There is a specific kind of melodic stride in Lana Crow’s new release, “Orwellian Times,” that reminds me, quite vividly, of the way people walk when they’re late for a meeting they know is going to be an absolute disaster. It is brisk, purposeful, and rhythmically catchy, yet underpinned by a distinct, vibrating anxiety. This British singer-songwriter has crafted a track that feels less...

Nyinée, a Nigerian singer on the rise, just released her new song called “Tolotolo.” A song about a sweet, loving, and clearly romantic kind of love. The song comes off as a tune of a love relationship, with soft touches, longing looks, and lighthearted teasing. The joyful and culturally rich word "Tolotolo" fits the mood of the song perfectly. In many social situations in Nigeria, people...