New music? Oh, we’ve got it! This week’s instalment of What’s Going On brings big rock energy, fresh faces, a debut single, and enough sonic goodness to keep your playlists busy. Whether you’re craving indie-rock bangers or empowering pop perfection, we’ve got something for you. As always, if you dig what you hear, follow and stream these artists.
Fontaines D.C. – As far as I’m concerned, Fontaines D.C. are THE band of the moment, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down with Dopamine Chamber, their seductive, shape-shifting fifth album. Produced by James Ford, the newly released record finds the Irish rockers exploring lush orchestration, potent balladry and hypnotic synths. Standout “Where Is Gone?” pairs frontman Grian Chatten with ROSALÍA in a sweeping, gorgeous cross-cultural duet that feels like a genuine meeting of musical worlds. I’m obsessed.
Listen to Fontaines D.C.’s new single “Where Is Gone?” featuring ROSALÍA below.
Sarah Vanderzon – Canadian folk singer-songwriter Sarah Vanderzon gets raw on “Red Label Bourbon,” a deeply personal new single about loving someone while holding them accountable for the hurt they’ve caused. Anchored by acoustic guitar, Americana pedal steel and Vanderzon’s hungry vocals, the track balances pure vulnerability with vivid storytelling. Produced by GRAMMY-nominated Ryan Hadlock, it’s yet another compelling glimpse into Vanderzon’s increasingly introspective songwriting. Catch her on tour across Canada this fall. You can find more info here.
Listen to Sarah Vanderzon’s new single “Red Label Bourbon” below.
Overstreet Knox – It’s always fun when we can bring you a debut single! Dallas rockers Overstreet Knox recently dropped “Breathe,” a guitar-heavy gut punch about missing someone who’s no longer in your life. With its big cathartic choruses, hard-hitting riffs and melodies built for singing along, the track captures that all-consuming urge to bring someone back, whether the connection was romantic or platonic. Overstreet Knox are making an early case for themselves as a band to watch. Definitely keep an eye on them.
Listen to Overstreet Knox’s debut single “Breathe” below.
Jack Grisham and the Life Undone – T.S.O.L. frontman Jack Grisham has got new music out. “Angel Funeral” is the latest single from his new project, Jack Grisham and the Life Undone. A haunting exploration of grief and a love that couldn’t overcome death, the track reveals a more vulnerable and sombre side of the California punk icon. Unlike dogs, you can teach an old SoCal punk new tricks.
Listen to Jack Grisham and the Life Undone’s new single “Angel Funeral” below.
Sparklmami – Chicago singer Sparklmami wasn’t on my radar before, but I have a feeling you’ll fall in love at first listen. The singer-songwriter serves up a funky little self-love revelation with “si,” her synth-soaked new single blending jazz-funk, ’80s electric piano and playful spoken-word interludes. Inspired by the qualities we admire in our crushes but struggle to recognize in ourselves, the track turns romantic fantasy into a self-empowerment anthem. We could use more of that energy these days!
Listen to Sparklmami’s new single “si” below.
