Kesta – Ring the Alarm (Progressive Rock)

It’s no surprise I’m a big fan of pensive, shapeshifting songs. Kestra is a new project that nails a find blend of dynamic songwriting and technical musicianship. While it’s hard to place them firmly alongside any other bands, there are elements here that will surely to appeal to fans of MEW, From Indian Lakes, O’ Brother, Kiven, The Rise of Science, or Least of These. The vocals are a bit deeper than many bands these days, and “Ring the Alarm” is definitely a moody and dark track all around, though it’s more mysterious than sad.

Zoe Cummins – Could Have Been a Cowgirl (Country-Tinged Pop)

It’s hard to place Zone Cummins’ sound – there’s the brightness of artists like Miley Cyrus, though lyrical themes and use of slide guitar (and even the song titles) hearken toward the South. The result is neither too commercial nor too rural. It’s a clever take on pop that I can certainly appreciate.

Morning Trips – DELETE!!! (Indie Pop)

Following previous singles “Processin'” and “8-Bit”, Morning Trips continues with their computer-themed titles with “DELETE!!!”. This tracks sees a mix of upbeat, Phoenix-adjacent guitar parts, a wealth of vocal effects, and a vibe that manages to call back to Hellogoodbye. It’s fun and high energy, though none of this is new for the four-piece. And while the recording is fun in its own right, the live experience is leagues more frenetic. If you’re looking for a bridge between 00s and now, Morning Trips easily fills the spot.

Richard Edwards – Will You Love Me Forever (Singer-Songwriter)

I first became acquainted with Richard Edwards from Brandon from Cloud Caverns (I had never even HEARD of Margot and the Nuclear So and So’s). Edwards’ first solo album was sentimental and heartbreaking, using somewhat-minimalist sonic textures alongside spellbinding lyrics. Suffice to say, he has not slowed down in the least – and while I haven’t kept up as well as I would have liked, his latest single is as achey and subdued as forever. The echoing keys and subtle guest vocal layers make this a particularly haunting listen.

Bear Ghost – When I’m Dead (Disney Villain Prog)

Although The Dear Hunter has been credited as THE theatric band of our generation, plenty of other acts have all taken their own angle on writing “genius theatre kid music”. Bear Ghost is like if Panic! had gone to the dark side and grew up listening to Forgive Durden and Dance Gavin Dance. Their self-described adventure rock label is as quirky as their bio and even the music itself – and while their album has been a long time coming, “When I’m Dead” gives a good taste of what these guys have been cooking up.

TELECOMS – Poisoned in the After Life (Retro Pop)

I’ve been a fan of Sean McVerry for years, and his soulful take on pop (verging on disco and big band) has always been refreshing. Now, McVerry has returned with a band behind him to continue this trend to even fuller effect. Fans of Silk Sonic will definitely want to get on this ASAP.

The Austringer – Three Sad Tigers (Solo Concept Album Rock)

I actually discovered The Austringer recently through the Discord for A Place for Owls. Boasting a bio with a similar level of worldbuilding to Coheed, The Austringer crafts cohesive records with a blend of emo and singer-songwriter influences. Some songs are fuller than others, like standout “Three Sad Tigers”, with its infectious guitar riffs and soaring vocals. And while a full comparison to TTNG wouldn’t be quite appropriate, I do think there’s enough overlap for fans of other complex UK groups.