This may be the most evolutionary year for rock music in recent decades. Lyricism and noise are what fans crave. In case you have not been listening or you are an avid fan looking for some bangers to add to those summer and swimming playlists, here are six of the best rock songs from 2021 for you to jam along to.
1. “Sunglasses”- Black Country, New Road
When you are heading to the beach or walking out your door on a warm sunny day, you best be sporting some shades. Earlier this year, Black Country, New Road released one of the most highly acclaimed debut LPs in recent years with For The First Time. It is in part to their confident lyrics.
“I am invincible in these sunglasses
I am ‘modern-Scott Walker’
I’m a surprisingly smooth talker
And I’m invincible in these sunglasses”
A bop if there ever was one, this song begins with a catchy slow drag before breaking into a head-banging song that includes great lines such as, “Leave Kanye out of this!” It is the perfect tune to build your own confidence and swagger on a day too bright to show the world your eyes. Go rock those new sunglasses.
2. “Vendetta”- Iceage
Danish rockers Iceage have evolved from a “straight-up mad at the world punk band” to anthem shouting soothsayers on their newest release Seek Shelter. “Vendetta” has a beat so infectious paired with a great rhythm guitar sound. We think it would be inappropriate not to repeatedly nod your head and tap your foot along with this song. Swaying along from side to side is also recommended.
Maybe it’s the “bop bop bop bop bop bop bop bop bop’s” or the great use of multi-instrumental techniques that have us coming back to this song; it is certainly one not to leave out of your summer arsenal.
3. “Narrator”- Squid
The best song on another great debut record from 2021, Squid’s Bright Green Field, “Narrator” is a song that evolves from a foot-tapper with groovy basslines and twangy guitars into a two-parter with screeching vocals from the featured London based singer Martha Skye Murphy.
“I’ll play my part!” is shouted all across this song which is about controlling your narrative. That is an excellent theme for the summer season, whether it means spontaneous days off or road tripping with your best mates. Hop in the car and zoom down the road into a day you will not forget with Squid.
4. “Live In The Dream”- St. Vincent
Looking for something a little more chill? St. Vincent’s newest album Daddy’s Home is one of the best records this year in any genre and offers some more subtleness. Produced alongside the mastermind of Jack Antonoff, Annie Clarke’s solo project reflects on themes from early 70’s soft rock. “Live In The Dream” is a song to smile and vibe along to as summer memories are made. It is wonderfully arranged and ends with a slow but complex guitar solo reminiscent of Prince and has heavenly vocals layered throughout.
If this summer is supposed to be a dream, this track is a wonderful compliment to shoot for the stars with.
5. “Can’t Talk, Won’t”- Coach Party
Coach Party is a female-fronted four-piece rock group from England’s Isle of Wight and in April they released their second EP After Party. “Can’t Talk, Won’t” is the first track on the six-song release and it has all the makings of a classic pop-punk-sounding summer tune. It even has some “Na na na na na na’s” that everyone loves. It is one of those songs you can put on and everyone will dance to. It’s catchy, rocky, and has different pitches throughout.
There is just something charming and classic about singer and bassist Jess Eastwood’s talent in both roles. She’s complemented by her bandmate’s ability to play. This is simply a summer jam.
6. “Marlene Dietrich”-Black Midi
This is what falling in love during summer is about. Black Midi’s highly anticipated second full-length album Cavalcade met expectations from fans for its ability to rock, but this song which is beautiful and slower than other’s on the record is all about tenderness and soothing love.
Marlene Dietrich was a German-born American actress who was at one point a huge star admired for her talent. She was a star in the old era of entertainment. Black Midi sings this endearing song about her, but it could be about any special someone in your life. Summer love is what it’s all about. You know that moment when you see someone you care about deeply and the whole room lights up with their presence? The band captures just that feeling just in the song’s opening.
“Under soft lights with a taped back face
Our soft-spoken queen takes her place on the stage
As the big curtains open, the last troops run in quick
For the one and only, Marlene Dietrich”
Whoever your lover is this summer, maybe this could be your next ode to them.
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