This week, we’ve got a perfect comeback track from Lucinda Williams, as well as new music from Minnesota artist Christy Costello and a reimagined track from Moby. Also, discover the sounds of Australian artists Milku and Royel Otis, as well as that of Virginia-born minimalist Lael Neale.

Lucinda Williams, “New York Comeback”

After a stroke in 2020, Lucinda Williams lost her ability to do what she loved most — play guitar and sing. After a slow recovery, she’s back doing what she does best with a new album, Stories From A Rock N Roll Heart, coming out June 30. Williams’s voice has even more depth and stories to its gritty grumble, and the album features a number of friends, from local Tommy Stinson to Margo Price to Angel Olsen. On her fight anthem, “New York Comeback,” friends Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa help out.

Moby, “In This World” feat. Nicole Scherzinger, Marisha Wallace

For his 20th album, Moby is feeling nostalgic, and Resound NYC sees him reimagining 15 of his songs written or recorded in New York from the years 1994 to 2010 with a full orchestra and guest vocalists like Gregory Porter, Amythyst Kiah, Ricky Wilson (Kaiser Chiefs), and Lady Blackbird, just to name a few. It’s dramatic and as Moby said in a press release, the added musicians give it “a sonic heft that is pretty satisfying.”

Christy Costello, “Uranium Baby”

Sounding like a woman-led Ramones, Christy Costello is punky, fun, and melodic on her new song “Uranium Baby.” The Minnesota rocker, who’s been part of Ouija Radio and Pink Mink, has returned with a few singles that rip.

Milku, “Alone”

Australia’s Milku is part bedroom art-pop with a little New York indie sleaze. The sound is full of synth and Miami neon glow. His debut EP, You Make Me Feel Beautiful, recently came out and he’s about to head out on his first tour. “Alone” is the jam for when you are needing a pick-me-up at home.

Royel Otis, “I Wanna Dance With You”

Here’s a full group, foot-tapping song from duo Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic. The Sydney-based band went into the studio with Dan Carey (who’s worked with Fontaines D.C. and Wet Leg) and James Ford (Arctic Monkeys), so you know the music is going to be catchy and sunny. The jittery “I Wanna Dance With You” sounds like it comes with a giant smile.

Lael Neale, “I Am The River”

“I Am The River” a lo-fi, organ-based song from Lael Neale is perfect in its simplicity, which makes sense that it comes from a musician who still uses a flip phone. The Virginia-born artist has a new album coming out on April 21 on Sub Pop called Star Eaters Delight. 

Playlist