L.A.’s Mei switches up the tempo in his new single “Frankenstein,” via simple acoustic guitar strums, vocal ascents, and a charged-up passion. Where Mei’s indie-pop summer single “Rudimental” displayed his vocal versatility with switches from passionate croons to confident and sharper rides of the beat that led to full choruses powered by synth ambiances, “Frankenstein” keeps it bare, yet just as daring. Melancholic, and ultimately hopeful, “Frankenstein” has an obvious heart, a red mood to sink to, completely; stream “Frankenstein” below for a warm transition from warm days to cooler evenings. - René Cobar

Brittany Campbell puts you on cloud nine with a new R&B single titled “Champion” that is romantic with its dexterous electric guitar riffs, snappy beats, and atmospheric breaks. Campbell’s vocals, in sweet motion with those of Phil., tell a story of passion universal and use each verse to spread that, culminating in soothing refrains. The song, released on National Coming Out Day, is accompanied by a music video whose comic book aesthetic is charming, each frame fantastic and sensual. “Champion” pays complete tribute to all the elements that make R&B timeless and, in the process, delivers an important message about love; stream “Champion” below for a trip up to a better place. - René Cobar

Ella Isaacson has a sleek fury to her in a new single titled “Hard Lessons” that speaks of strength through atmospheric choruses and a very modern beat propelled by a heartbeat bass guitar. “Hard Lessons” is reflective, but with an upbeat attitude that immerses the listener and can even be cathartic for those with something bottled up that needs release. Isaacson allows her brand of pop to take shape: melancholic and yet triumphant, “Hard Lessons” is a single representative of the themes of her music. The music video for the song expands those themes with a stormy and defiant look at the artist, holding her own and declaring the lessons learned. With polished production and a message that encourages growth, this single is a solid choice for a reminder that you are worth it. - René Cobar

L.A.’s Taylor Deblock is confident and real smooth in his new single “Necesitas,” which like syrup drips sweet, and is warm enough thanks to its Latin rhythm. The pop-RNB concoction takes control of the listener’s fantasy-inducing brain sectors and demands movement with hooks and choruses that resonate throughout the body. The summer may be gone, but Deblock is not about to let go of the heat. This emergent L.A. artist is blending modern music trends with classic rhythm and blues, seductive, and always creative in his approach. Listen to the new track below for a hot message ready and delivered. - René Cobar

East of June is paying tribute to adventure with a new single titled “Little Bird” that describes the to-be journey of a young girl searching for her voice, her awaiting identity. Tucked in the rich lead vocal melody of Emily Rath is a story of discovery that is relatable. The warm groove from the bass of Incubus founding member Dirk Lance leads the rhythm that helps also tell the story, with Kyle Mortensen providing the acoustics, it is a win. The group shot the music video for the song on Long Canyon Trail in beautiful Simi Valley, adding just the kind of tranquil mood that the song inspires. Such reflections come from the track’s moment of birth (the first week of quarantine), and so loaded with hope, “Little Bird” merges the past and the future and infuses hope and respect for both; stream “Little Bird” for a story familiar. - René Cobar