Enfnts Terribles

1. Tate McRae — greedy

After more than a month of teasing on TikTok, McRae finally released “Greedy” and simultaneously bagged her next mega-hit. The bridge and chorus are so catchy that resistance is futile; you simply cannot help but be enamored by this song. By the way, it is also notable that the Canadian artist leaves the rock influences of her debut album slightly behind, instead returning to the sound of her early years. On paper, McRae’s melancholic, heartbreaking teen pop possesses all the elements to fall into the realm of a cliché. However, in reality, “Greedy” emerges as an incredibly fresh and cool sound.

2. Ayra Starr — Rhythm & Blues

At this week’s MTV VMAs, Ayra Starr was twice nominated in the new ‘Best Afrobeat’ category, as the Nigerian singer is on the rise. On the new “Rhythm & Blues”, she extends the summer in our minds by showing off her talent on a sultry afrobeat production. In doing so, she puts her distinctive voice on full display and manages to enamor you with her warm sounds. Ayra Starr has the “Rhythm & Blues” all over her—that much is certain.

3. Sega Bodega and Safety Trance — Arena!

We were in Berlin this week for a Zalando event, and flamboyant trance-pop producer Sega Bodega provided the music just before Charli XCX hit the stage. The UK musician also played his new collaboration, “Arena!”, with Safety Trance, on which he expertly plays a mix between ethereal vocals and sounds with trance beats. Sega Bodega is an incredibly cool producer; we have known that for a while. Yet, it is always nice to be reminded of that.

4. Gotu Jim — Yoko

We did not expect we’d become fans of Dutch-language hyper pop this year. Yet, thanks to Amsterdam-based artist Gotu Jim, it happened anyway. His fan base is growing by the day and has already earned him more than six million streams on Spotify. “Yoko” could very well be the next step in his career. The production leans towards Y2K influences but is made more memorable by the autotune. Who knows where this will lead next, as Dutch hyper pop could very well become the surprise of the moment.

5. Declan McKenna — Nothing Works

British Declan McKenna is seen as the voice of a generation. Since the age of 16, this young artist has dared to make socially critical music, pouring the frustrations of his peers into songs. His latest song, “Nothing Works”, outlines the recognizable situation of the annoyance stemming from the high expectations in life. With a euphoric, musical framing, that message is given a comical slant, but that is why Declan McKenna matters.

6. ratbag — exit girl

Who or what is ratbag? The mystery surrounding this new project is still great, making it all the more exciting. After a debut single in the summer, the mysterious project now returns with a follow-up. “exit girl” does not make it easy for us to describe the music, but the slight chaos in the composition and the cool vocal lines instantly grab your attention. As a result, the song needs a few replays to let “exit girl” sink in, and yet it doesn’t take long before you’re along for the ride.

7. Midas The Jagaban and Tayc — Louis Vitty

Emerging as a rising star in the British-Nigerian Afro-pop scene, Midas The Jagaban introduces her latest single, titled “Louis Vitty”. This track features a collaboration with the Cameroonian sensation Tayc and takes a departure from Midas’ previous hit, “More Vibes More Money,” as it embraces a slower tempo with captivating, laid-back melodies and irresistible lyrics. Midas The Jagaban’s distinct musical style seamlessly blends the infectious energy of Afrobeats with the soulful essence of R&B, resulting in a remarkably confident and exhilarating sound.

8. Holliday Howe – 1234 (i just want my stuff back)

Sydney-based hyper pop artist Holliday Howe continues to explore her ‘hyper emo’ phase with the release of “1234 (i just want my stuff back)”, the final single from her debut EP, god in maine. Accompanied by a visually stunning creation from emerging multimedia artist Puppyuck, Holliday’s latest track is an upbeat plea to her ex, urging them to return her beloved puffer jacket. Describing the song’s inspiration, Holliday reflects on post-breakup introspection and late-night musings filled with “what ifs” and unspoken retorts.

9. DJ HEARTSTRING and Narciss — Heartbreak Repair System

Teaming up with Narciss for a four-track EP, this collaboration from DJ HEARTSTRING delves into a unique blend of hard, fast trance with a pop twist that is dancefloor-ready. These Berlin-based producers joined forces due to their natural synergy and efficient studio workflow with “Heartbreak Repair System” being the perfect example of that. Their signature touch always incorporates groove and swing, showcasing an innate ability to move people physically and emotionally. Expectations about their musical direction are futile, as Narciss consistently defies them with their unpredictable and genre-spanning style.

Picture by Beth Saravo