Welcome to “Cut Through the Noise,” a new column from the St. Louis Park Echo covering new music releases. Every week, a different Echo staffer will take on the role as writer, reviewing recent releases aiming for success.

 

“Homemade Dynamite” by Lorde (Feat. Khalid, Post Malone & SZA) _ Remix:★★

Young pop artist Lorde is best known for her 2013 hit “Royals,” and for her unique deep vocals. Lorde debuted the original version

of “Homemade Dynamite,” off her second studio album, Melodrama, while performing at the Coachella music festival in April of 2017. The remixed single-version features up-and-coming artists Khalid and SZA, as well as rapper Post Malone.

While simple chords allow listeners to focus on each singer’s unique vocals, the familiarity of the beat failed to impress and makes the song predictable. The structure and sound of the song makes it catchy, but it lacks something to really attract the listener. Compared to the original version, the remixes sounds more amped up with added sounds and vocals. Although the song features successful artists, their involvement in the song is confusing and lacks intended .

“Reggaetón Lento” (Remix) CNCO & Little Mix: ★★★

British girl group Little Mix join forces with Latin boy band CNCO to put a new spin on CNCO’s 2016

“Reggaetón Lento.” Reggeatón is a Puerto Rican born genre with influence from hip-hop, latin and

caribbean music. The original song embraces a typical reggeatón beat and melodies, which make the song enjoyable to dance and listen to. However in the remix, the quieted beat and stronger melodies gives the song an unexpected pop vibe.

Because of the remixes newly written lyrics, the “romantic” effect of the lyrics (as romantic as a boy band can be) feels lost in translation.

The song offers an upbeat and energetic sound consistent with the typical feel-good sound of both groups involved on the track. Regardless of the adaptation of the lyrics and melody, the song still provides a classic girl group/boy band sound and feel.

“Braids tuh’da flo(w)” by Leikeli47: ★★★★

New York born artist Leikeli47 is a new face in the hip-hop industry, with only two released albums: “Leikeli47” (2015) and “Wash & Set,” which was released on Sept 8, 2017. Leikeli47 sets herself apart from other hip-hop artists with her unique sound and signature ski mask look. In the song “Braids tuh’da flo(w),” the artist celebrates her friends’ beauty, success and independence in a direct and empowering manner.