Clockwise from top left: Hollow Coves, (Sandy) Alex G, Elohim, Moonchild, Sui Zhen and The Shivas.

Every week, there’s a plethora of new music at our fingertips.

Artists on platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp are plentiful, and the radio offers a steady deluge of new singles, but who has time to sort through all that? RIFF does!

We pooled our resources to find some of the best new singles from all genres and backgrounds, so you can find your newest earworm without all the drama. Enjoy this week’s hidden gems.

***

(Sandy) Alex G, “Southern Sky” — Songs by (Sandy) Alex G always set an intimate backdrop for nostalgia. The lo-fi and often soft-spoken nature is key in achieving this, but the sincere narratives and sonic nuances are what push the tracks to take on a life of their own. “Southern Sky” dreams of something bigger through its reflective lyrics and whimsically rustic instrumentals.

***

Elohim, “Braindead” — Los Angeles musician Elohim has released a stunning visual for the title track of her latest EP, braindead. As the song runs through many tried (and not so true) coping mechanisms for life, the video brings out a colorful array of imagery from pop art and psychedelia to DIY-inspired collaging. It simultaneously represents the turbulent road to healing, but also the opportunity of healing through art—both of which seem to resonate with Elohim’s listeners.

***

Moonchild, “Money” — Los Angeles trio Moonchild cooks up a smooth sound by combining  elements of R&B, jazz and chillwave. While its songs are already mesmerizing, they become elevated by Amber Navran’s voice. Velvety and dynamic in range, her vocals turn the euphoric tones of latest single “Money” into a moving and mending anthem to help you through creative block blues. 

***

The Shivas, “Gloria” — The latest release from The Shivas dives into the fiery madness of their live shows and tour life. At the same time, it archives a period of growth for the Portland quartet as it learned to overcome the daunting process of studio recording. Gritty guitar riffs and trance-like vocals capture the intensity that comes through at the band’s gigs, while the video gives a nod to the people the band has met along the way. 

***

HOLLOW COVES, “When We Were Young” — Through calming harmonies and uplifting melodies, “When We Were Young” by HOLLOW COVES is a soul-soother for those who long for the past. Poetic chord progressions against thoughtful vocals bring out the whimsical spirit of the song’s earthy tones. The single gives a taste of the Brisbane duo’s debut album, Moments, due Oct. 18.

***

Sui Zhen, “Matsudo City Life” — Eighties synth-pop gets a futuristic treatment on Sui Zhen’s “Matsudo City Life.” On top of a pulsing, almost sinister bass line are light hits to the hi-hat and Zhen’s haunting vocals. The song, much like the modern life that inspired it, observes the coexistence of human nature and technology, but points outs a disconnect through her speculative lyrics. 

***

Chloe’s Pick: I was most excited for the (Sandy) Alex G release this week. Sometimes, life can feel like it’s moving really fast, but his music is a heartwarming reminder to take a step back and take the time to reflect. From the idyllic glow of “Southern Sky’s” melody to its warm harmonies, I’m ready to feel all of the emotions that await on the new album.

Follow editor Chloe Catajan at Instagram.com/riannachloe and Twitter.com/riannachloe.