The fastest pop songs arrive like a notification. Ben Lester’s self-titled debut does something more interesting: it lets the listener wait for the message to finish forming. Across 13 tracks for Mayfield Records, the London singer, songwriter, performer and producer turns patience into part of the pleasure. The result is indie pop with an arranger’s discipline, a record built for people who like a chorus but...

“Wherever You Go,” by Toronto’s Teté, is a song that has bridged the gap beyond borders. This melody is a journey experience, comprised of her Brazilian, English, and Mexican influences, offering listeners new world music experiences while being extra up close and personal. "Wherever You Go'' draws its power from the dimension it gives to the love theme and its rarity in modern music. Teté’s spicy...