The finest songs of the past week are a choice blend of genres. There's some straight-up hip-hop (hint, hint), stark melodic R&B/pop, politically minded boom-bap, and more. And as always, this best-of list is the perfect way to catch up on whatever you might have missed or, perhaps, a track you were looking to play again.
Related: New Songs This Week
Twigs "Ache"
We might not know the identity of R&B newcomer Twigs, but we do know that her latest single, "Ache," is pure moody bliss. There's a Lykke Li vibe to her vocals and the production is no doubt inspired by the U.K. bass music scene. But even with some clear influences, Twigs make "Ache" her own.
Yacht Club "Flash"
As a member of Fucked Up, Ben Cook makes balls-to-the-wall hardcore punk music. But on his own, it appears he likes to chill out. A lot. Under the Yacht Club moniker, he has released a mellowed-out mixtape driven by standout track "Flash." It's all synth-pop and '80s references, and chances are you won't be able to turn it off.
Mikkey Halsted "Obamanomics"
"Obamanomics" is another strong offering from Mikkey Halsted, who will release his new mixtape, Castro, this coming Monday. It finds the Chicago spitter reflecting on the issues we have faced as a nation since Ronald Reagan's presidency. Rounding out the track is No I.D., who laces Halsted with a melodic, contemplative production.
The xx "Chained"
The xx have chilled out a bit on their latest single, "Chained," off the soon-coming Coexist album. Whereas "Angels" had a hands-in-the-sky feel to it, this cut thumps and grooves with a low key Burial influence. It's safe to say the xx have everyone paying attention and and dying to hear Coexist, which drops September 11.
DJ Khaled f/ Scarface, Nas & DJ Premier "Hip Hop"
DJ Khaled's "Hip Hop" is, well, a song for the hip-hop heads out there. Along with features from living legends Scarface and Nas, the Kiss The Ring cut boasts some choice scratches by DJ Premier. It doesn't hurt that J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League delivered a strong beat, either.
RT
@xxl: XXLMag.com: DJ Khaled ft. Nas, Scarface & DJ Premier “Hip Hop” bit.ly/ME2osU#xxlbangers@djkhaled@nas
— DJ Khaled (@djkhaled) August 9, 2012
