After three months of quarantine due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, my playlists began to get repetitive. While listening to jazz and classic rock is fun, I decided to check out new music in genres in which I do not typically listen. I noticed that I have started to listen to more solo artists and jam bands. Here are a few new editions to my playlist:

The song “Want Me Back,” by Cody Fry featuring Cory Wong is considered a jam band. This song has a consistent back beat that will be stuck in your head for days on end. Cody Fry, who competed on the TV show, “American Idol,” invited the guitarist from a jam band, referred to as Vulfpeck, to jam along to his song. “Want Me Back” is off the album titled “Flying.” Fry also produced a new single “Thinking About You” which was released in June 2020. 

The song “No Signal,” by the fusion jazz group Chon, incorporates ways to manipulate the sound of the measure to the listener. The song is written in 4/4 time signature. However, during the song, the placement of the drum sets snare drums manipulates the listeners ears to think the time signature has changed. This is unique yet easy to spot since most pop songs are in 4/4 time signature. 

The Weeknd’s new hit single “Blinding Lights,” gives listeners an energetic feel and nostalgic ’80s sounds. The song has become popular on the TikTok app along with a trending dance. “Blinding Lights” is currently ranked No. 5 on Billboard Top 100. 

Listeners who want an album to put on in the background of social events after the coronavirus pandemic, should consider the album “Where the Light Is,” by the pop band, Surfaces. The band aims to experiment with its sounds, creating a chill sound and vibe for listeners, which  is shown in the song “Beautiful Day.” The song features a sample, which is a pre-recorded sound, of the beach to engage the listeners into thinking they are at the beach. Then it introduces a saxophone to play the melody. The band also uniquely plays around with the idea of continuing its  songs into the next song. 

While these are only a few songs I have been listening to, everyday I come across new songs. What new songs have you discovered during quarantine? Email Slateae@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming commentary.

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