Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of Sept. 27, 2019

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome to the latest edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews! We got a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s get this party started.

VELVET: Side A by Adam Lambert

It has been a decade since Adam Lambert made his debut on a little show called American Idol. Despite coming in second, the “Ghost Town” singer-songwriter has had a spectacular career that ranged from joining Queen to paying homage to Cher at the Kennedy Center Honors. VELVET: Side A is Adam’s first album since 2015’s The Original High. It is a beautiful extended play from start to finish. I am elated that Adam released original music and I cannot wait to hear Side B. A

Tracks to Download: “Superpower,” “Overglow,” “Stranger You Are,” & “Loverboy.”

For the Girls by Kristin Chenoweth

Emmy and Tony-winning actress Kristin Chenoweth returned to the recording studio for the first time since 2016. Her latest album, For the Girls, showcases the Glee and Wicked alum tackling 12 legendary songs that were performed by legendary women.  From Barbra Streisand’s “The Way We Were” to Carole King’s “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” Ms. Chenoweth takes listeners on a journey that will introduce a new generation to these timeless tracks. Also, keep an ear out for Ariana Grande, Dolly Parton, Jennifer Hudson, and Reba McEntire, as they made cameos throughout the album. A-

Tracks to Download: “The Way We Were,” “I Will Always Love You,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” & “You Don’t Own Me.”  

Libertad 548 by Pitbull

Mr. 305 is up to his old tricks! Miami rapper Pitbull just dropped his eleventh studio album: Libertad 548.  The “Timber” and “Feel This Moment” performer mixed in English and Spanish songs throughout this record. While there are some familiar collaborators such as Becky G, Ne-Yo, and Wisin, fans would raise their eyebrows to find Voice coach Blake Shelton on one of the album’s best tracks: “Get Ready.” I love Pitbull’s energy and he definitely gives listeners a chance to party. B

Tracks to Download: “Winning,” “3 to Tango,” “Get Ready,” & “Happy Mama Day.”

“Haunted Heart” by Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera entered the world of America’s favorite gothic family: the Addams.  With the help of songwriters Antonnia Armato, Tim James, and the Rock Mafia production team, the Las Vegas headliner’s addition to the upcoming 3D animated adaptation of The Addams Family is the perfect Halloween song. I believe that fans would put the track right next to Michael Jackson’s “Is It Scary,” which was supposed to be used in 1993’s Addams Family Values, as the two best tracks to describe the macabre family.  Way to go, Christina! A-

“Ocean” by Lady Antebellum

Lady Antebellum released their third single off of their upcoming album: Ocean. Thanks to songwriters Sarah Buxton, Tofer Brown, and Abe Stoklasa, “Ocean” is probably one of the Grammy-winning country act’s haunting song to date. Hillary Scott’s pure voice beautifully weaves this impeccable story, while her harmonies with Dave Haywood and Charles Kelley are some of their best yet. I definitely see “Ocean” nominated for several significant music awards in the future. B+

“Memories” by Maroon 5

Maroon 5 is getting ready to unleash  its seventh studio album upon the world. Up first, their track: “Memories.” The former Voice coach teamed up with Jon Bellion, Jacob Kasher, and the Monsters and the Strangerz to co-write and co-produce this song. While I appreciate the song’s sentimental value, “Memories” is not my cup of tea. The lyrics are meaningful, but I am not a fan of the autotune tone that was on Adam Levine’s vocals. He has a fantastic voice and should not be using any voice-enhancing program. C-

“Wave” by Meghan Trainor featuring Mike Sabath

I always love when Meghan Trainor releases new music. The “Good Morning” singer-songwriter just released her latest single: “Wave.” This track is a warm feelgood club anthem. “Wave” features rising star Mike Sabath, who has produced hits for Lizzo, Pharrell Williams, and Selena Gomez.  “Wave” could be the start of a tremendous collaborating duo that could dominate the charts and follow in the footsteps of EDM’s dynamic duo: David Guetta and Sia Furler. A-

Artists to Watch

Jake’s Take’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are several performers and groups that I believe could make a huge impact on the music industry.

“Barcelona” by Brother Leo

Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer Brother Leo is building a following in the music industry. The Swedish Idol alum has written tracks for Akon, gnash, and Hallie Steinfeld before jumping into the spotlight. His latest single, “Barcelona,” is an impeccable listening experience that would send listeners into a trance. Brother Leo does have what it takes to dominate 2020 and he could be Epic Records’ next breakout star. A-

“Whatever You Need” by Hunting

Vancouver, Canada-based band Hunting is making noise in the indie rock scene. Hunting is made up of Bradley Ferguson, Dustin Bentall, and Jessica Yliruusi. Their single, “Whatever You Need,” immediately caught my attention thanks to the catchy lyrics and fantastic production arrangement. I have a feeling that Hunting has the potential to bring their Alternative Melancholy style of music to the United States. B+

“Immigrant Song” by Lez Zeppelin

Rounding out this edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews is Lez Zeppelin. Made up of Steph Paynes, Leesa Harrington-Squyres, Joan Chew, and Marlain Angelides, this all-female tribute act pays homage to rock icons Led Zeppelin. This cover of “Immigrant Song” shows that Lez Zeppelin has a bright future in the music industry and that they can challenge the Wilson Sisters as the best interpreters of the Led Zeppelin songbook. A

I do not own any of the music or video clips that are featured in this article. They belong to the artists and their respective record labels.