Sleepy Hallow, courtesy.

This week, we bring you hip-hop from Sleepy Hallow, pop from Will Joseph Cook, JHart and NEIKED with Ayra Starr, and soul from Honey Bxby and Robert Finley.

Sleepy Hallow featuring Doechii, “ANXIETY” — Brooklyn rapper Sleepy Hallow knows how to match catchy samples with hard-hitting bars. “ANXIETY” samples Luiz Bonfa’ 1967 song “Seville” (which you know because you’ve listened to Gotye’s “Somebody that I Used to Know” and that one also samples it). The sample sets the uneasy tone for the song. Despite the heavy and intimate theme, it also carries a lighthearted resignation. After all, anxiety is a part of life that can’t be immediately shaken away. Contributing to the song’s captivating sound, rapper and singer Doechii brings a powerfully expressive vocal delivery throughout.

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Will Joseph Cook, “Born to Lose” — “Born to Lose” has a not-so-optimistic title. However, the song carries British singer-songwriter Will Joseph Cook’s uncompromisingly upbeat and fresh sound. With a recitative lyrical delivery, Cook creates intimacy in an existential song that sprinkles in some hopeful notes. It’s definitely a singalong (or a head-bopper, however you prefer to enjoy your music). It’s from his forthcoming mixtape, NOVELLA, due Oct. 13.

NEIKED featuring Ayra Starr, “You’re Hired” — Swedish electronic producer NEIKED continues to have a diverse yet consistently groovy sound—this time by collaborating with Nigerian singer Ayra Starr. “You’re Hired” seamlessly mixes Afro-pop into a dynamic electronic soundscape. Still, the song is unmistakably a pop melody. Its sound is fun, flirty and filled with the anticipation of taking a chance on a budding romance. On “You’re Hired,” there’s no mistaking the positive and infectious energy.

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Honey Bxby, “Poseidon” — New Jersey native Honey Bxby has swoon-worthy vocals on “Poseidon” that encapsulate the swelling, romantic feelings of a growing relationship. The soulful song starts with a reverberating bass intro that blooms into a rhythmic groove with a slow tempo. Paired with Honey Bxby’s smooth and expressive vocals, it’s no wonder “Poseidon” remains an earworm that can make any lustful listener feel giddy. The song is from Honey Bxby’s recent EP, 3 Words, 8 Letters.

Robert Finley, “Nobody Wants to Be Lonely” — American blues and soul artist Robert Finley doesn’t disappoint with this new single. “Nobody Wants to Be Lonely” begins wistfully, capturing attention through its slow tempo before diving into Finley’s raspy vocals. Paired with a guitar-driven sound, Finley brings a weathered tone to tell a captivating story. “Nobody wants to be alone/ Nobody wants to be sad,” Finley powerfully sings with a gospel-like chorus backing him. With its universal theme, this homage to classic blues and soul feels timeless and influential to modern music.

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JHart, “Ripe” — British singer, songwriter and producer JHart has quite the pop songwriting record. However, “Ripe” is solely his and it’s as fresh-sounding as its title. “Ripe” features an upbeat groove and on the catchy melody, JHart adds depth through his dynamic vocals. The production enhances the song’s range of heartfelt emotions; primarily excitement and euphoria.

Sarah’s pick: With a distinctive flow and an alternative melodic hook, Sleepy Hallow’s “ANXIETY” takes the cake this week. As genre-fluid as the song can feel, its flow is rooted in a vulnerable but human theme with excellent execution.