We Talk About Music

In a world where conformity often reigns, XOLEX—aka Alexis Curran—is unapologetically carving out her own path in country music. Her latest single, “Rebel Child,” reflects the fire and grit of a woman who refuses to fit into anyone’s mold. With its stripped-back arrangement and raw, emotional vocal performance, the track showcases XOLEX as a true non-conformist in the genre, blending her soulful country roots with pop sensibilities and a rock ’n’ roll edge.

In their longest and most ambitious track to date, “The Oak,” Graham and The Band Upstairs take listeners on a sprawling sonic journey that encapsulates everything great about Americana music. At 7 minutes and 48 seconds, the Atlanta-based band, led by singer-songwriter Graham Waldrop, weaves a tapestry of introspective storytelling, lush instrumental layers, and a sense of timelessness. It's a deeply personal song for Waldrop, but like any great folk narrative, it’s left open for interpretation, inviting listeners to find their own meaning in its winding lyrics and meditative mood.

The Lehigh Valley has birthed a lot of musical talent, but few acts have shown the relentless work ethic and creative dynamism of Smooth Retsina Glow. Their latest album, Through the Needles Eye, is a testament to the band's resilience and evolution, having survived lineup changes, a global pandemic, and countless obstacles along the way. What emerges from the other side is not just a collection of songs but a refined, genre-bending piece of indie rock that’s full of surprises.

The art of the cover song has always been a creative playground for musicians, allowing them to put their personal spin on iconic tracks. But New Jersey-native The Ajjancy takes this concept to the next level with his debut album, To Be Arranged. What could have been a collection of familiar remakes instead transforms into a genre-bending, era-spanning exploration that reimagines classic rock and pop tracks with a unique twist. This seven-track mashup album is nothing short of a chamber-rock masterpiece, drawing listeners in with surprising combinations and inventive arrangements that make these songs feel both fresh and familiar at once.

James Robert Webb’s latest single, “Lost in Vega$,” is an infectious blend of upbeat country and pop-rock that delivers far more than its title might suggest. On the surface, it’s an energetic love song with irresistible warmth, drawing you in with Webb’s inviting vocals and a super catchy chorus that sticks with you long after the first listen. But beneath the glitz and glamour of its Vegas-inspired façade, Webb captures something deeper—the essence of a place where reality blurs into illusion, and life’s highs and lows are only as real as you make them.

Wildcat Hawkins is no stranger to experimentation, and with his three-year-old indie dance track “Can’t Stop It With You,” the artist offers an infectious groove that feels timeless yet bold in its simplicity. In our recent interview with Hawkins, we discussed the process behind the track’s creation, its unexpected meaning, and how it fits within the broader evolution of his sound—a transformation that, three years later, has veered toward more updated genres. But in this minimalistic gem, Hawkins finds magic in restraint, producing a track that’s impossible not to dance to.

George Jano & The Feels are back with two new singles, "So Low" and "Rocking Horse," offering a taste of their upcoming EP Under the Sun Vol. 2. These tracks, dripping with laid-back charm and expert craftsmanship, showcase a band that’s not just riding the wave of good vibes but steering it with intention and heart.

DJ CIIISCO, born Francisco Javier Reynoso III, is a force to be reckoned with in the music scene. Hailing from the San Fernando Valley, this open-format DJ has built a stellar reputation for his electrifying mixes and the infectious energy he brings to every event. Whether he’s spinning at a high-profile wedding, a surprise birthday bash, or an underground club, DJ CIIISCO knows how to keep the crowd moving, and his ability to seamlessly blend genres like hip-hop, house, R&B, rock, and Latin music is what sets him apart.

Marc Ambrosia’s latest album, Gay & Proud, is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a powerful statement of identity, self-love, and resilience. Released on August 30, 2024, via Roon Boon Records, this album serves as a celebratory victory lap following Ambrosia’s coming out—a triumph of authenticity that resonates in every beat, melody, and lyric.

RonKat Spearman, a multi-talented artist with a long list of accolades, delivers yet another masterclass in musical versatility with his latest single, "No Driver." Released in June 2024, the song, along with its quirky and satirical music video, takes a playful jab at the absurdity of Waymo self-driving cars in San Francisco. Known for his work with legends like Lenny Kravitz, George Clinton, and Prince, Spearman’s latest offering shows he still has his finger on the pulse of contemporary culture, with a sense of humor that’s as sharp as his musical skills.