Foo Fighters are on hiatus, but Kendrick is back — so goes the music world. Just when you think you’ve hit a new low, some amazing surprise pops up to bring some light back into the world. So, if you’re feeling bummed about Dave and the Foos kicking back for a bit, revel in some of these new jams and get your mind off of your troubles.
10. TOKiMONSTA feat. Jonny Pierce – “Giving Up”
“Mini” only in track length, TOKiMONSTA’s Fovere (available now via Young Art Records) is a star-studded expansion of the LA beatsmith’s production palette. After premiering the Anderson .Paak-featuring “Put It Down” in November, TOKiMONSTA has followed it up with the unexpectedly celestial “Giving Up”. Enlisting the vocals chops of Jonny Pierce and the low-end pulse of funk maestro Erick “Jesus” Coomes of Lettuce, TOKiMONSTA has crafted a slightly melancholy take on dream pop. Pierce takes the lead on this cut, TOKiMONSTA showcasing just a small taste of lighthearted, effervescent club culture about a minute in. –Derek Staples
09. Alyeska – “EverGlow'”
Fun fact of the day! Alyeska is apparently an archaic Aleut spelling of the word Alaska, which itself translates to “great land.” Alyeska also happens to be the name chosen by LA-based musician Alaska Reid for her retro-leaning indie rock outfit. Together with Ben Spear and Enzo Scardapane, Reid digs up some classic ’90s alt rock sounds, her powerful vocals leading the way. “EverGlow” has been a highlight in live performances for a little while, but it’s no wonder Reid and co. recorded the tune properly, presumably in time for Alyeska’s upcoming debut album, which is expected sometime this summer. –Adam Kivel
