If you ask around, you will discover that the new single "Christmas Angel" by German vocalist Nadine Stockmann is outstanding by any standard. The new song invites everyone who hears it and engages with it to experience happiness in its purest form. It doesn't matter what it is; the song is significantly superior. Since it is so relatable and all-encompassing, you can practically give the impression...

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...