This week, hear the latest from Los Angeles artists The Linda Lindas and Hand Habits, from English artist Amber Mary Bain aka The Japanese House, from Minnesota hip-hop artist Juice Lord, and from Japanese band CHAI. Plus, discover the sounds of North Carolina five-piece Wednesday.

Wednesday, “Quarry”

The buzzed-about North Carolina band, Wednesday, recently released their album, Rat Saw God. It’s a raw and emotional release, scouring and at times scorching the land around them.

The Linda Lindas, “Too Many Things”

The upstarts from Los Angeles who are now signed by Epitaph are back with a new song, "Too Many Things." The foursome of The Linda Lindas have a tight power-pop sound that references 90s riot grrrl sounds. They are still able to balance the sweetness of their harmonies with a driving, punky sound.

The Japanese House, “Boyhood”

Dreamy, atmospheric, and yearning music comes easily to Amber Mary Bain. The multi-instrumentalist is contemplating selfhood in the new song, "BOYHOOD." Begging to be held and understood, the song drifts like dust in the sunlight, hopeful and lingering.

Hand Habits, “Something Wrong”

Meg Duffy, who performs as Hand Habits, recently shared "Something Wrong" from the album, Sugar The Bruise, which is coming out June 16. It's a laid-back song that has hints of baroque and spiking synth. Duffy gained inspiration for the album from teaching a songwriting class during the pandemic; it was a lesson in lightening up and bringing more playfulness into the music.

Juice Lord, “Blessed Up” feat. Prince Riley

St. Paul-based Malik Curtis, better known as Juice Lord, is becoming a household name in the Twin Cities hip-hop community. In March, he released his latest project, 8th Inning: Luv vs Passion, accompanied by a sold-out release show at 7th St Entry featuring an amazing lineup of local talent. The inspirational song “Blessed Up,” featuring Prince Riley, is a funky, smooth track that reflects on the ability to remain strong, focused on our blessings, and positive throughout loss, grief, and hardships. – Natalia Toledo

CHAI, “We The Female!”

Japanese band CHAI create pop for left of the dial; it's fun and winking (if you dig outsider bands like Sparks, you'll like CHAI). Their latest song is about the fluidity of gender with the band saying in a statement, "You are no one else but just you. This song celebrates that with a roar."

Playlist