Cat Mayel's "FREE" arrived, not on a silver platter, but more like a rogue pigeon delivering a very important message – a crumpled napkin with profound scribbles. This Nigerian producer, composer, arranger, and all-around sonic sorceress has served up a single dose of alternative neo-soul that feels… well, free. As free as a shopping cart with a wonky wheel, anyway. It goes where it...

Allison Kane is one of the few artists with the inborn capacity to weave complex tales with their words, but the fact remains. Recently released by the American vocalist, "Next Life" tells the heartbreaking tale of a love that has been shattered by forces beyond either person's control, leaving a gap that no amount of time or effort can seem to heal. The upbeat pop/punk song takes...