On The Stereo #26

Gum Takes Tooth: stir us from our collective malaise. Pic: Al Overdrive

We single out new tunes from Gum Takes Tooth, Dolly Parton, Ariana Grande, Mandarin Orange, Pace and The Burning Hell

GUM TAKES TOOTH
BORROWED LIES
Rocket Recordings
A manipulated drumbeat that’s dragged from a dystopian nightmare propels this scuzzy call to arms. It’s a bludgeoning electro-psych alarm which is strangely pleasing to be battered by. If Gum Takes Tooth’s purpose is to stir us from our collective malaise, you can consider us roused. DH

ARIANA GRANDE
THANK U, NEXT
Universal Records
2018 has been absolutely massive for Ariana Grande and she is rounding out the year in style with her stunning new release. The track has struck a chord with fans all over the world and proves she has one of the finest voices in the industry. This is a compelling listen and one that highlights Grande’s overall appeal. LK

PACE
KINGS & QUEENS
Melody Records
At the heart of this catchy indie track is a welcome reminder that we should all appreciate the little things we have in life. The infectious melody and Jamie Ley’s uplifting vocals carry the message home and Bernard Butler brings some serious pedigree to production duties. We’re certainly cherishing this one. DH

MANDOLIN ORANGE
GOLDEN EMBERS
Yep Roc Records
Golden Embers expresses the pain of grief and the frustration born from putting on a brave face for the people around you. The song explores those emotions and the journey of rebuilding fractured lives and relationships in the face of death with an Americana-folk backing track and exquisite vocal harmonies. DC

DOLLY PARTON
JOLENE (NEW STRING VERSION)
RCA Records Label Nashville
Country legend Dolly Parton has released a stunning new version of her worldwide smash hit. The lush string arrangement adds another layer to what is already an iconic track and proves Parton has still got what it takes to impress. This new version will blow you away. LK

THE BURNING HELL
WHEN THE WORLD ENDS
BB*Island
With parent album Baby being given a 10th anniversary reissue, now is a perfect chance to remind ourselves of the strengths of Mathias Kom’s songwriting. Over a galloping lo-fi track (complete with 8-bit SFX) his humorous lyrics are enough to make you look forward to the approaching end of days, almost. DH

Words: Laura Klonowski, Duncan Haskell, Dave Chrzanowski

Listen to these songs and other On The Stereo selections on the Songwriting Magazine Spotify ‘Music Reviewed’ playlist.

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