Hidden Hospitals – “Better Off”: Hidden Hospitals released a new track the other day that communicates an effect of a slow emergence from a cocoon. The band has undergone somewhat of a metamorphosis since the last record, but “Better Off” is a natural progression that leads the band into a more electronic territory. However, the emotional base of the music is not lost. If anything, the progression ought to help spread further awareness of the group. However, venture a guess that the band is following a trend and you’ll probably be vehemently challenged. A recent bio recommends the new sound for fans of Radiohead and Deftones and they’re not wrong.

ROSA – “Without You”: The Orange County indie pop band ROSA takes the 1975 trend and adds their own twist on it. The groove seems vaguely inspired by some downtempo music, a rarity for this genre. I have to give kudos for who mixed and mastered this song – the way the song itself and all the moving parts ebb and flow is flawless. There’s a sense of longing that permeates the song, but not enough to override the urge to dance it creates.

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Queens of the Stone Age – “The Way You Used To Do”: Need a summer rock and roll banger? Look no further. Over the past few days, I’ve seen folks that follow this band marvel at their ability to be both consistent and evolutionary at the same time. The tune is unapologetic yet not indulgent. It doesn’t have the same level of punch that singles like “No One Knows” or “My God Is the Sun” have, but I’m sure this is just the band whetting our whistles in advance of their record, Villains. Also, can we pause and acknowledge what a genius pairing Royal Blood is with QOTSA for the album release tour? You can bet we’ll be there.

Jaden Smith – “Batman”: When you hear of an over the top music video, by golly you watch it! There isn’t a whole lot to the song, but I have a feeling it would be at home on most Lil Yachty records. It isn’t the most upbeat, but when listened to in the spirit of not taking yourself too seriously, it starts to make more sense. Whether or not you find the experience of this song cringeworthy, I think we can all agree there’s some entertainment value to be had here.

Colly – “You”: The new project from southwest Ohio paints a soundscape of warm tones and summer evening easy listening. This song would be equally at home on a playlist full of 90s alternative as it would on current alt-pop lists. There’s a bit of laid back surf rock here, not unlike Real Estate. Add that to a current indie pop sound and you’ve got something to reckon with. The band seems to favor authenticity over a glossy cover and I like that. The group made their live debut at one of our events a few weeks ago and will be playing alongside rising pop acts DBMK and Sleeptalk as well. I have no doubt they’ll fit in.