Nova (single release), Boomershack, Hover

After introducing a mélange of squishy synths, bleary trip-hop, and blues confessionals in 2021 debut Novaville, malleable freak-folker Nova Barton teases catastrophe. Lead single of upcoming sophomore release NovApocalypse, “Bird in the Hurricane” whirls a plucked string melody reminiscent of Joanna Newsom’s medieval arrangements. Barton’s despondent vocals bear a tale of stark resilience: “Maybe it’s really better that I never truly got out/ I just found a way to deal with things/ I got sick of hurting myself.” With a vast sonic profile rooted in Americana influences, the North Texas native’s multiplicity pairs well with opening Hover’s electronic neofolk and Boomershack’s self-described “rock-a-soul." – Laiken Neumann