POP

LA-based indie duo Mike and Mandy’s new single, “Cocoon,” is a heartfelt journey through the struggles of long-term relationships, wrapped in dreamy, engaging instrumentals. “Cocoon” is lush and layered, moving between genres with ease. Its dreamy, shimmering soundscape pulls from nu-disco and synth-pop. With its thumping drums, chiming melodies, and…

“Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl” by LA-based artist Bri Scully is an emotionally charged anthem of independence and self-discovery. The song opens with Bri’s subtle storytelling tone, pulling listeners in with an introspective narrative and lyrics oozing vulnerability with resilience. Her vocal delivery is both engaging and conversational, adding depth…

In “On Parle,” Brest-based artist 3.14AIR crafts a rich, electro-cinematic experience that intertwines human connection and introspection. “On Parle” explores conversation as a means of reassurance. The track, released on October 25, 2024, opens with slow, pulsing beats layered with the voices of multiple singers singing an engaging refrain. The…

Sophie Cantier’s song “Va” unfolds as a tender, introspective journey that invites listeners to pause and reflect on the beauty and complexity of life. Created during the 51st ASTAFFORT Meetings, guided by Francis Cabrel and the lyricist Julien m’a dit, the track was recorded live in a piano-and-voice setting at…

Old Haunts, the latest album by Edmonton-based artist Neon Ghouls (the creative moniker of JQ), is a tribute to both the eerie and the electric, combining retro synth-pop tones with dark, haunting themes. The album, released in full on October 5, weaves danceable beats and chilling lyrics together, creating a…

San Sebastian is a Swedish artist and songwriter. He became known to the broader public when he participated in the national TV show, Swedish Idol 2022, where he finished in 4th place. He became the first “Idol” ever to be picked up by the program’s chairman of the jury, the…

Emma Rae’s latest single, “Newports,” delves into the emotional intricacies of love, loss, and the unspoken tension within relationships. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and a rising alt-pop artist in NYC, Emma Rae crafts a reflective, story-driven piece, with Chicago-based artist Aleem adding a complementary perspective, and Tyler…

Kevin Landt’s reimagining of Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl” is a fresh, playful twist on the iconic hit, presenting a new perspective that’s bold and reflective. Opening with a punchy rhythm section and thumping drums, the song immediately grabs attention with its energetic beat. Landt’s husky voice brings a…

In her debut album, Love & Grief, Sophia Stephens traverses the delicate, sometimes brutal landscape of love and loss, creating a narrative arc that feels like an emotional coming-of-age journey. Drawing from influences such as Florence and the Machine, Lorde, and Adele, Stephens’ sound fuses intense, reflective lyrics with lush…

Released on October 12, 2024, “Night Shift” is Dublin-based vocalist Linda Dumitru’s latest manifestation of ingenuity as she brings her classical opera training and unique voice to this risqué, tongue-in-cheek single. Inspired by the sensual side of her life, Linda explores carnal desires through her distinct musical lens. “Night Shift”…