New Music Review #52

Another ten songs you need to hear!

Brad Paisley feat. Mick Jagger - Drive of Shame

Mick Jagger makes this surprise appearance on Paisley's country song. It might be choc-full of country cliches but it's a jaunty, upbeat little number with Jagger's guest appearance a fresh highlight. (7/10)

Callum Beattie - We Are Stars

Coming across as a cross between Coldplay and Keane this is a lovely little ballad with singable lyrics, a radio-friendly vibe and an emotive heart. (7/10)

Elkie Brooks - Love Ain’t Something You Can Get For Free

Classic singer Brooks returns with this retro-sounding love ballad that fits nicely into her already established discography, complimenting her new greatest hits. (7/10)

Imagine Dragons - Thunder

It's a complete rip-off of Mia's 'Paper Planes' but if you forget that this is actually a catchy, quirky little number that works for the band. Though it's so close... (7/10)

Kygo and Ellie Goulding - First Time

It loses a bit of its momentum when it get to Kygo's bland cookie-cutter instrumental chorus but whilst Goulding's vocals are the focus it works. (6.5/10)

Massive Wagons - Back To the Stack

Raising money for charity, this intentional Status Quo sound-a-like is a fun musical pastiche and whilst it might not have the same pop catchiness of the original band this is a fun and memorable tribute. (6.5/10)

Nickelback - Song On Fire

Nickelback have had more memorable songs recently but this mid-tempo soft-rock number still boasts Kroeger's likeable vocals and a powerful chorus. (6.5/10)

OneRepublic - No Vacancy

Ryan Tedder is a little bit on autopilot here but if you're a fan of OneRepublic it's nice to hear more from them. (6/10)

Tom Grennan - Praying

With hints of Imagine Dragons this is a dramatic indie number with rocky hints. (7/10)

Zac Brown Band - Real Thing

At the other end of the musical spectrum after their powerful 'Holiday Road' cover this is a more subtle affair and, though sounding at times like the musical equivalent of Trump's 'Keep America Great' in terms of business, is a slow yet catchy number. (6.5/10)