Welcome to “Cut Through the Noise,” an entertainment column from the St. Louis Park Echo covering new music releases. Every week, a different Echo staffer takes on the role as writer, reviewing recent single releases from a variety of artists.

Summer Walker – ‘Playing Games’ (with Bryson Tiller) ★★★★☆

“Playing Games” is a single from Summer Walker’s newest album, “Over It.” The song has a slow, sultry tone and Walker seems effortless in her singing. Coupled with a simple rhythm and catchy beat, the song is extremely entertaining. Walker also alludes to Destiny’s Child in her lyrics, repeating “say my name” in the bridge. Bryson Tiller’s verse is added right before the end of the song, making it seem incomplete. Because there is no verse with the two singing together, Tiller comes off more as an afterthought. Overall, the song is a wonderful addition to the album. 

Guapdad 4000 – ‘Gucci Pajamas’ (ft. Chance the Rapper and Charlie Wilson) ★★★★★

Guapdad 4000’s newest single “Gucci Pajamas” combines unique melodies and smooth vocals to create an original sound. The song is high quality with its beautiful vocals and exciting beat. As a whole it is intriguing and upbeat. Additionally, the lyrics are lighthearted and poke fun at the fact that a girl always takes his clothes. By mixing fun sounds

and witty lyrics, the song isn’t too serious and keeps things lively. Chance the Rapper’s verse is clever and true to his style and Charlie Wilson gives the song some jazzy vocals. Altogether, it makes an undeniably catchy hip-hop track.

The Black Eyed Peas, Anitta – ‘eXplosion’ ★☆☆☆☆

The Black Eyed Peas’ latest release is repetitive and boring. Without a clear chorus and a

disappointing background track, the song is simultaneously trying too hard and not trying at all. The song lacks meaningful lyrics, while the musical aspect has too much going on. Anitta brings in solid vocals, but does not do enough to save this song. The dubstep presented in the song is outdated in pop culture, but didn’t stop The Black Eyed Peas from trying to bring it back. The track will most likely wind up playing in Zumba classes and lifeless nightclubs.