Essential Tracks 50
Shogun and the Sheets’ “Hold On Kid” is a fiery rock ‘n’ roll anthem
The former Royal Headache frontman tears it up in a new power-pop/punk rock barnburner.
Jamila Woods’ “Giovanni” is a funky, defiant tribute
The Chicago singer/poet honors the women that shaped her over a fierce groove.
Harvey Sutherland’s “Amethyst” blends jazz and electronics into something majestic
A breathtaking blend of jazz and downtempo sounds.
Mick Jenkins’ “Understood” is warm, breezy yet affecting hip-hop
A strong first single from Jenkins' upcoming album <i>Pieces of a Man</i>.
Randall Dunn’s “Mexico City” is darkness that aims toward the transcendent
Breathtaking electronic creations from the Earth/Sunn O))) producer.
Anderson .Paak and Kendrick Lamar’s “Tints” stretches summer into fall
A top-down summer anthem that's fresh even when the Mercury drops.
Silent Servant dances into the underworld on “Harm In Hand”
A modern industrial song that shows its roots.
Robyn crafts an effortless groove on new single “Honey”
An immediate and fun new pop gem from Robyn's long-awaited new album.
Julien Dyne fuses Pan-African influences with house on “Copernicus”
Lagos meets Detroit on this groove heavy track.
Charly Bliss’ “Heaven” is soaring alt-rock that lives up to its name
An alt-rock gem that stands apart from the indie rock landscape.
Noname’s “Self” has a lot to say in just 90 seconds
A bite-sized song that's as nourishing as a full meal.
Mildlife stretch “Phase II” into an epic fusion groove
The Australian group reconfigures a recent single into a stellar odyssey.
Georgia Anne Muldrow pairs memories with sonic weight on funk poem “Aerosol”
Hear the R&B singer's funky, socio-political new jam.
Bells Atlas’ “Downpour” is intoxicatingly odd future-soul
A weird, wonderful and creative new gem of electronic R&B.
Makaya McCraven splices a jazz session into a hypnotic stunner on “Black Lion”
An all-star team of jazz musicians edited into breaks and loops, with hypnotic results.
Pill’s “Fruit” is transcendent art punk
The Brooklyn band builds more layers of nuance into their dark, cool dance-punk sound.
Horrendous’ “Devotion (Blood for Ink)” is death metal that’s both dirty and triumphant
The Philly death metal outfit offers a reminder of why they're one of the best at what they do.
Essential Track: FOXTROTT crafts her heartbreak song on “Deliver”
MH Delorme crafts a vulnerable but lovely synth-laden tune.
Essential Track: Brandon Coleman drops a retro-futuristic funk jam on “All Around the World”
Kamasi Washington collaborator brings out a big slab of electro funk.
Gouge Away’s “Ghost” redefines melodic hardcore
A furious blend of melodic hooks and emotionally intense throat-shredding.