Discover the secret world of KCRW's music curation with our weekly newsletter, where you'll find the five songs that deserve a spot in your playlist. Don't miss out on the latest musical gems - sign up now and have them delivered straight to your inbox.

Uncover the Soundtrack to Your Week

The Weeknd's Sonic Odyssey

Prepare to be captivated by the enigmatic and ever-evolving artistry of The Weeknd. His latest collaboration with Brazilian pop sensation Anitta, "São Paulo," is a high-intensity club track that showcases his penchant for pushing boundaries. Immersive synths, a relentless beat, and vocals drenched in reverb create an intense sonic experience, while the accompanying video offers a glammed-up dose of body horror. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to The Weeknd's world, this track is a must-listen that will leave you both mesmerized and unsettled.

Crystal Murray: A Rebellious Reinvention

At just 22 years old, singer-songwriter Crystal Murray has already undergone a remarkable artistic transformation. Her latest single is a testament to her bold and unapologetic approach, blending fuzz-punk delivery, thought-provoking lyrics, and a delightful melange of samples and sonic flourishes. Joined by the creative vision of UK artist Lava La Rue, the music video perfectly captures the track's rebellious spirit. Prepare to be captivated by this rising talent and her uncompromising artistry.

Homer Steinweiss: A Masterclass in Retro Soul

Ascend to a higher plane with this vibey track from Homer Steinweiss, a long-in-demand studio drummer who has stepped out from behind the kit to showcase his own musical prowess. Drawing on his extensive experience in the retro soul genre, Steinweiss has crafted a musical pastiche that features layers of expert instrumentation and a honey-drip vocal feature from NYC singer girl named GOLDEN. This chilled-out, high-production track is the perfect soundtrack to keep you steady and grounded this week.

Annahstasia: Poetic Elegance

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the time is ripe for poetry, and LA's own Annahstasia delivers in spades. This gorgeous, all-analog track invites you to revel in its complexity, from the lyrics to the structure and the captivating vocal performance. Evoking the timeless artistry of Joni Mitchell, Tracy Chapman, and Nina Simone, Annahstasia's music offers a commanding new take on the vintage-hued troubadour style. Be sure to listen to the track's final crescendo, which summons a certain witchiness that will leave you spellbound.

Two Shell: Escaping the Everyday

Fresh UK electro-dance duo Two Shell made a splash in the scene with their buoyant club track "Everybody Worldwide" back in September, but the time to lean into its excellence is now. Combining house and trance elements with underground influences, and taking a cartoonishly fun approach thanks to their animated avatars, this track will help you escape the weight of the world and embrace the pure joy of dance. Daft Punk would undoubtedly approve, and with their self-titled LP now available, there's plenty more where this came from.