Mitski – The Only Heartbreaker
Mitski returns this year once again with The Only Heartbreaker, her second single from her upcoming sixth studio album. This track recalls the buoyant synth-pop of the 1980s with an arrangement of video game-like instrumentals. The music video for this track mirrors Mitski’s feelings of guilt and how everything she touches lights ablaze. Mitski, again, showcases her excellent songwriting with this full-fledged frenzy of a track.

FKA Twigs – Measure of A Man
“Measure of a Man” has to be my favorite single of the year. Twig’s stunning voice and creativity does not disappoint. The song features Central Cee. Just on the first listen, I was obsessed. I hope FKA Twigs will keep this same energy for her next album. If her future music is only a fraction of the greatness that her most recent album had, I am sure it will still be a favorite. Out of all these singles, this is the one I would pick. I cannot stress enough how great FKA Twigs is.

Taylor Swift – All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)
Taylor Swift has released the 10 minute re-recorded version of her previous album “Red” and her promoted b-side that comes along with a short film named “All Too Well.” A softly falling melody with lyrics that reflect back on a heartbreak that may never fully heal, exploring that loss with a tone of tender regret.
The short film features Sadie Sink as Taylor and Dylan O’Brien as Taylor’s ex-boyfriend, Jake Gyllenhaal. Both the original and updated version of “All Too Well” tell the story of a failed relationship, which comes alive in the short film.

Lucy Dacus – Thumbs Again
From her newest album, “Home Video,” Lucy Dacus did a new version of the song “Thumbs.” This new version is called “Thumbs Again,” with slightly different instrumentation, more strings, which make it feel slightly warmer. It reminds me of the alternative artist Squirrel Flower.

Blondie – “Yuletide Throwdown” with Fab Five Freddy.

This is a new take on the classic “Rapture” with a holiday twist. Personally I was surprised to see this from Debbie Harry, I did not think she would ever do Christmas music as this is usually selling out.

Charli XCX – Good Ones
Charli XCX’s upcoming album “CRASH” is due to be released in March 2022. With two songs already out, this popular artist just released a remix of the third track “Good Ones.” Though I love some of her music, especially her 2020 album “how i’m feeling now,” her new music reminds me of a Forever 21, when I thought she had upgraded to ZARA status or at least H&M.