Is your current rotation of tunes leaving you a little uninspired? Hit pause on the oldies and make space for some new artists and songs set to transform your playlist. We’ve curated a list of our recent sounds you need to check out, from Gaga’s latest bops to a few Aussie favourites.
Plus, we’ve partnered with the entertainment-lovers over at Optus to bring you a binge-worthy series called The Download every Friday for the next month. From movies to music, games and podcasts, here’s everything you need to add to your rotation, stat. And the best part? Optus are helping you make it all happen, slinging unlimited data for a day of your choosing for only an additional $5—it’s time to hit play on these fresh new beats.
Hallucinate
Dua Lipa
Treat your ears to not just one but 11 shiny new tracks from Dua Lipa’s latest album ‘Future Nostalgia.’ Pitchfork describes the album as “a collection of sophisticated, hard-bodied pop-funk that gradually gives way to slick, Kylie Minogue-inspired disco.” In other words, get your bell-bottom dancing pants out. The latest single from the drop, ‘Hallucinate,’ doesn’t deviate from the brief and plugs that Madonna-sized hole in your heart. Don’t go past the newly-released video for this one, which leans into full-on psychedelic vibes with larger-than-life animations and retro colourways.
Black Parade
Beyoncé
In the wake of one of the most important cultural movements of our time, Beyoncé is bringing her message to the world with a powerful one-off single released on Juneteenth. For those who don’t know, Juneteenth is recognised as the day the last slaves in Texas—Beyoncé’s home state—found out that they were free. This strong call to action is a rallying cry and a reminder to persevere, and it certainly deserves a spot on your playlist as all proceeds will be donated to backing black-owned small businesses.
Waves Of Gold
Hayden James Ft. Azteck And Paije
Fresh off the press, the Sydneysider who kept our spirits high during lockdown with his live backyard sessions is back it again. This time the producer is coming in hot with a 13-track compilation of the best of the best titled ‘Waves of Gold,’ alongside a fresh single of the same name featuring Azteck and English vocalist Paije. Pour yourself a drink and make Friday night a magic one with ‘Waves of Gold.’
Say Something
Eskimo Joe
Good things come to those who wait and Perth-based alt-rock favourites Eskimo Joe are back, proving they’ve still got some serious splashes to make in the music scene. Their latest number ‘Say Something’ comes after a seven-year hiatus and satisfies that need for an uplifting bop with notes of nostalgia woven in. Chuck on your favourite threads from the mid-2000s and cue this one up right now.
Together
Sia
Let’s be real, we all love a tune from our favourite Adelaide artist Sia Furler—or just Sia as she’s known to the masses. She’s been keeping under the radar for the past few years, but with her directorial debut, Music, tipped to make waves in the coming months, we’re being treated to a sneak peek at what’s in-store. ‘Together’ touts all the magic, wonder and whimsy that Sia is beloved for, with energetic pop notes and a catchy chorus. We’re here for all the sparkle and sass Sia is serving up with this one.
Love Somebody
Alex Preston And Rion S
Mark Knight (Toolroom Records) tells us that Alex Preston is one of his favourite producers to watch out for in 2020, and we couldn’t agree more. Alex is heading up the curation of Toolroom’s Poolside Album for 2020, and hot new tracks like ‘Love Somebody,’ ‘Bits & Pieces’ and ‘Stand Up’ already have us hooked. Consider your summer playlist sorted.
Rain On Me
Lady Gaga Ft. Ariana Grande
If like us you’ve been chomping at the bit for some new Gaga since she took the world by storm with ‘A Star Is Born’ you’ll be pleased to know the wait is over. While this collection doesn’t feature a dashing Bradley Cooper, you’ll find a slew of collabs on her latest album ‘Chromatica.’ From Elton John to BLACKPINK and of course Ariana Grande in electro-dance-bop number ‘Rain On Me,’ lift your lockdown spirits with a listen to this album right now.
4bit
#1 Dads
Pour yourself a decadent red wine and a bubble bath and prepare to zen the hell out with #1 Dads latest masterpiece ‘Golden Repair.’ A beautifully-considered collection of works, the nine-track album slings poignant lyrics paired with melodic piano moments—it’s okay if you feel a bit teary listening to it. Kick-start your listening with ‘4bit’ where singer-songwriter darling Tom Lansek croons “I feigned love to fall in it” through your speakers. You won’t regret it.
Like It Is
Kygo Ft. Zara Larsson And Tyga
If your heart is crying out for Kygo’s signature soft, ethereal house sound, you’ll be pleased to know his collab number ‘Like It Is’ serves this up in spades. Starring Zara Larsson’s sweet vocals and dashes of hip-hop from Tyga, we don’t blame you if after listening to this one you carry on to download his entire 2020 release ‘Golden Hour.’ The king of tropical house brings you Whitney Houston, OneRepublic and Sasha Sloan moments on the one-hour long studio album.
Hit play on these fresh new tunes with Optus. Changing the game with a new Unlimited Data Day add-on for just an additional $5, Optus is letting you treat yourself by streaming, watching and playing all day. For use on mobile phone devices in Australia only. Fair Go Policy applies. Not for commercial use. Add on may be withdrawn from sale without notice. Full terms and conditions apply.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Optus and proudly endorsed by Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.