Here at the Hard Times, we believe that there is never a shortage of great new songs to be heard no matter how much we hate leaving our comfort zone to actually discover them. Because we also believe that you, our dear reader, shouldn’t be burdened with the task of broadening your horizons on your own, we’ve taken the time to compile a list of some of the newer sounds we’ve been consuming this week.
Rancid “Don’t Make Me Do It”
Look, we get it, listening to new music is intimidating and can make you feel out of your depth, so we’re going to ease you in here with this brand-new instant classic from Rancid. Does it sound like old Rancid? You bet it does. Does it have a kickass call-and-response chant like a million of your other favorite songs? You fucking know it. Is it under a minute long? Fuck. Yes. Does it feature any evolution of the band’s signature sound? Not even a little bit, which is why you’ll love it.
Wednesday “Quarry”
Chances are you’ve heard of this band, but you haven’t heard them. Quite frankly, we’re all disappointed in you and we hope you can find some time to take a hard look in the mirror and ask yourself what the hell you’ve been doing with your life. This North Carolina quintet’s excellent sophomore record ‘Rat Saw God’ has been out for a month and some change now, but if you’re still looking for a way to actually start listening to it, we recommend dipping a toe into this heavily Pavement-influenced banger.
King Krule “Seaforth”
It’s rumored that lead songwriter and sole permanent member of King Krule, Archy Marshall, once turned down an opportunity to work with Kanye West because he ‘couldn’t be bothered.’ It’s not likely he knew the bullet he was ultimately dodging with that flippant act, but it should still be enough to put him on anyone’s radar. ‘Seaforth’ is the lead single from his upcoming fourth album ‘Space Heavy’ and it sounds exactly like what that title suggests. It’s a swirly sonic cocktail that is sure to help your next playlist sound more distinguished.
Mac DeMarco “20200817 Proud True Toyota”
In case you missed it, Mac DeMarco released a totally batshit 199-song album of throwaway tracks and demos called ‘One Wayne G’ a few weeks ago. Since there’s probably no way you’re ever going to be crazy enough to listen to the whole thing, just note that the best tracks are the ones with actual titles. ‘Proud True Toyota’ is a short and sweet ode to a refurbed beater car. It’s goofy as fuck, catchy as hell, and features some pretty great guitar licks. Essentially, it’s the exact recipe for a classic Mac track.
Frankie Cosmos “must be nice (single tear)”
As if the band’s latest and fantastic album ‘Inner World Peace’ wasn’t already enough, lead singer and songwriter, Greta Kline, decided to release a collection of rough drafts and previously unheard tracks from the sessions in which the album came to life. This new-to-us handful of songs provides an intimate look at Kline’s delicate songwriting process. ‘must be nice (single tear)’ is a previously discarded cut that would top most indie artists’ best work. We don’t want to get your hopes up, but it might even inspire you to finish that bedroom EP you started three summers ago.