Essential Tracks 104
Algiers’ “Chaka” is a masterclass in tension and release
A <i>Blade Runner</i> synth jam interspersed with destructive noise sax.
Mamaleek’s “Eating Unblessed Meat” offers more strange, artful twists on metal
An artful, technologically enhanced and unpredictable direction for metal from the Bay Area band.
Khruangbin and Leon Bridges’ “C-Side” is road trip euphoria
A dub-influenced highlight from the two artists' new collaborative EP.
Thundercat’s “Black Qualls” has more bounce to the ounce
The funky new single features Slave's Steve Arrington and The Internet's Steve Lacy.
The Men evolve into seedy synth-rock on “Children All Over the World”
The Brooklyn shape-shifters find another new, exciting mutant form.
P.E.’s “Top Ticket” is urgent, unnerving, abrasive and dark
The new outfit from Veronica Torres (ex-Pill) dials up the intensity.
Stalley’s “A Main” is hip-hop that radiates soul
The latest heater from the former Maybach Music emcee.
Kerrie’s “Before Calm” is hard-as-nails techno that’s extra funky
The title track from the Irish producer's new EP GOES.
Thank’s “Two Hour Lunch” is a manic scream in the face of modern malaise
The Leeds band work through some therapy the loudest way they possibly can.
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds’ “Hollywood” is a masterful meditation on loss
The longest and most ominous track from Cave's latest is one of his most stunning compositions to date.
Béret’s “White Hole” is a cutting punk anthem
A reflective highlight from the Seattle artist's new album.
Danny Brown reminisces over a warm, organic beat on “Best Life”
The latest single from <i>uknowhatimsayin¿</i> has a bright and earthy vibe about it.
The Hecks’ “My Star” is a dancepunk earworm
The Chicago band are leaner, muscular and revved up.
rRoxymore’s “Passages” is a future-dub wobbler
The first single from the producer's upcoming debut album is pure dystopian funk.
Moor Mother’s “After Images” is an empowering march for the darkest times
The Philadelphia artist pulls the bottom out from the comfortable and apathetic.
Michael Kiwanuka’s “You Ain’t the Problem” defies expectations and confronts disbelievers
The first single from the London singer's latest is a powerful one.
Angel Olsen’s “All Mirrors” is elaborate, dramatic pop
The singer/songwriter introduces her new album in a lush, stunning manner.
Pharmakon finds a new rhythm on “Self-Regulating System”
The closest Pharmakon's come to a certifiable banger.
Tomb Mold’s “Accelerative Phenomenae” is an absolute death metal blast
Raw, epic, riff-laden good times.
The Armed’s “FT. FRANK TURNER” is giddy, reckless hardcore
Ninety seconds of furious hardcore sprint.