REVIEWS | New Music Discoveries 008

Volume 008 is a rally cry - for misfits, truth-seekers, and anyone rewriting their own story. This week’s lineup spans defiant pop, introspective rap, glitchy techno chaos, and soul-baring ballads, from radical self-love and dystopian dance to Buffy-inspired bangers and cinematic grief. These artists aren’t just making noise, they’re making meaning.

"all the feelings" by Frederika Rei

Stockholm-based artist and producer Fredrika Rei returns with "all the feelings", a bold, genre-blending EP that dives headfirst into the chaotic beauty of big emotions. Fusing 90s drum’n’bass, ethereal alt-pop, and raw storytelling, Fredrika offers five tracks that celebrate infatuation, jealousy, betrayal, and self-perception without apology. From the Buffy-inspired banger “Slayer” to the emotionally charged “lose my cool", the EP builds on her reputation for vulnerable lyrics and high-impact beats. "all the feelings" cements Fredrika Rei’s place as a fearless voice in Nordic alt-pop, one that dares to feel it all.

"Love I'm Looking For" by Hanne Leland

Norwegian pop artist Hanne Leland delivers a powerful dose of self-celebration with “Love I’m Looking For”, a bold, liberating anthem about radical self-love. Blending spiritual imagery with glossy pop production, the track reframes the search for love as an inward journey of coming home to yourself. With over 17 million streams and praise from tastemakers like CLASH and The Line of Best Fit, Leland continues to carve out her own lane with uplifting, unapologetic pop made for summer and beyond.

"Vanish" by Jay King

With “Vanish”, Jay King delivers a raw, emotionally resonant track about knowing your worth and walking away to protect your peace. Written, produced, and recorded entirely in his home studio, the song is a deeply personal reflection on the mental toll of toxic relationships, and the strength it takes to let go. Jay’s DIY approach and honest lyricism connect powerfully with listeners navigating similar struggles, further establishing him as a rising voice in emotional, purpose-driven music.

"Loser Like Me" by Joyce Tratnyek

Joyce Tratnyek kicks off a defiant “loser summer” with “Loser Like Me”, a punchy, 2000s-inspired pop-rock anthem for the proudly uncool. With nods to Avril Lavigne and Olivia Rodrigo, Joyce pairs sharp, self-aware lyrics with infectious hooks and DIY spirit. Self-written and self-produced, this track is a rallying cry for outcasts everywhere: bold, bratty, and totally unapologetic.

"Sweet Heart" by Criwolf

Blending dream pop, dark-pop, and alternative rock, Criwolf’s latest single "Sweet Heart" is an emotional and cinematic tribute to personal loss. Inspired by the memory of a late brother, the track weaves heartfelt lyrics with atmospheric production, creating a sound both intimate and expansive. With its haunting textures and sincere emotional core, this release is a standout moment in Criwolf’s evolving artistry.

"The Call (Feat. Frannie EL)" by L.O.U & Big O

South Side Jamaica Queens rapper L.O.U returns with “The Call”, a striking new track featuring Frannie EL that blends sharp lyricism, cinematic production, and introspective energy. Known for his thought-provoking narratives and raw delivery, L.O.U (Let’s Obliterate the Universe) brings his signature intensity to this release; a reflection on purpose, decisions, and divine timing.

"BioPunk" by HydraTek

“BioPunk” is HydraTek’s fiercest drop yet. A cybernetic techno assault engineered for the dancefloor and the dystopia. Blending industrial rhythms, AI-powered vocals, and glitch-heavy textures, it’s a sonic manifesto for the future of underground electronics. Futuristic, fearless, and finely tuned for chaos, "BioPunk" doesn’t just hit — it uploads.

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