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. Some of the best music out there today comes from independent and unsigned musicians, and there are new acts popping up daily that are yet to reach the masses. In this column we’ll be uncovering and highlighting 10 hidden gems to check out each week from talented independent artists.
Coumarin – “All Night”
Coumarin is the moniker of multifaceted artist Andre Westerholt. The German singer-songwriter merges different forms of music to create a genre-bending sound that catapults listeners to a whole other place entirely. He’s released several singles throughout 2021 and now returns with his first single of 2022, “All Night”. A song all about the labyrinth of love, he channels this energy into an upbeat yet melancholic delivery filled with sumptuous indie guitar tones, airy synths and creative twists at every turn. Coumarin’s vocal is soft and sits so effortlessly on top of proceedings, and with the track itself involving so many changes, it’s a testament to his vocal versatility to still be able to take charge of the track.
Filligar – “17th Hour”
Filligar have already covered all the ground possible within the indie, rock and full band spheres with their previous self-released projects. Having previously received critical acclaim from many outlets and gained fans across the world for their fusion of styles and influences, they have returned with their new studio album, Future Self. Lead single “17th Hour” immediately warms the ears with the words “welcome back” echoing above their dream-like soundscapes. They experiment with some deep-lying synths that transcend beyond the norm of today and draw you in with ease. “17th Hour” is hugely potent in the writing too, with an excellent implementation of guitar riffs and catchy melodies that prolong the intrigue even further.
KULT KRIMES – “Stove Top Stuffing”
Having developed his own individual sound and style, KULT KRIMES is an exciting addition to the music scene. The US recording artist, producer and multi-instrumentalist recently unveiled his brilliant new single, “Stove Top Stuffing”. The track is taken from the Portland artist’s newly released debut album, GOOD GRIEF. With its unique and experimental sound, “Stove Top Stuffing” stands out on first listen and will no doubt captivate audiences. Brimming with mesmerising electronic beats and an expressive vocal performance, the self-produced track shines the spotlight on an artist with a huge future. Directed by Jon Christopherson, the accompanying cinematic music video and short film draws listeners into KULT KRIMES’ world and elevates the track even further.
Moon Walker – “Doombox”
Two-piece rock band Moon Walker are back with their latest hard-hitting single, “Doombox”, which is the lead single from their upcoming album, The Attack of Mirrors. Since their inception in May 2021 Moon Walker’s eclectic brand of rock ‘n’ roll has catapulted them far beyond the spare room they self-recorded their debut record in. Singer/guitarist Harry Springer and drummer Sean McCarthy have created a fusion of explosive drum grooves and thrashing guitar riffs that are uniquely theirs. “Doombox” is no exception, with the enthralling track being equal parts loud, gritty and unapologetic. Backed by pounding drums and roaring guitar riffs that blend with Harry’s raucous vocal outbursts and tied together with timely lyrics that address the polarised and volatile political climate of the US and how it’s impacted the emotional state of everyday Americans, Moon Walker are a band to watch out for in 2022.
Dave Curl – “Shallow Show”
Swiss-born indie-rock artist Dave Curl has released his latest single, “Shallow Show”. The second instalment from his upcoming EP Slaves to Instincts sees Dave tackle the issue of online catfishing. The track is a social commentary of today’s online world and is bolstered by catchy melodies, insightful lyrics and an irresistible chorus that showcases Dave’s powerful vocal chops. Having already accumulated over 500,000 streams on Spotify alone, he looks set to continue his growing momentum with “Shallow Show” and his upcoming EP.
Donovan Keith – “Sweet Lies”
Austin-based R&B/soul artist Donovan Keith is back with his latest single, “Sweet Lies”. The track is a cautionary tale about falling for the wrong type and always getting hurt. First written and recorded by reggae artist Beres Hammond, Donovan’s reimagination of this ‘90s classic infuses classic soul and R&B vibes and is brimming with smooth basslines, funky drum beats and triumphant brass sections, providing the perfect backdrop to showcase Donovan’s impressive vocal range as he convincingly makes the track his own. With his latest album due for release later in the year and with plenty of shows lined up, Donovan Keith is certainly one to keep an eye on.
Samfire – “This Time”
London singer, songwriter and producer Samfire has delivered an alt-pop gem with her new EP, Time, a deep exploration of what the transitional periods of life can bring. Samfire draws from the more contemplating side of pop music from the euphoric, fuzzy rock sound on standout track “This Time” to the lamenting and captivating “To Those Who Wait”. The EP shows an honest and sincere perspective whilst showcasing Samfire’s diverse musicality as she comes to terms with the changes in her life in a musically melodramatic way.
Aaron Lawlor – “Smooch Smooch Kiss”
Aaron Lawlor is bringing something fresh to the Irish music scene and is certainly a character to look out for. Refusing to be pigeonholed into one genre, he takes influence from ‘90s boom bap, drill and his favourite post-punk bands. His neatly crafted debut “Smooch Smooch Kiss” impresses with hazy flows and silky-smooth beats. The Dublin rapper blends the boomy, stripped-back sampled production styles of J Dilla with storytelling that is reminiscent of ‘90s hip-hop. The underdog mentality is in full swing and Aaron raps with an honesty and conviction that separates him from his peers.
Qwerty Mick – “Graffiti Literature”
Qwerty Mick is an Irish singer-songwriter whose music is as intriguing as his name. He embraces a DIY philosophy and, from his small bedroom studio, crafts productions that are delicately sparse yet wholly ambitious. The rising artist has just released his debut EP, If You Lived Here You’d Be Home By Now, with the track “Graffiti Literature” providing a standout moment. The lush textures of Qwerty Mick’s production create a wonderfully dreamy, escapist atmosphere, allowing his charming vocals to float above the haze. It’s a mixed bag of lo-fi bedroom-built music filled with jazzy chord progressions, lo-fi punky drums and Aaron’s captivating vocals.
Valkyrie – “Yaddy Ya”
New Zealand duo Valkyrie have returned with their latest single, “Yaddy Ya”. Despite only bursting on the scene a few years ago, they’ve already experienced success in their homeland, and with “Yaddy Ya” the duo look set to capitalise on their momentum and reach new heights. The high-octane track perfectly captures the spirit of the duo – electric energy, catchy melodies, punchy lyrics and endless replay value. It’s enhanced further with an accompanying music video directed by Shae Sterling. Filmed vertically, it complements the fun-loving, youthful spirit and liveliness of the song and makes for a fascinating watch – almost as if they’re inviting listeners to go and join them in the fun.
