First Listen Fridays (2/10/26) – Victoria Monét, Sasha Keable, and More New Music

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October is here, but it doesn’t feel like Autumn just yet. Whatever the case, this month still starts off with a bang with a great collection of R’n’B, soul, and rap music. Whether it’s the first-ever collaboration from Victoria Monét and SZA, some of the U.K.’s finest talents like Sasha Keable and Nao, or a Ceebo/Wretch 32 team-up, you have plenty on offer. So get that warm drink ready, stick your headphones on, and delve into our picks.

Victoria Monét FT. SZA – See You In My Dreams

Today marks the release of the sophomore record from Victoria Monét, and while there are plenty of big names on this album, this collab stands out. Shockingly, these two have never made a song together before, but the wait was certainly worth it. The strumming of the bass guitar nicely sets the mood before Victoria and the rest of the instruments come in. Her smooth vocals, particularly on the chorus, are great as she regrets ‘sleeping on’ someone who she now only sees when she sleeps. SZA sounds as great as ever and matches the themes nicely, with both harmonsing very well. The more slowed-down close is a nice touch, and brings proceedings to a pleasant finish. I can’t wait to delve into the rest of this release.

Buy the track here.

Soul Mass Transit System – I want it

It has been a busy year for this Purple Listed producer and DJ, with this coming from his third EP release of 2026. While all the tracks do be slapping, this song is my personal favourite of the new ones. Those banging kick drums will have your eardrums throbbing, while the glistening keyboard melody is so smooth. That whirring, and then the drop, takes up the energy and is certainly some fine, bassy garage. Get this one playing, whether you have a rave tonight or just need a reason to boogie.

Buy the track here.

CARI – Baaad!

Despite releasing her debut EP last year, this singer has remained busy this annum, and we have been given another new one this week. I love that the instrumental sounds kinda vintage, almost as if you are hearing this off some old-school audio equipment, a cool touch from Steph.fm and PRGRSHN. CARI’s lovely vocals over that prominent guitar are perfect for a walk through nature or if you’re in the feels over someone you are addicted to. The drums are really pounding on the chorus as she sings passionately about how ‘Baaad!‘ our lead needs this person. This track uses lots of interesting ideas like slapback delay and car noises to get you into the world of this artist. Really dig this one? Then you should check out the rest of this singer’s catalogue.

Nia Chennai – Is What It Is

And now we have some smooth af neo-soul from Nia Chennai. The gorgeous bass playing and equally sensational vocals have you hooked from the get-go, as she sings full of confidence. Her vocal flexibility is off the charts, showcasing an artist who knows they have all the talent. The way the lyrics are delivered is almost like the audience is right there, highlighting issues with emotions and oneself. The crisp production from KYA has to be shouted out, and as for our lead, keep an eye on their career.

Sasha Keable – options

It has been another busy year for one of this nation’s biggest R’n’B stars, including a great feature run. But now, Sasha Keable is back with a first solo release since ‘ACT II‘ dropped in February. The production is sounding bubbly, with that sleek singing about her passion for this person on full display. When the chorus comes, those high notes announce themselves, while the background ad-libs/choir are always used well on this artist’s tracks. Truly someone who doesn’t know about the idea of missing, I will always be open to the latest release from this singer.

Buy the track here.

Nao – Eugene

We have two new tracks from Nao, still, in my opinion, one of the best voices to hear from this tiny island. My fave is ‘Eugene‘ with a slight jazzy feel, which uses some interesting effects on our lead’s voice. The track feels like it’s the perfect fit for a late-night club, paying homage to the legends that paved the way for the artists of today. Whether it’s Nao’s singing, her production alongside Dave Okumu, or the great instrumentation, everything just falls into place on this number. Oh, and go check out ‘Save The World‘ as well.

Buy both tracks here.

Kofi Stone FT. Mahalia – Sicily

With 3 projects in 3 years, you cannot argue with the graft that Brummie rapper Kofi Stone has put in. His latest record includes features from Jaz Karis, Maverick Sabre, and more, but I have gone with his song alongside Mahalia. The pounding percussion and dreamy guitar ease you in, before his smooth delivery tells the story of his trip to Italy with someone special. Our guest delivers a great chorus, and harmonises nicely in the second verse’s background. Kofi remains a very much underrated storyteller, whatever the topic, and while Joe Corfield’s production is pretty chill, it does exactly what it needed to do. Lovely stuff; I will be dissecting the rest of this record later.

Ceebo FT. Wretch 32 – Macbeth’s Soliloquy

And we end today with a young fire and old flame, as 10 years after that famous mixtape, the latest rising star Ceebo brings Wretch 32 on his new mixtape. The slightly eerie piano comes in alongside our lead’s punchy delivery as he looks in the mirror and realises his own hypocrisies, whilst still critiquing the issues he sees. Wretch then comes in to give advice to this young star, alongside that roaring guitar. onehand creates the perfect atmosphere for this reflection on the come-up and the issues it brings. A top moment on what I’m sure is going to be a quality project.

Follow IndustryMe on Instagram, Threads, X, or YouTube. Press play on our First Listen Fridays playlist below or via YouTube Music to enjoy all our top picks. You can also check out previous editions here.

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