Stephonne

“Want Me” single

(Glory Blue Music)

Stephonne Singleton, a Kansas City, Kansas, native who perhaps is best-known locally for his Late Night Theatre work, is releasing a brand-new single in April. It blew me away. The song comes not long after Stephonne’s 2018 album, Caged Bird Sings Songs About Red Beard, which I also enjoyed. “Want Me” is slow and sensual, with a sexy alternative-rock guitar and powerful, breathy vocals that combine alternative and R&B. The vocals are the definite highlight, but adding the melody of the bass, drums, piano and guitar makes the sound wonderfully atmospheric. It would be right at home in a steamy sex scene or at the end of an action movie in the ’90s or early 2000s. This is officially my new favorite from this amazing local artist. I can’t wait to hear more from him. Look for Stephonne at http://www.stephonne.com.

Vassy

“Concrete Heart” single

(Red Music)

Vassy’s voice can change so drastically that it’s like several vocalists packed into one. Any comparison to another artist only applies to a specific moment in part of a song. I’ve heard her sound like Lady Gaga, Marina Diamandis and even Cher. When I hear this song, I can already see the bodies dancing. The backbeat is stellar, and I’m in love with the fun piano that colors the background. “Concrete Heart” is an addictive dance song that I can listen to on repeat without getting tired of it. I’m keeping Vassy my upbeat playlists. The single is available on most online music platforms, such as iTunes and Spotify.

Sigrid

Sucker Punch

(Island)

This bright new album is the perfect way to usher in the warmer weather. Hailing from Norway, Sigrid is rocking the pop charts. She released music in 2017 but Sucker Punch is her first full-length album. Her voice is amazing. Sometimes she sounds a bit like Kesha, but her style of singing is completely different. And her singing style is oddly comparable to Nate Ruess of Fun or Regina Spektor, but her voice is different. All the songs from the album are rather addictive, and many are danceable. She’s started 2019 with a performance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and sold-out shows, and she will be joining Maroon 5 in June with shows across Europe. Sigrid is the fresh voice that pop music fans have been looking for. My favorite songs are “Sight of You,” “In Vain,” and “Don’t Kill My Vibe.”

Lauv & Troye Sivan

“I’m So Tired” single

(Lauv)

Everything Troye Sivan touches turns into rose gold. His collaborations have introduced some talented musical artists, and Lauv is definitely one of them. Their voices complement each other beautifully. Lauv is known mostly for touring with Ed Sheeran and for his popular song “I Like Me Better,” which was on regular radio rotation throughout much of 2017. Lauv’s songs are always on the sweeter side – fun and lighthearted. This song is just as lighthearted and catchy. He has released a variety of singles and a playlist called “I Met You When I Was 18,” but has yet to release an official full-length album. I’m hoping that means we will see much more music from Lauv. The single is fantastic. Check out the music video on YouTube.