Vancouver’s 20-year-old mood-architect 13illy just dropped a new single, "NOTHING W/O YOU," that captures the exact shade of blue your bedroom ceiling takes on at 3 AM. It operates on a compelling sonic paradox. He lays down a dreamy, melancholic loop that continuously circles your head, eventually anchoring it to a cavernous low-end pulse and sharp, fast-paced trap snaps. It is an infectious, bouncy...

Listening to the new DaLomonze EP, "Picture Day," is a study in deceptive portraiture. You’re told it’s about capturing a moment, a fixed smile for the world, documenting personal growth. The Cleveland artist’s vocals are certainly grand enough for a milestone, full-bodied and cinematic, with an orchestral sweep that feels both holy and expensive. But something is hiding in the gorgeous frame. It’s not...