Must-Hear New Pop From MILCK, Starley, Era Istrefi, Amy Shark & Dagny

Mike Wass | June 8, 2018 2:54 pm
Amy Shark's 'I Said Hi' Video
The Aussie indie-pop star follows up 'Adore' with the feisty 'I Said Hi.'

I’m taking a break from writing The Drop this week (it will be back on June 15), but I couldn’t let New Music Friday pass without highlighting some of the best pop releases. Let’s start with something deliriously upbeat. MILCK went viral after performing “Quiet” at 2017’s historic Women’s March On Washington. The singer/songwriter then signed to Atlantic Records and released a well-received EP called This Is Not The End. Things are going really, really well for her as the joyous, triumphant “Oh My My (What A Life)” attests. I sure do love a happy ending.

Starley’s “Love Is Love” is similarly autobiographical and celebratory. The Australian pop star, who landed a worldwide hit with a remix of “Call On Me,” came out last year and documents her journey to self-acceptance on her inspiring new single. Another singer coming off a global smash is Era Istrefi. The Albanian diva landed a US deal on the back of “Bonbon” and comes through with a summery, reggae-infused bop called “Prisoner.” Those Rihanna comparisons with only get louder after this.

If you’re looking for something a little moodier, may I suggest Amy Shark’s “Don’t Turn Around.” The Aussie singer/songwriter broke big with “Adore” and the followed it up with the defiant “I Said Hi.” She continues landing emotional body blows with the latest taste of her much-anticipated debut LP, Love Monster. As far as I know, Dagny doesn’t have immediate plans to release an album but she already has more than enough good songs for one. “Used To You” is yet another finely-calibrated pop anthem, this time about relationship fatigue. She can do no wrong. Listen here.

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