By Nate Mills – The music industry is worlds away from where it was before the digital era. 20 years ago, the notion of kickstarting a music career with limited resources and no record label wouldn’t have been practical for most, but nowadays it’s common practice. More and more artists are being self-sufficient or signing to small indie labels rather than the majors (Sony, Warner and Universal), with the rise of the internet and digital platforms such as iTunes, YouTube and Spotify now making this a more feasible option, and some of the best music out there today comes from these artists. In this recurring column, we’ll be uncovering and highlighting 10 hidden gems to listen to from talented independent musicians.
Arliston – “Mothering”
Rising London-based band Arliston recently unveiled their latest single, “Mothering”. Featuring delicate textures and rich harmonies, the track brings with it a sense of maturity, both in the lyrics and the production. The song also grows with each listen and has enormous replay value. “Mothering” is the first release from the band’s forthcoming EP, Even in the Shade, which will be released later this year. With intricate production and pervasive musicianship, the EP is an exciting prospect for Arliston fans awaiting their next instalment of soul-warming indie pop.
Ghosts of Our Former Selves – Golden
London-based band Ghosts of Our Former Selves have shared their stunning new EP, Golden. The band, which consists of singer Theo Brehony, guitarist Sanderson Rocha and producer Fred Ala, have been steadily rising on the music scene for a number of years now, and they look set to keep their momentum going and reach new heights with this latest release – arguably their best to date. The four-track project contains three different versions of the song “Golden”, each offering something different, and a cover of Paul Simon’s “Mother and Child Reunion”.
ODXC – “Steady”
ODXC is a multi-faceted music producer, videographer and director. Hailing from north London, UK, the fast-rising producer is breaking new ground with his original ideas and refreshing genre fusions. After much success with his In the Dungeon EP series, he has returned with brand-new single “Steady”, which is the first single from his upcoming In the Dungeon: Chapter 3 EP. It arrives alongside a music video directed by ODXC. The high-octane track will easily capture audiences, and the sharp lyricism provided by south-east London rapper Recky Reckz will resonate deeply with listeners as he raps about making his way to the top.
Skot the Idea – 3 to Thrive Through
Skot the Idea is a rising American-Nigerian artist born and raised in Rockville, Maryland. He also lived in London, UK for almost a decade during his early life, where he found a love for electronic music. Blending this with his background in the US and love for hip-hop, his sound is fresh and dynamic, which is showcased on his newly released EP, 3 to Thrive Through. Fusing his effortless rap flow with energetic electro beats, the three-track project is perfectly executed and makes for a fascinating listen. The EP is led by main single “When The Tune Hit”, a feelgood party anthem packed with infectious melodies and a huge anthemic hook that will no doubt be etched into everyone’s head after one listen.
Kimezaa – “Young Boy”
Kimezaa is an artist based in Montreal, Canada. He released his first official single in 2018 and hasn’t looked back since. He’s accumulated millions of streams on Spotify as an independent artist in such a short amount of time, including an impressive almost three million Spotify streams for his track “Safe to Say”. And the rising rapper is keen to continue his momentum with the release of new single “Young Boy”. Offering a candid look into his life and where he comes from, the track commands attention from first listen. It stands out further with its dark and eerie production and Kimezaa’s smooth cadence and lyrical prowess.
JASMINEGOLD – Serpent
JASMINEGOLD have unveiled their self-produced debut album, Serpent. The alternative hip-hop duo from North Florida (formed by David Nights and KJ) only burst on the scene last year but have been gaining traction quickly with over 200,000 views on TikTok and great acclaim for their first few singles. And with the release of Serpent, they are set to make an even bigger statement. Serpent separates itself from the crowd straight away with a mixture of old-school production, booming bass, glitchy synths and lush atmospheres. The pair work their way through 13 captivating tracks as they open up about their internal struggles, with the vocals and song structures getting more fascinating and daring as the album progresses.
Feloneye – “Rockstar”
Feloneye is a Berlin-based rapper and singer who fuses hip-hop, pop and trap. He sings with an instinctive feel for melodic hooks and permeates his work with his pulsating energy, as can be heard on new release “Rockstar”. With “Rockstar”, Feloneye releases his biggest collaboration to date alongside rapper King Staccz, and the track commands attention immediately, with their striking rap flows interlocking seamlessly throughout. It’s bolstered further by equally captivating accompanying visuals filmed in New York City.
The Kite Machine – “Your Touch”
After the success of their self-titled debut album back in 2019, Australian band The Kite Machine have returned with their new single, “Your Touch”. Packed full of energy and explosive guitars and synths, the track embodies everything The Kite Machine are about. A song all about that feeling you get when you start falling in love with someone, “Your Touch” is fast paced, colourful and groovy, with a psychedelic dance rock production that will make it hard for listeners not to get up and move along to.
The American Hotel System – Where My Soul Has Been
The American Hotel System are an alternative rock band hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Their exploration into traditional rock ‘n’ roll has unleashed their own sound that consists of emotive lyrics, interesting arrangements and a massive live sound that goes beyond the norm. They have opened up for the likes of Bon Jovi and received high praise for their debut album, The Sunken Truth, back in 2019. They begin 2022 with an insight into their live performance as a band with the release of a full live album – Where My Soul Has Been. The live recording is filled with soaring guitars and memorable hooks that will appease all lovers of alternative rock.
Kaelin Ellis – “CAFFEINE”
Kaelin Ellis is a genre-spanning producer and artist based in Florida. After experiencing success producing for other artists, he has returned with another release of his own in the form of “CAFFEINE” alongside Toronto-based producer The Kount. The track is short and sweet but stands out with its originality, leaving listeners wanting more. And listeners are in luck as the pair will be releasing a collaborative album next month that will surely be worth checking out.
