Readers of That Grape Juice know how passionate we are about music – whether that be past or present.
However, unlike our other segments – Retro Rewind, TGJ Replay, and From The Vault – The Pop Stop is the most in-depth look at Pop songs that may have flown under the radar over the last week that you should know, rather they be from music’s biggest stars or those on the rise.
This week, we want to highlight cuts from Zara Larsson, Conan Gray, Madison Beer, and Samuel Mancini.
Join us inside…
Conan Gray – Overdrive
After winning critics and fans over with his hits such as ‘Maniac’ and ‘Wish You Were Sober’ from his debut album ‘Kid Krow’ in 2020, Gray kicks into fifth gear for his latest single ‘Overdrive.’ Built around the perfect combination of cinematic synths and sensual lyrics, ‘Overdirve’ is the best coming of age film to be put into song. Made to be blared with the windows down and the wind in your hair, Gray sets himself up for an early song of the summer contender.
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Zara Larsson – Look What You’ve Done
In a year when disco had made a huge resurgence, thanks to artists like Dua Lipa and Kylie Minogue, pop’s most out-spoken princess has made the sound all her own with her latest single ‘Look What You’ve Done.’ The track – taken from her upcoming ‘Poster Girl’ album – serves the perfect disco-infused remedy for those who are rising from the ashes of a lost relationship. In the club or at home, ‘Look What You’ve Done,’ was made for the dance floor where ever you are.
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Madison Beer – Blue
It’s been many years in the making for Madison Beer to release her debut album ‘Life Support.’ However, it was well worth the wait as it has become an early standout for top albums of the year. Leading the charge is album track ‘Blue.’ The track is a sleek slice of synth-laden alt-pop filled with crooning and lyrics reminiscent of Lana Del Rey. The moments of vulnerability are mirrored with resilience to showcase the strength that comes from leaving a toxic relationship. A true standout from one of pop’s rising stars, ‘Blue’ shows that pop is in good hands for the generation to come.
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Samuel Mancini – Midnight
After making his debut alongside Olivia Wilde in the 2015 film ‘Love the Coopers,’ Samuel Mancini decided to pursue his other passion: music. He released his debut EP ‘Higher’ in 2017, but fully delivered with his debut album ‘Feed The Fire’ this week. Case-in-point, ‘Midnight,’ which features Freelance. Built around a blend of trap beats and heavy synth production, Mancini allows his gorgeous vocal harmonies do the talking. Short, but oh so sweet, ‘Midnight’ is destined to become a staple in those late-night drive playlists, and deservedly so. A welcome debut, that showcases the potential that is to come.
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Do you agree with our picks?