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 Charli XCX, ABBA, Lindsey Buckingham, and Samuel Mancini.

Join us inside…

Charli XCX – Good Ones

After ample teasing, pop savant Charli XCX is back with her latest song, ‘Good Ones.’ The track is a synth-pop supernova that is less experimental that past songs, but just as good. Anchored by a pounding bass line and grooving synths, Charli XCX explores the loss of past relationships and her inability to keep a “good one.” Nonetheless, the subject matter paired with the out-of-this-world production pair to create an insatiable earworm from start to finish. Charli XCX once again delivers one of the best pop songs of the year.

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ABBA – Don’t Shut Me Down

After more than 40 years since their last album, ABBA is back with a pair of new singles from their upcoming ‘Voyage’ album (due out November 5). However, the best of the pair is ‘Don’t Shut Me Down,’ a disco-infused ballad that is classic ABBA. Across the track, the piano escalates before it quickly retreats, allowing the thumping chords and vocal harmonies to shine. While the subject matter may be more melancholy with the aftermath of a breakup, the song is nonetheless irresistible from start to finish. Once again, ABBA delivers a classic tune that could easily fit in with their most iconic hits. In short, ‘Don’t Shut Me Down’ proves how they got their legendary status in the music industry.

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Lindsey Buckingham – Scream

Lindsey Buckingham is back with new music. The former Fleetwood Mac member has just shared the jubilant new single ‘Scream’ from his upcoming self-titled LP (due out September 17). Built on a steady guitar line, twinkles of chimes, and delayed vocal hooks, the song builds until it reaches a euphoric fever pitch. Not too far removed from the sounds of classic Fleetwood Mac tunes, ‘Scream’ proves that Buckingham still has his Midas touch after all these years.

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Samuel Mancini – Infatuation

No stranger to producing pop gems (see the incredible ‘Midnight’), Samuel Mancini is back and better than ever with his latest song, ‘Infatuation.’ Serving as his first release from the deluxe edition of his ‘Feed The Fire’ mixtape, ‘Infatuation’ is purely captivating. The song is built around a Prince-like groove consisting of echoing pianos, sensual synths, and a sultry bass line. However, Mancini makes the song all his own with his silky vocals and charming charisma. The perfect song for any late-night playlist, ‘Infatuation’ is Mancini at his absolute best and shows the unlimited potential of what is to come.

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Do you agree with our picks?

Your thoughts?