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...

The Jacksonville band John Muka Band turns hunger, horns, strings, and live-band heat into a single built for repeat plays. Press play and "More & More" starts acting like it already knows where your feet are going. John Muka Band does not creep into the room; the Jacksonville group walks in with a groove, a grin, and enough moving parts to make the speakers feel...