Flavor Wave’s single, “The Optimist,” arrived less like a declaration and more like someone tentatively drawing back a dusty curtain on a grey afternoon. From West Chester, PA, these five lifelong friends – Kyle Loedel (vocals, lyrics), Matthew Stretch (lead guitar), Patrick Blair (rhythm guitar), Noah Montgomery (bass), and Joshua Speaker (performer/drums) – typically tread alternative rock paths nodding to influences like The Strokes....

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...