This Week in Music features new tracks from 30 Seconds to Mars, Chromeo, The Chainsmokers and Friendly Fires.
Thirty Seconds to Mars – AMERICA
Previously reviewed for their release of Dangerous Night, Thirty Seconds to Mars is an American rock band formed in 1998. They achieved worldwide fame with the release of their second album A Beautiful Lie in 2005. In 2009 the release of 'This Is War' showed a dramatic evolution in the band's musical style. As of September 2014, the band had sold over 15 million albums worldwide.
Released ahead of the album, 'Walk on Water' and 'Dangerous Night' foreshadow the continuing separation from their previous work. The songs on the album come as diverse as the country it was named after, with songs such as 'Rescue Me', 'One Track Mind', 'Love is Madness' and 'Hail to the Victor'. With the lead singers dominating vocals not matching the backing instruments for a change, this politically charged album allows the band take on a more contemporary style and do something they’ve not explored before.
Chromeo – Must’ve Been (feat. D.R.A.M)
Another band that’s been previously reviewed, Chromeo?is an?electro-funk duo from Canada, comprised of musicians Dave?Macklovitch?and Patrick Gemayel. Their sound comprises of soul, dance, electro, disco and funk.
D.R.A.M is a rapper, singer, songwriter and actor from Munich, Germany. Best known for his songs 'Cha Cha' and 'Broccoli', he also features on a number of tracks by artists, such as the Gorillaz.
'Must’ve Been' takes on a similar tone to their previous songs, containing comedic lyrics about the regrets of a relationship. Comprised of heavy drums and funky R&B, the band continue to follow their signature style in this latest track which will feature in the upcoming album, Head Over Heels.
The Chainsmokers – Everybody Hates Me
The Chainsmokers are an American DJ and production duo best known for their 2014 single, '#Selfie'. In March 2018, The Chainsmokers were ranked as the number one dance musician by Billboard Dance 100.
'Everybody Hates Me' contains a mild, mid-tempo beat with a hip-hop-orientated sound in the mix. The feeling of being dismayed rides heavily in the song, while lyrically it focuses on the struggle of low-self-esteem, but at the same time, it's about being in the public eye. This personal song strikes home with many who feel they’re constantly being judged while the gentle-tempo makes the listeners feel content.
Friendly Fires – Love Like Waves
Friendly Fires are an indie-rock band from Hertfordshire, England, who released their self-titled debut album on 1 September 2008. 'Love Like Waves' is their first release since 2012.
Unlike most bands who return to their music after a break, Friendly Fires have remained true to themselves and their style. This joyous pop tune is perfect for those sunny days on the beach with a cocktail in hand or it’s perfect for those days at home, giving you the same relaxed feeling as actually being on holiday!