MUST LISTEN 027
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 Xelli Island, Flwr Chyld, and Sedona. Turn up, tune in, and tune out!
Your Grandparents - “Tomorrow”
After making an anticipated comeback earlier this year with their well-acclaimed single, “So Damn Fly,” the multilayered trio followed up with the release of, “Tomorrow,” an upbeat counterpart to their soothing jazz vibes. The video for “Tomorrow,” self-directed by the group and inspired by “The Last Dragon,” accumulates their signature ‘70s, nostalgia-effusing aesthetic.
Xelli Island - “Bad For You”
Detroit native, Xelli Island has mastered the skill of pulling you into a trance, and momentarily making you leave the earth you exist in to join her in her ideal dreamscape. In her latest drop, “Bad For You,” the dreamy pop vocalist is doing what she does best: transporting you to her world of melodic clouds and lyrical rivers, while letting her grave, lullaby-like vocals drift you away.
DACEY - “SUMMERTIMEISDONE”
In the heart of Vancouver, DACEY and her band are refining the technique of genre-blending, as the collective continues to unravel and grasp the sound of every sentiment. They embody their masterful skill in the newly released, “SUMMERTIMEISDONE,” where the 20-year-old perfectly summarizes the regretful end to a euphoric season.
Flwr Chyld - “But I Tried”
Following the release of his second EP, Flow, Flwr Chyld has cemented his standing as one of the most volatile and persistent artists in the industry. Having the gifted knack for producing and songwriting remarkable collaborations, the Atlanta native along with singer Swsh blow our minds away on the third track, “But I Tried.”
In the three singles released this year, the producer and singer duo flaunt their undeniable musical chemistry that oozes throughout their combined creation. Their new single, “Wildheart,” is dark and haunting in its own unique way, with the vocal reverberation and slowed production making it an eerie yet longing experience.
Cloutgod Duggie - “Dream Girl”
From the infamous South East London, rapper and melody expert Cloutgod Duggie is merging the sound of drill with catchy tunes that appeal to the masses. In his song “Dream Girl” off of his latest release, he harmonizes and croons about his lady love in a peculiar way that reminds you of 50 Cent’s radio run back in the 2000s.
Soudiere - “Hit The Boulevard”
French DJ Soudiere has been singlehandedly keeping phonk alive through his slew of releases over the past few years. Last month, he dropped Only 2 Left Alive, his long-anticipated collab album with fellow DJ, Smokey. The project is filled with darker, danker beats with the signature distorted, chopped and screwed hip-hop samples. After taking over the SoundCloud reigns, Soudiere continues to feed his loyal fanbase with endless remixes and collaborations.
Sedona - “Crying On My Own”
Founded by lead singer Rachel Stewart, the project has evolved into an amoeba of many creative minds. With Merilyn Chang on keys, Claire Gilb on guitar, Margaux Bouchegnies on bass, and Tia Cestaro on drums, camaraderie is at the heart of all things Sedona. On their latest single, “Crying On My Own,” the quintet channels an 80s allure that focuses on learning and embracing your more vulnerable side.
MAY-A - “Apricots”
The 19-year-old pop newcomer but future sensation has perfected the award-winning formula for song making. And in her most recent single, “Apricots,” the Sydney-based singer skillfully fuses the twinkling guitar line with heartfelt storytelling of self-discovery, letting her music be the all-enchanting and staggering truth of the moment.