At this point Sigrid's songs are all blurring together. When her debut album 'Sucker Punch' does eventually arrive in March it'll probably just be a string of singles. But the short, uplifting Don't Feel Like Crying does stand out above the rest, especially for the trill on "nooo" that takes us soaring into the melismatic chorus, before a sassy little rap section. It's exactly what Sigrid is known for - brilliant pop.
Add to playlist.
Ariana Grande - 7 rings
At this point Ariana is an unstoppable force, undoubtedly the biggest popstar on the planet. 7 rings embodies that with its braggadocio lyrics and repeated "I want it / I got it" in the chorus, leaning further into hip-hop with its sparse production and trap beat. The hook, though, is a riff on My Favourite Things - a trite reference - and it's hard to shake the feeling this has all been done better before, Ariana morphing to fit a Rihanna-shaped hole.
Worth a listen.
Mabel - Don't Call Me Up
Mabel has so far largely seen success alongside other artists. But Don't Call Me Up sees her going alone in more ways than one, with a catchy slice of tropical dance-pop that's a middle finger to an ex. "'Cause the truth is, without you boy I'm stronger," she sings in the chorus, before an emphatic "I'm over you." It's her boldest, catchiest moment yet.
Worth a listen.
Call Me Loop - Silly Boy
Yet another bop from Call Me Loop. Silly Boy has a sparse, bubbly Scandi vibe (likely due to production from Swedish duo TEOFRANS) as she scalds her beau for overthinking and getting cold feet. It's sugary sweet yet sexy, coy and honest. Listen to it again when her forthcoming EP is out in March.
Worth a listen.
MIO - With Love
With Love is taken from the Swedish newcomer's new EP 'So What Do We Do Now?' and it's as bold and clean and addictive as the best Scandi-pop. The verses are heartfelt before lurching into a mid-tempo chorus that gently bubbles with staccato bass synth. The remains of the EP is as stylistically varied as it is enjoyable, though With Love is the real crowning jewel.
Worth a listen.
Papa Roach - Come Around
Look, allow me my emo moment, ok?
