Handpicked by team Gigwise
Gigwise
14:47 1st May 2023

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Another month gone, another playlist made. April delivered us some clear contenders for songs of the year, with new offerings from MUNA, The Japanese House, Squid, CMAT and more, alongside some under-the-radar artists sure to explode.

Handpicked by the Gigwise team, here are the track we had on repeat:

King Krule - ‘Seaforth’ 

Set in his signature dreamy soundscape, Seaforth feels like a more mature and measured version of King Krule, and features co-writing credits from his four year-old daughter. Beautifully melancholy, it suggests a new, more domestic chapter for the artist, swapping out the tales of drunken nights out for musings on domesticity and life. - Martha Storey

Drew Thomas - ‘Smoke’

If there’s one thing I'm always on the hunt for, it’s good new indie. Nottingham born Drew Thomas well and truly delivers on ‘Smoke’, reaching anthemic proportions with classic rock, Springsteen-esque vocals and vibes. It’s made to be played loud. - Lucy Harbron

 

Chappaqua Wrestling - 'Opaque'

Singles like ‘Wayfinding’ and ‘Full Round Table’ from Chappaqua Wrestling’s debut album Plus Ultra have already seen an abundance of success, but deep cut ‘Opaque’ is a clear highlight of the record. Reminiscent of 90s Brit-pop, complete with vocals tinged with a Mancunian accent and a less-than-subtle Gallagher twang, the track relies heavily on its influences, but the results can’t be argued with. Who needs an Oasis reunion when you’ve got this? - Gemma Cockrell

Jessie Ware - 'Begin Again'

Jessie Ware's new era has been an expertly executed masterclass in sultry pop hits. Again, she's showing the range she's famous for and this time bringing us an anthem that doesn't push herself out of her comfort zone but shows us why no one else can do what she does. ‘Begin Again’ gets existential and sexy, what more can you ask for? - David Roskin

Spider - ‘Growing Into It’

The final single from Irish-born, London-based rising alternative artist Spider ahead of her EP Hell or High Water, ‘Growing Into It’ is a blistering takedown of men's use of women as social capital. The tracks frenetic, blazing energy builds upon Spider's already rich discography and shows off the best alt has to offer. - Cailean Coffey

The Japanese House - ‘Sad To Breathe’

Marrying 80s synth pop and wistful Americana melodies, the second single from the artist's upcoming album lingers on the ache of heartbreak. Balanced with intricate production, singer Amber Bain not only reminisces on her losses, but most importantly strives for a better future through acceptance. - Adèle Fennessy

Squid — ‘Undergrowth’

After their debut Bright Green Field, Squid got put on the map of current British post-punk with a style that leans towards krautrock and almost techno-style strict rhythms. Their second album O Monolith is out June 9th, and meanwhile Squid treat us to a glimpse of what to expect with ‘Undergrowth’ as a brilliant introduction. - Aleksandr Smirnov

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