“Wildflowers & Wine” – Marcus King
I discovered Marcus King byway of his wife Briley King & her amazing southern-inspired style online. His sound is often described as “soul-influenced psychedelic southern rock,” blending elements of blues, rock, country, and soul. It’s the perfect match for a drink by the fire on these cold winter nights but also has me thinking how fitting it would be to see him at an outdoors show in the summertime. That said, there’s a little bit of everything in his music and lots for those who love to indulge in his guitar virtuosity.
– Julia
The Hart – Grayscale
It may only be February, but I’m fairly certain Grayscale have just released my album of the year. Equal parts emotional and energetic, their aptly titled new record The Hart has completely captured mine. Over the years, the Philadelphia-based rockers have gradually evolved from their pop-punk beginnings, cultivating a sound that is so distinctly their own, the only way I can think of to describe it is simply Grayscale. Whether they’re incorporating sweeping string arrangements, groovy saxophones, or a even full choir into their music, they’re constantly pushing the boundaries of what pop-punk can be—a genre often dismissed as basic or simple. On The Hart, Grayscale bare their vulnerability, giving fans a song for every occasion. From slower ballads with such heartwrenching lyrics you’ll shed a tear to upbeat, dance-worthy tracks that remind you of summer, Grayscale capture what it means to be human on this record. The Hart has wormed its way into my head and my heart, and if you give it a listen, I’m sure it will do the same for you.
-Leila
“Abracadabra” – Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga dropped her newest single and music video, “Abracadabra” from her upcoming seventh studio album Mayhem during the 2025 Grammy Awards. I immediately dropped everything, and watched the premiere of the video on YouTube. I was met with stunning costuming, a nostalgic pop chorus, and choreography so gripping that I instantly wanted to get up and dance. Lady Gaga has seemingly gone back to her roots with dark, punchy, pop that is reminiscent of The Fame Monster’s “Bad Romance”. Gaga may be at her best when she abandons the English language altogether, in favour of rhyming sounds with her name. I certainly love it, and will have the song on repeat until her album drops on March 7th.
-Kea
“Work Song”- Hozier
Nothing groundbreaking here—I’m still stuck in my musical comfort zone, playing my all-time favorites on repeat. But in honor of Valentine’s Day, I’ve been drowning in the most love-songy love song to ever exist: Work Song by Hozier. This track doesn’t just tug at the heartstrings—it rips them out, stomps on them, and hands them back with a bittersweet bow. “When my time comes around, lay me gently in the cold, dark earth. No grave can hold my body down; I’ll crawl home to her” hits like a poetic gut punch. If devotion had a soundtrack, this would be it
-Sophie
“Baby (Is It a Crime)” – Rema
As we embrace the chill of winter, Rema’s latest release, Baby (Is It a Crime), brings all the warmth I need to hold me over until summer. This vibrant single fuses Afrobeats and R&B, with a beautiful sample of Sade’s 1985 classic “Is It a Crime.” Accompanied by a visually stunning music video, the song mirrors its visuals with a captivating energy showcasing black creatives and models. Rema’s sultry tone creates a smooth, sensual listening experience. Although the track was first teased back in November, its release was delayed due to sample clearance—but the wait was definitely worth it! Baby (Is It a Crime) is the perfect anthem to lift your spirits during the winter months.
-Kristian
Kansas Anymore – Role Model
Since my winter has been filled with weekend getaways, I’ve been in need of a go-to album for long car rides. I think Kansas Anymore by Role Model has flawlessly filled that role this winter. The album strikes a balance of calming yet upbeat energy, making it the perfect companion for the open road, effortlessly blending into the background during peaceful stretches of highway on a long journey.
-Bronwyn