From New York City, New York
If you appreciate the sounds of The Clean, This is Lorelei, and The Feelies, look out for the debut album titled Hercules, set for release on July 10.
Tracey Nelson’s self-titled EP, which debuted in 2025, quickly emerged as one of the year’s standout hidden treasures. The EP features five tracks of delightful indie rock that evoke the charm of classic Australian jangle pop bands such as The Clean, Twerps, and Dick Diver. Songs like “New Years Flowers” and “Just Shoot Me Now” hint at the talents of Austin Noll, the NYC-based singer-songwriter behind the project, showcasing his knack for crafting bright melodies and witty, self-deprecating lyrics.
In July, Noll will unveil Hercules, his inaugural full-length album, released under Perennial, a label associated with the well-regarded Olympia, Washington-based K Records. This label has recently put out notable albums from garage rock acts like Sharp Pins and the eclectic Los Angeles group Dummy. Co-produced with North Carolina musicians MJ Lenderman and Colin Miller, the album features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including Lenderman, Miller, Landon George, Karly Hartzman from Wednesday, Xandy Chelmis, Ethan Baechtold, and former Hotline TNT guitarist Jack Kraus. Hercules enhances the country influences present in last year’s EP while allowing Noll and his ensemble greater creative freedom.
Tracks like “Two Feet” and “St John’s River” exude a relaxed, friendly vibe, making the album’s summer launch feel perfectly timed. The lead single, “Hercules,” shines a light on Noll’s unique, expressive vocals. He sings, “I’ll carry you with me wherever I go,” delivering each phrase with a hint of warmth and affection. The entirety of Hercules strikes a delicate balance between somberness and cheerfulness, positioning Noll as a modest yet insightful songwriter with a well-defined artistic identity.
In other music news, Pozer has released “Hulk Hogan” featuring AJ Tracey, blending social realism with Jersey club beats, showcasing Pozer’s unique position in the UK music scene, complemented by AJ Tracey’s strong verse. Zoh Amba presents “Another Time,” where the talented free jazz saxophonist showcases their songwriting skills by merging Appalachian influences with indie rock, accompanied by Jim White on drums.
One Leg One Eye’s “Many Are My Names Besides” draws listeners into a haunting winter landscape through the collaboration of George Brennan and Lankum’s Ian Lynch, combining scratchy drones and eerie sounds. Enter Shikari’s “Dead in the Water,” a standout from their unexpected and dynamic album Lose Your Self, offers a fusion of styles reminiscent of Everything Everything, The Prodigy, and Bring Me the Horizon.
James K’s “Peel” receives a 14-minute remix from Loidis, known for his ambient-techno work as Huerco S, transforming the ethereal dancehall-pop track into a vibrant microhouse experience ideal for sunset gatherings. Ambrose Akinmusire and Mary Halvorson collaborate on “Soundcheck,” where Akinmusire’s expressive trumpet and Halvorson’s guitar create an unsettling yet engaging soundscape. Lastly, Max F’s “Dream Channel” (Space Ghost Club Remix) delivers a piano-focused house instrumental perfect for uplifting moments at a warehouse rave, creating a joyful atmosphere.
For continuous updates on new music, consider subscribing to the Guardian’s Add to Playlist selections on Spotify or transferring your listening experience to Apple, Tidal, or other platforms.
