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April is shaping up to be a very strong month musically. The fourth month of the year has managed a well-balanced of heavy hitters and indie-rock releases, a bit of something for everyone's palate. Let's get to a few of my standouts below.

Mac Demarco is bringing out synths and chilly vibes for his new single "On the Level," something that will be a reoccurring theme on his new LP. Demarco is showing his listeners that he has a gentle side, and that he's not afraid to let us see it. "On the Level" is simple, but soothing as well. His new album This Old Dog has been leaked online ahead of its May 5 release date, but Demarco could care less. Performing at Coachella this past weekend he urged his fans to download the album right now rather than wait for the street date. This Old Dog will be an album I spend some quality time with.

I've been a fan of Toro y Moi (aka Chaz Bundick) for many years. I've seen him perform live a few times, and even got to chat with him after a show. That only made my man crush more intense. His new track "Omaha" is another anti-Trump ode that's part of the Our First 100 Days compilation. Despite the purpose of "Omaha," it's actually quite the dreamy song that encompasses lush instrumentation, a place where Bundick really excels. If you haven't already, then I highly recommend you checking out Our First 100 Days. All profits raised from Our First 100 Days will go directly to organizations working on the frontlines of climate activism, women's rights, immigration and fairness. 

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Folk-rocker Kevin Morby is returning this June with his fourth solo album City Music. Morby has given us another new single in "Aboard My Train," a lighthearted sunny day tune that is Dylan-esque. Storytelling lyrics about his friends and lovers he's had surround this steady song. Morby even breaks into a 35-second solo midway through. Good stuff, Kevin.

Oh, and get Kendrick Lamar's new LP DAMN., it's absurd!

Weekly Tune-Up LIX — stream / download

01. Mac Demarco, "On the Level"

02. GEMS, "Poison"

03. Beach Fossils, "Saint Ivy"

04. Toro y Moi, "Omaha"

05. POLICA, "Lipstick Stains"

06. Little Dragon, "The Pop Life"

07. Kevin Morby, "Abroad My Train"

08. Kendrick Lamar, "FEEL."

09. Hazel English, "More Like You"

10. Hoops, "On Letting Go"

11. Livingmore, "Gone Too Fast"

12. Goss, "Soo Bad"

13. sir Was, "Digging a Tunnel"

14. Methyl Ethel, "Weed Through the Rind"

15. Night Drive, "Rise and Fall"

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