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Reflective rap, a soulful debut, a Breeders cover and more new music

Shelley: Cooking With Grease Through the single “Cooking With Grease,” Shelley (fka DRAM) debuts a new name and a revamped sound. On lesser-known releases under his former moniker, Shelley (full name Shelley Massenburg-Smith) flexed his vocal prowess, but these performances were somewhat overshadowed by his rapping on hits like “Cha Cha,” “Broccoli” and “Cash Machine.” Now, with renewed direction and a refined sonic focus, Shelley …

Big Thief: Off You (The Breeders Cover)

For record label 4AD’s 40th anniversary covers compilation, Bills & Aches & Blues, folk rockers Big Thief deliver a touching rendition of The Breeders’ “Off You.” Pared back but powerful (quite like the original), the cover finds lead singer Adrianne Lenker breathing her signature sound into lyrics made famous by the inimitable Kim Deal. Lenker succeeds where others would fall short.

Premiere: “Il Furto Di Africo” by Whatitdo Archive Group

A nod to Ennio Morricone and the Spaghetti Western genre

On 9 April, the Reno, Nevada-based band Whatitdo Archive Group will release their debut album, The Black Stone Affair. The evocative instrumental LP was crafted as if it were the long, lost soundtrack to a Spaghetti Western of the same name—one that disappeared prior to its release and bankrupted its director. The playful story is enticing, but the music itself delivers on the dramatic vibe and …