20 Best Songs of the Week: Modern Woman, World News, Massive Attack, Kevin Morby, and More

Key Takeaways

• Modern Woman releases debut album single “Johnny’s Dreamworld.”
• Massive Attack teams with Tom Waits on “Boots on the Ground.”
• Kevin Morby previews personal album *Little Wide Open* with “Badlands.”
• Under the Radar offers 50% off subscriptions and back issues.
• Playlist features 20 top tracks from past two weeks, plus honors.

Pulse Analysis

Curated playlists have become a key discovery tool for music fans and industry professionals alike, and Under the Radar’s bi‑weekly "Songs of the Week" list serves that function for the indie‑rock niche. By filtering more than 60 new releases down to 20 essential tracks, the publication highlights emerging talent such as Modern Woman, whose art‑rock sensibility and cinematic lyricism are poised to attract both critical acclaim and streaming momentum. The inclusion of legacy acts like Massive Attack, especially their first new recording with Tom Waits in over a decade, adds gravitas and signals that veteran artists are still seeking fresh creative partnerships to stay relevant.

The list also underscores broader market trends: a resurgence of genre‑blending projects, from Kevin Morby’s folk‑infused Americana to Iceage’s raw punk energy, reflects listeners’ appetite for authenticity and experimentation. These releases arrive at a time when streaming platforms reward consistent output, and a well‑placed feature in a respected editorial roundup can translate into playlist placements, increased radio spins, and higher sync licensing opportunities. For record labels and managers, the roundup offers a concise barometer of which tracks are resonating with tastemakers and early adopters.

Beyond the music, Under the Radar’s promotional push—offering 50% off subscriptions and back issues while previewing the upcoming ’90s Issue Part 2—demonstrates how niche publications are leveraging exclusive content and discounts to retain a loyal subscriber base in a crowded digital landscape. The accompanying Spotify playlist, which aggregates the top 19 selections and all honorable mentions, extends the magazine’s reach, turning editorial curation into a shareable, data‑driven asset that can drive both audience growth and advertising revenue.