From choosing the devil you know to flying away with someone you love, this edition explores risk, reinvention, desire, and the courage to follow your own path. For the full playlist, click here.
St. Divine – “The Devil That You Know”
Critically acclaimed, New York-based rock band St. Divine has captivated listeners worldwide by blending high energy and melodic mastery into a distilled, distinctive punk-rock style that’s irresistibly groovy. Comprised of Will Croxton (vocals/guitar), Judy Ann Nock (vocals/guitar), Michael Ratti (drums), Jesse Barnes (bassist), and Phillip Yanos (guitar), the ensemble delivers a sense of sweetly riotous auditory delight on their latest single, “The Devil That You Know.” The track instantly grabs the listener’s attention, offering an immersive sonic palette that combines crunchy, overdriven rhythm guitars with a lead line that utilizes a twangy yet saturated tone. While it taps into classic blues-rock scales, the band plays them with a modern indie-rock urgency. The bass is thick and driving, and the drums sound organic and ‘roomy,’ providing a rhythmic swing that is inherently foot-stomping. Lyrically, the song navigates the psychological trap of familiarity, seductively exploring the temptations and consequences of choosing a known misery over the terrifying unknown.
Ultimately, with “The Devil That You Know”, St. Divine has delivered a timeless track that successfully balances technical mastery with raw, honest emotional weight.
Moon Construction Kit – “Down the West Coast”
Moon Construction Kit is an indie-rock project brought to life by musician Olivier Cornu from his studio in Lausanne, Switzerland. Inspired by Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys, Olivier Cornu crafts music that keeps listeners guessing. His latest track, “Down The West Coast,” is a lush, atmospheric slice of indie rock that blends elements of dream-pop, psychedelic rock, and chamber-pop. The vocals are quintessentially shoegaze—soft, melodic, and intentionally recessed in the mix. This use of reverb creates a sense of distance and space, contributing to the song’s ethereal mood. The bassline is surprisingly melodic and prominent, providing a rhythmic bounce that prevents the track from feeling too floaty. The drums sound crisp but not aggressive, maintaining a consistent energy without overpowering the delicate guitar melodies. The track concludes with slow repetitions, dissolving layer by layer and mimicking the way a car might disappear over the horizon.
Ultimately, “Down The West Coast” is a song that prioritizes texture and feeling, offering the listener a sonic postcard washed in nostalgia and hazy sunlight.
Ulrich Jannert – “All In”
German musician Ulrich Jannert had been engaging with musical instruments for decades before he walked into a professional studio. Driven by his own inner compass, he urges his rapidly growing base of listeners to do the same by crafting uplifting songs combining elements of soul rock, R&B and Southern rock. “All In”, the titular track of his latest EP, is a deeply melodic blend of indie rock and contemporary folk. The song is led by clean, rhythmic electric guitars which are paired with dependable, anchoring drums to create a sense of slowly rising intensity. Ulrich Jannert’s voice is clear, grounded and possesses a confessional tone that fosters intimacy. Lyrically, the song revolves around the concept of total commitment and risk and the bravery required to be vulnerable. The narrative charts a transition from doubt and hesitation to absolute certainty and total surrender to one’s feelings and ambitions.
Ulrich Jannert’s latest release is perfect for moments of deep reflection, offering listeners the courage to stop playing it safe and go “All In”.
Cello – “Like A Tiger”
Based in Brighton, UK, Cello is a classically trained musician fusing auditory mastery with witty personal flair. Her latest song, “Like A Tiger,” is a sophisticated piece of indie-pop and art-rock that blends retro disco influences with a modern, post-punk edge. Released as a precursor to her upcoming debut album, ‘Kung Fu Disco’, the track offers a potent blend of confidence, primal instinct, and social/romantic pursuit. The song is built on a foundation of funk-influenced electric guitars and heavy synthesizers, while a driving, melodic bassline provides the disco pulse that anchors the rhythm. The interaction between the twitchy guitar and the steady kick drum creates a sense of coiled energy that feels like it’s about to explode but never quite loses its composure. Cello’s vocal delivery favors a steady, determined clarity and embodies a glamorous attitude while building tension through restraint. The track follows a well-designed pop structure with a catchy hook, designed to reward repeated listens.
“Like A Tiger” mixes metallic/bright and warm/analog textures, creating a retrofuturist aesthetic that successfully bridges the gap between the dance floor and the art gallery
Finlay Birch – “Fly Us Both Away”
Based in the Isle of Mull, Scottish musician Finlay Birch offers deeply contemplative music by fusing indie and alternative rock with soulful folk. “Fly Us Both Away”, the leading track of his latest EP ‘Weight Will Unwind’, is part love song, part escapism and all heart.
It opens with a bright acoustic guitar followed by percussion that is punchy and forward-moving, featuring a steady, driving kick drum and a crisp snare. The bassline is melodic and warm, locking in with the kick drum to provide a solid floor to the soundscape. Finlay Birch has a youthful, earnest and melodic voice. His delivery is full of conviction, moving from narrative-driven restraint to higher notes conveying yearning and euphoria. The metaphor of “flying” is used both literally (as in travel) and metaphorically (as in emotional elevation).
Through “Fly Us Both Away”, Finlay Birch succeeds in crafting a sound that is stadium-sized yet intimate, remaining rooted in a very human, timeless desire to simply run away and start over with someone you love.
