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...

You should listen to Zachary Aldana's new single "Christmas Isn't Canceled (Just You)" while you can because it's sure to be a season-defining hit. This new version of Kelly Clarkson's holiday smash is full of life and energy, taking the infectious enthusiasm of the original and adding his soulful style and hypnotic depth of tone. While introducing a wider tone to his music, which suggests a...