By Meredith Nardino
There are few things more inspiring than seeing bold female artists who are fearless in their work. More and more women are becoming unapologetic and unfiltered, a refreshing change in a world that typically values appearance over substance. Featured on this playlist are women who command audiences with their authenticity, demonstrating a certain power and honesty most top 40 artists lack.
1. “Blush” – Wolf Alice
What is most impressive about Wolf Alice is not its successful revival of 90s grunge, but the commanding presence of its lead singer, Ellie Rowsell. “Blush” is a more mellow representation of its typical rousing sound. As she transitions between the song’s gentlest and harshest moments with ease, Rowell demonstrates her voice’s versatility. This song’s beauty lies in its subtle irony. Rowsell pleads for happiness, yet the overall tone is undeniably dismal.
2. “Weak” – Wet
Brooklyn indie-pop trio, Wet, flew under the radar with its debut LP, Don’t You, earlier this year. Harrowing tales of heartbreak and loneliness fill every minute of the album, with “Weak” as one of its highlights. It is clear that the band relies heavily on the quiet power of its lead singer, Kelly Zutrau. Her voice is the perfect combination of confidence and hesitation, floating smoothly through the track’s spacious melody. “Weak” is textbook indie-dream pop that hides its misery behind a relentlessly catchy beat.
3. “Face Like Thunder” – The Japanese House
In her newest single, Amber Bain creates shimmering coastal dreamscapes within her unique minimalist aesthetic. The 21-year-old is one of the most exciting artists to emerge from the U.K. in the last year. “Face Like Thunder” demonstrates a tremendous amount of artistic growth, as Bain relies less on vocal distortion than on her previous EPs. While her partnership with The 1975 is evident in the track’s ambient characteristics, Bain is still able to distinguish herself as a powerhouse individual act.
4. “Too Much is Never Enough” – Florence and the Machine
Since 2009, Florence Welch has been an essential female voice in alternative pop music. Florence and the Machine have consistently produced albums that highlights beautiful storytelling and stunning orchestrations. “Too Much is Never Enough” is part of the soundtrack for Final Fantasy XV, but the band still put the same amount of effort into this track as they would any other. With help from a mesmerizing instrumental arrangement, Welch’s vocals shine in a boundless chorus.
5. “Mind Games” – Banks
The last two years have been transformative for Jillian Banks, both personally and creatively. On her new album, The Altar, she simultaneously balances vulnerability and ferocity better than ever. Combining the best of alternative, pop and R&B, Banks’ silky vocals stand out against a melody that builds gradually and powerfully. One of the strongest tracks on the brave sophomore album, “Mind Games,” paints a hypnotic picture of desperation and defiance, a dichotomy Banks seems to embody wholly.
Florence Welch sings lead vocals in her band, Florence and the Machine. (Courtesy of Flickr)
