New Tracks

Cass & Crossland – “The Death of Maggie Simon”

An ardent showing from Cass & Crossland, “The Death of Maggie Simon” shows the Phoenix-based duo’s songwriting might. Stirring strings, intermingling vocal harmonies, and serene acoustics join for a naturally engaging folk

Julian Dinwoodie – “Up N down Til the End”

Julian Dinwoodie‘s “Up N down Til the End” shows a consuming, emotive folk sound with moving orchestral flourishes. The Los Angeles-based songwriter/producer impressed with the track “Madness Over Might” in October. With

Wa’el – “Come by and We’ll Talk All Night”

Following up Wa’el‘s impressive debut single, “Come by and We’ll Talk All Night” rides on a deep, psychedelic groove. A pulsing bass line converges with serene vocals, as percussion intensifies approaching the

Tall Thief – “A Place I Know”

A rousing track from Cape Town rocker Tall Thief, “A Place I Know” swelters with a rising sound. A blast of guitars at the 50-second mark leads into a heightened vocal presence,

Kevin Kaho Tsui – “Better Days”

A serenely enthralling dream-pop showing, “Better Days” is another resonating success from Kevin Kaho Tsui. First catching my ear with “Gone” in April, “Better Days” casts a similarly lush spell. Delicate, hypnotic

Hypnagogic Garden – “Mysterium Cosmographicum”

Courtesy of Brooklyn-based act Hypnagogic Garden, “Mysterium Cosmographicum” touts a creative pop sound with fun hooks throughout. The strings at 01:20 generate a sort of warm nostalgia (reminding me, at least, of

Pleasure Nature – “Always Late”

“Always Late” impresses with a murky rock sound, marked by both delicate dream-pop twangs and darkly invigorating guitar swells. The track, from Pleasure Nature, oozes with atmospheric engrossment. Especially as the vocals

Vern Matz – “Burnt Coffee”

A laid-back, twangy delight, “Burnt Coffee” is a new track from Vern Matz, standing out in the past with tracks like “Shelby Park” and “Skyscrapers.” “‘Burnt Coffee’ is about a failing high

New Albums