Every Thursday, the Paste staff and contributors choose their five favorite songs of the week, awarding one entry a “Song of the Week” designation.
Song of the Week: Westside Cowboy, “Pin Up Boys”
The Manchester quartet Westside Cowboy continues their impressive run with “Pin Up Boys,” a track that solidifies their status as masters of quiet-loud dynamics. Following their January EP, So Much Country ‘Til We Get There, this latest single showcases the band’s instinctive ability to shift between percussive intensity and delicate vocalizations. It is a standout moment that proves their forthcoming debut record, It Goes On, is one of the year’s most anticipated releases.
FKA twigs feat. Lil Yachty: “On Your Mind”
FKA twigs returns with a compelling new single featuring Lil Yachty. “On Your Mind” captures the essence of a lovers’ quarrel translated into a dance battle, set against a backdrop of punchy, intricate percussion. Born from the challenges of a rescheduled tour, the track serves as a testament to twigs’ resilience and her ongoing exploration of emotional depth through movement.
Gary Stewart: “Woman Will Tear The Heart Right Out Of A Man”
A remarkable country-music artifact, “Woman Will Tear the Heart Right Out of a Man” offers a rare glimpse into Gary Stewart’s early career. Recorded between 1967 and 1972, this previously unreleased track showcases a young artist before he became the honky-tonk legend known for “She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Double).” It is a poignant, timeless recording that highlights Stewart’s raw, early songwriting prowess.
mary in the junkyard: “Blood”
London trio mary in the junkyard deliver a masterclass in subtle tension with their latest single, “Blood.” Inspired by the early, uncertain stages of romance, the track features a steady slacker groove and mathy guitar lines. Bandleader Clari Freeman-Taylor delivers a beatific vocal performance that masks the song’s underlying complexity, making it a standout from their new album, Role Model Hermit.
Nirosta Steel: “BOSS TRIX (BENNY’S SONG)”
Steven Hall’s project Nirosta Steel makes a triumphant return with “BOSS TRIX (BENNY’S SONG),” a track from the new album My Skyscraper. This nocturnal disco deconstruction is a vibrant tribute to a former partner, featuring programming by Drop Out Orchestra and vocal contributions from Nell Shakespeare. It is a sophisticated, capering piece of music that highlights Hall’s enduring creative vision.
