Each Friday, Atwood Journal’s workers share what they’ve been listening to that week – a tune, an album, an artist – no matter’s been having an influence on them, within the second.
This week’s weekly roundup options music by FKA twigs, flipturn, Tate McRae, Magdalena Bay, Hudson Thames, Laura Reznek, Humble the Nice & Amie Blu, TAVE & Kenyon Dixon, The fin., June6xteen, meija & Hand Habits, Killen., Jazzie Younger, Charlie Turner, Felicity, Ripsime, Muscle Reminiscence, THEKOIWAY, messier, Joey LaBeija, We Are All Fossils, Kamila Kay, Gregory Darling & Julian Lennon, BLVDS, and Cory Cullinan!
•• •• •• ••
comply with WEEKLY ROUNDUP on Spotify 
:: EUSEXUA – FKA twigs ::
Julia Dzurillay, New Jersey
It isn’t even February and FKA Twigs followers are saying we have already got the Album of the Yr. This artist is understood for her avant garde, techno-leaning originals. Eusexua (a phrase created to explain that feeling of transcendence, full euphoria, and readability,) delves into the strangest beats to make one thing sonically cohesive, but completely separate from her discography.
A private favourite is the second observe, titled “Lady Feels Good.” It’s good for an evening out in a sweaty membership. Strobe lights and sticky flooring. Twigs sings, “I concern the person who finds himself misplaced / In tales of struggle, delusions of extra / Stunning boys, I want you knew how valuable you’re / Your mom’s, sister’s, lover’s coronary heart is the place there’s therapeutic.”
:: Burnout Days – Flipturn ::
Christine Buckley, Connecticut
Florida indie-rock darlings Flipturn (stylized “flipturn”) catapulted to fame with their 2022 debut album Shadowglow, bolstered by a stay present that entranced audiences at main U.S. festivals like Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and Governor’s Ball. However the fixed touring and pressures on a younger band from an trade that isn’t all the time type to its expertise took a toll on members Dillon Basse (vocals, guitar), Tristan Duncan (lead guitar), Madeline Jarman (backing vocals, bass), Mitch Fountain (synth, guitar), and Devon VonBalson (drums).
Thus was born Burnout Days, the group’s sophomore album, which options the group’s established crystalline guitar motifs, catchy hooks and frank, wry lyrics combining with New Wave components and complex percussion to type an brisk soundscape. The album is grittier and extra weak than their debut, however someway additionally extra constructive, with single “Daylight” pertaining to singer and lyricist Dillon Basse’s help of his mom via her sobriety journey.
The group lately carried out lead single “Rodeo Clown” on Jimmy Kimmel, marking their late-night tv debut. Subsequent month they embark on their greatest tour but, a three-month U.S. journey that has them leveling up into their greatest rooms ever. Burnout Days proves that even below stress, flipturn continues to develop as certainly one of indie rock’s most progressive acts.
:: “Sports activities automotive” – Tate McRae ::
Bárbara Martínez Campuzano, Mexico
Exciting and tempting, Tate McRae’s new tune “Sports activities automotive” is stuffed with adrenaline, an on the spot bop. Produced by Ryan Tedder and Grant, this tune is the extremely anticipated return of the Canadian singer, and might be a part of her third album, So Near What, set to be launched on February 21. The one makes reference to the exhilaration of affection via the metaphor of driving a sports activities automotive. That is maybe one of the crucial vital releases of this previous week, given the tune’s dynamicity, its manufacturing and making that even concerned “Points” singer Julia Michaels.
Together with the discharge of “Sports activities automotive” got here its music video directed by Bardia Zeinali, who has beforehand labored with Sabrina Carpenter, Troye Sivan, amongst others. A deeper view into McRae’s world, the video has obtained reward for its visuals and vogue show. Absolutely, the brand new tune and video are one of the best motor for the “Grasping” singer’s subsequent album.
:: “Cry for Me” – Magdalena Bay ::
Marc Maleri, Connecticut
Every couple months for the reason that launch of Magdalena Bay’s sophomore album, Imaginal Disk, I’ll hyperfixate on a observe for weeks on finish. Each bit from the album is extremely layered and nuanced each in its lyrics and manufacturing, which makes a take heed to any one of many songs so pleasant because it appears like I’m discovering one thing new even months after my preliminary hear. “Cry for Me” is not any completely different.
Lead vocalist Mica Tenenbaum sings from the angle of a villain on “Cry for Me,” pleading for the sympathies and admiration of the plenty at what appears like this character’s grand exit from Imaginal Disk’s overarching narrative. Combining strings, synth, and an entire different mixture of components which might be each fantastical and futuristic, Tenenbaum and her music mastermind counterpart, Matthew Lewin, paint an epic, tragically stunning image with the observe. “Share a bit of kiss, and that’s endlessly / Consider love once you keep in mind me / I’m standing proper over right here.”
:: Bambino – Hudson Thames ::
Chloe Robinson, California
Masterful songwriter, performer, and actor Hudson Thames has a soulful and soothing air that’s totally charming. His new album Bambino attracts listeners in with its emotive pop choices and touching, tender ballads. The 8-track assortment begins with “Chilly Summer time.” The distinction of the title is very intriguing. He passionately sings, “Conserving my coronary heart on ice, turning off all these lights, don’t it really feel chilly exterior for {the summertime}.” The tune is the last word anthem of heartbreak. “Unsuitable” is one other standout. The beautiful ballad showcases piercing piano and a poignant vocal concord within the refrain that hits you deep. Concluding with “Man of the World,” it’s one other fairly piano ballad. Many can relate to his sentiment of discovering your self amidst the uncertainty.
Thames, set to look as Peter Parker within the Marvel sequence Your Pleasant Neighborhood Spiderman on Disney+, grew up in a big household. Bambino is an Italian time period of endearment meaning “child” or “infant.” His dad remarried when he was twelve to a giant Sicilian clan. At household features they’d lovingly name Thames bambino and he discovered that very candy. He gave the album the title bambino because the physique of labor is his child.
:: “Endeavours” – Laura Reznek ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
AXXXXXXXX
:: “september lightning” – Humble the Nice, Amie Blue ::
Miranda Urbanczyk, Michigan
Emerging R&B artists Amie Blue and Humble the Nice come collectively in a single expressive observe. Amie Blue seems as the one individual to collaborate with Humble the Nice on his new album, i don’t thoughts floating. The tune speaks for itself, immersing the viewers of each artists. “september lightning” enhances the listening expertise via cathartic beats. The distinctive sound of the 2 musicians mix collectively flawlessly, creating such an alluring file.
:: “Laid Again/Previous Skool Chevy” – TAVE ft. Kenyon Dixon ::
Grace Holtzclaw, Los Angeles, CA
TAVE takes us for a breezy coast down a clear-skied freeway on his newest single “Laid Again/Previous Skool Chevy.” That includes vocals from 2025 GRAMMY nominee Kenyon Dixon, TAVE deepens his footprint as a defining artist within the present stratosphere of R&B. “Laid Again/Previous Skool Chevy” is about easing into a brand new romance that feels as easy as a cruise down an open highway.
Vibrant synths, plunging bass strains, and heat, inviting vocals from Dixon units the tempo for a gradual but sultry musing on love. Dixon sings, “Lady why don’t you simply come a lil near me / Come and see if it’s giving what it’s purported to be” “Laid Again/Previous Skool Chevy” is about taking the stress off of attending to know somebody and embracing the great thing about simplicity.
“Laid Again/Previous Skool Chevy” is paired with a music video that captures TAVE and Dixon on a sun-drenched experience via a neighborhood with the highest down. The one is an on the spot hit of leisure that encourages listeners in every single place to let go of their worries. On high of his profession as an artist, TAVE is a GRAMMY nominated producer and songwriter who has beforehand labored with 6LACK, SiR, and Alex Isley. “Laid Again/Previous Skool Chevy” is TAVE’s newest launch set to take you alongside for the experience.
:: “Echoes” – The fin. ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Best recognized for his or her ethereal soundscapes, The fin.’s newest single “Echoes” has an atmospheric really feel with an engrossing association. Merging components of psychedelic and indie pop, with tasteful additions of jazz, funk, and soul added into the combination, this mix of sounds is actually distinctive. From the hazy synth texture to the shimmering indie sonics, “Echoes” supplies a contemplative haven, permitting listeners to re-establish a reference to their recollections and id.
:: “Me Myself & I” – June6xteen ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
“Me Myself & I” is a sonic masterpiece that radiates confidence and empowerment, mixing different pop with liquid drum and bass to create an electrifying and trendy sound by the proficient singer-songwriter June6xteen. From the very first beat, the observe bursts with vitality, carrying listeners on a wave of lush synths and infectious rhythms. Her vocals, effortlessly commanding but emotionally uncooked, drive house the tune’s empowering message of self-reliance and resilience. The lyrics, stuffed with defiance and self-assurance, resonate deeply, making this an anthem for anybody able to rise above criticism and embrace their individuality.
What actually makes this tune stand out is its stability of emotional depth and high-energy manufacturing. Whereas the beat makes you need to dance, the introspective and galvanizing lyrics join on a private degree, providing an ideal mix of coronary heart and hype. June6xteen’s capacity to channel her progress and authenticity into her music is simple, and “Me Myself & I” appears like a daring step ahead in her inventive journey. It’s not simply a tremendous tune – it’s a strong declaration that leaves an indelible mark on trendy pop music.
:: “SEVEN” – meija ft. Hand Habits ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
AXXXXXXXX
:: “ONANON” – Killen. ::
Josh Weiner, Washington DC
When I first began writing for Atwood in spring 2015, I wouldn’t have predicted that Swedish Electronica would wind up being the genres I might cowl most frequently throughout my time there. Flash ahead nearly a decade, although, and that has certainly been what has transpired, on condition that acts like Kasbo, NOEL and Love Truls have been despatched my manner fairly frequently, and I’ve come to take pleasure in them with the identical excessive frequency.
It’s good to see that development proceed with Killen, a Stockholm-based producer who made nice profession strides in 2024, together with acting at plenty of native festivals and releasing his first EP, Spotlight. He’s wasted no time protecting the momentum going within the new yr, having already launched his first new observe of 2025, “ONANON.” This electronic-dance tune makes for some chill listening, given its Peter Pan-style free-spiritedness about not eager to develop previous, and its general lighthearted sonic nature (on condition that I’m typing this on a Friday afternoon after one other lengthy week of labor at college, the soothing results this tune produces are particularly appreciated!) Better of luck to Hannes Torsell as he launches his new id as Killen the EDM Producer from Sweden.
:: “Ready on You!” – Jazzie Younger ::
Rachel Leong, France
Jazzie Younger drops “Ready On You!” a weak reflection upon what unrequited longing appears like. Indie-pop melodies and layered vocals mark the brand new observe, propelling Jazzie Younger forth as a promising up and comer within the scene.
Marked by confessional songwriting and ethereal world-building, Younger permits her lyricism to flourish inside her indie rock-leaning manufacturing. Leaning inward whereas pouring outward, shimmering melodies ebb and movement to the inconsistencies of emotion. Because the observe swells into its cathartic crescendo, listeners are left with a way of launch, as if sharing in Jazzie Younger’s emotional journey.
:: “Mrs Different” – Charlie Turner ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Emerging musician and artist Charlie Turner’s newest single “Mrs Different” blends genres of jazz, rock, and punk influences into one to supply an distinctive providing. His attribute method to music makes every tune show his signature sound and voice. The uncooked reflection of rising up, and older, life after college, and getting into the massive huge world is delicately explored within the tune. The music’s complexity and profound passionate depth not solely within the instrumentation however within the lyrics make him an artist to observe this yr.
:: “Miracle Elixir” – Felicity ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
AXXXXXXXX
:: “Paradise” – Ripsime ::
Rachel Leong, France
British-Armenian songwriter, producer and artist Ripsime closed out 2024 along with her mesmerising new single “Paradise.” The observe is a daring, experimental pop observe signalling a profound evolution in her sound. Honing her craft as each a songwriter and producer, “Paradise” blends nostalgic ’80s-inspired artificial textures with trendy alt-pop sensibilities.
“Paradise” marks a hanging shift in Ripsime’s musical course, embracing a extra digital and punk-inspired sound, whereas protecting her signature emotionally charged and introspective lyrics. The tune is a heartfelt tribute to these we’ve misplaced too quickly, exploring the theme of everlasting connection, and the bittersweet realisation that our magical reference to family members transcends the bodily realm.
:: “Get Misplaced” – Muscle Reminiscence ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
New York indie pop duo Muscle Reminiscence craft a breezy escape with their newest single, “Get Misplaced.” Layering summer-kissed harmonies and a vibrant but refined groove, the observe effortlessly blends the attraction of dance pop with an eclectic, intimate contact. By giving the instrumentation area to shine, the duo creates an environment that’s each colourful and calming. When the ultimate third arrives, with its cascading layers and anthemic hook, “Get Misplaced” transforms right into a full-blown indie-pop embrace – nostalgic, theatrical, and undeniably catchy. Excellent for a second of reflection or a carefree summer time drive, this one’s a charmer.
:: “The Sport of Life” – THEKOIWAY ::
Joe Beer, Surrey, UK
Chilean-born, Brooklyn-based artist, THEKOIWAY lately unveiled their new single “The Sport of Life” aka, “El Juego de la Vida.” Alongside the soul-soaked, funk-fueled single, was a charming, short-story model music video that includes famend actor Héctor Noguera. Each the only and video provide a thought-provoking narrative, with THEKOIWAY exploring LGBTQ+ themes and emphasizing the significance of variety throughout all cultures.
Frontman Victor Vildósola shares, “We’re thrilled to current the music video for our new single, because it delves into profound questions on variety and the actions we take as a society in response. For us, it’s an honor to characteristic the legendary actor Héctor Noguera, who brings immense expertise and dedication to this challenge. That is greater than a music video – it’s a cry for variety, a problem to norms, and a reminder that generally we should elevate the veil of the extraordinary to confront essentially the most uncomfortable truths.”
“The Sport of Life” involves life with velvet vocals which glide over daring brass instrumentation, funky guitars and a dance-worthy rhythm that may get your complete physique transferring. By their feel-good music, storytelling lyrics and mesmerizing visuals, THEKOIWAY are sure to make a big effect as they bring about consciousness to necessary social points, encourage change and unfold messages of inclusivity and positivity.
:: “Baskervilles” – messier ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Finnish indie rock duo messier have unveiled their newest single “Baskervilles,” providing a mesmerizing glimpse into their forthcoming 2025 album Stream of Responsible Consciousness. Famend for his or her emotionally charged soundscapes and progressive method to music, messier’s new observe delves deep into the human psyche, specializing in the tendency to catastrophize. The tune displays the band’s signature model whereas venturing into new sonic territories, showcasing their progress and steady push to redefine the boundaries of indie rock.
“Baskervilles” strikes a poignant stability between urgency and desolation, embodying the burden of its central theme. Lauri Huumonen’s vivid, introspective lyrics are interwoven with Antti Orajärvi’s dynamic instrumentation, making a sound each brooding and expansive. The observe’s haunting ambiance and emotionally charged supply trace on the bold scope of the upcoming album. With “Baskervilles,” Messier affirm their place as a band unafraid to confront deep, uncomfortable truths, leaving listeners wanting to discover the intricate journey promised by Stream of Responsible Consciousness.
:: “lower than three” – Joey LaBeija ::
Rachel Leong, France
Joey LaBeija lately returned with “lower than three,” a sweeping return to the choice R&B scene. The brand new single dominates with boundary-pushing manufacturing textures and wealthy vocal layers, a mesmerising mix of experimental soundscapes and hypnotic, downtempo beats.
LaBeija’s definitive vocal results and dynamic manufacturing pull you into an environment of brooding depth, whereas darkish swoops of instrumentation create a sense of eerie but alluring magnificence. The observe’s mysterious undertones mirror the emotion of its central theme: appreciating the sweetness present in letting go.
A monumental return for Joey, “lower than three” is a novel and immersive listening expertise that actually units the stage for what’s to return subsequent. A observe thriving in subtleties and contradictions, ‘lower than three’ showcases LaBeija’s evolution as each an artist and producer.
:: “Rapture” – We Are All Fossils ::
Josh Weiner, Washington DC
We Are All Fossils, apparently, as implied by the stage identify of South African people singer Deist Oelofse. That onstage pseudonym wound up being one thing of a head-scratcher to me – OK certain, in hundreds of thousands of years we’ll all be fossils, the identical manner that dinosaurs are actually… however what precisely makes us fossils this present day? Is there a metaphor at work right here or one thing? In any case, maybe it’s finest to not get too overwhelmed by ideas of that nature, and as an alternative flip our minds to the appreciable musical functionality that this younger singer has already demonstrated to a powerful extent on his early singles – a development that will get gloriously prolonged on the most recent of those, entitled “Rapture.”
There’s fact within the identify this time, as this winds up certainly being fairly an enrapturing acoustic single that Oelofse drew the inspiration to write down throughout a keep on the Lake District in the UK, his present nation of residence. Loads of pure and ethereal imagery is infused into the music, which he says is supposed to embody how people, identical to the Earth, are stuffed with resilience and might “adapt to shifting circumstances, irrespective of how harsh.” Though We Are All Fossils’ catalogue is restricted to a handful of singles in the intervening time, the expertise and thoughtfulness he has proven early on with singles like “Raptures” exhibit that he has the potential to construct meaningfully upon his physique of labor within the coming future.
:: “Higher Than You Suppose” – Kamila Kay ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
AXXXXXXXX
:: “A New Dream” – Gregory Darling & Julian Lennon ::
Joe Beer, Surrey, UK
Acclaimed producer/songwriter, Gregory Darling has teamed up with Julian Lennon for his newest launch, “A New Dream.” Having been pals and collaborators for a few years, the brand new single is demonstrative of their deep friendship and artistic chemistry. “A New Dream” is an anthem for everybody, from all walks of life. With the duo pertaining to common feelings and experiences, it acts as a reminder that no dream is just too huge to succeed in and that something is feasible so long as now we have hope and perseverance.
Darling and Lennon’s complementary vocal tones ooze with emotion and vulnerability. The fragile instrumentation twinkles softly, making a melancholy but dreamlike soundscape, whereas the nice and cozy piano melody provides a soothing, optimistic ambiance. “A New Dream” was initially featured on Darling’s debut album, Shell, in 2006, with the songwriter sharing, “I needed to place a brand new twist on the unique manufacturing and association, so I locked myself within the studio and being subjected to Covid lockdown, it felt acceptable. I created a brand new beat, changed the strings with synths, added guitars, bass, BV’s after which Ian Kelosky combined it, giving it a recent sound, the place the vocals actually come out.”
:: “Two Sides” – BLVDS ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Montana duo BLVDS ship a dynamic, genre-blurring expertise with their newest single, “Two Sides.” Starting as a dreamy, synth-laced escape, the observe steadily builds right into a daring, anthemic launch of vitality that fuses poetic pop with digital dance vibes and pop-punk’s uncooked depth. Impeccably produced but refreshingly natural, “Two Sides” takes listeners on a heartfelt journey, from hushed, intimate vocals to hovering, impassioned hooks – and simply once you suppose you’ve heard all of it, a saxophone solo bursts in to seal the deal. It’s a euphoric and unexpectedly adventurous experience that begs for repeat listens and deserves its second within the highlight.
:: “Footprint” – Cory Cullinan ::
Chloe Robinson, California
Cory Cullinan does all of it. A musician, commissioned composer, creator, award-winning trainer, speaker, studio proprietor and humorist, we’re in awe of his immense skills. His present launch “Footprint” is simply one other illustration of his profound talent. There’s something in regards to the sounds of nature that’s so grounding. These noises enable us to seek out gratitude and calm. The music video, directed and created by his daughter Sidney Cullinan, shows serene out of doors pictures that really add to the tranquility. His musical creation paired with the compelling visuals craft a sense of full catharsis.
Within the late Nineteen Eighties Cullinan was an undergrad at Stanford College. He was taking famed composer and digital music legend John Chowning’s 220A course. That was when he initially conceived the observe, however by no means fairly accomplished it as digital audio workstations didn’t exist on the time. When Cory obtained phrase that Dr. Chowning was coming to a live performance Cory was enjoying at, he was decided to complete the piece. On the finish of the work, his former professor shouted humorously from the gang: “Cory, you probably did it!” Making all the things come full circle.
— — — —
Hook up with us on
Fb, Twitter, Instagram
Uncover new music on Atwood Journal
:: Weekly Roundup ::
comply with WEEKLY ROUNDUP on Spotify
:: This Week’s Options ::