Song of the Week: Iceage, “Star”
Every Thursday, the Paste staff curates their five favorite songs of the week, elevating one to the prestigious title of “Song of the Week.” This time around, the honor goes to Iceage for their captivating track, “Star.”
A Surprising Twist from Iceage
Who would have predicted that Denmark’s Iceage would serve up their catchiest track since 2018? “Star” marries pop sensibilities with the band’s signature intensity. The song echoes back to the melodic punk roots of their debut album, New Brigade. Now, with influences like Dean Blunt in their arsenal, Iceage’s Elias Rønnenfelt becomes a formidable force, showcasing a vocal delivery that tantalizes with eccentric pronunciations—get ready for him to spellbind listeners by proclaiming “Louisiana” in a way even dialect experts would find perplexing.
Rønnenfelt’s evocative lyrics collide with edgy instrumentation, painting a vivid picture of a gothic landscape filled with high-stakes emotion. Lines like “every inch of my earth and sky you can occupy, cover me entirely” create a haunting backdrop, blended with lively jangle guitar riffs, pounding drums, and an infectious bassline.
Dive into the Sound
Bill Orcutt & Mabe Fratti: “Almost Walking”
Bill Orcutt’s experiments with sound are always a treat, but when paired with Guatemalan avant-garde cellist Mabe Fratti, the duo delivers an atmospheric piece titled “Almost Walking.” With Orcutt’s guitar acting as the melodic linchpin, Fratti’s cello interweaves beautifully, creating a tapestry of textures that ascend and resonate.
This composition is a delicate dance between abstraction and melody, showcasing how two disparate sounds can intertwine in unexpected harmony. It’s as if they’ve crafted an ethereal castle made solely of notes, and you’re invited to wander its corridors.
Explore the Collaboration
Check out “Almost Walking” here.
DJ Sabrina The Teenage DJ: “HeartsDesires”
DJ Sabrina The Teenage DJ reinvents the boundaries of electronic music with her latest offering, “HeartsDesires.” Known for her expansive creativity, Sabrina’s new track spans an impressive eight minutes, layering found sounds with glossy production and a hypnotic backbeat reminiscent of ’90s house and techno.
What makes “HeartsDesires” particularly engaging is its collage-like structure, absorbing influences and experimental elements as it spirals forward. As each layer stacks upon the next, listeners find themselves lost in its delightful density—a hallmark of Sabrina’s artistry that defies traditional genre constraints.
Experience the Vibes
Listen to “HeartsDesires” here.
Thomas Dollbaum: “Dozen Roses”
In “Dozen Roses,” Thomas Dollbaum delves deep into nostalgia and memory, painting a picture of lost friendships and the fleeting nature of time. Following the release of his EP Drive All Night, which paid homage to a late friend, this new song reflects a profound connection to their shared past, encapsulating it beautifully.
Accompanied by talented musicians, including Nick Corson and MJ Lenderman, Dollbaum captures the raw essence of nostalgia over five poignant minutes. The song weaves threads of recollection with imagery of “a lonesome ocean” and “dozen roses,” reminding us of the precious moments that slip away. It’s a tribute not only to individual experience but to the universality of growing apart.
Connect with the Melody
Touch Girl Apple Blossom: “Vacation”
If you’re in the mood for upbeat, heartfelt pop-guitar music, look no further than Touch Girl Apple Blossom. Signing to Calvin Johnson’s label, they’ve embraced their roots while generating a fresh sound with their latest track, “Vacation.”
Drawing inspiration from indie rock legends like The Twerps and Orange Juice, this song features jangly riffs, anthemic melodies, and an exuberant snare drum that drives the energy. The band’s knack for catchy arrangements combined with their vibrant, fuzz-laden sound makes “Vacation” a delightful anthem for sunshine-filled days.
Enjoy this Fresh Tune
Bonus Mention: Lainey Wilson’s “4x4xU” Edit
Additionally, check out the magnificent edit by Chuquimamani-Condori of Lainey Wilson’s “4x4xU.” Although it isn’t available on mainstream streaming platforms, you can download the MP3 here for an exclusive listening experience.
This week’s selection showcases a rich variety of sounds and styles, offering a little something for every music lover. Whether you lean towards the gothic musings of Iceage or the experimental vibes of Orcutt and Fratti, there’s an expansive world of music waiting to be explored.
