Dawning – “Ennui”: A quick Google search yields the following definition for “Ennui”: “a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement.” Ironic, considering the peppy nature of this single by Michigan dreampop act Dawning. There’s both a haze and an inherent sense of angst present in this song. To call it positive seems like too strong of a term, but this song certainly isn’t a downer. The synth-riddled production has a pummeling effect each time the crescendo is reached.

Havana Swim Club – “For Blake”: Dan Koch of Sherwood fame has taken the lockdown period to develop a unique sound all his own, a hazy tropical electronic project called Havana Swim Club. While the song title implies a tribute, the vibe itself is more relaxed. I’m reminded of the band Poolside. My mind goes to the morning golden hour, as the fog from the morning dew begins to dissipate and golden rays wake up the world with a natural light show.

Briars of North America – “Sala”: There’s something about an atmospheric, foggy music video that hits me deep in a very soothing way. I’m not a fan of grey weather, generally—but in the right context, there’s nothing better. That’s the feeling I get when listening to “Sala,” the lead single from Briars of North America’s forthcoming record being released on Summer Solstice via Brasslands, an early home of The National. I feel like Red in Shawshank Redemption listening to those vocals—I don’t think I need to understand what they’re singing about, and I’d like to think it’s something that can’t be expressed in words.

Author – “On An On”: Not to be confused with the experimental alt-pop project On An On, the new single from Author is an all too brief exploration into a concoction of sounds that will be unsurprising yet welcomed by any follower of the band. In contrast to their previous single “Blur,” we have a refrain taking hold as the main theme here, instead of a gradual build up. While the previous single hearkens to a feeling similar to 2001: A Space Odyssey, this song takes hold in a surreal realm a bit closer to Earth. Coming soon is a meticulously developed stop-motion music video for the song and a record!

Shelby Elle – “Coming Alive”: Shelby Elle, one of our 2021 Nashville Artists to Watch, is back with this dancepop banger that emits feeling similar to dancing out of the fog (rather than into the fog, as the title of this writeup might suggest). The contrast of the verses and chorus, oscillating between a tentative nature and a “springing to life” vibe is effective in its delivery. The production is also more in the direction of synthwave than synthpop—I’m so down with this. The way Shelby manages to take a sound I associate with a dark, slick feeling and give it a brighter twist is something I find very compelling.

Gone to Color – “The 606”: The aesthetic of this video speaks to me. While the vocals are airy and light, the overall tone of the song is sensual and dark. The production is layered and brooding. But none of this is a surprise when you consider the all-star lineup behind it all. Personnel include Pat from Wilco on guitar, beats / programming from Richard Devine, and a myriad of guest vocalists. Jessie Stein from The Luyas appears on the lead single. The rest of the credits I’ll save for another time, but it’s clear there’s an all-star universe these indie greats aim to build. The effect is similar to older M83 mixed with Metric, with a dash of Sound of Ceres (look them up).