Welcome to “Cut Through the Noise,” an Entertainment column from the St. Louis Park Echo covering new music releases. Every week, a different Echo staffer takes on the role as writer, reviewing recent single releases from a variety of artists.

“Ready 4 the World” – Why Not ★★★★★

Minnesotan music group Why Not continues to impress with their fast evolving and punky musical style. “Ready 4 the World” is no exception to their growth as musicians as they create grander and heavy-hitting tracks. The four and a half minute single has all sorts of unique musical flavors from a rallying chorus to pitch-shifted vocals. The funky bass line added to the rapid guitar riffs bring a feeling that makes you want to jump up and dance. Lead singer Henry Breen molds the track with his powerful introspective lyrics such as, “are you listening intently…in your mind, is it interpreted as honest,” forcing the listener to reflect on what they are hearing. Overall I really enjoyed this track for its fun, jumpy mood and aspects for everyone to enjoy.

Reel it In – Amine ★★★☆☆

From 2017 XXL freshman Amine, “Reel it In,” is a weird but catchy track. The song’s beat plays around a duo of foreign wind instrumentals and a ukulele. Surprisingly, the uniqueness of it works very well and in addition to Amine’s quirky lyrics like “I’m the news, CNN,” the track has only grown on me. The varying vocal styles Amine offers such as his jumpy rapping and singing during the pre-chorus give the song a playful feel. Besides the lyrics revolving around nothing but typical rap topics like flaunting wealth and fame, “Reel it in” is a good change of pace in the current state of rap music.

Bambi – Hippo Campus ★★★★☆

The chilled out headlining pre-release “Bambi” from local indie band Hippo Campus offers a changeup in style, still retaining their sound. The frontal vocal chops of the track give an electric feel, adding to lead singer Jake Luppen’s mellow vocal style. The lyrical themes revolve around lack of motivation to reach goals and finding your place in the world. “Bambi’s” lyrical topic fits in the previewed track listing along song names like “Mistakes,” “Anxious” and “Doubt,” leading to a theme of questioning oneself and learning how to grow from your mistakes. I am excited to see where Hippo Campus goes with this sound with the release of their album.