This week’s top 5 consists of artists from all different genres surrounding the alternative music. From those who are heavier sounding to those that could be considered pop. What’s great about the alternative music scene is that so many bands and musicians can be under the same genre but sound so different. I hope you enjoy this week’s top 5!
1. "Over My Head" - Judah & the Lion
Judah & the Lion kicked off 2019 with their new single “Over My Head.” Like with the bands other songs they blend a mix of pop and banjo alternative. The song itself talks about a time when the lead singer, Judah Akers, was dealing with a high time in his career but a low in his personal life. To me is sounds like the two worlds were really crashing in his head and he had no clue how to deal with all of that pressure. This song is perfect for anyone who has ever, professionally, doing great but, personally, suffering.
Judah & the Lion is best known for their hit song “Take It All Back” which was massively popular in 2017. Since the release of the song “Over My Head” the band has released other singles including “Pot of Gold” and “I Told You.” Fans are hopping this means the band will be releasing a full length album soon in 2019. Here’s to Hoping!
2. "Ready To Let Go" - Cage The Elephant
I have been a fan of Cage The Elephant since I was in High School. The first song I ever heard from them is their most popular on “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and ever since then, I have been hooked to this band’s sound. The bands newest single rising the charts is the song, “Ready To Let Go” and I think it sounds great. It is the band’s first single coming off of their upcoming album “Social Cues” coming out April 19th.
The band told Consequence of Sound that they wrote this album while lead singer Matt Schultz was working through some issues after the loss of a relationship. The single “Ready To Let Go” is the Schultz talking about letting go of that old relationship and starting to move on emotionally. This band’s sound is amazing and I can’t wait to listen to the new album when it come out.
3. "You’re The One" - Greta Van Fleet
Greta Van Fleet can say that they are now Grammy nominated band and I think they deserve it. Who knows if they are actually going to win but, that is a really cool thing to have people say during an intro. “You’re the One” is a softer song that sill keeps the bands throwback style. Their sound is a salute to a different time period and it is nice to listen to in the mix of music that is so of the time.
This song sounds like a love song about someone the lead singer Josh Kiszka lost. It has a touching feel to it and is a nod to hard rock bands of the 70’s and 80’s. It's also just begging for a big sing along at a live show.
4. "If It Feels Good (then it must be)" - Leon Bridges
It is always nice to see a song like this on the Alternative charts. It is one of those songs that has a soulful feel to it that is a feel-good live song. The song “If it Feels Good (then it must be) has been described as being nostalgic soul and it is easy to see why. Now, what is ruling the charts on popular radio is a lot of hip hop influence but, with this song it makes you want to get up and dance and it gives you an overall good feeling after you are done listening to it.
Leon Bridges often gets compared to artists like Usher and Bruno Mars but, for me his sound doesn’t come off over produced or like he is trying too hard. It sounds like his sound flows out of him. I enjoy this song and recommend it to anyone who loves some retro soul music.
5. Harmony Hall-Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend is a band that has been a staple in alternative music for years. They are a band that has a sound that is so unique. Anytime they release new music it is always a treat to listen to and I have to say that I really enjoy the song “Harmony Hall.” It is a nice single and it sounds light-hearted in a way.
I also really love the Ezra Koenig's voice in the song as well. His vocals flow well with the sound of the guitar and piano. They all mix together and make this track a really good listen. I enjoy they music this band puts out and I like how their sound is unlike anyone else’s. Definitely check out this track if you have not heard it already. It is sure not to disappoint.