Common Kings, courtesy.

We’ve got club bangers from Emei and the U.K.’s Yard Act, delve into melancholic rock with Grandaddy, Point North and Vakili Band; and smooth island vibes with a reggae-inspired offering by Common Kings.

Emei, “Cynical” — You’re invited into the world of a modern Alice in Wonderland with this dance pop track by Emei. Having placed third on “China Idol” at 15, and performing on “Dancing with the Stars China,” 23-year-old Chinese-American singer-songwriter Emily Li has been in the industry for a decade—though she’s a new artist in the U.S.

Industrial synths are paired with simple sing-songy vocals in the intro of this fast-paced, upbeat song. As the verses kick in, the brashness of the intro is replaced by a more muted tone and vocals. The arrangement matches the energy, but the cadence is switched up constantly as the song progresses, peppered with spoken-word delivery and punched-in effects. This leads to an intriguing and sonically fascinating ride, especially the slower and melodic bridge, which features etherial echoing harp-like chords and Emei’s beautiful high alto.

The end is punchy with a dramatic cutoff. Short and sweet at less than three minutes, it leaves you wanting more. It’s title track from her sophomore EP, due later this summer.

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Yard Act, “The Trenchcoat Museum” — Remi Kabaka, Jr. of Gorillaz co-produced this interesting lyrical composition, which is almost like poetry over an eclectic and industrial rock track. Reminiscent of Pet Shop Boys’ “West End Girls,” it’s interjected with vocal samples and other effects. At eight minutes, it’s a fun journey before ending as a raucous, dance song. The U.K. band is kicking off a summer tour, which includes the U.S.

Vakili Band, “To The Park” — If you like Peter Cat Recording Co., then you’ll get a similar feel from this psychedelic rock band. Lead singer Lili Vakili’s haunting vocals in the first verse are matched by the moody and melancholic sounds of a guitar and harmonica, but the mood revs up. Guitar solos, cowbells and the familiar cadence of drums you’d find on something by The Doors is what you’ll find in this offering from the Montclair, N.J. band. Vakili band will release it’s new album, Honey, on Sept. 8.

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Grandaddy, “The Town Where I’m Living Now” — The Modesto indie rock stalwarts deliver melancholic piano scales looped with simple guitar strumming, mid-tempo percussion and funky synth lines alongside cynical lyrics. Anyone who’s been to Modesto would understand the morose and depressing tone of the lyrics, which describe the inertia experienced in a depressed city plagued with drug addiction and poverty. It’s the lead single from the group’s upcoming release, Sumday: Excess Baggage, a compilation of B-sides and rare tracks, due out Sept. 1.

Point North, “Psycho” — Raging guitar riffing kicks off this energetic track that delves into an anxiety crisis. Vocalist Jon Lundin crafted lyrics relatable to anyone who’s had a panic attack. “Feel like a psycho awake with my eyes closed/ Somebody save me now…/ I don’t need a miracle, just tell me I’m not alone,” he sings. The metal influence is evident with driving guitars, bass and drums in rapid-fire precision, though Lundin’s strong and melodic vocals lean more to alt-rock. The hip-hop scratch beat breakdown mid-song recalls Papa Roach and Alien Ant Farm. The track is off Point North’s sophomore album, Prepare for Despair, out Aug. 18.

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Common Kings, “Hideaway” — This reggae-inspired track steeps you in island rhythms. Crooning vocals from Samoan-Hawaiian singer Sasualei “Jr. King” Maliga rival fellow islander Bruno Mars in their silky texture. The track is perfectly paired with the summer’s heat and an icy drink. The band, which includes Hawaii-raised Samoan guitarist Taumata “Mata” Grey, Fijian bassist Ivan “Uncle Lui” Kirimaua and Angeleno/Tongan drummer Jerome “Big Rome” Taito, plays Santa Cruz on Sept. 9.

Mel’s pick: Common Kings’ “Hideaway” is just what I needed to fully experience this summer. The reggae groove and smooth vocals are catchy and easy on the ears. Add it to your party or cookout playlist.

Follow Mel Bowman at Twitter.com/melmichel.