With "Island Poetry", Boston outfit Mad Painter throw themselves headlong into the sprawling, theatrical spirit of 1970s rock. Led by songwriter, vocalist, and keyboardist Alex Gitlin alongside Al Hendry, Kenne Highland, Al Naha, Sharon Crumrine, and Julie Gee the band pushes roaring Hammond organ runs, layered vocal harmonies, and warm analog punch to the forefront, treating classic-era rock as a playground with no speed...

Fiona Amaka’s new single, “Cowards and Shadows,” doesn’t kick down the door; it slips the lock and vanishes into the night, leaving the chain on. There’s a particular London cool to this departure, a swagger in its disappearing act. The track's lauded Bowie-esque posture is immediately apparent, thanks in no small part to Andy Zanini's sharp, stalking guitar work. It’s less a gentle fade...