Caroline Polachek: Billions

Caroline Polachek’s ethereal psych-pop track “Billions” enthralls listeners from the first eerie pulses and clanks. Featuring vocals from London’s Trinity Boys & Girls Choir, the song shape-shifts over its almost-five minutes, from stark to spectral to a rich, resplendent treasure. The mesmerizing video—by Polachek and her frequent collaborator Matt Copson—takes viewers on a surreal ride.

Bree Runway: Pressure

Bree Runway’s first release of 2022, “Pressure” is drenched in attitude, with a video—directed by Nadira Amrani—that blends corporate attire with S&M looks and electric choreography (some of which is ballroom-inspired). Driven by self-confidence, the Afrobeat-inflected track comes with this statement from the London-based artist: “I love how this song embodies everything I am. It oozes Africa with the rhythm of the drums, the attitude, …

Kokoroko: Something’s Going On

New from London-based eight-piece Kokoroko, “Something’s Going On” (led by Sheila Maurice-Grey) blends Afrobeat, jazz, soul and ’70s psych-leaning funk to create a luminescent and sprawling song. Opening with twinkling synths, guitar and gentle percussion, it becomes a horn-heavy track, punctuated by the calm but powerful chant: “Something’s goin’ on, something’s happening now.” The dreamy, layered song was inspired by “the enforced stillness and unsettling …