The first listen of Haus of Sound’s new single, “Mirage,” is like walking into a room where a beautifully ornate vase has just been shattered against a wall. There's a jagged, crystalline energy here, a collision of theatrical drama and raw, modern discontent. Evolving from their 2000s tribute roots, the Everett band has synthesized the best of that era’s angst—the coiled tension of early...

Dr. Cryme has not lowered his standards in any way, despite the fact that his Kwasi EP from the previous year was met with a great deal of praise from critics and fans alike. He has had a fruitful start to the new year, highlighted by the debut of the music video for the song "Too Known" that he wrote and performed. The fourth track on...