What’s the best unheralded song or album you’ve heard recently?

Because sifting through press releases at work is the worst, and I trust you guys more anyway.

Songwriters, you can’t suggest your own music. Ditto for folks who run labels or do publicity. You can definitely recommend artists you know personally, but it must pass the “Would I listen to this if you weren’t my friend?” test. Be honest, not self-serving.

One more thing: There’s nothing wrong with songs that sound really good, but what I’m looking for is really good songs. Think about the stuff that would knock your teeth out if you heard it at an open mic — those are the ones that stick with you, no?