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.
Tawiah – Ertha
UK artist Tawiah has returned with her poignant second album, Ertha, created in collaboration with artist Al Moore. Ertha is a concept album, created collaboratively through a process of storytelling and musical interpretation. Through a series of original writings and poems, Al tells a story of the human journey, and Tawiah composed music in response to these writings. The pair describe the process as akin to an actor and director working with a script, and the outcome is a cohesive musical story as opposed to simply tracks on an album. It’s a fascinating listen from start to finish and depicts the life of Ertha from birth to death.
K. Noble – Painkillers
K. Noble is an artist on the rise from the southside of Chicago. He debuted on the music scene in 2020 and has dropped a series of well-received releases since then, including his debut album, Life is Pain, last year. The rising rapper is keen to continue his growing momentum and upward trajectory with the release of his new album, Painkillers. K. Noble is a huge fan of battle rap, which has allowed him to hone his skills on the mic, including learning different flow patterns, styles of delivery and freestyling. And all of this talent is evident throughout Painkillers, which is 10 tracks of straight-up authentic rap music that all hip-hop and rap enthusiasts will be able to appreciate.
RETROFITTED – “Never Ending Party”
RETROFITTED are a group of six artists (OJ Stinz, BFlow, YBE, OKJ, Pax Armani, and Big Carlo) with diverse backgrounds and tastes based in Arizona, US. With that in mind, the music they produce covers a wide range of styles rooted in hip-hop. Although they only started releasing music as a group earlier this year, they’ve already got off to a flying start and made a strong impression after several singles and EPs over the last few months. Keen to keep the ball rolling, the group have just unveiled their brilliant new single, “Never Ending Party”. The track is a great example of their versatile sound, with its incorporation of hip-hop, electro and pop. Standing out immediately with a dark and retro dance soundscape, a mesmerising hook and the group’s dynamic vocals, it’s a must-hear track and another sublime entry into their early discography.
NxFxce – “bff”
Mysterious US artist NxFxce shares his vision unlike any other emerging name, confidently tapping into experimental rap, pop and other genres too. The end result is an atmospheric soundscape packed with relatable lyrics and distinct melodic vocals as he details his journey as an artist and paints a vision for his listeners through candid storytelling, which delves into topics such as feelings of insecurity and regret. Such openness is captured on his new single, “bff”, which hears the artist talk about not realising what someone meant until they’re gone. With its infectious hook and NxFxce’s hypnotic vocals fused with a captivating retro production, it makes a strong impression when listening.
Seaning – “Brainwaves”
Hailing from Australia, Seaning is a rapper, songwriter, videographer, producer and member of hip-hop collective MSON (Making Something Outta Nothing). He burst on the scene in 2019, and after a series of well-received releases, he has just returned with new single “Brainwaves”, which is another great entry into his growing collection of songs. Showcasing his dynamic flow and smooth delivery as he raps over a melodic beat, the track captures Seaning at his best as he looks set to continue his ascent and proves he is one to watch.
matt sak – “Ducati”
matt sak is a rising artist originally from San Diego, California, and currently based in Washington state. Influenced by the lo-fi vocals of Damon Albarn and the freestyle prowess of Future, matt is building a name for himself with his confident vocal delivery and booming instrumentals, as can be heard on his brand-new single, “Ducati”. The track stands out on first listen with its mesmerising beat and matt’s ethereal vocals and melodic flow as he fuses hip-hop with pop sensibilities. It’s only his second release following debut single “Jumped the Gun” last year, but it’s safe to say he has a bright future ahead.
Jupiter Grey – Fires on the Moon
Rising UK alternative R&B artist Jupiter Grey has unveiled his debut album, Fires on the Moon. The album arrives following much anticipation stemming from previous singles “Is It Ever The Same”, “From 80’s With Love” and the album’s title track. Having garnered critical acclaim for his unique sound, Jupiter looks set to continue his remarkable rise and break new ground with this first full-length project. Sonically, the album is in line with what fans have come to expect from the London-based artist. It fuses experimental alternative R&B sounds inspired by Jupiter’s love of the ‘80s while also incorporating modern and futuristic touches, which makes for a fascinating listen across the album’s 19 tracks.
Jack Xander – “Sun Up My Sleeve”
Jack Xander’s music is undoubtedly addictive. His knack for unique melodies makes his songs incredibly intriguing and engaging with high replay value, which is illustrated perfectly on his new single, “Sun Up My Sleeve”. This is Jack’s third single, and it features the same enthralling and immersive sound that he is becoming known for. His vocal stylings are delicate yet powerful and reminiscent of underground ‘80s alternative bands, allowing the song to stand out and make an impact on first listen. The new single also features an equally impressive B-side titled “Wasting Time”, which is more high energy and provides a nice contrast to the darker nature of “Sun Up My Sleeve”.
Jasmine Tea – “Just a Little”
Jasmine Tea are a US band made up of Bob Stritch, Michael Strong, Rich DeClemente and Bob Short. A huge selling point for the band is their versatility – some of their songs are of the singer-songwriter variety with catchy melodies while others lean on retro roots rock with bluesy guitar riffs. Their latest offering, “Just a Little”, is a laidback indie track that discusses the loss of a loved one. Featuring acoustic and electric guitars, organ, bass guitar and drums, the song will capture the listener’s attention from the first note.
Arliston – Even In The Shade
UK indie duo Arliston, consisting of Jack Ratcliffe (vocals/guitar/keyboards) and George Hasbury (guitar/keyboards), have returned with their stunning new EP, Even In The Shade. The project arrives following a busy year that has seen the London-based duo already release a successful EP, The Ground Might Disappear, back in January. And in the lead-up to Even In The Shade, they’ve recently shared singles “Mothering” and “Hold My Wine”, both of which received critical acclaim. Featuring their rich melodies and contemplative atmospherics, there’s an undeniable quality to this new EP that illustrates the Arliston sound growing in stature and evolving in new and unexpected ways.
