This week, we’ve got new music from soul artists Gabriels, bedroom-pop musicmaker Medhanit, U.K. genre masher Bakar, Oz indie-rockers CIVIC, and two Minnesota acts: solo spellbinder Thomas Abban and rock duo Boyish.

Gabriels, “Angels & Queens”

A cross-Atlantic trio who are doing more than just regurgitation soul sounds, Gabriels’ aesthetic is breathing life and energy into a smooth-as-molasses sound. Much of that is credited to frontman Jacob Lusk, whose charismatic voice is at times earth-rumbling deep bass and at other times a sweet, heart-wrenching falsetto. Part One of Angels & Queens is out now, Part Two will be out in March, so get to know the band now with the title track.

Bakar, “Good News”

U.K. artist Bakar’s latest song debuted at Paris Fashion Week, a far cry from the early days of bedroom releases on Soundcloud. Continuing his upbeat, genre blend of indie, punk, and hip hop, “Good News” gives the kick-drum and guitar simplicity with gritty storytelling.

Thomas Abban, “Winter”

The mysterious Minnesotan musician has won over every audience as he can take over a stage with just himself, a guitar, and an amp. There always seems to be a full story bubbling up behind every note and pluck of the guitar. The deeply introspective new EP, Deep Winter, is haunting and warm for a cold night.

Medhanit, “Friends”

Growing up in her dad's music shop, Medhanit was surrounded by music. She's making her own music now, and while she's only released three songs so far, they are all effervescent and refreshing. Her bedroom-pop confectionery is at its finest with her song, "Friends."

CIVIC, “Blood Rushes”

Australia indie rockers, CIVIC, blend old rock sounds of The Rolling Stones with new rock sounds of The Strokes. It's loose and jangly and ready to soundtrack your night of youthful hijinks.

Boyish, “Girls Are Mean”

India Shore and Claire Altendahl are part of the Minnesota music scene who have found themselves relocating to California (and on cold Minnesota winter days, you can’t really blame them). The duo have opened for locals Hippo Campus and Remo Drive, as well as for national acts like MUNA and Japanese Breakfast. They’ve got a new album that will be out later this year and a new song, “Girls Are Mean.”

Playlist