Ava Valianti represents something increasingly rare in contemporary music: genuine precocity without artifice. This Massachusetts artist, who is only fifteen years old, handles general themes with a level of emotional depth that is shocking. She shows that youth can bring out the best in complicated human experiences, rather than hiding them. "Distant," her sixth single, functions as a sonic archaeology of friendship's dissolution. The track excavates layers...

The latest single by SMILEZ, an American rapper, "Someday" has the perfect amount of energy and vibe to make you feel connected to it. This is the first tune off of his next album, "Ur In My World," which will consist of 15 songs all of the same high quality. The words of this song are well-written. They leave an impression on you and stir your...