When 7Z MAXI released his latest single, "Back From The Dead", the collision between the unforgiving pavement and the holy pulpit feels surprisingly organic. The Philadelphia-based solo artist, sometimes operating as Holy Boy Maxi, is tunneling straight back to the gritty, nostalgic energy of 2012 underground drill music. He is handing down a heavy, paradox-laden survival guide directed at the youth navigating treacherous environments...

We have heard a lot of love songs, but this one has a distinct vibe—something you will hear for yourself after you listen to it. An exciting fusion of rhythmic African rhythms and soulful vocals, Kurtys's new single "Joha" narrates a love story with a significant woman. The songs are Afrobeat and R&B. Afrobeat components combined with catchy grooves give the song depth of feeling, and...