POPSUGAR UK

All the New Music We've Added to Our Playlists in March

12/03/2021 - 11:30 AM

With the third month of 2021 comes a wave of optimism and a wave of new music. Thanks to the UK roadmap being announced [1] last month, it seems as though we're all starting to feel a semblance of hope and new beginnings, and while we might not be getting back to normality just yet, we are slowly finding new ways to get through — with listening to great new music being one of them.

With so many songs set to be released this month (and this year, undoubtedly), it can be hard to keep track of who's doing what. Well, that's where we come in. Every month, we round up the best of the best new tracks from the UK music scene. Whether it's another one of Kara Marni [2]'s '80s mixes or a hauntingly beautiful disco tune from rising star Flownn [3], we've got the songs to see you through this new year.

Just one day into March, we've seen Sinead Harnett announce a new album [4], Ready is Always Too Late, a brand-new record from Zak Abel, and a heavenly new video from neo-soul artist Greentea Peng — with even more new music on the cards from the likes of Jessie Ware and Arlo Parks.

Read on to discover the rest of the tracks that made it on our March playlist.

"Be Kind" by Zak Abel

This release marks the first single we've had from Zak Abel in almost a year, as he's gearing up to release an entirely new album. "Be Kind" was written by Abel last year "in response to the division and intolerance that exists on social media, and generally in the world right now", according to his Twitter [5]. On the context of the song, Abel added that "I wish that we could treat each other with more kindness, even and especially people who might have a different experience of the world to you."

"The Last Man On Earth" by Wolf Alice

A hauntingly beautiful tune from British alt-rock band Wolf Alice, "The Last Man on Earth" is a song about "the arrogance of humans", according to lead singer Ellie Rowsell [6]. The first single to be released by the band since 2017, it's a simple, slow song with harmonious vocals and a breathy chorus.

"Nah It Ain't The Same" by Greentea Peng

"Nah It Ain't The Same" is exactly the type of single you'd expect to hear from South London's Greentea Peng. Described by Peng herself as "an expression and exploration of my utter confusion and inner conflicts amidst shifting paradigms", the track features syncopated rhythms, husky tones, and melismatic vocals.

"Open Up the Heavens" by Jade Bird

Jade Bird's latest offering is perfect for fans of Haim and Pale Waves. It's a fun and upbeat track with serious '70s vibes, and Bird's distinctive vocals do well to evoke visions of screaming along to your favourite girl band at a summer festival. Bring. it. on.

"Interruption" by Tiana Blake

Tiana Blake is a name that everyone seems to be talking about at the moment, and it's for good reason. A South London songstress with a heavenly voice, her breezy R&B vocals and old school influences truly come out to play on her latest track, "Interruption". One for fans of '90s divas like Destiny's Child, Brandy, and Ciara, Tiana Blake is one to watch.

"Boys Make Promises" by Issey Cross

London based Issey Cross just released her second ever single, "Boys Make Promises" and it's a song that's definitely worth listening to. One for fans of Tove Lo, Anne-Marie, and MØ, the single is an electric anthem with a piercing chorus that's entirely dedicated to the fact that boys can be an absolute nightmare. Vocally, it's got a shrill Lorde-esque vibe, with frantic frequencies that wouldn't feel out of place on a Billie Eilish [7] album. You've been warned.

"Exception" by Sasha Keable

It's been a whole two years since we last heard Sasha Keable's soulful voice, so her new single "Exception" comes as quite a surprise. An expressive ballad about difficult relationships, the track is an ode to Keable's extensive vocal range and impressive timbre. It starts off pretty slow, but eventually it builds up into a high tempo track with a thick and textured sound.

"These Drugs" by Baby Queen

Self-proclaimed sycophant Baby Queen has laid all her cards on the table with her new track, "These Drugs". The song is an honest retelling of her past struggles, detailing her experiences with drugs. "I wrote this song when I was in a really bad place which was characterised mostly by this idea that I wasn't a good person and didn't deserve good things," the singer told NME [8]. Her raw storytelling makes for a truly compelling listen, and one that's surprisingly upbeat and glittery for a song that's all about struggle.

"Addicted" by Jorja Smith

First played on Annie Mac's Future Sounds show on 10th March, Jorja Smith's brand new single showcases her honeyed vocals like never before. According to Smith, the song is about "focusing on wanting the full attention of someone who's not giving enough (or any) when they should be."

"Leave the Door Open" by Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak and Silk Sonic

A collaboration between the silky-voiced Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak seems like it was inevitable, and the result is finally here. "Leave the Door Open" is a gentle, jazzy number with seriously smooth vocals, and very funky shirts.

"Anxious" by AJ Tracey

AJ Tracey's latest release, "Anxious" marks his first solo single in over a year. A trap-inspired track, the song details Tracey's (many) successes over the years and acts as a gentle reminder of how well he's doing. Its catchy lyrics, fast tempo, and swanky London visuals make it a strong contender for any playlist.

"My One" by BEKA

BEKA is an exciting new R&B artist who made her debut in October last year. Her latest release, "My One" is an upbeat, poppy track that acts as a positive declaration of love. She's previously collaborated with the likes of HONNE and joan, and has a new EP coming out later this year, so she's definitely one to get on your radar this month.

"Suitcase of Sins" by Tiggs Da Author

"Suitcase of Sins" is the latest offering from South London rapper Tiggs Da Author. It's a poignant track with an important message, as Tiggs contemplates whether he'll still get into heaven with the 'suitcase of sins' he carries with him. One for fans of Samm Henshaw, Leon Bridges and Michael Kiwanuka, this single sees Tiggs pair a gospel-infused chorus with reflective lyrics and a fast tempo.


Source URL
https://www.popsugar.co.uk/entertainment/best-new-music-march-2021-48187612