New Music Friday, July 21, 2023

New Music Friday on The High Note

Welcome back to another New Music Friday for July 21, 2023. The heat of the summer music season shows no signs of letting up, and neither do I.

Starting us off, British legends Blur make a welcome return to the music scene with their single, “The Ballad of Darren,” showcasing their timeless ability to blend thoughtful lyricism with catchy melodies. It’s good to have them back.

Singer, songwriter, violinist and whistler Andrew Bird is out with his album, “Outside Problems,” which is seeped into the contemplative folk music tradition.

Meanwhile, indie stalwarts Guided by Voices keep their prolific streak going with “Welshpool Frillies.” Nils Lofgren, the veteran rocker, brings his wealth of experience to bear on his latest album, “Mountains.” It’s a solid collection of songs that showcases Lofgren’s raw, passionate style.

Lastly, we’ve got a stunning new release from Cut Worms. With their self-titled album, they further hone their sound, blending elements of folk and indie rock in a familiar and fresh way.

These are just a few highlights. Don’t miss other notable releases from Greta Van Fleet, Nas and Hit-Boy this week, and more.

As always, the entire list of new albums released today, Friday, July 21, 2023 is below in no particular order. My most anticipated albums are in bold.

Let me know what you’re listening to in the comments below and on social media @highnoteblog.

New Album Releases – Friday, July 21, 2023

Andrew Bird – Outside Problems
Blur – The Ballad of Darren
Greta Van Fleet – Starcatcher
Guided by Voices – Welshpool Frillies
Half Japanese – Jump into Love
Ian Moss – Rivers Run Dry
Kode9 and Burial – Infirmary / Unknown Summer
Nas and Hit-Boy – Magic 2
NewJeans – Get Up
Nils Lofgren – Mountains
Oxbow – Love’s Holiday
Paris Texas – Mid Air
Various Artists – Barbie: The Album
Bloc Party – The High Life
Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway – City of Gold
Wren Hinds – Don’t Die In The Bundu
Mort Garson – Journey To The Moon and Beyond
The Lilac Time – Dance Till All the Stars Come Down
Cut Worms – Cut Worms
Jaye Jayle – Don’t Let Your Love Life Get You Down
Nina Simone – You’ve Got to Learn
Fatboi Sharif and Steel Tipped – Dove Decay