What’s new on the music scene?

There’s lots to be excited about, let’s take a look.

Elton John / Dua Lipa – “Cold Heart”

For a rush of smooth-as-silk pop with a hint of nostalgia, give Elton John and Dua Lipa’s “Cold Heart” a spin.

A superb collaboration, it’s built upon Elton John’s songs “Rocketman” and “Sacrifice.”

Vocals by this pair on this dance pop remix are a perfect compliment. Have a listen:


“Cold Heart” comes from Elton John’s recent “The Lockdown Sessions,” which hit the #1 spot in the UK charts. It’s on our playlist!

Comprised of collaborations with a variety of talented artists – including Miley Cyrus and Stevie Wonder – it’s a fantastic assortment of tracks you’ll want to delve into.

Aly & AJ – “Symptom of Your Touch”

American pop duo Aly & AJ are back with “Symptom of Your Touch,” a stellar synth-pop arrangement worthy of acclaim.

Shimmering guitars create a lush vibe, and the crystal-clear vocals by the California-based musicians are compelling.

In 2005, Ally & AJ’s debut studio album was certified gold. And last year, their re-released “Potential Breakup Song” won “Best Comeback song” at the MTV Video Music Awards. “Symptom” comes from their fourth studio album A Touch of the Beat Gets You Up on Your Feet Gets You Out and Then Into the Sun,” released last year.

In short?

It’s a great track from an album filled with excellent musicianship.

Carlos Santana “Joy”

Carlos Santana’s “Joy,” from his new “Blessings and Miracles” release, is pure electric guitar sizzle. It’s a superlative blues arrangement with a fun reggae beat we think you’ll love.

Grammy-winning musician Chris Stapleton, who also produced the track, adds vocals and guitar to the well-crafted song.

Other artists on “Blessings and Miracles” include Chick Corea and Rick Rubin. “Joy” is on our Playlist.

Bastille – “Thelma & Louise”

The always appealing English pop band Bastille have done it again with hit single “Thelma & Louise.” A fun drumbeat, lush synths and a great chorus make it a natural for radio and dance clubs.

It’s the perfect track to get us thinking about the warm days of summer and escaping to a new, sunny destination. Of course it’s based on the 1991 movie, “Thelma & Louise.”

“I wanted to write a love letter to that film,” says Bastille frontman Dan Smith. Job well done.

“Thelma & Louise” comes from Bastille’s just-released “Give Me the Future” album. It’s their third UK Number One album.

Fox and Bones – “A Changing of the Guard”

By now you may already be loving “A Changing of the Guard” from Fox and Bones.

The folk-pop duo from Portland released it last year ahead of new album “American Alchemy.” It features great vocals and harmonies within a strong, upbeat arrangement that includes a bright horn section.

The opening guitar is even a little reminiscent of The Doobie Brothers. What could be better?

Have a listen:

You can find their new album on their website, on iTunes, or at your local record store. Music Millennium, anyone?

George Ezra – “Anyone for You”

George Ezra is back on the music scene with jubilant, melodically captivating “Anyone for You.” It’s his first new music since “Staying at Tamara’s” in 2018, and it’s on our playlist.

Catchy lyrics, exuberant keyboards and Ezra’s distinct baritone make for the perfect lift.

Ezra’s new album “Gold Rush Kid” releases June 10th.

We’ll be watching for it!

That’s a wrap!

Thanks for supporting new music, live music and Portland’s music scene.

This is a good time to remind you, our loyal listeners, to support local Portland musicians – and all musicians – by buying their music. 

We here at PRP play a local artist every 15 minutes…show us some love! Please consider making a donation today.

Cynthia Orlando
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