I’m not a huge fan of describing any music as angsty, primarily because it has come to denote a certain style of music that doesn’t always have positive connotations associated with it. Yet Great Grandpa’s latest track “Fade” kind of perfectly fits the angst label without succumbing to a lot of the red flags that might otherwise come to mind. It’s also a fantastic vocal showcase for Alex Menne, so give it a shot! If you’re in the mood for something a little funkier and more soulful, Kwaye has you covered with his new single “Little Ones”. You may be pleased to learn that The Pains of Being Pure at Heart are putting out a new record this July. The first single from it is called “Anymore,” and it’s pretty much right on target with their throwback dream pop style, complete with fuzzed out guitars and keyboards. There’s a certain appreciation I have for slightly off-kilter, genuinely odd pop songs. The hooks might not grab you immediately and the obtuse melodies may make you want to shut it off initially, but sticking with it brings rewardds. Plus, who doesn’t like the excitement of not knowing where a song will go next? Palm tends to do a solid job in making that sort of music, and their latest “Shadow Expert” is a strange delight you need to hear. It’ll grow on you, I promise. Other tracks in this set come from Abhi//Dijon, Carneyval (ft. Hudson Thames), Doldrums, Jaymes Young, Steve Aoki’s remix of Mangchi, Mothica, No Vacation and Stillwave.

Great Grandpa – Fade

Kwaye – Little Ones

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart – Anymore

Palm – Shadow Expert

Abhi//Dijon – Light

Carneyval – Love & Emotions (ft. Hudson Thames)

Doldrums – Heater

Jaymes Young – Don’t You Know

Mangchi – The Best (Steve Aoki Remix)

Mothica – Self-Destructive

No Vacation – Yam Yam

Stillwave – Cradle