Ghanaian musician Kwartengg returns with a bold new sound on his latest single, “As It Is,” a record that embodies his fearless approach to music-making, blending culture, storytelling, and sonic innovation. Rooted in the rich musical heritage of Ghana’s Ashanti region, “As It Is” stands as a statement piece for Kwartengg’s artistry. As he explains, “Sonically, the song is inspired by the Edwumkoɔ sound of...

Casey McQuillen’s single “Better” arrives not with a bang, but with the quiet, decisive click of a well-made lock securing a door. It’s pop music, certainly, groomed and gleaming, yet beneath the surface bubbles a fierce kind of self-possession that’s less about demanding attention and more about curating who gets past the velvet rope of your own contentment. Coming from someone known for empowerment...