I really like the dark and futuristic atmosphere of Max Macready’s “The Hunt.” The mix of synthwave, darkwave and post-punk gives the track a cold and cinematic feel, while the bass, synths and guitars sound like a natural fit for this retro sci-fi world. I also enjoy exploring mixed signals and the space between real connection and fantasy, because it suits the slightly uneasy mood of the music. To be played during a late-night drive through a neon-lit city.

The mix of British melancholy and Americana soul gives these songs a strong emotional foundation. I can hear the influence of The Beatles, Oasis and Springsteen in the approach, but the emphasis lives on honest storytelling The idea of writing songs to hold stillness in a noisy world really fits that perspective.

Dante Shivers’ “Changes,” a song about wondering whether you’ll ever live the life you imagine was eventually finished while he was actually doing it. That gives the song a very personal weight. I also like how his songwriting seems to move between alternative rock, blues, folk and more stripped-down moments depending on what the story needs. For me, “Changes” feels like a song about looking back at who you were while finally becoming the person you hoped to be.