MUST LISTEN 068
Every week, we’ll be bringing you Must Listen: a series that's a compilation of rising artists along with songs that must be added to your everyday playlist. This week’s playlist consists of emerging acts like Angel + Dren, Deja, and Hadji Gaviota. Turn on, tune in, and zone out.
ANGEL + DREN
The twin DJ duo are back with their newest single “Nirvana,” a song that leaves you feeling synonymous with the title itself. The euphoric melodies about longing for summertime nostalgia and the perfectly layered, almost haunting vocals provide for a limitless amount of vibes - a formula the twins have mastered that is yet to be replicated.
DEJA’s latest track “Wishin” strips back her signature sass while bringing a more natural and seductive flare to the forefront. With her vocals gliding over a minimalistic R&B-dancehall fusion production, the song showcases the songstress’ ability to be unapologetic with her lyricism. We’re more than excited to see what’s next from the rising star.
Master of harmonies and falsettos, legend-in-the-making, Noah Guy releases his most intimate and vulnerable track to date. The single is accompanied by an incredibly powerful video that showcases his diverse talent for storytelling and his neverending creative compass, solidifying the young singer as the most promising up-and-comer.
Queens native Hadji Gaviota returns with his eclectic EP, PASTIMES. While short and sweet, the five-track EP captures the artist at his best self to date. Standout track “BUBBLY” is a hyper-pop-punk tune that proves it’s impossible to box the music innovator in a specific genre.
GRIDLOCK, the pop duo band based in Jersey City, comes out swinging with their debut track “Missed Calls.” Their falsettos gently float over the city pop-inspired production creating this nostalgic soundscape that is hard to leave behind.
London-based rapper, singer, and producer makes her mark with her powerful debut track “Adventures of Tricky ‘n’ Duke.” Floating over a laid-back and simplistic beat, the triple threat seamlessly blends her two cultures together creating her own addictive brand of music. This track gives us a taste of what’s to come on her forthcoming five-track EP, Great Taste.
South West London’s dexter releases her debut EP, I Do Love a Good Sandwich, with standout track “Still Got Time” - a bittersweet banger from the project. Behind the playful and bouncy facade that’s on the production, the track’s lyrics dive deeper into a more vulnerable space that portrays a father-daughter relationship.
“ICARUS'' is the lead single for Leon Zhang’s upcoming album, FRASER. This impressive and vulnerable R&B track sucks you in from the beginning with minimalistic guitar riffs and a hook that makes you feel like you’re the main character in a 2000s rom-com. Being a part of renowned L.A. Music collective Stirfryboyz, the rising star has made some waves with his signature production style. Now venturing into his solo endeavor, we’re excited to see what’s next for him.
LA-based duo, ILL PEACH, release their debut EP EXCUSE US WHILE WE FIND OUT MINDS. The project tells the experience of the group moving from New York to Los Angeles, beginning from a place of unorganized chaos to slowly finding their way. Standout track “UP UP AND AWAY” has the group reminiscing about the last day of the year with a soundscape that’s filled with a specific cathartic energy that’s almost like closing a significant chapter in your life.