Saves the World

Editors’ Notes MUNA’s 2017 debut About U was a compelling reflection on personal and societal issues that showcased the Los Angeles trio’s left-of-center pop sound. It caught the attention of many, including Harry Styles, who handpicked the trio as his opening act for the North American and European dates of his debut solo tour. New crowds were able to align with the stories of the LGBTQ band (singer Katie Gavin, guitarist Josette Maskin, and guitarist/producer Naomi McPherson all identify as queer), which had the emotive power of making the most isolated individuals feel seen.

Their second album Saves the World details a journey of overcoming anxiety with glittery pop tales about facing impostor syndrome (“Number One Fan”) and getting back into the game after ending a relationship (“Stayaway”). They go full-blown fierce on “Hands Off,” playing with temptation before declaring, “No, you can’t touch, get your hands off of me.” Save The World’s six-minute closer “It’s Gonna Be Okay, Baby” is a hushed pep talk with a past self that foretells the tribulations they’ll experience, but come out on top of.