Happy Monday! Time for a lil mixtape. Each track here has it’s own specific quality that’ll make you take notice. Obviously there’s a ton of stellar songs being discovered every day, but these particular ones have a “special something”, making them stand out in a string of songs. In that case, when they’re put in a playlist together, do they actually retain that initial uniqueness? Oh well, enough with the philosophical babbling: Just enjoy the tunes. And get ready for the fast approaching summer, during which time you’ll be able to blast said tunes through open car windows. Nothing not special about that.

01. Arum Rae – “Warranted Queen” :: Steadiness is the key. Dig the steady drums that kick the track off. The steady background hums. And the steady repetition of “it’s alright” which is soothing enough to make you believe that it really is alright. The minimalism aspect paradoxically enhances the song and the whole thing’s got soul vibing through it.

02. Asgeir –  “Torrent” :: It’s like fireworks being set off on the night sky. Picture this playing as you cross a finish line, perform a grand gesture, or do anything else that is deserving of swelling instrumentation interspersed with gentle but pronounced vocals. Chilling in the right way.

03. Decent Lovers –  “Compromising Young Thing” :: Experimental quirks throughout this track keep it interesting. From the robotic countdowns, to the random cheers and background shouts, to the pauses. Of course the charming melody makes you glad when the music comes back on.

04. San Fermin – “Sonsick” :: It’s different and that’s what makes it exciting. The overlapping vocals are ornate and thrilling. A subtle soothing trumpet backs what is, at times, powerhouse belting. You can feel each and every note. And that’ll do something to ya.

05. Talain Rayne – “What Do We Have To Lose?” :: This is a dynamic one: it’s beat driven, pervaded with electronics, energetic singing, and passionate vocals. The piano is at the core, and it really rounds out this potentially anthemic song.

06. SACCO – “Carnival Ghost” :: The keyboard and guitar blend seamlessly. It’s very catchy for sure. And tonally aesthetic. While the words are introspectively self-examining. Keep your eye on these guys.