This week, hear new songs from Olivia Rodrigo, Sampha, and a soundtrack-related track from Charli XCX. Also, dig into the latest from Julian Casablancas’ reassembled band The Voidz, and discover the sounds of Minnesota artist Smellkin Ernesto and Detroit band The Armed.

Olivia Rodrigo, “Vampire”

After a successful debut, SOUR, Olivia Rodrigo has released the first song from her sophomore album, GUTS. “Vampire” is a piano-driven ballad that builds about a life-sucking user of an ex. In a statement on her social media, Rodrigo said, “writing this song helped me sort through lots of feelings of regret, anger, and heartache.”

Sampha, “Spirit 2.0”

“Love will catch you / Spirit gon’ catch you” is how Sampha starts his new slow jam, “Spirit 2.0.” The staccato instrumentation jumps and skitters like dappled sunshine, and Sampha’s smooth voice soothes right over it.

The Voidz, “American Way”

Julian Casablancas kicked off the revival of The Voidz earlier this year, and the band has a number of shows lined up for the rest of 2023, so it makes sense to keep releasing new songs. “American Way,” however, is an unexpected song from the rockers. It’s a sparse and contemplative song about taking the blinders off and seeing the world the way it is.

Smellkin Ernesto, “long as I’ve got you”

Transracial Colombian adoptee Eric Johnson began making pop music in 2017 as he was also reconnecting with his birth family. It was also at that time that he discovered his birth name, hence Ernesto. The connection to his birth land of Colombia is important and is reflected throughout his music. Both cultures and languages come together on the catchy and bilingual track, “long as I’ve got you.” Smellkin Ernesto will open for Los Rolling Ruanas on Saturday, July 29, at The Cedar Cultural Center. – Natalia Toledo

Charli XCX, “Speed Drive”

The Barbie movie is unavoidable this summer, and the soundtrack seems like it will also be everywhere. Charli XCX’s excitable and sparkling “Speed Drive” gives a nod to the pop hit “Mickey” by Toni Basil (“Hey Mickey, you’re so fine/You’re so fine you blow my mind”) and possibly one to the Aqua “Barbie Girl” song. It’s a bit of mindless summer fun.

The Armed, “Sport of Form”

Hardcore collective The Armed are from Detroit and have a rotating cast of musicians. On their new album, Perfect Saviors, they appear to welcome Julien Baker to the fold with the song “Sport of Form.” Baker’s vocals join the song as it jumps from delicate to screaming.

Playlist