Monday Mix: Osees, Aminé, Ricky Reed, Yukon Blonde

By Ray Gill, Jr. (OPB)
Aug. 24, 2020 12 p.m.

Osees - “If I Had My Way”

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The ever-evolving group formerly known as “Oh Sees” and “Thee Oh Sees” has reemerged once again with the new name, “Osees,” yet has remained consistent in its output of great music. “If I Had My Way” is the group’s latest offering, and takes the swagger of their fuzzy guitar sound and layers it on top of a continuously driving rhythm. Front-man John Dwyer describes the inspiration behind the song; “looking at all the extraordinary death in the world now you have to wonder, have you lived your best life? It’s never too late to start.”


Aminé - “Hello feat. Luke Steele”

Portland rapper Aminé has teamed with Luke Steele of the Australian electro-pop duo “Empire of the Sun” to drop a surprise track, “Hello,” right on the heels of the his album “Limbo.” Steele adds an essential contribution with a chorus that totally hooks and then stays with you. “Hello” is a lyrically-dominated track exuding pure confidence accompanied by a subtle beat that still manages to hit with a sonic boom courtesy of producers The Stereotypes & Pasqué.


Yukon Blonde - “Get Precious”

Vancouver indie rock outfit Yukon Blonde has taken a funky guitar riff and layered it with an array of mood-altering instrumentals, to create the joyful circus of sounds that make up the new single “Get Precious.” In breaking down the meaning of this track, Jeff Innes of the band says, “We had all been in toxic situations in the past where we had friends or partners, who seemed to be upset when you’re thriving outside of their sphere.” The relatable theme blended with the experimental music give this song the elements for a lasting impact.


Ricky Reed - “Better feat. Leon Bridges, Kiana Ledé”

Producer Ricky Reed has collaborated with singers Leon Bridges and Kiana Ledé in this classic-sounding R&B track “Better.” While Bridges once again delivers his powerfully soulful vocal touch, the standout element may be the addition of Ledé in this track. She’s probably better known in popular culture from her acting roles in MTV’s “Scream” and the Netflix show “All About the Washingtons,” but she leaves no doubt about her talent as singer on this song. “This one is about trying to appreciate the silver lining of this tough year: the time we get at home with the people we love,” Reed explains. Watching the video on YouTube also raises funds for climate change organization The Solutions Project.

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THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
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