Davis Evanoff – “Cranberries”: If this name looks familiar to you, you’ve probably seen this on here before. Columbus based alt songwriter and producer Davis Evanoff dropped this single a couple of years ago, but took it off streaming platforms shortly thereafter in the name of creative liberties—he decided he needed more continuity with the rest of the universe he was building. Now, the song is back with an accompanying visual by rising Columbus team Reel Ghost Media. The cinematic pop gem feels more complete and cohesive on the second go-around. Evanoff dives headfirst into an enigmatic persona ready to unleash what he’s got to the world, and this song is the first release of an EP and then many more tunes to come in the not too distant future.

Adele – “Easy On Me”: Everyone and their mother is reacting to the much anticipated return of Adele. And this is what I have to say about “Easy On Me”—I believe one of Adele’s purposes is to reach out to the old soul in all of us. So many bands are trying to fast-track their way to success with the perfectly concocted bombastic pop track that capitalizes on every trend. And yet, a simple, well produced piano ballad is breaking records. Adele is a name that barely needs an introduction—but hopefully producers and labels will wake up and realize a genuine demeanor is just as valuable as a perfectly packaged modern pop tune.

Lauryn Peacock – “Anything Once”: The Nashville based songwriter has had a busy year. She released an LP, Theology, and now in her own unassuming manner she casually releases “Anything Once,” which I got wind of via my Release Radar on Spotify. The melody is straightforward and easy to pick up on, yet its execution feels smart and classy. This is the lead single off another release titled I Know A Place, which will be out December 10th. This is the sort of song I am eager to add to my playlist for an upcoming series of home cocktail happy hours I’m planning on hosting as we get into the colder months.

Vivar – “Exhausting”: The San Francisco based pop artist seems to be staring at me knowingly from his promo photo—that knowledge being that he has a bop on his hands. “Exhausting” does not live up to its title, except if it moves you to dance—then it might exhaust you from energy expenditure. Okay, I’m being a bit over the top in my comparison here, but the fear of being disappointed in a burgeoning relationship has never been this fun or polished.