On music: Five songs worth hearing this week

Discovering new music provides me with much joy – a moment of zen, maybe? – and listening to good music is a blissful, aural pleasure. Today, there’s so many different avenues for discovery, including Spotify, NPR Music, and through binge-watching shows on Netflix – even conventional FM radio. Never underestimate the value of your Shazam app to help identify new sounds, too.

Whether you’re still digging out of a winter storm or have already escaped to a sunny, warm beach on a Caribbean island, here are five songs I’ve recently discovered – some through serendipity – that are worth adding to your playlist:

1. Zero 7 - “Aurora,” featuring vocalist José González.

Famous for their downbeat jazzy rhythms, Zero 7 returns with a new single, “Aurora,” featuring Swedish vocal contributor José González. I’ve been a longtime fan of this European electronica duo, which helped launch the solo careers of not only González, but also Sía and Tina Dico.

2. Hatchie - “Without A Blush”

Stereogum described Hatchie’s music as a “cosmic concoction of dream-pop and shoegaze.” I would have to agree. Born Harriette Pilbeam, the 25-year-old Australian singer/songwriter’s music has been influenced by Mazzy Star, the Cocteau Twins and the Cranberries. “Without A Blush” is from Hatchie’s forthcoming June 2019 album ‘Keepsake.’

3. Jungle - “Heavy, California”

London soul collective Jungle (Josh “J” Lloyd-Watson and Tom “T” McFarland) caught my attention with the groovy disco-funk rhythm of “Heavy, California” from their newest album ‘For Ever.’ It’s full of excitement and guided by a funky ‘70s rhythmic and bass soundtrack. The video for the song is a must see as it’s filled with some outstanding dance moves.

4. Jessica Pratt - “As The World Turns”

“As The World Turns,” by Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter Jessica Pratt is quiet and subtle, a great song to listen to while going on an evening walk or caught up in pensive thoughts. Her new album, ‘Quiet Signs,’ reflects a sense of quiet meditation and calm. NPR Music called Jessica Pratt’s music “cosmic brilliance.” Indeed, this is a very soothing listen after a hectic day.

5. Real Estate - “Darling”

It’s been said that the members of the Brooklyn-based group Real Estate look like a bunch of school teachers who decided to quit their day jobs and form a great indie band. After listening to “Darling” from their 2017 album ‘In Mind,’ their dream pop sound reminded me of great indie groups like Phoenix and Tame Impala.