After a tedious six year wait, seminal singer-songwriter Sampha has finally returned with his heart-rendering, musically majestic sophomore album, Lahai. Flawless across the board, from the vocality to the lyricism, the production to the instrumentation, the album borrows from a plethora of styles such as jazz, soul, jungle and rap, combining the sounds with marvellous individuality. Boasting contributions from some of the very best world creatives including Yussef Dayes, Léa Sen, Ibeyi and Black Midi’s Morgan Simpson, it’s a refined and jaw-dropping showcase of impeccable artistry.

Global collaborations simply don’t come much bigger than this! Australia’s shining star The Kid LAROI has enlisted two of the most prominent names in mainstream music, South Korea’s Jung Kook and UK rap’s new kingpin Central Cee for a stellar love-struck cut, “Too Much”, with each respective artist bringing their own flavour palette to a melting pot of style, guise and culture. Expect to hear this track everywhere in the coming months!

Colombian-American superstar Kali Uchis has been flaunting her bilingual brilliance this year, unveiling her critically acclaimed, celebratory Spanish-language LP, Red Moon In Venus, back in March. She’s now returned, with another Latin-infused album, Orquídeas, on the way. Our first teaser comes in the shape of “Te Mata”, a slick, sensual and vibrant cut that further cements Uchis’ divine sound, leaving us in anticipation for the forthcoming body of work.

Seoul-based collective Balming Tiger have released their debut album, January Never Dies, and it is an exceptionally exciting project. The first studio album released entirely as a team, it sonically and thematically explores the power of connectivity and the energy that comes from believing in one’s self and in loving others. Dynamic and complex, it is both intricate and expansive.

North West London’s Kamal. is undoubtedly one of the most captivating singer-songwriter’s currently plying his craft in the UK scene. He returns today with “Keresone”, a subtly devastating number that sees him collaborate with hotly tipped artist Sie. The pair’s tones blend together richly, complimenting each other acutely, with their visceral songwriting proving both succinct and reflective.

Following the success of their previous collaborative singles, “In Your Eyes” and “I Can Only Whisper”, “Sleeper” is truly Charlotte Day Wilson and BADBADNOTGOOD at their best. An intimate, nostalgic yet fresh single, it perfectly balances Day Wilson’s captivating vocals and BADBADNOTGOOD’s alt-jazz instrumentals — the two coming together in a seemingly effortless magnetism.

A huge dance hit from two of pop’s biggest names? Yes please! Iconic singer-songwriter Charli XCX has enlisted Sam Smith for a standout single, “In The City”, a club-ready cut produced by ILYA, A. G. Cook, Omer Fedi, George and Charli herself. A remix courtesy of DJ Heartstring will follow next week.

A year after proving himself to be one of the most exciting musicians in the UK space with his sublime social commentary debut LP Universal Credit, Jeshi consolidates his acclaim and pushes his sound to new artistic heights on “The Great Stink”. The six-pronged body of work is measured, challenging and thought-provoking, amongst the most artful rap projects that has been released in 2023. If you don’t know this rising rapper, simply, get to know!

Sainte’s charisma knows no bounds. Leicester’s smoothest MC has been making a name for himself on both sides of the Atlantic over the past few years with his slick, rich and progressive sound. With this new one, “Stop Crying” Sainté continues in his exploration of flow, tone and character.

19 year old trilingual Afro-pop artist Highlyy has returned with her fourth single, “Higher (C’est La Vie)”, and we’re obsessed. A feel-good, motivational anthem that feels like an ode to her own positivity and belief in herself, the Amapiano inspired track is released ahead of her debut project, and makes us even more excited for its forthcoming release.

Mancunian spitter Nemzzz is one of the hottest properties in UK rap, bringing confidence and craft to each aspect of his music. On his latest cut, “Money And Vibes”, he flavourfully samples Justin Timberlake’s classic “Rock Your Body”, offering up playful bars and breezy flows atop the colour-laden production.

Brighton-based artist Bess Atwell’s new single, “Sylvester”, is named for the imaginary character she created as a child. Recorded and produced by The National’s Aaron Dessner, it explores relational dynamics, using its subject to personify the complex dichotomy of loneliness and connection — trying to find a balance. Sonically, its sense of urgency and repetitive patterns capture these ideas and bring Atwell’s lyrics to life.

The final single from her debut album, Sunny Reyne’s “Cold Morning” is a chilly-weather comfort track you’ll want on repeat this winter. A blend of soul, jazz, R&B, and alt-rock, it is an intimate love letter to lying in bed next to the person you love. Following “Find a Way” and “Safe”, it further paints the picture of her forthcoming album — and we can’t wait for more.

Hot on the heels of his enigmatic singles “LA LA” and “Sleep”, multi-faceted artist Fredwave serves up his third single of the year “Mind”, taken from his highly-anticipated five-track EP due 16th November. Continuing his unique blend of sonic innovation and fondness for the contemporary UK music that has cemented the North London talent as one of the most significant names in the scene, Fredwave’s new tripped out offering “Mind” looks to set to continue the attention around the elusive, charismatic London talent. Coming in at just under two minutes, the track is introduced with Fred’s vocals, pitched-up, layered on a beatless bed of distorted strings before being brought to life by skitty percussive elements halfway through. A melodic and distinctive sound, moulded together by the smooth lyricism and versatile sounds, giving this a distinct Fredwave signature. Paired with a sleek set of visuals directed by Jay Russell, the new single provides the perfect pathway into Fredwave’s highly-anticipated EP.

Hot on the heels of acclaimed singles “Jussai”, “Comfortable”, “The First Time I Got High” and “It’s Nearly Over”, Northampton’s very own rising star Femi Tahiru delivers just his third EP titled “M.A.S.T.E.R.S”, showcasing a slew of already-released and brand new tracks. Spanning eight unique songs, Femi kickstarts the project with an atmospheric introduction lasting just under 2 minutes before he enters with his trademark smooth lyricism. From the moody, echoing notes of “The First Time I Got High” and the rawness of “Light Beam”, to the smooth and seductive sounds of “It’s Nearly Over” and “September”. The new project is also delivered alongside a captivating official video for “What She Wants” directed by Adam De Silva. Femi’s latest release cements his reputation as one of the most naturally reactive and intriguing new artists coming through in the alternative scene right now, and all points to an artist crafting music well beyond his years.

Tottenham-hailing singer-songwriter NIPPA has returned with intimate new single “Ocean Drive”, out now via SPACEBOUND. The track is a sleek and polished R&B-infused offering and another display of Nippa’s fierce commitment to pioneering a new, genre-defying sound. The release also comes as a round up of a year of important career milestones for Nippa, from performing on Stormzy’s curated All Points East day to a series of big musical collaborations. To accompany his seamless vocals and nostalgic-yet-futuristic production, he also introduces an EarthboI-directed music video.

West London’s pioneering rapper, singer and songwriter Br3ya arrives with her debut EP in signature style. Her collaboration with rising Ghanaian singer Moliy see’s them enter the F*** Boy Free Zone with both artists in their creative elements to craft a rap infused anthem laced with hypnotic vocals and production from MADEINPARRIS. “No Lovin” – and the entire project – reflects “a perfect blend of Ghana and West London cultures that represent a true Innit Innit Girl” that see’s Br3nya’s weave in between the cultures that have made her who she is today. It’s a huge moment for Br3nya who has been working towards her debut project since breaking onto the scene in 2019.

18-year-old rapper and producer Young Eman is making waves in the UK music scene, and his new single will no doubt accelerate his rise. Titled “EAZI”, the track blends grime, British rap, electronic, and elements of Eman’s Zimbabwean heritage into a soundscape that is entirely one-of-a-kind.

A stunning falsetto fused with intimate, jazz-laden undertones, “Master” instantly underlines the 21-year-old singer-songwriter as a standout new name. Akin Soul’s tender composition, pulling fragments of inner-city soul and blues alongside darker synths and sharp percussive textures produced by Slam Sounds open pockets for Akin to flaunt a remarkable vocal talent. Textured lyricism confronts the ideology of a disguised love that intoxicates one’s spirit, moving towards the positives of vulnerability and an endless journey towards self-realisation. A truly unique sound in the landscape with a clearly high-calibre artistry will continue the attention surrounding one of the most captivating young talents in the London scene right now.

One of the most exciting new US artists coming through, N3WYRKLA follows up her first official single “care about myself”, with a brand new offering titled “GMFU”, incorporating a series of slick instrumentals, from plucky acoustic and electronic riffs to futuristic synth work all layered with N3WYRKLA’s intoxicating vocal prowess, exclaiming “you almost got me f*cked up” throughout. “GMFU” underlines the New Jersey artist as one of the hottest and excitingly genre-fluid young talents coming through right now, showcasing an open musical palette that promises a diversity and musicality beyond her twenty-one years of age and marking the young New Jersey talent as a significant one to watch for 2023 and beyond.

The Veronicas are back with a banger! Their latest single “Perfect” is a killer pop-rock anthem, featuring Travis Barker on the drums. A strong nod to 90’s with distorted guitars and shimmering melodies, urging self-love in a society obsessed with comparison. This iconic alt-pop duo continues to shine on the global music scene, leaving an indelible mark. “Perfect” is a testament to their ongoing brilliance.

Priya Ragu’s debut album Santhosam promises to be a game-changer in the music world. With tracks like “Vacation” and “Easy” gaining widespread acclaim, her new single “Black Goose” is a powerful anthem which addresses many issues of our current world. SANTHOSAM is a complex and dynamic journey, filled with positivity, urgent political themes, and musical innovation. Priya’s impactful message and artistic vision are not to be missed.

Ghostly Kisses’ latest single, “Golden Eyes” is a truly captivating and ethereal sensation. With spellbinding vocals and ingenious wordplay, it’s a therapeutic musical experience that explores the intricate dynamics of friendship and romantic awakening. This track is a testament to Ghostly Kisses’ songwriting prowess and self-awareness. “Golden Eyes” is more than just a song, it’s a profound expression of emotions, beautifully wrapped in melodies. Don’t miss this stellar release.

Following the release of his album COULTURE earlier this year, North-West Londoner Coults introduces today his newest musical project, the 8-track mixtape “EGO.” Featuring two of his viral gems, CGI-assisted “IP3” and afrobeats-tinged slow-burner “In The Middle”, featuring alté star Odunsi (The Engine) and British-Nigerian rapper DEELA, the project shows a more focused and thorough version of the English-Japanese rap riser’s expansive artistry. “I want to use my voice as an instrument; in the same way that you have an orchestra, every single part plays a major role in the ensemble,” he shares.

After months of anticipation since his acclaimed debut album, X, rising Atlanta-based rapper Ken Carson has finally announced his newest musical endeavours, the 18-track album A Great Chaos, via OPIUM/Interscope Records. On “Jennifer’s Body”, the second song of the album, we watch Carson taking over the central stage of his artistry, mastering his lyrical wizardry while building up tension and a sense of irresistible allure with his atmospheric vocals and intoxicating beats.

Swiss indie collective Malummí released today their newest track, “Bones”, the latest single from their upcoming new album The Universe Is Black, set to be released on November 3 on Irascible Records. Presenting a modern blend of alternative rock, folk-rock and shoegaze, the track radiates a refreshing, positive vibe while telling the story of delusional happiness, setting the tone of what’s to come in their forthcoming second album that’s set to “get under your skin”.

Manchester-based Better Joy is taking big steps with their debut single, “Hard To Love”, experimenting in the alt-pop grounds with a track that mixes extremely catchy and lively beats with soulful lyrics. “’Hard to love is a song of self-realisation and acceptance. We all have parts of ourselves that feel unlovable. Finding someone who loves you despite those flaws, and sometimes even for those flaws, is pretty great. It’s an appreciation song to that person who puts up with you and takes you for who you are, the good and bad. Love is messy – and so are people,” says Bria Keely, Better Joy’s singer and songwriter. For a full immersion in this sonic experience, the track comes accompanied with a music video, shot in LA and directed by Sam Kristofski, that beautifully translates the essence of youthful carelessness and fun.

Luca Zuccotti is a rising star in the UK music scene, and his latest release, “Back Up”, is a stellar portfolio of Afrobeats fire. Luca’s unique blend of R&B, Trap Soul, and Afrobeats is taking the industry by storm. Get ready for an energetic, sax-infused journey into the heart of Afrobeats. Luca’s future in music looks incredibly promising and we can’t wait to watch him soar!

Lily Head is a storytelling sensation, and her debut EP, “Cherry On The Cake” is a testament to her remarkable talent. The lead single, “Table for Two” is a dreamy, velvety track that
captures the complexities of modern love. With enchanting vocals and impeccable production, Lily’s music delves deep into the heart of contemporary issues. Her blend of R&B, soul, and pop is refreshing, and this EP promises to be a compelling journey through the intricacies of human emotions. Lily Head is a rising star to watch out for.