Every Friday, Atwood Magazine’s staff share what they’ve been listening to that week – a song, an album, an artist – whatever’s been having an impact on them, in the moment.
This week’s weekly roundup features music by Liang Lawrence, Vraell, Wallice, Claudia Bouvette, Jacob Cummings, Camille Schmidt, Optacure, ION, Isabella Storm, Hushtones, Maverick Sabre, Rex & The Rhythm, DUSTIN DAB BOWIE, Nostalgix, Jennifer Cohen, Saloni, R E L, My Cosmic Girl, Kendra & the Bunnies, Fejká, Daniel Schamroth, Mikel Rafael, Maria Kelly, and WØLZT!
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follow WEEKLY ROUNDUP on Spotify
:: “Kiss My Apocalypse” – Liang Lawrence ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
The dreamy and dramatic collide in Liang Lawrence’s spellbinding new single. A cinematic and searing seduction of the ears and the heart, “Kiss My Apocalypse” is a bold n’ brash declaration of love everlasting channeled through a fiery indie pop lens. The London-based singer/songwriter holds nothing back in expressing all the reasons why two hearts should beat as one as two bodies intertwine, crafting a tender, dynamic moment of connection and unfiltered vulnerability that mirrors the very intimate declaration of love itself.
don’t you think your t-shirts made for me
got our legs all tangled up in the morning heat
why would you ever leave? stay stuck to me
why would you ever leave?
ooh, if everything was burning ‘round us
I’d stay and choose to never leave our fortress
ooh, I would let you eat my heart out
I think that I could let you take this too far
yeah, I think that I could let you take this –
“‘Kiss My Apocalypse’ is probably the least casual way you could tell someone that you want to spend the rest of your life with them,” Lawrence tells Atwood Magazine. “I found it refreshing to write a love song that just simply puts my cards on the table and lets someone know how I feel.”
She rises to a beautiful fever pitch in the song’s stunningly catchy chorus:
stay right here
100,000 old dog years
in a perfect world
I could be your always girl
“Kiss My Apocalypse” is unapologetic, unashamed, and beautifully unabashed. Lawrence knows who she wants to be by her side when the end times come, and she’s determined not to waste a single second without that person. This isn’t just some passing fancy – a product of lust or in-the-moment desire; it’s a deeper, longform passion that pulls our souls open, demanding that we look at love not in the context of days, weeks, or months, but in the span of years. “In a perfect world, I could be your always girl,” she so eloquently sings.
Lawrence’s boldness is not just admirable and unexpected, but also exhilarating and inspiring. How many times have we harbored feelings for someone, and said nothing? If “Kiss My Apocalypse” can give even one soul the strength to say “I love you” before their window has passed, then it will be a song well spent.
if you’re a feeling a little experimental
we’re matching up on a molecular level
you can’t deny it’s just our biology so
darling, stay stuck to me
ooh, even if the world was ending
I’d close the curtains, blast the speakers up and
ooh, kiss you ‘till my lips were bleeding
I think that I could let you take this too far
I think that I could let you take this
stay right here
100,000 old dog years
in a perfect world
I could be your always girl
And for the rest of us, well, if end times really are a’coming, then you might as well hold your loved one close and bask in the glow of that connection. It’s worth remembering how special love really is, and how unique that bond can be. Beyond inspiring new loves to form, perhaps the greatest gift this song can give is to rekindle all those existing flames, to recognize just how magical their love already is.
darling, ‘till death do us part
until the end of time
stay right here
100,000 old dog years
in a perfect world
I could be your always girl
:: “Waste” – Vraell ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
Beyond the breathtaking tenderness of Vraell’s latest single, it’s the beautiful ache of his performance that makes for a truly moving, emotionally cathartic experience. Released November 8th via Nettwerk Music Group, “waste” is a lush and dreamy alt-folk serenade dwelling in a space of intimacy and longing.
The London-based virtuoso guitarist, composer, and singer/songwriter (née Alessio Scozzaro) creates, with little more than his hushed voice, his gentle acoustic guitar, and some warm pads and strings, a soul-stirring world into which we, his audience, can dive in headfirst – soaking up the raw emotions his music conjures within.
Off I go
A feather in the fray
That’s gone without a trace
Where?
I don’t know
But still I can feel your breeze
Just never sure where it always blows
And blows
I’m caught in the drift so soon
Who knows
If I’ll ever find a way back through?
But I know I’ll find a way to you
Oh what a waste
Got caught out in the open air
“‘Waste’ is a song about long distance friendship and how hard it is to maintain it, and being in your head about it until you are together again and it feels like nothing has changed,” Vraell tells Atwood Magazine.
“The lines, ‘Felt you close when I learnt to let go, now I’ve got nothing for it to show’ sums up that message entirely. It’s like I tried to crack on and not miss that we went our separate ways, as all friends do at some point, but friends are always there and pop up in memories and places.”
I struggled for days
Don’t know if you’ve seen it
And would you believe
if I turned my back on it all?
Was waiting for the fall
Was waiting for the fall
When I found my way back to you
I’m glad I found my way to you
But, oh what a waste
Vraell’s soft indie folk sound is simultaneously sweet, seductive, and all-consuming; the majestic pairing of voice and guitar falls on the ears like a comforting blanket, ready to be the soothing weight we need all around us. It may not be far from the standard lullaby, but “waste” promises to enchant, enthrall, and inspire all who listen, getting us deep in our feelings as Vraell spills his guts out in this dreamlike song.
Is it too late?
Is it too late?
Coming from you
Felt you close when I learnt to let go
Now I got nothing for it to show
What’s easier to say?
That all the while I was under
You were bold and getting no younger
Or that we are broken
It’s time we learnt
Oh what a waste
Got caught out in the open air
I struggled for days
Don’t know if you’ve seen it
And would you believe if I turned my back on it all?
:: The Jester – Wallice ::
Bárbara Martínez Campuzano, Mexico
An honest, self-aware and brilliant album is what singer/songwriter Wallice has given the indie/alternative pop music world in The Jester. Although she’d previously released lead singles “The Opener,” which talks about her experience on opening for The 1975, and “Heaven Has To Happen,” in which she confesses her imposter syndrome even as she’s accomplishing her goals and dreams, the other twelve songs on this album are worth listening to. Listening to the entire album is traveling into the real world of Wallice, either if you are walking down the street or staring up at the ceiling, the feelings and instruments captivate the listener.
The song “I Want You Yesterday,” with a beat that may remind you of other classics in the indie or rock genre, is a sincere confession on being in completely in love with someone, including his red flags. “Clown Like Me,” a rock anthem, was made with The Strokes’ member Albert Hammond Jr. This is a great song especially with the instrumental (and rock) predominance. Another honorable mention is “The Hardest Working Man Alive,” which highlights the humoristic aspect of Wallice’s music, for she has mentioned in the past that making music doesn’t feel like real work and, actually, it is a matter of luck to be an artist. Overall, Wallice just incorporated fourteen great songs to the indie panorama.
:: “BITE THE APPLE” – Claudia Bouvette ::
Francesca Rose, Montreal
Like her debut album released in 2022, DIARY FOR THE LONELY HEARTS by Montreal-based singer-songwriter Claudia Bouvette is easy-going and satisfying, the type of music that you can put on in the background and feel a rush of energy and reassurance. There’s a mix of the lively (80s tinged “LONELY HEARTS”) and the intimate (“DON’T WANNA HEAR THIS SONG ANYMORE”) while the ’90s and early 2000s influences that fill her personality are dispersed throughout.
“BITE THE APPLE” is the song that immediately jumped out at me, the delicate playfulness and melancholy of the verse progressing into a hypnotic and catchy chorus that’s super easy to sing along too. It’s the kind of song that you feel a need to play again right away because once isn’t enough.
‘Everybody knows you shouldn’t bite the apple but you bite it anyway. Everybody knows there’s some things you shouldn’t say but you say ’em either way’ goes part of the chorus, the lines whirling in a hyperactive way through my head while I run or walk to work. There are often times in the day when an album fits best and the music of Claudia Bouvette, for me anyway, is ideal in the morning and afternoon when preparing to delve into something that requires the mental and physical energy.
:: Southern & Enlightened – Jacob Cummings ::
Rachel Leong, France
Jacob Cummings arrives with highly anticipated solo debut album, Southern & Enlightened. Inspired by Cummings’ upbringing in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, the record was recorded in his grandmother’s home. Symbolically so, Southern & Enlightened is a journey through space and time, tracing Cummings’ own path – seeing family and the coastal soundscapes through his eyes.
Evoking familiarity and comfort, Southern & Enlightened blends indie folk with experimental and vast arrangements. Cummings restores color to blurry photo qualities with his atmospheric sensibilities, lush with intricate instrumentals and bittersweet nostalgia.
Alongside the new record, Cummings debuts a short film, standing at almost 40 minutes along, telling the story of the record through his lens. Shot and directed by the artist himself, the visuals are rich with free spirits and life cycles amidst the vast Florida landscape, complementing the record in sparkling harmony.
:: “XOXO” – Camille Schmidt ::
Chloe Robinson, California
Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter Camille Schmidt speaks her most inner thoughts aloud in her latest single “XOXO.” The piece opens with a drum machine and weightless synths which pairs seamlessly with her delicate, distorted tone. The more you listen the more you are drawn into her contemplations of existence. She sings, “Twenty-seven just a baby. So much in this life that I could do.” This lyric makes us think of all the things we want to accomplish and how much life we still have left. She goes on to reveal, “The other day I had this fantasy. What if you and me, we had a kid? Two moms make a real f*ing baddie.” Many of us have similar fleeting thoughts making her personal brainstorms highly relatable. The music video showcases Schmidt cleaning a crime scene in a motel and later burying the body. It’s interesting to hear her say things like “When I’m alone I go f*ing crazy. Conjuring the demon in my room,” as she scrubs blood off the shower door.
Schmidt blends synth-pop, folk, and punk for a sound that is unique and raw. When the singer was young, she would sit at the kitchen table while models posed nude in her parents’ art studio. Oftentimes these intimate paintings would receive titles like “Girl with Dogs #3.” She always pondered why such personal works would be given such generic names. This inspired her to call her debut album Nude #9. Growing up in a creative household it only makes sense she would create her own brand of art. “XOXO” truly displays that bold originality.
:: “With the Moon” – Optacure ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Optacure’s latest single, “With The Moon,” is like catching a perfect wave of dreamy nostalgia on a moonlit beach night. This track, inspired by a simple yet magical night spent with loved ones, captures the warmth of good company and the quiet beauty of a moonrise that feels like it was pulled from a movie scene. Edmund Gemelo Jr., the creative mind behind Optacure, has a knack for turning life’s fleeting, everyday moments into songs that stick with you—making “With The Moon” an emotional, cinematic journey in itself.
The production, handled by longtime collaborator Ean Aguila, takes the song to new heights with a lush, ambient blend of indie pop and electro-pop influences. Aguila brings in atmospheric synths, gentle beats, and subtle layers that feel like they’re dancing around the melody, creating the perfect backdrop for Gemelo’s soulful vocals. The result is a track that feels as refreshing as a sea breeze and as comforting as a fireside chat. Optacure has delivered a tune that’s perfect for late-night drives, beach bonfires, or any moment when you just need to soak in some starry-eyed vibes.
:: Like a Sickness – ION ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Like a Sickness, the long-awaited EP by experimental artist ION, delves deeply into themes of spiritual preservation, esoteric wisdom, and insanity. ION is well-known for fusing spirituality, music, and the occult. They stretch the limits of genres to create a rich auditory experience that delves into the spirituality of ancient humans. The EP weaves a tapestry of emotions based in the nexus of lunacy and mysticism, taking listeners on a visceral investigation of divine awareness with its haunting melodies and dramatic soundscapes.
The six-track EP marks a shift in ION’s creative direction, embracing a multidisciplinary approach that blends music with ritualistic and spiritual undertones. From the ceremonial tones of “Mercurii Ritual” to the aboriginal-inspired chants in “Homesick,” ION invokes long-forgotten sacred practices. Each track offers a unique exploration of themes such as societal suffocation, ancient spiritual loss, and the duality of witches’ perceptions. With “Surface Tension,” for instance, ION explores how societal pressures lead to madness, furthering the EP’s thematic ties to mental boundaries and metaphysical realities.
ION describes Like A Sickness as a significant moment in his artistic evolution, saying, “It represents a shift towards ritualistic, more intimate expressions of the occult.” The EP acts not just as a musical experience but as a sonic rite that challenges listeners to reflect on the delicate balance between sanity and the spiritual unknown. With this release, ION signals the start of a new era in his career, one that invites audiences to reconnect with ancient wisdom while simultaneously exploring modern experimentalism.
:: “CryBaby” – Isabella Storm ::
Joe Beer, Surrey, UK
Hailing from Yorkshire in the UK, pop sensation Isabella Storm has recently unveiled her intoxicating new single “CryBaby,” ahead of her highly anticipated EP, due next year. The kaleidoscopic single, explodes with oscillating synths, colorful melodies and a fast-paced beat, delivering an infectious energy.
The upcoming EP, including “CryBaby” sees the songwriter touching on themes of love and heartbreak. The Brit shares, “Cliche I know but heartbreak makes for great art. Scorned is the word someone used to describe my songs and I agree with them – an Aries scorned!!”
As she chants over and over “mummy didn’t raise no quitter,” we’re urged to dig deep, rise above the pain, and transform heartbreak into strength and empowerment. Oozing with confidence, Isabella Storm is here to remind us of our worth with the tantalizing “CryBaby.”
:: “Paper Flowers” – Hushtones ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
There’s nothing “hushed” about Hushtones’ latest, greatest single: An exhilarating release of raw, radiant energy, “Paper Flowers” explores rejection and loneliness (“and how brutal those things can feel”) through a bold and buoyant indie pop lens, compelling us to jump around and dance ourselves dizzy while still dwelling in life’s raw depths. It’s a spellbinding seduction; an irresistibly catchy haze of sweet sound and searing emotion, all of which collides to make a breathtakingly bold, smile-inducing storm.
“As with all of the songs we write, we’ve developed this one into a fun and uplifting pop banger,” Hushtones tell Atwood Magazine. “We approached writing this song in quite a different way. The lyrics poured out quietly at home with a usual verse / chorus format but when we got together to play the song in the practice room, the song took on a life of its own, and it became something much more powerful. It gave us actual goosebumps!”
“We felt a pull to complete the song with a long hypnotic chant that comes to a huge climax. It’s a song about empowering yourself through loneliness and not settling for fake love and the passion of this sentiment really shines through. It’s also worth mentioning that this song has become really important for us, for where we are as a band. Being in the music industry is full of ups and downs, but being able to create something like this together makes it all feel worth it. It’s now the song we always choose to close our show with.”
They may not smell like anything, they bend and break all too easily, and they won’t grow back if you plant them in the ground; even still, there’s something undeniably alluring about “Paper Flowers” that has us basking in Hushtones’ bright light. The Liverpool-based five-piece of Martha Goddard, Mick Campbell, Caitlin McPaul, Joe Dillon, and Abraham Tesfachristos have been lighting up audiences’ ears for the past four years now, and their new single is an invigorating release of energy that will have us moving and grooving all the way into the new year.
:: “Lay Down on Me” – Maverick Sabre ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
Maverick Sabre’s “Lay Down on Me” is a roaring, radiant fire manifest in smoky, seductively smoldering, soul-soaked music. A declaration of undying love and endless devotion, the final single taken off the Irish singer/songwriter’s recently released fifth studio album Burn the Right Things Down is a heavy, red-hot fever dream: An aching, all-consuming act of intimacy that finds Sabre singing his heart out, with his own naked soul tattooed on his sleeve: “Just lay down on me when nobody knows,” he sings, offering himself as a source of safety and a space of comfort. “Just lay down on me, ‘cause I’ll never go.”
When your arms can’t seem to hold the weight
And your heart can’t feel another day
I’ll follow you there
Cause still a part of you is holding me
And a part of me is holding on for you
So just lay down on me
When nobody knows
Just lay down on me
“Lay Down on Me” presents that classic Muscle Shoals sound in a modern context; it’s dramatic and urgent, placing Sabre’s voice front and center, aided by additional harmonizing voices, a roaring, riffing electric guitar, busting bass work, horns, and more. Sabre has described this track as capturing the “unbreakable pull between two souls,” and perhaps it’s that undeniable human passion – that tie that binds us to one another – that makes this song so undeniable and irresistible.
Settle in and let it out
I promise
I don’t want you heavy now
On my conscience
If It’s on your mind just say
And I’ll warm you
I can never stop the rain
But I want to
Still a part of you is holding me
And part of me is holding on for you
So just lay down on me
When nobody knows
Just lay down on me
Cause I’ll never go
:: “Play My Guitar” – Rex & The Rhythm ::
Grace Holtzclaw, Los Angeles, CA
Rex & The Rhythm grew up in Barbados where he first sparked his love for music from a young age. Formerly a member of the acclaimed Carib-pop group Cover Drive, Rex had the opportunity to open for artists among the likes of Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Ashanti, and Lauryn Hill. Now making a name for himself with his solo project, Rex & The Rhythm is forging ahead on his latest release “Play My Guitar.” The track chronicles a relationship where Rex does everything in his power to please his partner only to be met with a cold shoulder.
“Play My Guitar” comes alive with choppy, ear-catching percussion, energetic riffs, and powerful vocals that jump the octave when you least expect it. He sings, “I let her play my guitar while she’s playing with me.” The verses feel like an engine accelerating before crashing into Rex’s climactic chorus. There’s an overbearing depth of heart on this track as Rex & The Rhythm gives his everything to encompass an unforgettable performance.
Rex & The Rhythm was inspired by Maroon 5 and Anderson Paak. while creating “Play My Guitar.” You can hear it in the intoxicating chord progressions, abstract flow, and euphoric hook at the core of his track. Now based in Los Angeles and committed to pursuing music, “Play My Guitar” is only just the beginning for Rex & The Rhythm.
:: “RENDEZVOUS” – DUSTIN DAB BOWIE ::
Grace Holtzclaw, Los Angeles, CA
DUSTIN DAB BOWIE is a seasoned songwriter who has written for artists including Beyoncé, Lucky Daye, Kaytranada, Ari Lennox, Kehlani, and Mahalia. He’s a Grammy Award winner for his contributions to Beyoncé’s Renaissance and has been nominated nine times for his work. The Los Angeles based songwriter is now stepping forward as his own artist on his enticing debut track “RENDEZVOUS” ft. Jeffery Miller. The track is a sheer fantasy that captures the essence of an unforgettable night.
“RENDEZVOUS” glows with sparkling riffs, steady percussion, sultry bass lines, and alluring harmonies that draw you closer toward the heart of the track. BOWIE sings, “Rendezvous / Me and you / Imma set that body loose.” The lyrics are about stepping outside of the monotonous day to day hustle and experiencing something cut straight from the imagination. “RENDEZVOUS” is a sonic escape that transports you to another world.
“RENDEZVOUS” marks a new chapter for DUSTIN DAB BOWIE as an artist. Entering a new era of independence, this track is only just the beginning for him. Lending his unparalleled expertise and craftsmanship as a songwriter to the heart of his own project, the possibilities are limitless.
:: “Show Me Love” – Nostalgix ::
Josh Weiner, Washington DC
There are many reasons why I’ve stuck around Atwood for as long as I have (10 years in just a few months!) One is that, by being onboard here, I get to discover a lot of emerging musical talents. And furthermore, I often get to rediscover a lot of said talents! Nostalgix is the latest case in point there – I first wrote a piece about her back in 2020, when she was one of many artists to prove that, even though it was quite the crummy year in every other aspect, at least good music was still coming out (it just wasn’t getting performed live yet). And now, four years later, normalcy has returned, and so has Nostalgix herself!
It’s great to rediscover this Canadian-Iranian EDM queen via her latest release, “Show Me Love.” The song demonstrates that Nostalgix still has a flair for electronica production as much as ever, while also breaking new ground as the first of her formally released tracks to prominently feature her own vocals. “Come take my hand, just take me higher,” Nostalgia sings. “I need some help to get through this fire.” It’s relatively simple lyrical fare, but coupled with some hard-hitting synth-heavy production, the song is ready to tackle its double duty of getting the listener energized and helping Nostalgix to conquer some of the recent personal woes of hers alluded to in the lyrics. Consider the feat achieved, on both accounts!
:: “Fever Dream” – Jennifer Cohen & Rich ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
When Jennifer Cohen and rising alt-pop sensation Rich collide, the result is nothing short of magic. Their new single “Fever Dream” is an exquisite blend of intimate songwriting and expansive soundscapes, drawing listeners into a world that feels both tenderly personal and dreamily cinematic. Cohen’s evocative lyrics anchor the track in raw emotion, while Rich’s ethereal harmonies lift it to soaring heights. The chorus is the crown jewel: their voices intertwine over a shimmering piano line, creating a hauntingly beautiful soundscape that’s equal parts fragile and powerful. It’s the kind of song that stays with you, echoing in the back of your mind long after the final note fades.
The chemistry between Cohen and Rich is undeniable, and it’s their ability to complement and contrast each other that makes “Fever Dream” so compelling. Cohen’s lyrical vulnerability finds a perfect counterpart in Rich’s haunting vocals, which seem to add a shadowy second layer to the song’s emotional depth. The delicate piano melody flutters beneath the surface like a heartbeat, grounding the track while allowing it to soar. With its introspective vibe and lush sonic textures, “Fever Dream” is a masterclass in alt-pop collaboration – a track that not only showcases their individual artistry but elevates it through their seamless partnership. This is a must-listen for anyone craving music that feels like a warm, wistful embrace.
:: Rani – Saloni ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Saloni’s Rani EP is a glittering crown jewel of musical innovation, blending Pop, R&B, and Bollywood into a sonic tapestry that feels both groundbreaking and timeless. Across six tracks, this British Asian powerhouse seamlessly transitions between five languages, inviting listeners on a genre-hopping journey of empowerment and emotion. There’s a pleasant mix of unapologetic queen energy, to heartfelt ballads that tug at the soul, as she showcases her versatility with finesse. Each track pulses with an irresistible rhythm and authenticity, proving that Saloni isn’t just a rising artist; she’s a force to be reckoned with.
What makes Rani truly captivating is its fearless embrace of duality. Yet, through it all, there’s a unifying thread of self-empowerment and cultural pride that feels refreshingly relatable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Saloni’s unique fusion or a curious newcomer, this EP is bound to leave you singing along, swaying to the beat, and eagerly awaiting what this queen has in store next. It’s more than music – it’s a declaration. Saloni has arrived, and the world better make room.
:: “Medicine” – R E L ::
Chloe Robinson, California
So many people struggle to achieve self-love. They pick apart the pieces of themselves they dislike and solely focus on that. R E L is on a profound journey of reflection and healing. Her soft, wistful single “Medicine” details seeking self-love and learning to rebuild. Listeners are tightly wrapped up by her warm, melancholic vocals. Lines like “I had to swallow down the medicine of my life” are extremely powerful. This shows she is facing her demons head on. R E L inspires others to also look within and mend deep scars.
Her soul-searching songs are intimate and honest. The singer-songwriter has even coined the term “evocapop” to best describe it. Her previous releases “Plateau” and “Night City” are fan favorites. “Night City” was written for the video game Cyberpunk 2077 and was featured in the game’s trailer. “Medicine” possesses a more delicate vibe, but is equally as captivating. Anyone in their recovery era should definitely check out this piece.
:: “Psychic” – My Cosmic Girl ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
Romance and anticipation combine in My Cosmic Girl’s beautifully dreamy third single. Released in late August, “Psychic” is a seductively sweet indie folk reverie full of passion and charm, rich harmonies and lush instrumentations. The Wellington, New Zealand-based band bask in a space of present and potential intimate connection as they embrace the singular warmth and wonder of love:
I felt you coming
Before you were even here
My psychic predicted
You were near
I could feel you before you arrived
I knew it, the first time I looked into your eyes
One name, stuck inside my brain
Burning hot were the summer days
I felt you coming as strong as the tide
I felt you coming in
Subconscious state of mind
“I just had that feeling that my life was about to be blessed with romance and companionship. I feel very in touch with my intuition, and I wanted to write about that experience – which ultimately became a reality!” My Cosmic Girl’s lead vocalist Ella Doty tells Atwood Magazine.
“I think these feelings have been captured so well sonically also. We worked with two incredible string players, Antonia Grant and Alex Hoare, who made the song flourish and come to life! It really made the piece into this whimsical soundscape, which we felt the song needed given the subject.”
Now here you are, in my car
We don’t drive too far
Until the engine craps out and were in a tow car
But we don’t mind
Cos we got there on time
To listen the music
Dark of night
One name, stuck inside my brain
Burning hot were the summer days
I felt you coming as strong as the tide
I felt you coming in
Subconscious state of mind
A tender, dramatic, and impassioned serenade, “Psychic” follows this past May’s “Help It” and 2022’s debut single “Frenchie” to become My Cosmic Girl’s third-ever career release. It’s a striking show of musical and emotional force from the still-burgeoning band, and one that captures both their talents as a group as well as their innate humanity.
We may not always see love coming, but songs like “Psychic” capture the magic – and the beauty – present in our everyday lives.
And you’re all mine
It feels right
For the first time
In my life
:: “Manic Pixie Nightmare” – Kendra & The Bunnies ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Kendra & the Bunnies are back, and with her latest single, “Manic Pixie Nightmare,” Kendra Muecke dives headfirst into a whirlwind of self-discovery and defies every stereotype along the way. Known for her genre-blending sound and electric energy, Kendra takes aim at the tired “manic pixie dream girl” trope, reinventing it as a call to be unapologetically yourself. Her vocals are fierce yet heartfelt, soaring over gritty rock-pop instrumentals that pull you in and don’t let go. It’s the kind of song that feels like an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt boxed in by expectations or pressured to play a role in someone else’s story. This track pulses with the energy of self-liberation, pushing listeners to break free from labels and carve out their own identity.
The music video is just as captivating, set in the bustling Los Angeles subway between North Hollywood and Hollywood Blvd, where Kendra navigates the journey of finding herself amid the chaos. The contrast between the LA subway’s raw, urban setting and Kendra’s reflective lyrics brings a relatable realism to the song’s message. Watching her on screen, you can’t help but feel like you’re part of her story, riding alongside her as she reclaims her narrative in a city built on glamor and grit. It’s a journey worth taking, and “Manic Pixie Nightmare” is a soundtrack for anyone ready to live authentically, flaws and all.
:: “Maara” – Fejká ::
Josh Weiner, Washington DC
Sometimes, there really can be tremendous beauty in pure simplicity. In the case of the new video for “Maara” by German DJ/producer Fejká, a few shots of him standing solo at his beat machine, working his magic at the edge of the cliff, are all it takes for a serious “WOW!” factor to be achieved!
A longtime prolific electronica maker, Fejká has taken a pause lately, both to catch his breath after a whirlwind of touring and recording lately, as well as to escape the cold of his native Black Forest region in southern Germany and instead bask in the sun of the Canary Islands. His time in those “islas españolas” have served him with plenty of artistic inspiration, it seems, and he certainly has captured some majestic footage of them in his video for his comeback single, “Maara.” It is also significant as the first release on his new label, Coexist, which he says will be defined by music that’s “serene and contemplative by day, yet pulsating with vigor and dynamism come nightfall.” If “Maara” is an early sample of that template, then the future results are likely to be exciting and captivating in their own right as well!
:: “Skyscraper” – Daniel Schamroth ::
Joe Beer, Surrey, UK
UK singer/songwriter Daniel Schamroth takes things back to the basics with his new home demo release of “Skyscraper.” A fine example of less is more, the Devon born artist lets his guitar and vocals take center stage, delivering a raw and heartfelt performance that captures the beauty of simplicity.
His emotive lyrics tug at your heartstrings as he speaks about the honeymoon stage of a blossoming new love. The songwriter shares, “Skyscraper was written in the early throes of romance, when you first meet someone. You feel like the world’s your oyster and you’re out exploring that secret world together, feeling unstoppable and full of possibility.”
Despite having a somber and melancholic tone, “Skyscraper” is actually an uplifting track about feeling high on life. With an undercurrent of hope, Schamroth celebrates the intoxicating thrill of new love and new beginnings and the boundless optimism that comes with it.
:: “A Shield and a Sword” – Mikel Rafael ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Mikel Rafael’s “A Shield and a Sword” is an emotionally charged folk ballad that resonates deeply, blending the timeless storytelling of Homer’s The Iliad with the urgency and tragedy of today’s world. Inspired by Hector’s poignant farewell to his family before heading into battle, the song explores the universal themes of sacrifice, love, and the unspoken bravery that accompanies war. Rafael’s soulful voice, rich with both vulnerability and strength, captures the profound weight of these emotions, while the folk instrumentation, infused with Celtic and Americana influences, creates a lush, atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complements the song’s depth. The track feels timeless, evoking both the ancient world and contemporary struggles with striking relevance.
What sets “A Shield and a Sword” apart is Mikel’s ability to make these ancient stories feel deeply personal. The song’s dedication to the soldiers of Ukraine adds a modern, poignant twist, connecting the heroism of myth with the courage of today’s warriors. The arrangement builds slowly, drawing the listener in with a sense of anticipation before exploding into a powerful, evocative chorus that lingers long after the song fades out. This track isn’t just a song—it’s a powerful tribute to resilience and sacrifice, a stirring anthem that invites reflection and connection on both a personal and global level. Mikel Rafael’s meticulous songwriting and unique fusion of genres promise a bright future in the folk and Americana scene.
:: “Slump” – Maria Kelly ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
Slumps don’t last forever, but when you’re deep in one, it’s like there’s no way out. Even though we’ve all been there – even though we’ve all felt that hopelessness and heartache firsthand – Maria Kelly’s “Slump” still manages to send shivers down the spine. “I’m in a slump and I can’t wake up, I’ve been feeling this way all week,” the Irish singer/songwriter confesses, her gentle voice haunting and heartfelt, up-close and personal. It’s a raw, vulnerable, and visceral confessional from a tormented soul – a song that ultimately proves to be as beautiful as it is utterly breathtaking.
I’m in a slump and I can’t wake up
I’ve been feeling this way all week
Got time, I’m young enough
Maybe there’s no need to worry
It’s just the weight of every move that I make,
It’s scary
I pick a path, I go for that
Well kind of, barely
I’m in a slump and I can’t wake up,
I’ve been feeling this way all week
Don’t think that I’ll give up
But this bed is pretty comfy
I feel the weight of every step that I take
It’s scary
I pick a task, I go for that
Well kind of, barely
A powerfully moving display of songwriting talent, “Slump” is the lead single off Maria Kelly’s forthcoming sophomore album Waiting Room, out February 28th, 2025 via VETA Records.
“‘Slump’ felt like the right place to begin when thinking about how to roll out this next project. It captures a starting point – finding myself, once again, at the beginning of a mountain to climb, with no real will to climb it,” Kelly tells Atwood Magazine. “I had been listening to a lot of Adrianne Lenker and Elliot Smith when the idea of ‘Slump’ began. It started on guitar, with a super simple chord structure – it felt sort of boring at the beginning and I wasn’t sure where to bring it.”
“Once Matt Harris and I got to the studio, it felt like the lyrics required more humour in the sound. Matt suggested getting rid of the guitar entirely, which opened up so much space to play around with other instruments. We started experimenting with ukulele, mandolin, percussion… It landed in this funny twee universe that I think pokes fun at that self-deprecating space we can all find ourselves in.”
I slump down in my seat
I sure hope you won’t ask me
How I’ve been, lately
I’m in a slump and I can’t wake up
I’ve been feeling this way all week
I think I might be stuck
Or lost myself completely
I feel the weight of every word that I say,
It’s heavy,
I take it back, I method act
Well kind of, barely
However sweet it may be, that tender and light twee sound can only do so much in the midst of Kelly’s emotional angst and unfiltered aching. “Slump” is a candid, cathartic confessional from a soul’s depths; it’s dreamy and unapologetically melodramatic, deep in its feelings, delicate, and gut-wrenching.
And yet, it’s also the kind of song that, by shining a light on the darkness within, genuinely uplifts its audience – inspiring us to see our world anew; to breathe in hope and love, warmth and wonder; and to smile. That Maria Kelly can evoke so much emotion in just two minutes’ time is a testament to her skills as an artist; we will no doubt be paying extra special attention to her over the months ahead as she prepares to release her sophomore album.
I slump down in my seat
I sure hope you won’t ask me
How I’ve been, lately
And for those who find themselves in a slump, please give this song a listen. Often, it helps to know we’re not alone in how we’re feeling, and Maria Kelly has gone above and beyond to capture the sheer weight of life itself in “Slump.”
:: Tapes From The Maze – WØLZT ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
WØLZT’s Tapes From The Maze is a mesmerising foray into what he calls “hypnagogic rock,” a genre he’s crafted by merging ambient soundscapes with post-rock’s emotional resonance and a cinematic touch that feels hauntingly immersive. Across three tracks, each spanning over eleven minutes, WØLZT invites listeners on a journey into shadowy, dreamlike worlds where minimalist synths, pulsing basslines, and delicate crescendos build an atmosphere of suspense and introspection. The opening track, “Noise,” is a masterpiece of quiet tension, building slowly into a powerful, ambient crescendo that feels like stepping into the heart of a dystopian landscape. By the time the EP reaches its conclusion with “Signal,” listeners find themselves floating in an expansive, cosmic soundscape that’s both meditative and arresting.
What makes Tapes From The Maze so captivating is WØLZT’s ability to create music that feels less like a soundtrack and more like an experience. Each track unfolds with a patience that’s rare in today’s fast-paced musical landscape, allowing every beat, pause, and texture to breathe and evolve. His use of sound feels intentional and cinematic, as if guiding the listener through a sonic maze of memories, emotions, and distant echoes. With this EP, WØLZT has redefined what it means to create immersive music; it’s a journey that rewards those willing to lose themselves in its depths, and it marks him as a bold innovator in the ambient and post-rock scenes.
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