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 Amber Ais, The Knocks & Dragonette, Ebi Oginni, Noshows, Odette, Kadavar, YAZ, Mickelson, Esme Emerson, Sam Robbins, waverley., Nature TV, New Town Ghosts, Craigology, BACKHOUSE, and Diana McGrane!
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:: “Love Yourself” – Amber Ais ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
Tender and aching all at once, Amber Ais’ first single of the year is a bittersweet moment of closure wrapped in heartache and empathy. Released January 31st, the aptly titled “Love Yourself” finds the Nashville-based indie pop artist parting ways with a loved one, but not before she offers them some sincere, honest advice:
But if you’re better on your own
Then I’ll leave you alone
With all your girls and all your vices
My only advice is to love yourself.
… Love yourself since you won’t let me
“‘Love Yourself’ is a deeply honest indie pop track that talks about wishing someone well knowing that you cannot save them from themselves,” Ais tells Atwood Magazine. “There’s this phrase that says, ‘If they wanted to they would,’ and I think there’s a lot more nuance to that because sometimes they want to but they can’t. Sometimes the best thing you can do for someone is love people from afar because you are never meant to be someone’s savior or the solution to their internal struggles.”
“‘Love Yourself’ is the lead single for my next project / album called, ‘I Think I’ll Always Love You,’ which is actually a line from this song.”
Drenched in a dreamy soundscape made up of lush guitars, rich, warm vocal harmonies, and chirping birds, “Love Yourself” aches inside and out – yet ultimately delivers an intimately enriching experience. Ais’ performance is passionate and endearing – her message one that resonates, regardless of who’s listening. At the end of the day, we could all benefit from the gentle reminder to love ourselves, and that’s exactly what this special song provides.
:: “Revelation” – The Knocks & Dragonette ::
Julia Dzurillay, New Jersey
If it ain’t broke… The Knocks curated a perfectly pop-centered sound alongside Dragonette (Martina Sorbara) and RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Aquaria with 2022’s single “Slow Song.” Now, the supergroup/retro “Revelation Technologies” company is back with “Revelation,” a dance track adjacent to Carly Rae Jepson’s Emotion era. It’s pure energy and fun — and this is just one piece of their upcoming collaboration.
In February, Rebelation Technologies announced “The Hero,” a song about “the banality of how a relationship can turn cold” according to Dragonette’s Martina.
“When it’s not a dramatic explosion of betrayal or strong emotions that crash together,” she added. “It’s about finding yourself in the midst of something else, unseen and unknowable making the question “is this working” hard to answer.”
:: “I’ll Love You (Alex and Sarah’s Song)” – Ebi Oginni ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Ebi Oginni’s “I’ll Love You (Alex and Sarah’s Song)” is a heartfelt, celebratory anthem that beautifully encapsulates love, commitment, and unity. With its uplifting melody and danceable rhythm, the song effortlessly blends sincerity with joy, making it a perfect tribute to enduring love. Oginni’s warm vocals and poignant storytelling bring Alex and Sarah’s journey to life, turning a personal dedication into a universally resonant message. The track not only honors the couple but also serves as a reminder of love’s healing power, inspiring listeners to cherish and reaffirm their own relationships. A standout from “The Harmony and Healing Project,” this song is both a touching gift and a soul-stirring celebration.
:: Tightrope – Noshows ::
Chloe Robinson, California
NYC’s Max Satow aka Noshows fearlessly fuses alt-rock, hip-hop, and funk to craft a style all his own. Now he is sharing his new EP Tightrope and it is a true treat to listen to. The six-track body of work opens with “Used To It.” Right from the start you are strongly sucked in. He sings of wanting things to be like before, but needing to get used to the new normal. His vibrant, energetic vocals pour over punchy percussion for the ultimate addictive piece. The title track “Tightrope” is another luminous offering. We all at times feel like we are teetering on a tightrope and could fall at any moment making this song so relatable. Concluding with the hard-hitting “Pieces” the gritty track is a fierce end to the EP. With this Satow is showing he will not be broken down.
Noshows has attracted a dedicated fan base. From shows at NYC’s Gramercy Theatre, Sofar Sounds residency, UK’s Great Escape Festival, and most recently, a run of Northeast tour dates with Brass Against, he is proving to be unstoppable. Listeners love his deep fascination with the human mind. His family founded The Jed Foundation, a non-profit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults. The singer’s uncle who tragically took his own life inspires the name. Satow also started Magnify the Mind, a community whose mission is to educate and advocate for those who need emotional support. We are not just in awe of his music, but also the way he gives back.
:: “Seahorses” – Odette ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
I’ve been told, as recently as this month, in fact, that I am an “unfailingly optimistic” person. It’s a trait I take a great deal of pride in, and while my knee-jerk reaction is almost always to look on the ‘bright’ side of any given situation, my ‘sunny disposition’ is, in fact, a conscious choice: When I was 18 years old, I decided that, if I only get one life, then I’m going to try to choose happiness every day. Fifteen-ish years later, we’re still cracking on swimmingly.
And maybe that’s why I feel such a deep connection to Odette’s new single, “Seahorses.” I’ve found a kindred spirit in the Australian singer/songwriter, who shares a similar outlook on life – and has channeled it into song. A smile-inducing seduction rife with playful piano hits, bright melodies, and buoyant beats, “Seahorses” is delightfully charming – a dazzling ray of sonic sunshine, here to brighten even the darkest day.
“‘Seahorses’ is about joy despite everything,” Odette (born Georgia Odette Sallybanks) tells Atwood Magazine. “It’s about how no matter how dark it gets, no matter how much I feel like giving up sometimes and letting myself fall back into old patterns, there’s always something. I like to laugh at the things that frighten me and it’s one of my strongest personality traits. I just don’t shut up and I continuously make jokes.”
“I’m lucky to have found friends and a beautiful partner who enjoy that sort of thing, but I’ve annoyed plenty. I think that’s why I gravitated towards such grating sounds in this song but really this song is from a deep desire to laugh and find solace in humour. Also, the instrumentation is so pretty! It’s not just funny grating sounds I love, there will always be a need for beauty as well.”
Lush and loving, euphoric and exhilarating, “Seahorses” is a dreamy revelry ready to uplift and energize all who listen. It’s three minutes of fun, and like – Odette says of herself (and I could say the same –while it may not be for everyone, it certainly is perfect for me.
:: “I Just Want to Be a Sound” Kadavar ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
There’s an undeniable energy rippling through Kadavar’s first song of the year. It’s the brute force of raw passion; an unfiltered heat and fervor, driven from within. Released January 24th, “I Just Want to Be a Sound” is more than the German indie rock band’s next step forward; it’s a bold declaration of their identity and mission.
“‘I Just Want to Be a Sound’ is more than a song to us – it’s the essence of Kadavar,” the band – comprised of Lupus Lindemann, Tiger Bartelt, Jascha Kreft, and Simon ‘Dragon’ Bouteloup, tells Atwood Magazine. “A relentless yearning for freedom and the unshakable urge to live through music. We poured everything into it – our lives, our spirit, our truth,” says the band in a joint statement.”
The track serves as the lead single and title track off Kadavar’s upcoming eighth studio album, I Just Want to Be a Sound (out May 16th). “I Just Want To Be A Sound is a manifesto for freedom, transformation and radical presence,” the band shares. “An album that repeatedly abandons itself in order to reincarnate in new forms. Rock anthem, ballad, pop song, epic and earthly alternate seamlessly and virtuously. Free and full of momentum.”
The first look at such a dynamic and ambitious record is, itself, an uncompromising fever dream. A lead guitar line roars, reminiscent of ‘80s-era glam rock, while pounding drums, bass, and rhythm guitars churn all around it – spicing up an already fiery scene.
The end result is five minute of dramatic, invigorating alt-rock excellence. “I Just Want to Be a Sound” is an anthem for all those who feel the pull from within to be something more; to do big things, and refuse failure as an option. It’s unapologetic; it’s relentless; it’s Kadavar.
:: “Tidal Wave” – YAZ ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Indie pop/rock duo YAZ delivers a heartfelt and anthemic experience with their latest single “Tidal Wave.” Infused with introspective lyrics and uplifting melodies, the track encourages listeners to step back from the chaos of everyday life and embrace the unpredictable ebb and flow of their personal journeys. With influences from Coldplay, Young the Giant, KALEO, and Kodaline, YAZ seamlessly blends soulful storytelling with rich instrumentation, creating a sound that is both emotionally resonant and undeniably catchy. The driving rhythm and soaring chorus capture the song’s central message: that even in moments of uncertainty, there’s always the promise of something greater on the horizon.
Lyrically, “Tidal Wave” serves as a poignant reminder of life’s ups and downs, urging listeners to break free from the trap of dwelling on the past and instead focus on the beauty of the present moment. The chorus – “Cause it’s a tidal wave, something big is coming from miles away” – embodies the feeling of anticipation and the transformative power of change. The duo’s heartfelt performance, combined with the track’s vibrant production, creates an emotional yet empowering listening experience. Ultimately, “Tidal Wave” stands out as an anthem of resilience, encouraging us to ride the waves of life with hope, courage, and an open heart.
:: “Amplify” – Mickelson ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Mickelson’s latest single “Amplify” is a striking and urgent anthem that encapsulates the tension and division of modern America while showcasing his signature blend of sharp lyricism and dynamic instrumentation. As the opening track of his brand-new album “If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud.” the song wastes no time in making a statement—both musically and thematically. With a driving rhythm and electrifying production, “Amplify” channels the frustration and noise of contemporary discourse, urging listeners to examine the chaotic landscape of political and social unrest. Mickelson’s raw vocal delivery and keen storytelling make the track both a call to action and a reflection on the times we live in.
Yet, beneath its bold, almost rebellious exterior, “Amplify” is not just about volume – it’s about being heard. The track embodies Mickelson’s ability to craft songs that resonate deeply, balancing urgency with introspection. His self-produced approach gives the song an unfiltered authenticity, while the layered instrumentation adds weight to its message. “Amplify” sets the stage for a collection that promises to be as thought-provoking as it is musically compelling. Mickelson continues to prove why he remains one of the most vital voices in modern songwriting—unafraid to challenge, to provoke, and ultimately, to connect.
:: “Together” – Esme Emerson ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
Suffolk-based indie pop band Esme Emerson have been on my periphery for a few years now; every song of theirs inevitably evokes a sense of warmth and wonder, and with the upcoming release of their third EP, Applesauce, the sibling duo are quickly emerging as 21st Century dreamweavers. “Together,” released in December, highlights the pair’s ability to enchant and enthrall through contemplative, introspective lyrics, tender melodies, and rich, radiant harmonies – all of which coalesce on “Together,” a song that wraps itself around the ears like a blanket for the soul.
“It’s about inviting someone to know you, to be in your space, to understand your sadness and share the weight with you,” Esme Lee-Scott, who plays with her brother, Emerson, explains. “It’s about how the years pass and nothing changes, these habits and follies still remain, and so why not just be ‘down together’? It feels like the perfect solution. It’s cathartic to accept that maybe this is just how it is, and that’s okay. We’re all just human.”
As raw and aching as it is dreamy and lush, “Together” is a heartfelt exhale from the duo’s deepest depths – a candid invitation, as they sing in the chorus, “to be down together.” Yes, our experiences are our own, but we are never alone – and there’s a powerful distinction there, that is forever worth highlighting, expressing again and again, so that generation after generation understands the importance of community; of connection; and of togetherness.
Esme Emerson’s upcoming EP is full of these simple, timeless messages that – intimately and innocuously – express our shared humanity.
“There are two apple trees in our front yard. Every summer (since we were kids) the apples fall from the trees, roll down the hill, and rot over autumn. This year, however, our mum picked them. There were too many to eat, so she made applesauce,” Esme shares.
“As well as meaning ‘nonsense’, ‘Applesauce’ as an EP title feels like home. Nostalgia is really important when it comes to our songwriting. It probably comes from being siblings. Making music often feels like looking back on our lives together. Our childhoods, growing up, making mistakes.”
Songs like “Together,” “Yard,” and the band’s latest single, “Too Far Gone,” capture the sweetness, the weight, and the pure beauty of Esme Emerson’s artistry. From vulnerable, honest songwriting to gently all-consuming musical performances, the duo are fast emerging as an artist-to-watch in 2025.
:: “Piles of Sand”- Sam Robbins ::
Chloe Robinson, California
Boston-based singer/songwriter Sam Robbins’ new single is a reflective folk paradise and he has you hanging on every word. His delicate yet strong tone floats over soft guitar creating the perfect combination. He takes inspiration from James Taylor and you can hear the influence within this wistful work. Lyrics like, “I thought it was a mountain, but it was just a pile of sand,” really make us think about life and what it all means.
“Piles of Sand” is the second single off of his album So Much I Still Don’t See based around touring over the past four years – driving 45,000 miles per year. Through that experience Robbins met so many people from all different walks of life. The release is a follow up to his song “What A Little Love Can Do” which is all about making a difference through kindness. That track and this one both convey deeply powerful messages.
:: “How It Starts” – waverley. ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
The term “how it starts” is sacred in the indie rock space. Ever since LCD Soundsystem first got all their friends together back in 2007, the line has represented not just an entrance, but an era – one defined by sweaty, churning guitars; of a sense of disconnect and detachment; and of intimate rebellion. It’s such a special phrase, that Matty Healy full-on co-opted it (arguably) for The 1975’s 2012 song “Sex,” which remains a fan favorite to this day.
Even now, eighteen years on, “how it starts” still holds plenty of weight – so much, that Scottish band waverley. made it the title of their very own noughties rocker. An ode to the era of indie sleaze, itself drenched in that same raw sonic garb, “How It Starts” is a charged and churning fever dream. Released in November 2024, the songs roars with caustic, crunchy guitars, pounding drums, and a looming, sense of unraveling – as though the band themselves are imploding and exploding all at once.
“‘How It Starts’ was recorded in an isolated studio on Scotland’s west coast at the start of 2024, tracking the full band live to keep the frenetic energy of the song intact,” waverley.’s members tell Atwood Magazine. “The song initially came about after Donnie and Ewan, the band’s two vocalists and primary songwriters, watched the film ‘Meet me in the Bathroom,’ which documents the music scene in New York during the 2000s, and were immediately inspired to write something of their own.”
“Taking cues from the bands mentioned in the documentary (including the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Interpol, LCD Soundsystem, and the Strokes), they wanted the song to be driving and raucous, building throughout toward a climactic finale. The song’s lyrics revolve around themes of indulgence and desire, set against the backdrop of an excessive night.”
Funny how inspiration can breed more inspiration. “How It Starts” fits seamlessly into the narrative of early 2000s excess and indulgence. It’s a sonic eruption – a no-holds-barred outpouring of energy, a loosening of the floodgates to the point that everything comes rushing out at once. That waverley. maintain that exhilarating energy for four and a half minutes isn’t just a testament to their strengths as a band, but a nod to how much they, themselves love this era and this sound. “How It Starts” is holy text, after all, and they’ve more than done it justice.
:: “Aways It Goes” – Nature TV ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
Nature TV’s latest single, “Always It Goes,” is a shimmering indie-pop gem that balances wistful introspection with sun-soaked melodies. Anchored by Guy Bangham’s soulful vocals and James Hunt’s airy, reverb-kissed guitar lines, the track unfolds like a late-summer sunset—tinged with nostalgia yet undeniably radiant. Josh Eriskin’s steady bassline pulses beneath the surface, while Zal Jones’ crisp studio drumming, courtesy of producer Solo Major, adds a rhythmic heartbeat that drives the song forward. Lyrically, it’s a poignant meditation on roads not taken, grappling with what-ifs while embracing the present moment. With its infectious hooks and heartfelt delivery, “Always It Goes” not only sets the stage for the band’s much-anticipated debut album, “Unlucky For Some,” but also solidifies Nature TV as a rising force poised to captivate audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
:: “The Seaburn Batlads” – New Town Ghosts ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
New Town Ghosts’ latest single, “The Seaburn Batlads,” is a haunting, cinematic blend of nostalgia and supernatural intrigue that perfectly encapsulates Mark Rae’s ambitious multimedia vision. With rich instrumentation woven from strings, horns, and the soulful resonance of Steve Wood’s VoxPop choir, the track conjures the eerie tension of Rae’s childhood encounter—a moment where innocence collided with terror. Lush yet unsettling, the song evokes the sweltering heat of a 1976 summer, where spectral echoes rise from cracked earth, and youthful mischief turns into a brush with the unknown. Seamlessly intertwining Rae’s storytelling prowess with his musical mastery, “The Seaburn Batlads” offers a glimpse into the heart of New Town Ghosts, a project where childhood friendships, ghostly folklore, and the raw pulse of growing up collide in a world both magical and unnervingly real.
:: “Secrets from a Gemstone” – Craigology ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland
“Secrets from a Gemstone” by Craigology is a spellbinding tapestry of sound, seamlessly weaving ambient piano, neoclassical elegance, and electronic smooth jazz into an emotionally rich listening experience. Each track feels like a carefully polished facet of a rare gem, reflecting light and shadow in equal measure. From the delicate, rain-kissed notes of “Rain Drops” to the cinematic grandeur of the title track, the EP is a testament to Craigology’s ability to tell stories without words—only through melody, texture, and emotion. The influence of neoclassical greats like Max Richter and Ólafur Arnalds is evident, yet Craigology’s signature fusion of genres makes this collection distinctly his own.
What sets “Secrets from a Gemstone” apart is its ability to evoke deep introspection while remaining effortlessly accessible. The uplifting optimism of “Forward Direction” contrasts beautifully with the transformative, almost meditative quality of “Eclosion,” each piece adding to the EP’s overarching theme of growth and discovery. Craigology’s compositions don’t just accompany life’s moments—they elevate them, offering a soundtrack for reflection, renewal, and quiet triumph. With this release, the Antigua-born composer further solidifies his place as a visionary in contemporary instrumental music, proving that sometimes, the most profound secrets are hidden in the notes between the silence.
:: “Key of Orange” – BACKHOUSE ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
There’s something instantly unapologetic – and endearing – about BACKHOUSE’s latest, third single – and not just because it’s so cheekily self-referential. Released January 28th, “Key of Orange” is a candid and cathartic indie rock fever dream: A whole-hearted embrace of music’s power to soothe and to stir, and to be an end in and of itself. Following their first two singles “Sycamore Trees” and “Always the Same Dream,” “Key of Orange” roars to life with a charming, sun-kissed sense of belonging and purpose. It’s an anthem for music lovers and makers alike, capturing the sweetness of that special connection we all share to the one true universal language.
You can find me in the backhouse
i’ll be singing songs in the key of orange
Thinking about the moon
You can find me in the backhouse
i’ll be painting every canvas orange
Thinking about the sun
“‘Key of Orange’ is an ode to the synesthesia that music brings,” BACKHOUSE’s members tell Atwood Magazine. “The feeling of settling into songs while secluded. When thoughts and feelings align with mood and lyrics as if predestined to your life for that moment. Simply put…”
A five-piece band born from ‘raw energy’ and a shared love of ‘90s alternative, BACKHOUSE are slowly establishing themselves as a powerhouse of sound. All three of their songs to date hits hard and leaves a lasting mark, capturing a passion that can’t be manufactured, but rather, must be cultivated within. Early as they are in their career, BACKHOUSE are undoubtedly an artist to watch, and one we’ll be paying extra special attention to over the months ahead!
For now, we’ll be dreaming the days away, singing songs in the key of orange.
:: Wondering – Diana McGrane ::
Chloe Robinson, California
Folk rock meets pop singer/songwriter Diana McGrane’s current EP Wondering is an enchanting and tender 4-track collection. The profound body of work focuses on themes of desire, hope and connection. Opening with the wistful vibes of “Wondering,” she is pondering the kind of lover someone truly is. She passionately sings, “I’m wondering too if I can make those dreams with you come true.” The harmonies of McGrane and CJ Wallace give off the vibe of acts like The Supremes. “Wholesome” is another track featuring the stunning synchronizations of her and Wallace. This touching track is about devoting yourself to a partnership despite the occasional doubts. Lyrics like, “When I think about leaving / And I think about cheating / When I think about doing you wrong / Then I think about living / And the things that you’re giving / And I’m sorry I let the thoughts start / Cause baby you’re wholesome,” perfectly convey that sentiment. Those two songs along with the others show a vulnerable and soft side of the singer.
The Southern California artist is a daughter of a Golden Gloves Light Heavyweight Boxing champion on her father’s side and a Mexican poet, singer, and guitarist on her mother’s. She got her gift of storytelling from her mom and a deep drive to follow her dreams from her dad. Collaborating with skilled vocalist Wallace on three of the pieces off the EP, it is the ideal pairing with their styles meshing so well. Wondering is definitely worth the listen.
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