New Music Monday Warms The Return Of Old Man Winter

New music from Squeeze, The Warning, Depeche Mode, Pulp, and Metric

After a deceptive week of melting snow and hints of early spring, "Old Man Winter" has officially reclaimed his throne. As the wind howls across the lakes and we dig our parkas back out of the closet, the temperature may be dropping, but the music scene is heating up. At Hunters Bay Radio, we believe the best way to endure a sudden cold snap is with a playlist that challenges the ears and warms the soul.

Here are the five tracks defining this week’s New Music Monday:

Squeeze – "Trixies (Parts 1 & 2)"

The legendary songwriting duo of Difford and Tilbrook continues to prove why they are the undisputed masters of the "short story" song. "Trixie" is a sprawling, two-part epic that begins with the kitchen-sink realism Squeeze made famous in the late 70s before blossoming into a more expansive, almost cinematic second half. It is a sophisticated reminder that pop music can still be literary and melodic, even four decades into a career.

The Warning – "Kerosene"

Coming to us from Monterrey, Mexico, the Villarreal sisters are currently the most exciting force in modern hard rock. "Kerosene" lives up to its name—it is volatile, high-octane, and meticulously crafted. The track builds from a tense, rhythmic simmer into a massive chorus that showcases the band’s sheer technical precision. For those looking to shake off the winter blues with something loud, this is your anthem.

Depeche Mode – "Universal Soldier"

In a surprising but effective move, synth-pop pioneers Depeche Mode have reimagined the iconic protest song "Universal Soldier." By stripping away the folk trappings and replacing them with dark, industrial soundscapes, the band makes the timeless lyrics feel eerily modern. Dave Gahan’s haunting baritone gives the track a somber weight that resonates perfectly with the gray, wintry skies outside.

Pulp – "Begging for Change"

Jarvis Cocker remains the poet laureate of the working class, and with "Begging for Change," Pulp returns to the sharp social commentary that defined the Britpop era. The track is built on a signature disco-glam pulse, blending wit and cynicism in a way only Cocker can. It is a sophisticated piece of pop that asks hard questions while making it impossible not to move your feet.

Metric – "Time Is a Bomb"

Ending our list with a heavy dose of Canadian indie royalty, Metric delivers a synth-heavy thriller that feels like a race against the clock. "Time Is a Bomb" is a masterclass in tension, utilizing a driving electronic bassline and Emily Haines’ crystalline vocals to create a sense of immediate urgency. It is high-energy, anxious, and exactly what we need to jumpstart a cold Monday morning.

While Old Man Winter might be settling in for a late-season encore, these tracks provide the perfect soundtrack to wait out the frost. Keep your dial tuned to the Bay, where the community stays connected—no matter what the thermometer says.

Sources

• The Guardian
• Loudwire
• Rolling Stone
• NME
• Exclaim!