BEST NEW TRACKS
5) Basia Bulat – “Basia’s Palace” (2025)
This Canadian folk singer is known for her use of the autoharp. Bulat is no stranger to college radio, she even hosted a show on CHRW-FM while she attended the University of Western Ontario. This album has been in the works since 2022, when the singer moved into a new home and was inspired to think about some old stories that ended up serving as the framework for this gentle set of songs.
This week’s highlighted track, “My Angel”, is a danceable tune with delicate harmonies and a euro-pop vibe.
4) Jimmy Buffett – “Songs You Know By Heart” (1985)
James William Buffett is an artist that needs no introduction. He was known for his love of all things island related and his tropical rock style. He is one of the best selling artists of all time with nine certified platinum records and 8 certified gold records. Jimmy’s love of the vacation lifestyle led him to building a restaurant/hotel empire named after his hit song “Margaritaville”. Following his passing he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the category of Musical excellence.
The highlighted track, “Margaritaville”, is a classic fit for relaxing on the beach or any other warm day activity.
3) Brother Ali – “Satisfied Soul” (2025)
Brother Ali has been interested in music his whole life and even began beat boxing at the young age of seven years old. He got his start in hip hop due to influences like Rakim, Chuck D, and KRS-One. Ali has albinism and said he has always felt more connected to the black children at his school because they also knew how it felt to face discrimination based on skin color. Ali also has a deep root in activism and has dedicated his power to fighting against inequality.
We’re highlighting the track “Deep Cut” this week, with a smooth bass line and choral style background vocals to contrast the staccato rap delivery.
2) Cal Tjader – “Latin Kick” (1958)
Cal Tjader has become known as one of the most prolific Latin Jazz artists of the 20th century. As a child, Tjader was no stranger to entertainment as his parents were both performers, as a child he even danced alongside Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. After he joined the navy in 1943, he took timpani lessons which were his only formal training. Tjader has worked with other legendary jazz artists like Dave Brubeck, Chet Baker, and Anita O’Day. His work has been very popular in the salsa world.
The highlighted track, “Will You Still Be Mine” is a Latin influenced and saxophone heavy track perfect for a salsa dance.
1)Paris Texas – “They Left Me With the Sword” (2025)
This LA based hip hop duo consists of Louie Pastel and Felix. They take their name from a Wim Wenders film also named after the city. The group has become known for their combination of grunge and punk style instrumentation with rap driven lyrics and hip hop driven bass lines. The duo has gained success in the underground scene and have performed at many music festivals and even opened for Tyler, the Creator ahead of his “Chromakopia” tour.
This week we’re highlighting the track “El Camino” features laid back drums and grainy vocals which create a relaxed feeling that’s super easy to get lost in.
TOP TRACKS OF THE WEEK
5) Franz Ferdinand – “The Human Fear” (2025)
Franz Ferdinand is a rock band that gets their name from the infamous archduke of Austria. This Scottish band got their breakthrough hit in 2004 with the song “Take Me Out”. Franz Ferdinand has been labeled as post-punk revival and have kept their rock influence alive throughout all of their albums. The group is also known for album art imagery in the Russian avant-garde style. The band takes inspiration from groups like LCD Soundsystem, Air, and Blondie. This latest album is the first to feature their new drummer Audrey Tait and was promoted with the song “Audacious” as the lead single.
Our highlighted track, “Audacious”, has some upbeat piano chords that give a sense of upbeat joy to the balladeering nature of the song.
4) Modern Fools – “Clearly Country” (2025)
This 4 piece group from New Hampshire began making music together in 2019, where they began to expand their dreamy, country rock sound. The group’s debut album reflected themes of personal growth and search for meaning in life following some tragedies in lead singer Josh Blair’s personal life. Their sophomore album continued exploring darker themes while incorporating a juxtaposing upbeat sound.
The highlighted track “On My Mind” features Rachel Sumner, employs a twangy guitar and earnest lyricism to create a classic Americana sound.
3) Oracle Sisters – “Divinations” (2025)
Indie pop darlings the Oracle Sisters are back with their second ever album, “Divinations”. Based in Paris and formed in 2017, this multi-instrumentalist trio implements pop, rock, and folk textures into their dreamy free-flowing lexicon of sound. Often infusing their indie sound with 70s-esque glam, they have created a unique and mellow collection of EPs and dozens of singles. Released on Valentine’s Day of this year, their sophomore album draws influences from Leonard Cohen, The Velvet Underground, and Air.
Our highlighted track, “Blue Left Hand” is funky and upbeat with some irreverent lyrics to create a playful vibe.
2) Michael Kiwanuka – “Small Changes” (2024)
British singer/songwriter Michael Kiwanuka has spent his creative career crafting harmonious soul melodies. Since his first album in 2012, his signature vocals have shaped his style of rock and early soul-influenced sound. His music has been featured in many TV soundtracks, his single “Cold Little Heart” being notably used as the theme for HBO’s Big Little Lies. Citing influences from Bill Withers, Otis Redding, The Band, and Joni Mitchell, Kiwanuka’s inspiration can be recognized through his genre-bending sound.
Our highlighted track this week, “One And Only”, has a pensive intro to intrigue the listener to stick around for the singer’s rich vocal delivery.
1)The Velveteers – “A Million Knives” (2025)
Songs of heartbreak and heart, rock ballads and indie melodies have been parts of the ever-evolving signature style of The Velveteers. Coming out of Boulder, Colorado, this local group has spent the past decade shaping their energetic punk sound. The trio consists of singer/guitarist Demi Demitro and drummers Baby Pottersmith and Jonny Fig. Releasing music since 2016, they have pulled inspiration for their rock ‘n roll from The Cramps, Buddy Holly, and Led Zeppelin. Back with their newest album, “A Million Knives”, The Velveteers are currently touring the US.
This week’s highlighted track, “Moonchild” has a confident vocal styles to be met with some intense guitar work, the track loops in a really interesting way that any rock fan would enjoy.