The Public’s weekly local music reviews and previews.

Single:  ”Key To The City feat. Bless” by Chae Hawk  Recommended if you like:  Vince Staples, Nas, Joey Badass

After a successful set as opener for Public Enemy at Canalside, or maybe becasue of it, we’re hit with a new single by “progressive rap cinema” artist Chae Hawk. The track comes in with a seamless hook and beat by Bless3k of the Niagara Falls-based hip hop group Nameless, which operates under the umbrella of Hawk’s Team Radio imprint. The young producer/M.C. comes strong, passing the hook off to Hawk, who picks up with his customary coolheaded yet urgent flow. Overall, it’s a strong, standalone track for the veteran Buffalo rap artist. 

Album:  Moral Monsters by Andrew Kothen  RIYL:  Andrew Bird, Sea Wolf, The Mountain Goats

The new EP from local singer/songwriter Andrew Kothen is a light, folky journey titled Moral Monsters. The well produced, summery record is perhaps most monstrous in a musical and lyrical sense. The record is rich with layers of guitars and drums, and the occasional hand clap, over which Kothen lays his straight-shooter style lyrics. Highlights include downtempo burner “Missing a Mistake” and the high-spirited “Later in the Afternoon.”

 The Public Choice Battle of the Bands 

This week, three bands will compete to open for Claypool Lennon Delirium at Canalside. As the final battle, three runners-up who recieved the most votes in previous battles will return for a second chance.

To vote, go to dailypublic.com/thepublicchoice. Voters must log in to Facebook to vote.

Competing this week:

 Randle and the Late Night Scandals 

 Kickstart Rumble 

 Darling Harbor