Words: Georgia Mwangi

This week we’ve got corto.alto setting the tone with jazz-infused grooves. Slew follows up with atmospheric energy that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. Riordan keeps things rolling with tight, punchy rhythms and a crisp modern touch, while IYAMAH brings that laidback groove. Finally, Thee Sacred Souls round things off with soulful vibes that linger.

#1 corto.alto ft. Mick Jenkins – WHODIS

The fast-emerging Glasgow-based composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Liam Shortall is back with a ‘WHODIS’ featuring the American rapper Mick Jenkins. Shortall brings a fresh new perspective with clever improvisation, electronic production with hints of jazz influences. This broken beat bounce and bass-heavy track is perfect for Mick to glide on with no resistance. Can’t get enough of these two, a collaboration we didn’t see coming. Catch corto.alto around the UK and Europe this summer.

#2 Slew ft. Lancey Foux – SUNSHINE

London based rapper and former model Slew has gained attention in the UK rap and fashion scenes over the last few years. Recognised for his distinctive sound blending grime, rap, and drill with high intensity. Unapologetic, high energy, and gritty Slew drops ‘SUNSHINE’ Featuring Lancey Foux, a tense hard hitter almost menacing that pulls you in from the get go. This link up is effortless, trading verses over a beat that’s addictive. A head-nodding tune that balances melody and menace in a way that keeps it on repeat.

#3 – Riordan ft. BushBaby – Strong Rhyme

The rapidly rising UK-based House and Tech House DJ/producer Riordan is back. Known for gaining fame through TikTok mashups and bedroom sets has gained support from major artists like FISHER and Michael Bibi. A proper club weapon that’s punchy and built purely for movement. Rolling baselines and no-nonsense energy ‘Strong Rhyme’  is repeat worthy.

#4 IYAMAH – off grid

The Brighton-born, London-based soul singer-songwriter IYAMAH has gifted us with this smooth and quietly powerful track. Layered vocals that dance over a laidback groove, creating something that feels intimate and freeing. ‘Off grid’  is calm and confident allowing room for reflection. A late-night listen that feels personal and grounded.

#5 Thee Sacred Souls – Any Old Fool  

The San Diego-based modern soul trio bring us a beautiful uptempo single that leans into that timeless 60s soul sound – warm, tender and rich with feeling. Soft guitar lines and a groove that feels like it’s drifting through the air on a hot summer’s day ‘Any Old Fool’ is a track I didn’t know I needed to hear. Carrying a sense of vulnerability reflecting on love there’s a real sincerity to it. Nothing is overdone, just pure, heartfelt expression. An understated track – the type that lingers long after it ends.