Maudlin Strangers Release “End of Beginning” (Djo Cover). They do it justice, keeping it true to the original while adding their unique style. Well done!

The band notes, “This is a cover of an amazing song by Djo (the alternate personality of Joe Keery of Stranger Things fame). This song has been stuck in my head ever since I first heard it. The nostalgia Joe brings in the chorus spoke volumes to me, making me feel as if it were the end of summer vacation in a town you have to leave, and the heartache that comes with it. I wanted to do my own version with more epic dynamics, just for my personal preference. I also decided to put my own spin on the bridge to make it different from the original. I hope if Joe hears it, he’d approve.”

Maudlin Strangers, the brainchild of Los Angeles native Jake Hays, began as a solo indie rock project in 2010. After a handful of independent releases and forming a band with close friends, they signed with BMG/Vagrant Records to release their label-debut “Overdose” EP in 2015. They subsequently toured with label-mate Bad Suns across the US and Canada. Following a west coast tour with pop-trio LANY, they toured as direct support for Cold War Kids on their North America/Canada tour before going on hiatus in 2016. Fast forward to 2023, Maudlin Strangers re-emerge with a new lineup of close friends: original member Richie Gonzales on drums, Alexander “Schmorgle” Morgan on guitar/keys, and Drew Bruchs on bass. Their hiatus-breaking single “I’m Not In The Right Mind” is streaming everywhere now.

Check out Noak Hellsing’s track “Good News.” This uptempo track lets you get lost for a few minutes in a dreamy, danceable, and atmospheric soundscape, making it a perfect addition to Spotify’s Pop Playlist.

Rising Stockholm artist Noak Hellsing is signed to the iconic Swedish label TEN Music Group. Despite being only twenty years old, he has already amassed more than 28 million streams. With hits like “Lost,” “Good Enough,” and “No Love,” his repertoire boasts over 30 million streams—an impressive achievement for someone at the start of their career. In 2023, Noak released his debut EP, “YESTERYEAR.”

Watch out for Brooks The Boy and his new uptempo rocker “All My Friends.” Fans of The Band Camino and Ed Sheeran will love this perfect pop-rock-infused anthem for anyone going through a breakup. The track could find a home on Spotify’s New Noise and Rock This playlists. His recent singles have gained traction on TikTok with over 57k reposts using his music and attention from Apple Music with placements on New In Rock and New In Alternative.

Watch out for Lauren Presley and her new track “AMERICAS SWEETHEARTS.” This song blends alternative and electro rock, reminiscent of the 90’s band Garbage, and calls out the double standards between men and women in today’s society. The track could fit perfectly on Spotify’s Rock This and New Noise playlist. Lauren sings:

“Can’t be right but do no wrong
Stand up straight but not too tall
Don’t show fear don’t be too strong
Give them what they want
Can’t be too pretty can’t be too smart”

With influences from the Barbie movie, Bea Miller, Chandler Leighton, and EMELINE, Presley delivers an alt-pop rock-infused track that is both empowering and infectious. Her recent singles have already gained attention from all major DSPs, including a recent cover of Spotify’s Fresh Finds Pop playlist.

Check out the new track “Away From Here” by Grace Winslow, a perfect song if you’re in the mood for something chill, dreamy, and breezy. Grace, a part-time coffee barista and full-time artist, has released this as her third track. The track could find a home on Spotify’s Chill Vibes, Dreamy Vibes, and Late Night Vibes Playlist.

Grace says, “‘Away From Here’ came about when I felt everything was stuck and nothing seemed to be changing for the better. All I truly wanted was to disappear and get away from it all, so I wrote this song to do just that. I wanted to remind myself and everyone else that while life can be stressful, it can also be fun and free. This song is about a place where everyone can do what they want and just be happy—a place ‘Away From Here.'”