Sam Smith, Stella Lefty & More New Music Friday
Every week, the music world throws down a fresh set of releases, demanding our attention and reshaping what we listen to. This week’s essential picks are a perfect illustration of that diversity: a mix of introspective vocals, powerhouse rock anthems, and deeply rooted country-pop storytelling.
From the smooth, soaring vocals of Sam Smith to the soulful, unadorned sound of Stella Lefty, the new music landscape is full of compelling stories. Smith invites us into the emotional depths of Hazel Eyes, exploring vulnerability and power on tracks like “Constant Companion,” where his voice swells with raw emotion, culminating in a moment that rings true: “’cause you, you are my constant companion.”
Meanwhile, the country-pop scene is hitting some serious marks. Fast-rising artist Stella Lefty, known for her chart-topping debut “Boston,” delivers her full-length album, Long Way Home. The record is a masterclass in authentic production, where the sound is praised for complementing Lefty’s sweet, unadorned vocals, creating a solid and appealing introduction to a formidable new talent.
In the realm of rock, the legends are still crafting classics. Weezer returns with their 20th album, Weezer (Gold Album), a bold statement that fully embraces power-pop-rock anthems. This latest offering is packed with energy, driven by Rivers Cuomo’s signature vocals and a production that aims to deliver exactly what it sets out to do: create the most violent Weezer album ever.
The sound also shifts dramatically when you explore Jorja Smith’s What Are The Odds. This third album injects powerful energy and danceable beats, showcasing Smith’s impressive versatility. While tracks like “Alive” prove her ability to command the dance floor, other songs allow her stellar vocals to shine in more intimate moments, demonstrating a range that spans from booming rhythms to soulful introspection.
Moving into alternative country, the genre is flourishing with artists who are blending grit and grace. Brennan Wedl has emerged as a marquee destination for alt-country, capturing a potent blend of punk, garage-rock, and country for what she calls “grungetry.” Her self-titled debut is steeped in rootsy magic, channeling the poetic concision of Waxahatchee and the lyrical specificity of MJ Lenderman.
Wedl’s voice immediately conjures images of Lucinda Williams, skillfully blending the energy of her influences with her own unique perspective. Her music is a testament to how genre-blending can create something deeply personal and essential, proving that the rootsy magic of Americana is evolving into a dominant, dynamic style for this decade.
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