“Up and Away (feat. June)” by Can’t Stop Won’t Stop

As a band these guys are still very green, but admittedly they seem to have hit upon some rap/hiphop gold because something’s working for them. They’ve got some serious commercial viability, especially with this song. It’s captured that quintessential summertime feel. Windows rolled down, shades on, open road, maybe the promise of a beach… The perfect cure for the midwinter blues. Somebody better sign these guys ASAP.

Can’t Stop Won’t Stop hails from Provo, Utah and have been featured multiple times in fellow Utahan Devin Graham’s stylized stunt videos, which you should absolutely check out.

Their EP is available on iTunes, along with this single.

“Middle of the Bed” by Lucy Rose

One of the most exciting new faces on the UK music scene, Lucy Rose has one of those timeless voices you rarely run across these days. Her vocals are flawlessly spot on and carry with them a ghostly reverence that chimes through her acoustic melodies with precisely the right balance. Lucy’s songs are like looking at a rediscovered Polaroid from ages ago. Her songs warm the heart.

Lucy Rose opened for the always fantastic Bombay Bicycle Club at Seattle’s Crocodile Lounge last Saturday and absolutely blew the crowd away. She only played a handful of songs at the start but by the end of her short set she had the audience by their heartstrings.

Can’t wait for the release of her full length album? Check her out on iTunes and SoundCloud. Must stop gushing now…

“Genesis” by Grimes

The latest single to come out of Claire Boucher’s chillrock brainchild Grimes is stunningly uplifting and bewitchingly melancholy. Though reminiscent of Lykke Li’s 2011 album Wounded Rhymes, Grimes’ upcoming album seems to strike a chord entirely it’s own, both urgently intimate and elusively casual. Check out NME’s review on the earlier single “Oblivion” here.

“Resten av ditt liv” by Timbuktu

Swedish hip hop artist Timbuktu’s latest and greatest is a new take on the classic revenge song. Clever lyrics and a charming melody make this song entertaining to listen to even for the 30th time. No English lyrics seem to be available unfortunately…

HEADS UP: First Aid Kit

WHERE: On tour.

WHY: Haunting, yearning, vocals that harmonize with lilting rock themes make this Swedish folk duo a must.

WARNING: Likely to fill up your iTunes Top 25.

HEADS UP: Bombay Bicycle Club

WHERE: On tour.

WHY: Quirky, most-punk British folk-pop that makes you want to get up and bounce around. Very fetching.

WARNING: You will be caught humming this tune later.

“Levels” by Avicii

I know it’s not any underground obscurist tip but this song has been going around my head for a full week now and therefore thought it necessary to share. Plus he’s a Swede so that’s reason enough. I’m debating whether to buy a ticket for $40+ to their Seattle show at the Paramount next month… Very tempted.

Foster the People - Pumped Up Kicks

I’ve got tickets to their SOLD OUT show and my cup runneth over with sheer excitement. This show is going to be oh-so-good.