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...

Great Adamz beams into earshot with his latest single, "Fantastic," and it’s immediately clear this isn't music for standing still. The Afrobeats pulse is undeniable, insistent yet somehow relaxed, like someone nudging you rhythmically onto the dance floor with a knowing smile. Adamz paints a picture of absolute captivation, a kind of joyous tunnel vision centered entirely on a partner whose presence seems to...