Kid Again by Max Wonders

In this softspoken nostalgia trip, Max Wonders manages to conjure up that feeling of uncertainty as one grows into shoes that may be overwhelming. It's a nice, poignant track about the worries of leaving childhood behind, and it's a fantastically mixed bassy bop in the process. The raw emotion pairs surprisingly well with the deep end, creating a whole that's emotion-inducing and motion-inducing all the same

JSTCUM by RNDYSVGE and Olukara

RNDYSVGE blends delicate vocals with one of the nastiest, ungodliest, funkiest basslines ever, creating a confusing whirlwind of wonky grooves and unbelievable soul, which induces nothing less than the stankest of stankfaces. When Olukara comes in, it's the smooooooooooothest cherry on top. The overall product is a bombastic, calm, lively, and smooth self-contradiction that's hard not to snap along to.

Only Human by Innanet James

I'm a huge fan of Innanet James for his ability to make the most danceable music while infusing it with his own sardonic brand of political/social commentary. In this track, he plays verbal hopscotch over a beautiful chord progression and a brilliantly unfolding instrumental, all while touching on Islamophobia, his proud racial identity, Donald Trump, before coming to the conclusion that we're all ultimately human and should love each other regardless of differences. It sounds like a trite lyrical structure, but the execution is immaculate.

All This Money by Injury Reserve

OH OH OH OH OH OH OH MY GOD. Ritchie With a T's shouty delivery might be off-putting to some, but the rest of the track's composition makes it pretty easy to get onboard. With a Lil' Jon style hook and effervescent attitude, this track makes it clear that the Arizona group Injury Reserve has energy enough for at least seven other rap groups. Side note: this is a fantastic workout song.

Bubblin' by Anderson .Paak

.Paak is probably more known for his soulful R&B jams, but this track really works as a change of pace for him. Built around a moody orchestral sample, this track is bouncy in the best way. It flows uniformly while also creating a self-referential bubbly energy, which makes it easily one of the most fun songs of 2018 so far.

No Data by Daye Jack

The intro track to his underrated 2017 album of the same name, "No Data" is a poppy, shimmering showstopper that lyrically introduces a concept that Daye tackles throughout the project. Otherwise, it's a marvelous blend of genres, including but not limited to rap, 80s pop, and (somehow) new jack swing. It's a great, enjoyable number that sets the tone for a great album. Moreover, it's a song that simultaneously lives in the moment and relishes in the details. It's intricate while also effortlessly moving from second to second in breathless fashion. Definitely worth checking out.