As mentioned in an addendum to Sunday’s post regarding Annie’s (not-so-new but not-terribly-old) cover of Stacey Q’s “Two Of Hearts,” the Norwegian pop singer has a new EP out next month.

The A&R EP finds Annie re-teaming with producer Richard X — he’s the “R” in the titular scenario — for five new tracks that mark her first new material since 2009’s Don’t Stop. There are other “&’s” in the mix too, including Little Boots, who co-wrote “Back Together,” and Hannah Robinson, who helped pen the reason for today’s post, “Hold On.” Robinson previously collaborated with Annie and Richard X on “Chewing Gum” and “Me Plus One” (from 2004’s Anniemal), plus “Songs Remind Me Of You” (from Don’t Stop).

Outfitted with midtempo Saint Etienne stylings, “Hold On” is a gentle nudge toward the dancefloor. With so many souls enduring sweltering heat at the moment, it’s best not to break a sweat too quickly. Annie beckons you to ease into bliss with her glistening summer soundtrack. “When we need it most, it will bring us close…”

And for good measure, have a listen to the aforementioned “Back Together”:

Annie – The A&R EP arrives August 5 on Richard X’s Pleasure Masters label.