As fall ushers in a new season, music continues to change and evolve. The second week of September boats a myriad of exciting new releases – from Olivia Rodrigo’s long-awaited sophomore album to Nessa Barrett’s latest single. Indie-pop stars like Julia Wolf and flowerovlove are back with stunning new releases, while up and coming artists like Liza Anne and Tommy Richman are carving out a space for themselves in the music industry. Dive right in and add these incredible artists to your next playlist!

Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS”

Pop darling Olivia Rodrigo made herself a household name in 2021 with the record-breaking release of “drivers license” followed by her debut album SOUR. While the insurmountable level of success she reached would be incredibly difficult for almost anyone to follow up, Rodrigo’s sophomore effort GUTS is nothing short of a masterpiece. Chock-full of pop-rock anthems underscored by striking vulnerability (“all-american bitch,” “ballad of a homeschooled girl”) along with her signature ballads (“making the bed,” “teenage dream”), GUTS guides listeners through Rodrigo’s complicated feelings as she exits her teens and enters her twenties – “They all say that it gets better / But what if I don’t?”

Nessa Barrett, “sick of myself”

Budding pop star Nessa Barrett is back with her first release since dropping her highly-anticipated EP hell is teenage girl earlier this summer. On “sick of myself,” Barrett teams up with acclaimed producer Whethan (Joji, Megan Thee Stallion) to create an addictive, intoxicating new breakup anthem alongside a powerful music video as she gears up for her North American headlining tour this fall. 

Julia Wolf, “Wishbone”

Breakout indie-pop star Julia Wolf is back with new single “Wishbone” following the release of her captivating debut album Good Thing We Stayed in January of this year. Wolf’s vulnerable lyricism and incredible vocals layered over an alt-rock sound with live drums and electric guitar showcases her prowess as an artist ahead of her coveted spot on the Austin City Limits lineup next month.

Liza Anne, “Shania Twain Is Making Me Cry

Rising star Liza Anne is back with their latest single “Shania Twain Is Making Me Cry” alongside the announcement of their third studio album Utopian out Nov. 3. The cheeky-yet-vulnerable breakup anthem co-produced by Kyle Ryan (Kacey Musgraves, Natalie Prass) combines gritty New York City rock sounds with cosmic country and funky electric guitar in an ode to Shania Twain herself.

Tommy Richman, “THE RUSH”

Up and coming genre-bending artist Tommy Richman is back with his latest project THE RUSH. The Woodbridge, Virginia native has crafted a signature sound, honing in on a mixture of disco, indie pop, R&B, and hip-hop. His emotional yet catchy tracks resonate with listeners, captivating them as he draws fans into his innermost feelings.

Victor Ray, “i felt.”

Victor Ray’s soulful vocals, stellar production, and powerful lyricism that combines classic soul with contemporary R&B is clearer than ever on his latest release i felt. The five-track EP showcases the emerging young talent’s signature vulnerable style as he delves into themes of heartbreak and loss.

flowerovlove, “Next Best Exit”

British indie pop artist flowerovlove may be just 18 years old, but her lyricism makes it evident that she’s wise beyond her years. Back this week with an exhilarating new single “Next Best Exit,” she utilizes her gorgeous vocals and introspective lyrics to paint the vivid image of the adrenaline rush that comes with leaving a toxic situation.