The world of new music is one of the only bright spots as 2026 kicks off. Here are 5 songs I have been very obsessed with for the month of January.
Songs to Obsess Over n Over (Sooo…)
January 2026
by Mike Biggz, KPFA Interim Music Director
Jill Scott – Don’t Play
(Blues Baby)
After taking a very long break from the release of 2015’s LP “Woman”, the amazing one and only Jill Scott is set to bless us with her new album “To Whom This May Concern”, set to drop Feb 13th. Jill isn’t just coming back, she’s coming back swinging harder than ever. Jill is making a statement, reminding us fans and all singers who the queen is of 2k’s soul. She’s released 3 new songs and all have been absolute heat. I was so close to highlighting “Pressha”, her 2nd single, but after watching her “A Colors Show” performance of “Don’t Play”, I had to switch gears. Don’t play is classic playful Jill with sharp delicious wordplay over a mid-tempo 4 to the floor bounce. It’s been on serious repeat.
9DAYS – Mr. Nonchalant
(Chill Vibes Only)
Hailing from London with deep Nigerian roots, 9DAYS just smacked me over the head with one of the most incredible debut albums I’ve heard in a while, with a blend of styles that work so beautifully together, she’s bound to become a true force in music in due time. Take elements of Erykah Bade, Bebel Gilberto, Kali Uchis and blend it into a unique mix of Soul, Bossa Nova & Jazz and you have 9DAYS. Mr Nonchalant is one of the many album standouts. Do not sleep on her album African Girls Do Cry.
Sault – Puppet
(Forever Living)
For my money, Sault is the most important band out right now in music. Every album since their 2019 debut (we’re on album #11 now), they maintain a consistent soulful, powerful sound that is always elevating to the next level. Chapter 1 is very solid top to bottom, but I had to highlight the album’s closing cut, “Puppet”. Sault is known for at times, taking left turns mid song and it always manages to sound like it was the perfect and best idea when crafting these records. Puppet starts off with funky drum/bassline and guitar riff and modern day flow that shifts into a hypnotic piano driven jam that uplifts the soul, with frequent featured vocalist, Cleo Sol. It’s something only Sault could pull off.
Haute & Freddy – Dance The Pain Away
(Runaway Carnie)
I’m calling it now, Haute & Freddy is going to blow up big within a few years time. Their music is big, powerful, energetic and just fun, with over the top dramatics in the best way and the future of club anthems to be heard in LGBTQ+ spaces for years to come. They have an ear for funky retro future 80’s synth electronic funk and pop sensibilities in their writing. They’re also a very visual band with big theater kid, 18th century clothed vibes. “Dance The Pain Away” is the latest single from their forthcoming debut, “Big Disgrace”. It’s big, anthemic and really gives me some classic Cyndi Lauper vibes in it’s attitude, with a touch of Til Tuesday meets Florence & The Machine. Fall in love with them now.
Peaches – Not In Your Mouth None of Your Business
(Kill Rock Stars)
We haven’t seen a new album from the teaches of Peaches in 11 years and finally, we’re set for the triumphant return of the queen of electroclash/electropunk. Peaches punches back with an unapologetic anthem aimed at people who love sticking their nose in the sex lives that is not their own, especially, those in positions of power. Not In Your Mouth None of Your Business (great title, btw) is the kind of anthem that also doubles as protest chant, featuring those minimalist hard beats Peaches is known to deliver. The new album No Lube So Rude (also a great title) is set to drop February 20th.
For previous Songs to Obsess Over & Over, click below