Having released a stand out album in 2023, Chronicles of a Diamond, Black Pumas are on the short list with a Grammy nomination in the Best Rock Performance category, and were among KCRW’s Top 30 Most Played Albums and Songs of 2023 . We can’t predict the future, but we can share a soulful track called “Ice Cream (Pay Phone)” with its hypnotic flavors mixed with rhythm and rhyme.

Black Pumas: ‘Ice Cream (Pay Phone)’

A free weekday download of standout songs, including advance releases, exclusive live tracks recorded at KCRW, remixes, and an introduction to new artists on our radar.

Music

We’re celebrating our mothers this weekend, and to honor them we turn to the timeless singer Alex Cuba , who pays tribute to his own mother and the work she puts into her delicious dinners, to which no one else comes close. Not only did he write the song for her, but Alex invites his mama to sing with him on “No Cocina Cualquiera”

Alex Cuba: ‘No Cocina Cualquiera’

We’re excited to premiere a new song from heavy instrumental dream team Parlor Greens , who have the distinction of recording their debut album at Colemine Records’ brand new studio at Portage Lounge in Loveland, Ohio. This trio celebrates their members with brilliant solos, as you’ll hear on the title track “In Green We Dream.”

Parlor Greens: ‘In Green We Dream’

Soul singer Bette Smith ’s musical adventure was born in the church pews and street corners of Brooklyn. Today, Bette Smith announces a brand new album filled with her signature mix of soul and gospel. “Goodthing,” the title track, hints at the crunchy sound of the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Bette Smith: ‘Goodthing’

Back in 2018, LA roots-punk pioneer Dave Alvin and cosmic country slayer Jimmie Dale Gilmore wrote their first album together to great fanfare and kindled their lifelong friendship. The duo have announced a new full-length recording, TexiCali, coming in June that promises to deliver 11 trippy tracks, culled from the hearts of these two storytellers and providing a sonic tapestry across their home states. “We’re Still Here” celebrates their bond.

Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore: ‘We're Still Here’

Motherhood is a game-changer for any artist, but it can also open up a new sonic horizon. Monogem is a new mom to a son, and has spent the last year in her backyard under their lemon tree. Her new ballad “Lemon Tree” carries a lilting melody, coupled with organic production and soothing saxophone peeling back the layers of a heavy world. It reminds us of what Monogem already knows: to appreciate the little things (and little ones) in our daily lives.

Black Pumas: ‘Ice Cream (Pay Phone)’

Download our free app to listen on your phone