“The Ballad of Renée Nicole Good” is a contemporary protest song from New York-based roots revivalist Victor V. Gurbo, responding to the January 2026 killing of Renée Nicole Macklin Good. A finalist

A lovely track that fuses folk, bossa nova, and Hawaiian music influences, “House of Worth” is a thorough success from Alex Catchings. He describes the track, which expands beautifully from acoustic-ready “over

A single that envelops in its soulful hookiness, “Charlie” is the excellent debut from PSiLY. It moves from a smitten soul-pop allure initially to a riveting, brass-laden rock swell, making for a

A memorable output from Matt of Matts, “Come Thou Fount of Unforgetting” is a stirring psych-folk reimagining of a childhood hymn, embracing spiritual ambiguity, fractured love, and an ominous sense of impending

Another impactful single from Apple Eyes, “Be” delights in its melodic sound, centered around a jubilant “you’re my true love” smitten sense bolstered by glistening keys, radiant synths, and Claire Hadidjenar’s magnetic

A resonant new track from Zach Montana, “Son” develops from acoustic-set introspection to soaring rock charisma. “Hold my breath, and count to three,” he sings initially over steady acoustic strums, escalating to