From soaring alternative pop to soulful R&B and genre-blurring experimentation, these are the releases we’ve had on repeat.
Craig Lucas – “Joyride”
Following a period of sonic evolution and creative experimentation, Craig Lucas sounds lighter than he has in years on “Joyride.” Written during a songwriting trip to Denmark, the warm pop anthem embraces vulnerability without overcomplicating it, letting its understated production and heartfelt lyrics do the heavy lifting.
Janie Bay – “WHAT YOU WANT”
Bay continues to carve out a lane where alt-pop meets radical self-acceptance on “WHAT YOU WANT.” Built around bright hooks and an infectious energy, the single reflects on growing up feeling different before arriving at the liberating realisation that your quirks are often your greatest strength. It’s an affirming anthem that never loses sight of its emotional core.
WNDRSZN & Lia Butler – “Danko”
“Danko” feels both personal and grandoise. Drawing on WNDRSZN’s Zion church upbringing, the track blends soaring choir harmonies, contemporary production, and African-rooted melodies into a cinematic meditation on purpose. Lia Butler’s vocals add another layer of warmth to one of the week’s most captivating releases.
long story short – “daisy”
There’s something refreshing about a band saying it like it is. Rather than swoon, on “daisy,” long story short admit that love is hella irrational. “daisy” pairs driving guitars and irresistible hooks with a chorus that refuses to give up, leaning into the messy optimism of believing someone can change (even though they probably won’t).
Manana – “Calendar”
Manana has always had a knack for finding something profound in the quieter moments, and “Calendar” is no exception. Rather than chasing grand gestures, the soulful R&B single is built around a simple plea to make time for someone. Nothing more, nothing less. Warm, wistful, and understated.
Solomon John – “Lights On, Game On”
After years of moving between genres, Solomon John sounds like he’s finally found the version of himself he’s been chasing. “Lights On, Game On” crashes together Beastie Boys swagger, PHfat-style grit and an irrepressible live-band energy into something that’s messy in all the right ways. It’s playful and completely unbothered with following the rules.
Academie – “4 AM”
Seven years after their last release, Academie return sounding more restrained, but no less affecting. “4 AM” captures the peculiar stillness of sleepless nights through sparse electronics, delicate textures and lyrics that drift between insomnia, anxiety and existential dread, proving that sometimes the quietest songs leave the deepest impression.
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