The first of two tracks this week to feature Ariana Grande, Dance To This isn't much of a dance track but is a more mid-tempo jam. The anticipation of two of the year's biggest artists collaborating is perhaps insurmountable, especially following My My My! and No Tears Left To Cry. This feels a touch disappointing as a result, despite the polished production.
Worth a listen.
Nicki Minaj feat. Ariana Grande - Bed
This is probably the better of the Ariana tracks that sees Nicki Minaj courting a pop sound once again. "Got a bed with your name on it," sings a hushed Ariana with a wink. Bed, too, isn't much of a banger but it's slow burning and effortless, in stark contrast to their previous unsubtle collaboration Side To Side.
Add to playlist.
Rudimental & Major Lazer feat. Anne-Marie & Mr Eazi - Let Me Live
With so many artists on this it's hard to tell who did what. But Let Me Live marks the return of Anne-Marie to the Rudimental fold, having previously been their tour vocalist, which is cause for celebration. The summer vibes are strong on this one which should prove a favourite on the London collective's forthcoming album and on their inevitable festival appearances.
Worth a listen.
Martin Garrix feat. Khalid - Ocean
This is a more muted affair for the Dutch DJ, with orchestral strings and Khalid's soulful falsetto adding a cinematic touch. It still follows the typical dance structure and has the usual rock influence from Garrix, but you'll have to wait for a remix for a version that truly drops.
Worth a listen.
Bebe Rexha - I'm A Mess
I'm A Mess includes a writing credit from Meredith Brooks of Bitch fame, though whether she actually had some input or whether main writer Justin Tranter just ripped off her chorus is unclear. Rexha herself excels at this kind of guitar pop, but it all feels too controlled for the messy subject matter.
Worth a listen.
Betty Who - Just Thought You Should Know
The 80s vibes on this, the opening track on Betty Who's new EP, are exceptional. The snap of that snare drum! The chiming synths! The joyously cheesy melody! The remains of 'Betty, Pt. 1' - the Australian singer's first independent release since parting with RCA, excluding the theme song for the new series of Queer Eye - has a much more modern sound. This is exuberant pop from an underrated artist, but the 80s pastiche is where she really finds her groove.
Worth a listen.
