQueen | Sorry Ma, I Was Distracted
AJ McQueen’s new album Sorry Ma, I Was Distracted dropped earlier this month. We’d mentioned one of his singles in the December New Music Alert and we’re stoked to have the full record to sink our teeth into. This full-length showcases AJ’s slick penchant for flow and rhythm, with themes of self-exploration, masculinity, and mortality. It’s a beautiful release from the St. Louis emcee.
Wic Whitney | Afternoon Tea
After a few singles, Chicago rapper Wic Whitney has released the Afternoon Tea EP and it feels like a pure hug in a mug. All six tracks are named after types of tea, from “Matcha” to “Oolong” (we previously covered “Earl Grey” in our last New Music Alert). New standout “Sleepytime” shows Wic’s flows are just getting better.
D. Lylez | “Luther”
A beautiful homage to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. just in time for Black History Month, D. Lylez’s new single “Luther” features snippets of a Dr. King speech, as if in conversation with the Chicago rapper.
Sarah Kang | “summer after senior year”
What 16 year old knows about taxes? The latest from Sarah Kang is a high-energy anthem packed with wistful reflections on the last few moments of waning teenage freedom. The track also features vocals from Michael Carreon and Patrick Hizon.
intrnet boyfriend | “intrnet” and “boyfriend”
What’s better than one fresh single? Two fresh singles! intrnet boyfriend’s two latest releases “intrnet” and “boyfriend” are divinely downtempo, bedroom R&B tracks with layered harmonies. “intrnet” focuses on internet privacy and fame, while “boyfriend” reflects on the double standard of a past relationship. The two tracks are like two sides of the same (internet) coin.
The Thistle Brothers | “Come Pick Me Up”
We all need that special someone who can pick us up. The Thistle Brothers feature on this new John-Robert track, “Come Pick Me Up”, about the uplifting power of the ones who love us. “Take the worst of my pain and water it down,” sings John-Robert over the foot-tapping guitar rhythms and a walking bassline. It’s a nice reminder to be grateful for our loved ones.
Abigail Osborn | how do you know when it feels right?
This somber EP from Abigail Osborn is a breakup album of tender proportions, with tracks that echo Olivia Rodrigo and Phoebe Bridgers. The EP’s five songs tug at the heart; one standout, “In Case of Emergency”, is about being your crush’s back-up plan.
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