The fiercely independent, Idaho-raised rapper nick! channels a deeply overstimulated, restless frequency on his new EP, "GEEKED!". Born in 2006 and building a fervent following entirely without industry co-signs, he occupies an interesting lane in new-wave underground hip-hop. His music sounds precisely like the brain chemistry of an internet-raised creative processing the blinding speed of newfound success. He writes and produces melodic, hard-hitting rap...

The "Nice To Meet You" EP by Shane Rennison is his most current indie-pop work, and it sounds like something you know. Each page depicts the sights and smells of the Catskill Mountains, a place that has left its mark on Rennison's heart. This artist from the Catskills makes his sound while also channelling the honed elegance of The 1975, the exciting vibes of Passion Pit, and...