This week’s playlist is all over the map—in the best way. We are being teased with single releases from upcoming albums, so many that we can’t keep track of. There’s dreamy electro-pop that floats us through neon clouds, heavy, emotional shoegaze that pulls us back down, and cyberpunk chaos filling in the spatial gaps. Whatever mood you’re in, or need to be in, we’ve got something that’ll take you there.

Alexa Dirks, known by the stage name of Begonia, just announced the release of her third-full length album, Fantasy High, due on Oct. 24. This news dropped alongside a single from the album—the third track titled “So High.” A mix between your big sister, a siren, and a fairy, Begonia pulls listeners deep into her chromatic and mysterious world. She uses stereo imaging to create a spatial experience with this song, her voice transcending direction and time. It’s fitting for the nature of her storytelling as she evangelizes getting high to escape the weight of “getting by.” Begonia is known for blending elements of pop, neo-soul, and R&B, earning her numerous accolades and a dedicated fanbase. Her hypnotic voice and intricate storytelling is only elevated with this release as she paints a beautiful image of escape, then explores the caves within it. Known for exploring themes of identity and sexuality, this single hints at a deeper look into her psyche. Bordering confessional, Begonia is opening up about the struggle to maintain health and balance, a hurdle that many others can relate to.

Nashville’s Snooper dropped a lead single alongside the announcement of their upcoming sophomore album, Worldwide, set to release on Oct. 3. The single of the same name blends manic energy with glitchy synths and silly lyrics. The hook is short, sweet, and catchy, with the repetition of “A.S, A.S.A.P, do you really need me? / Excuse, I need one. I’m not having any fun.” Their fast, cybernetic sound channels the rawness of ‘80s punk through a modern and cartoonish lens. Speaking of, they released a music video alongside “Worldwide,” which features expressive and sped up dancers in an empty room, entirely shot through a fish eye lens. The acceleration of contemporary dance is exactly fitting to their high-energy sound that makes you want to jump around and go crazy. The band is set to tour with The Hives in September, with a quick stop in Vancouver on Sept. 16.

American quartet Fleshwater released “Jetpack,” on July 29. A single from their upcoming LP titled 2000: In Search Of The Endless Sky, they showcase elements of post-harcore and shoegaze. Vocals drift between soft melancholy and full-throated belting, and they are layered in a way that blurs gender and genre alike. In 2022, their debut album, We’re Not Here To Be Loved, awarded them all kinds of praise and recognition, specifically for their ability to make each song unique while committing to a certain style. We have seen Fleshwater continue this throughout their discography, even being compared to the Deftones in terms of their dynamic and dreamy sound. The band embarks on a North American headlining tour in September, just in time for the official release of this album on Sept. 5.

Jouska, the project of Norwegian artist Marit Othilie Thorvik, has returned with a glimmering single from an upcoming album titled How Did I Wind Up Here? Known for electro-pop diffused through soft melodies and angelic vocals, she shifts her intentions deeper with this release. “Pierced” was released on July 27 and marks an evolution toward darker textures where the artist uses lyricism about shame to build an intimate and unsettling depth. While her sound breathes with space, there's an atmospheric tension and almost claustrophobic quality to this single. The brutally honest aphorism “Surely I should kill my mind before it kills me,” is followed by a hypnotic synth flurry that sits heavy on your chest. This song followed the release of “Flower Moon,” another track from her album set to release on Oct. 17. Vulnerable and expansive, it’s her most affecting work yet.

Alt -rock trio Nuclear Daisies released their sophomore album First Taste of Heaven on Aug. 1. One week ago, they teased this drop with the release of “Toad,” a track with both hazy and industrial elements. The band is known for pushing the boundaries of shoegaze by erupting with post-apocalyptic soundscapes. Members Alex Gehring, of Ringo Deathstarr, Rob Glynn, of Temple of Angels, and Robby Williams combine their backgrounds to deliver orchestral noise-pop with razor-sharp hooks. We hear them dial up the sci-fi intensity in this album, exploring cinematic atmospheres through reverbed guitar and delicate vocals. Their lead single, “Infinite Joy” presents snappy beats and seductive vocals, providing a stark contrast while they tackle themes of depression and survival. Other album highlights include “Doves,” and “333” where they paint dystopian landscapes through technicolour, leaving listeners both mesmerized and twisted. Whether you are a long-time fan or just hearing about them, we highly recommend a listen to this one.

New Music Roundup: Snooper, Begonia, Fleshwater, and more

Minty Fresh: New Cassette Supports BAM! Camp Calgary