The boys are back in town this week — literally, as this week’s new music Friday sees new album releases from the original Blink-182 lineup and The Rolling Stones, the latter of which marks the band’s first new music in nearly two decades.
Following a series of serious personal issues — namely Mark Hoppus’ 2021 cancer diagnosis, which he later overcame — Hoppus, Travis Barker and Tom DeLonge didn’t want to waste any more time separated and playing music without each other. The result is the group’s newest effort, One More Time..., which sees the trio taking a much needed look into their past and reflecting on how much they actually care about each other, now that they are mature enough to realize it. The sentimental moments on the record are cut between songs like early single, “Edging,” the album opener, “Anthem Part 3” and “Dance With Me,” showing that they still have the capability to make lightning strike in the same place twice.
The Rolling Stones’ last album, A Bigger Bang, arrived in 2005, making a total of 18 years since they’ve released new material. Hackney Diamonds doesn’t disappoint, and sees Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood serving up rock steady grooves and collaborative delights (see guest appearances from fellow veterans Paul McCartney and Elton John, as well as Lady Gaga) — a solid effort from the revered musicians, particularly in light of the loss of their fallen bandmates, Charlie Watts.
This Friday’s music offerings isn’t just for the boys, either. Charli XCX and Sam Smith have finally collaborated on a track together, months after teasing a team up for Charli’s high octane video for “Speed Drive.” The pair’s collaborative effort, “In the City,” sees the star delivering another upbeat party anthem, with Smith chiming in for an assist on the second verse, speaking of feeling protected by a guardian angel.
The Kid LAROI, Jung Kook and Central Cee teamed up for “Too Much,” and 21 Savage enlisted d4vd for “Call Me Revenge,” but which release is your favorite? Vote in our poll below.
