Whether you’re a hip-hop aficionado, an indie rock enthusiast, or someone who thrives on genre-defying beats, there’s something fresh for everyone. We’ve scoured the airwaves to curate a list of the top 10 must-listen releases that are taking the music scene by storm. Get ready to dive into a sonic journey that spans the gritty streets of rap, the ethereal vibes of indie, and everything in between. Here are the standout tracks that deserve your full attention.
1. Charli XCX — “Sympathy Is A Knife” Feat. Ariana Grande
Charli XCX‘s Brat has undoubtedly emerged as one of the most influential albums of 2024, and last week, she amplified the excitement with Brat And It’s Completely Different But Also Still Brat. This remix collection features an array of fresh takes, including a reimagined version of “Sympathy Is A Knife,” now featuring the powerhouse vocals of Ariana Grande. The collaboration adds a new dimension to the track, seamlessly blending both artists’ unique styles while maintaining the album’s signature energy.
2. Shweta Harve – “Why So Busy?” Feat. Dario Cei
Shweta Harve‘s “Why So Busy?” emerges as a refreshing anthem questioning the relentless chase for productivity. This catchy and reflective tune delves into the chaos of modern life, urging listeners to confront the illusion that being constantly on the go equates to fulfillment. Harve, with her evocative lyrics, paints a vivid picture of the overwhelming nature of being chronically busy, prompting us to ponder whether this frantic pace is truly worth the sacrifice of genuine presence. The collaboration with composer Dario Cei brings an irresistible melodic composition that enhances the song’s emotive depth, making it impossible to resist listening to on repeat. The accompanying music video, shot as a live Zoom call, adds a dramatic flair that encapsulates the song’s themes of connection and disconnection in our digitally-driven lives.
3. Rosé and Bruno Mars — “APT.”
When Bruno Mars is involved in a song, there’s a high likelihood it will be a certified bop, and the same can be said for BLACKPINK’s Rosé. Their new collaboration, “APT.,” from Rosé’s upcoming solo album Rosie, is no exception. The track bursts with infectious energy, blending Mars’ signature smoothness with Rosé’s distinctive style. The result is an mediately catchy tune that invites listeners to dance along. With its vibrant production and playful lyrics, “APT.” is not just a song; it’s a celebration of fun and musical chemistry, making it a standout addition to both artists’ discographies.
4. The Linda Lindas — “Nothing Would Change”
During their breaks—spring, winter, and long weekends—the young band The Linda Lindas crafted their latest album, No Obligation. This project showcases their impressive talent, especially considering their ages, with the exception of 20-year-old Bela Salazar. “Nothing Would Change” is a standout track that highlights their knack for creating infectious punk rock tunes.
5. J’Moris – “Cut Off”
J’Moris, the Hillsboro-born rapper renowned for his smooth delivery and street-hardened authenticity, has unveiled his latest track, “Cut Off.” This song, steeped in southern grit and the realities of his upbringing in chaotic Fort Worth during the ’90s, combines heavy-hitting bars with introspective lyrics that delve into themes of loyalty, self-respect, and the need to remove toxic influences from his life. With a strong message of self-preservation, J’Moris reflects on the lessons learned from navigating dangers and survival strategies instilled by his older brother, Crunch. The production of “Cut Off” features a bass-driven beat that matches the dark, menacing tone of his lyrics, while J’Moris’ smooth yet commanding flow adds a confident edge to the track.
6. Bon Iver — “Awards Season”
SABLE may not be a full album, but it’s fresh Bon Iver, and that’s more than enough to get excited about. This four-track EP showcases Justin Vernon’s vulnerability, particularly in the standout track “Awards Season.” Here, he combines his distinctive vocals with rich horn arrangements, creating a stirring and emotive sound that resonates deeply.
7. Flo Assy – “Pour Toi”
One of the standout tracks from Flo Assy‘s new album Risque Avenue is “Pour Toi,” which showcases his lyrical depth and melodic flair. The song blends poignant storytelling with an infectious beat, encapsulating the essence of his artistic vision. Accompanied by a vibrant music video, “Pour Toi” visually immerses viewers in Flo Assy’s world, highlighting his journey and connection to his roots. This combination of evocative lyrics and striking visuals reinforces the album’s themes of resilience and passion, making it a compelling experience for fans and newcomers alike.
8. Nao – “Wildflowers”
Nao has made her long-awaited return with the enchanting new single “Wildflowers,” marking her first release since her third album, And Then Life Was Beautiful, which debuted three years ago. This song signals the beginning of a new chapter for the British singer, as she reflects on the complexities of love. “A wildflower symbolizes falling in love—it’s wild, carefree, and you want it to last forever,” Nao explains about the single. However, she acknowledges that life and time often have different plans. “Wildflowers” invites listeners to explore the highs and lows of love while embracing vulnerability, showcasing Nao’s signature sound and emotional depth.
9. Varun Sheel – “neon love”
Varun Sheel makes a striking return with his latest single, “neon love,” showcasing an electrifying fusion of soaring guitar melodies and dynamic vocals, perfectly capturing the pulse of city life while resonating with fans of melodic pop. Known for his vivid soundscapes, Sheel’s unique storytelling through music shines in “neon love,” which opens with his signature guitar work that sets an immediate tone of excitement and longing. As the city lights shimmer and fade, Sheel’s introspective lyrics explore the fleeting yet intense moments of love and connection, offering a poignant reminder of how these experiences can feel both immediate and timeless. Garnering acclaim from top industry outlets like Wonderland, “neon love” exemplifies Sheel’s ability to resonate with a broad audience while remaining true to his artistic vision.
10. Willow — “Wanted” Feat. Kamasi Washington
Willow continues to showcase her adventurous spirit as an artist with her latest track, “Wanted,” featuring the talented Kamasi Washington. This collaboration sees Washington lending his jazz expertise to a song characterized by wildly varying tempos, creating an intriguingly herky-jerky listening experience. Willow’s willingness to explore different musical styles shines through, as she effortlessly blends her sound with Washington’s dynamic contributions, resulting in a captivating and genre-defying piece that keeps listeners on their toes.