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Hear new music from OK Go, Oister Boy, Jorja Smith, Stephen Sanchez, Danger Mouse, and MJ Lenderman

Music You Should Know - Danger Mouse
Music You Should Know - Danger MousePhoto: Maya Hayuk | Graphic: Natalia Toledo

by Jade and Diane

August 10, 2023

This week hear new songs from OK Go, Minneapolis punk band Oister Boy, Jorja Smith, Danger Mouse and Jemini, Stephen Sanchez and MJ Lenderman.

OK Go — “This”

What have OK Go been up to? Lead singer and guitarist Damian Kulash has been busy co-directing a film with his wife, Kristin Gore (who also wrote the screenplay), about the Beanie Baby phenomenon. The film stars Zach Galifianakis, Elizabeth Banks, and Sarah Snook to name a few and there was a need for some “unbelievably joyful music.” Take one listen to “This” and see if they hit the target.

Oister Boy — “By The Lake”

With playful instrumentals, emphatic lyricism, singable melodies, and youthful energy, Oister Boy are on their way to underground pop-punk stardom. The band recently sold out 7th Street Entry to an enthusiastic crowd of devoted followers. Their new record Wycliff St. combines guy-and-gal lead vocals; singing and screaming in unison and harmony; and fuzzy, dynamic, and technically savvy guitar riffs. “By The Lake” is an especially catchy single, made strong by the band’s undeniable spirit. – Diane

Jorja Smith — “Go Go Go”

British singer Jorja Smith is letting indie-rock drums lead the way in her new song, “Go Go Go.” The song will be on Smith’s sophomore album, falling or flying, which will be out September 29.

Stephen Sanchez — “Be More”

The viral social media star, Stephen Sanchez, will be releasing his debut full-length album, Angel Face, September 22. The crooner's old-school classic sounds continue with "Be More," where delicate and shimmering piano grounds what feels like the last song at prom with its slow-dance love sounds.

Danger Mouse and Jemini — “Brooklyn Basquiat”

The NSFW song from Danger Mouse and Jemini, “Brooklyn Basquiat,” sounds like a throwback to another time, and that's because it's from their project that was started and shelved in 2003. After around 20 years, the project is getting dusted off and will be out officially later this month.

MJ Lenderman — “Knockin”

A trend in 2023 has been musicians taking old live fan favorite songs and heading into the studio to record an “official” version. MJ Lenderman did exactly this with “Knockin,” his ode to a cover version of a Dylan song and true love. This is the first solo music from the guitarist for Wednesday since his album, Boat Songs, came out last year.

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Music You Should Know
Photo: Caity Krone | Graphic: Natalia Toledo
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Music You Should Know - Jorja Smith
Photo: Ivor Alice | Graphic: Natalia Toledo