In this edition of What I'm Listening to This Week, R&B-soul singer Tess Henley is back after a four-year hiatus from music, and her new EP slaps. I'm also spinning the new Ra Ra Riot album (which takes me back to my early '20s), the latest EP from singer-songwriter August 08, and an insanely talented brass duo I was lucky to see perform live at Outside Lands last weekend. Here's what you should slam the play button on this week and why.
Happy Endings With an Asterisk by August 08
A songwriter from the music media collective 88rising, August 08 has penned hits for Lil Wayne, Chance the Rapper, Justin Bieber, DJ Khaled, and more. His six-track EP features a multifaceted mix of soulful R&B grooves and electronic beats that will have you up and dancing in 10 minutes or less.
Standout track: "Good Girls," because it's a love song, but also kind of a warning?
Listen now on Spotify [2].
Before We Go by Brasstracks
I had the absolute pleasure of catching this NYC duo's performance at the Outside Lands music festival last weekend, and was blown away by their energy and talent in such a chaotic environment. Their EP is best listened to all the way through and preferably with a buzz.
Standout track: "Vibrant," because even though it gets a hip-hop assist from rapper Pell, the horns make it jazzy enough for my dad to love, too.
Listen now on Spotify. [3]
Superbloom by Ra Ra Riot
I've already professed my love for the single "Bad to Worse" here [4], so I'll just say that the New York-based band's full offering is melodramatic (in the best way possible) and totally lives up to expectations.
Standout track: "Bitter Conversation," because it's the perfect late Summer bop.
Listen now on Spotify [5].
Better EP by Tess Henley
I'm really feeling this five-song EP from R&B singer Tess Henley, who I've followed for years now. After a four-year hiatus from music, her latest is a funk-infused with nostalgic shades of '60s soul that's absolutely perfect for playing on a lazy Sunday.
Standout track: "Better," because it's impossible not to shimmy your shoulders along to the beat.
Listen now on Spotify. [6]