Memphis music is truly unstoppable. Each month welcomes more and more incredible new projects. Here are just 5 we’re highlighting for April that we’ve had on repeat:
PreauXX-“Lost Airpods”
I seek therapy but never commit/I got trauma I could never forget/I got people who gon’ love me no matter/But watch the ones who gon’ hate from the fence…
As you can see, lost airpods aren’t the only concern on Preauxx’s infectious new single, but damn if he wouldn’t like to know where they are. Over understated, hazy production from LEE MVRS, PreauXX tells the tale of a hungover morning that continues to spiral out of control (despite him sounding cool and collected throughout). As we’ve become accustomed to, the Unapologetic rapper once again delivers proof that he’s one of the city’s most unorthodox and outstanding talents regardless of genre.
Frank McLallen-“Manic”
To say that we are living in stressful times would be quite the understatement, so Frank McLallen’s new sweet Beatles-esque pop track “Manic” has come like a much-needed salve. McLallen, a veteran of the local music scene who has been a member of bands including Ex-Cult, the Sheiks, the Tennessee Screamers, and Model Zero, confidently takes center stage on the first single from his upcoming solo album Extra Eyes. A perfect laid-back ditty for these beautiful (if stressful) spring days.
Zen Desire ft. Ronin-“Good Coffee”
Still not relaxed enough? Fair enough! May we suggest “Good Coffee,” the new single from local singer-songwriter Zen Desire? Grounded by Desire’s dulcet vocals and acoustic guitar and featuring an unexpected but welcomed guest rap verse from Ronin, the track blends elements of R&B, folk, and hip-hop to create a breezy and vibey track that is as comforting as–you guessed it–a cup of good coffee.
TANGELA-“Miso”
While one of our primary goals with this segment is to highlight songs that are hot off the presses, we can be convinced to revisit a previously-released track, especially when it goes as hard as TANGELA’s February release “Miso.” Produced by Ethan Hunt & Ryan Peel and featuring Elliott Ives on guitar, “Miso” is an exhilarating hodgepodge of trap, hard rock, and pop that just demands to be played LOUD. Our only complaint is that with a run-time of just under two minutes, we’re left wanting even more.
Bleu Levees-“Vieux Carre”
Earlier this month, Bleu Levees dropped his highly-anticipated debut album The Way of the Cat, which we’ve had on repeat ever since. We’ve been fans of the Memphis by the way of New Orleans rapper for years and his signature sound and conscious lyricism are both in top form throughout the project. One of our favorites is “Vieux Carre,” a sultry late-night jam that takes its name from NOLA’s oldest neighborhood (as well as a bourbon cocktail from the Crescent City). Be sure to check out the upcoming listening party for the album this Saturday (April 19th) at the Memphis Listening Lab!
