This edition of LITM Rock Picks brings together tracks across the spectrum of what’s possible in rock; featuring Casey Louis, Paul Claxton, Kavita Baliga, and more!
1. Casey Louis – The Company of Self
The Company of Self quickly transitions from its dreamy beginning to a psychedelic goldmine. Each layer is uninhibited and free, with its synthwaves and pounding basslines, giving the track a danceability while simultaneously being the kind that you’ll want to listen to while staring at your ceiling. Casey Louis showcases his mastery of balance, building and releasing tension at just the right moments, while allowing every element to push and pull with each other. It explores questions of keeping yourself company and the swirling thoughts that accompany it. Whether the company of self is a curse or blessing, I’ll let you decide with Casey Louis – give it a listen here!
2. Paul Claxton – Left Haunting You
From its first bars, Left Haunting You is vintage – almost sinisterly so, less charming and more frozen in time. With its shimmering guitars and heavy, steady percussion, it’s hauntingly beautiful, teeming with a yearning that can only be described as hopelessly romantic. “Tell me, when you close your eyes, do you dream of me?” he asks, with a soaring hope, suspended midair for a moment before crashing back down in misery. Its harmonies twine around each other, overlapping and producing a sound that’s as distinct as it is unexpected. Paul Claxton forces you to pay attention to every carefully mixed layer, as you struggle to box it into any one genre or timeline before surrendering to his airy vocals.
3. Kavita Baliga – Lost in the Dark
Lost in the Dark is gentle and tender in its deep emotion. It’s the kind of song that will calm a racing mind down, slowing you till your breathing is normal again. It’s beautifully dreamy and uplifting, and it feels deeply intentional – determined to stand out against any careless productions. Embellished with slow synths and drum pads, it builds like a slow fire – think a candle, not a matchstick. It’s perfectly restrained: even when you brace for a drop, it doesn’t come like a crash, but instead sets you down slowly on soft cushioning. Kavita Baliga’s latest single is sure to soothe; check it out!
4. Chords of Indigo – The Thread
Chords of Indigo has produced a piece that delightfully contrasts its high intensity with slow, pained notes. Through its expansive (in the best way) length of just a little over six minutes, The Thread takes you on a journey, making it easy to fall into its story wholeheartedly. Chords of Indigo’s (Manchester-based Lee Hornsby’s) vocal delivery is brimming with emotion just barely held back; it’s executed to perfection, with some moments of lull followed immediately by a letting go. It’s cinematic in its scope, washing over you with precision, even in its most full, almost kaleidoscopic moments. The Thread is direct, yet intimate, and will definitely make you want to listen to what’s coming next.
5. SEHORE – Bossa velha
SEHORE began their journey with their album Ladencia, from which Pesadilla was discovered, eventually going on to win a silver medal at the 2025 Global Music Awards (recorded at Paco Loco Studio, mastered at Kadifornia by Mario G. Alberni, ℗ 2025 MusicHunters Records). They’ve been keeping busy, with the release of their second album, Husfikbur, just months after. Husfikbur’s first track, Bossa velha, bursts into your ears with an electric (and electrifying!) energy. It perfectly juxtaposes energy with chill and aggression with tenderness in a track that doesn’t need lyrical translation to make its impact. Even as it bristles with bite, something about it makes you stop, dig through the layers, and find that Bossa velha is irresistibly and infectiously catchy. It’s witty, spirited, and very intentionally dissonant. Give it a listen here!
Follow the playlist for all new artist updates!
If you would like to submit your music for playlist or review consideration, please submit here.