Jim James: I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times

My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James quite accurately taps into Brian Wilson’s vocal delivery for “I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times,” James’ new Beach Boys cover tune. There’s definitely an authenticity and respect within the track, but there’s more than an additional touch of psychedelia which yields to a glowing orchestration and ultimately a sonically-explosive development. James has his second album of cover songs, …

Rhye: Taste

A third release, in theory, from a still unannounced follow-up album to 2013’s Woman, “Taste” by Rhye makes for a soulful, airy R&B number. Lead singer Milosh delights with a balance of warmth and wonder. The bassline might be the backbone to the track, but there’s magnificent orchestration throughout; it dances about, lending the track a certain brilliance.

Mickey Hart feat. Avey Tare: Wayward Son

A collaboration between two acclaimed sonic experimenters—Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart and Animal Collective vocalist and musician Avey Tare—has resulted in a track of unexpected pop beauty, “Wayward Son.” With gentle psychedelic moments swirling about with electronic pulsation before yielding to twinkling balladry, the song rides forward on Hart’s percussion and Avey Tare’s warm, inviting vocals. The track hails from Hart’s forthcoming solo album, RAMU, …