Liloe Rix, a singer-songwriter-composer originally from Utrecht, the Netherlands, is an entrancing performer who wins over listeners with the honesty and sincerity of her songs. Her songs, which include a distinctive blend of gritty edge and gentle acoustic overtones, provide a window into her creative process and unique vision. In her own bold way, she delves into the fears, doubts, and emotional ups and downs of...

Maverick Smith’s “We Make Fire, They Make Smoke” lands not with a thud, but with the distinct, satisfying crackle of something catching alight. It’s a title that carries the grit of the Ohio Valley in its consonants, a resolute statement from a band – Paige Bosic on commanding vocals and rhythm guitar, Sean Boynes sculpting soundscapes on guitar, Jim Courtney’s intricate drumming, Charlie Kovach’s...