Head Above Music

Hidden behind vocals and a track that define smooth and easy-to-listen-to, “Up in the Air” addresses the struggle and unsettled feeling of having an obscured concept of “home,” a divided identity. Despite the heavier message, SYTË doesn’t get lost in the content, managing to make the track just as fun as the accompanying music video, set to release on the same day as the single.

As KTL’s debut EP, he admits that the five chosen tracks are a culmination of trial and error. “Some of the tracks on this EP I wrote five or six years ago, while others came together in the last 12 months,” says KTL. “The process of creating this EP was the process of learning how to write songs that felt authentic to me, then learning how to record them, and then finding a way to make them hold up against other professional recordings — the last of which I never would have gotten close to without others’ help.”

Indie alternative band Nature’s Neighbor released their single “Monday Morning Drive” on March 12. The single is the first release from the group’s upcoming album, Otherside, releasing May 14. Like most songs on Otherside, “Monday Morning Drive” was written remotely via email. It was written during the first wave of COVID-19 and is about feeling grateful for health and the companionship of loved ones. The song features a voicemail exchange between band members Terrill and Brandon where Terrill checked in on Brandon’s family during the pandemic.

Colorado Americana artist Sunny Gable released Contagious on March 20. The album is a continuation of Gable’s quarantine recording sessions, created entirely in her basement studio. “It is a mixture of new songs, written since my last release, and a few songs I’ve been playing with the band for a few years,” says Gable. The project was a team effort for the Colorado native as she collaborated with a few other musicians, including a drummer all the way in Connecticut. “It’s been a real learning experience piecing this album together with other musicians at a safe distance,” says Gable. “But a deeply satisfying one.”

Lora Kelley is continuing her course of transforming common human experiences into beautiful, strong songs that empower listeners to not feel alone in their struggles. “Beautiful That Way” is a reminder to embrace every part of you. The song is a relaxed, breezy blend of folk, americana, and country vibes with solid lyrics that will resonate with women everywhere.

Alternative rock singer-songwriter Rothrigo released his newest single “Apple Juice” on January 21. The track was written and recorded during quarantine in Madrid in the artist’s home studio. As a proud DIY artist who is set on redefining classic rock, Rothrigo held onto the sounds of rock that he loves while incorporating a fun, charming introspectiveness. “Apple Juice” is the lead single off his debut album, Apple Juice, coming later this year.