The fiercely independent, Idaho-raised rapper nick! channels a deeply overstimulated, restless frequency on his new EP, "GEEKED!". Born in 2006 and building a fervent following entirely without industry co-signs, he occupies an interesting lane in new-wave underground hip-hop. His music sounds precisely like the brain chemistry of an internet-raised creative processing the blinding speed of newfound success. He writes and produces melodic, hard-hitting rap...

The New Citizen Kane offers a curious, glittering confection with the new single "Ratbag Joy," and it’s a listen that feels a bit like dancing with a ghost at a warehouse party. On the surface, it’s all neon-slicked indie dance propulsion; a beat that tugs at your shoulders and synth hooks polished to a mirror shine, perfectly engineered for the hazy bliss of 2...