1. Austra, Utopia. Dystopia is more like it. Austra’s trademark combination of Katie Stelmanis’s detached arias and warm synths denotes a cold, robotic and futile future à la Bladerunner. Utopia, anchored by a dancing-with-myself house beat, is no different. From the Toronto band’s third album, Future Politics, due Jan. 20.
2. Drake, Sneakin’. Not only does this latest Drake effort boast rising star 21 Savage and a despondent intro akin to New Order’s Elegia, the Six God references emojis, chainsmoking, and GOATS on Sneakin’. (And we’re not talking the bleatin’ kind.) One of three new tracks released in the lead-up to Drake’s new project, More Life, available in December.
3. Duotang, Karma Needs to Come Around. With its punchy bass line reminiscent of The Knack, descending synths, and singer Rod Slaughter’s petulance, this song will make you rejoice over the return of Duotang. From the Winnipeg duo’s first album in 15 years, New Occupation, out on Mint Records. The pair perform Oct. 29 at 9910 with Slow Fresh Oil and The Uptights. Tickets available at yeglive.ca.
