“Sonically, current recession pop blends dance, disco and rave and dives a little deeper than dancing the night away,” she explains. “Acts like Chappell Roan and Charli XCX bring emotion to the forefront with lyrics that explore queer love, family trauma and female friendships. It’s now a listening experience that celebrates individuality and authe... See more

The Great Depression of the 1920s saw the widespread popularity of blues and swing, while the British Winter of Discontent between the ’70s and ’80s saw the rise of disco. During periods of hard times and empty pockets, music that serves to make us feel good, or acts as catharsis or distraction, becomes essential.

Carpenter speaks to sexual freedom and playfulness, Perry aims to inspire female empowerment, Roan encourages self-acceptance in the face of tribulation, and even Kesha thinks you should love yourself first before anyone else, after all. So it seems the greatest source of sonic comfort during such a difficult time is as much turning inwards, with j... See more