Brother Ali & Ant D.R.U.M.
The first preview of the upcoming collaborative album between two respected veterans of the hip-hop underground is an infectiously sweet slice of spiritual soul. A sermon extolling the unifying power of music, that’ll get even the biggest cynic bouncing.
Infinity Knives & Brian Ennals Sometimes, Papi Chulo (feat. Gabriela Bibiana)
An intoxicating yet haunting, hazy cumbia rhythm provides a fitting backdrop for the latest single from the experimental Baltimore duo. Brian Ennals documents a never-ending series of setbacks, from the farcical – “sometimes, your older brother catches you jerkin’ off” – to the catastrophic – “sometimes, they eat your feast, rape your wife, and steal your land”. It’s a three minute tour through the anxiety caused by life’s unrelenting injustices, delivered with disarming candour.
Jesse Welles Horses
Arkansas’ singer-songwriter, Jesse Welles, has earned viral fame over the past year, addressing contemporary concerns with the straight-talking simplicity of classic folk protest songs. Here, he previews his next studio album with a track that often threatens to take off into Dylan’s Hurricane. Delivered in his raspy growl, it’s a poetic barnstormer urging you to channel your energy into love over hate.
KNEECAP H.O.O.D (2025 Mix)
After a triumphant 2024, the West Belfast trio indulge in a bit of a victory lap, giving one of their early 2019 breakthrough hits an upgraded touch-up. A reminder of just how vital they can sound – defiant, dangerous, and utterly banging.
lavender lowlight:slowlight
The upcoming London duo offer another showcase of their genre-bending beauty as Fleet Foxes-style folk harmonies warp into sweet psychedelic ambience giving hints of Animal Collective. A gentle fusion of classic pop sensibilities and studio wizardry.
Sophie Hunter 2 shots of patron
Brooklyn rapper, Sophie Hunter, continues her rise with another star-making show of charisma. Weaving between bratty nonchalance, glorious lechery, and the mean girl, power move taunt of “might just take your daddy home”; it’s a display of absurd humour and horniness.
For a regular selection of the best new releases in indie and beyond, check out our Indie-ish playlist on Spotify. And for your rap needs, we have you covered with our Hip-Hop Highlights playlist.
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