King Adroit‘s song “Louis Armstrong”, from his recent project Nicaraguan & Malt caught our attention for its smooth, luxurious feel and potent lyricism. Full of clever, cutting lines that have the listener rewinding throughout, Adroit’s verses are sharply-crafted and focused, as he takes on a laid-back yet confident delivery. The sleek production features gritty, jazzy samples and minimalistic percussion that give enough space for Adroit’s gymnastic wordplay. He balances rawness with a certain refined feel that gives “Louis Armstrong” added personality and character.
Hailing from the Bronx, Adroit continues to build a formidable discography that includes recent releases like Nicaraguan & Malt and The Belgian Blue 2, and shows no signs of slowing down.
Houston artists Bowen Thi and ArmstrongWW have joined forces for a new single called “Relapse (Ah Ah Ah)”. A colorful, energizing new release that displays a natural chemistry between the two Texas-based musicians, “Relapse (Ah Ah Ah)” blends genres engagingly. With elements of hip-hop, alt-pop, and indie, the song’s warm grooves and memorable songwriting make it a standout from Bowen and Armstrong. They play off each other’s energies for a track that remains fun-loving throughout, with a vibrancy that makes it infectious.
“Relapse (Ah Ah Ah)” makes for Thi’s first release of the year, following up well-received singles like “GO!” And “DIVING” from last year. ArmstrongWW is fresh off the heels of his eclectic project Recovery, which earned praise from ELEVATOR, DailyChiefers, and more.
Chicago artist Erik Evy kicks off spring on a refreshing note with “Down Stream”, effectively opening up a new chapter for himself as an artist. Becoming deeply involved with Chicago’s scene, the rising artist has been making waves in the Windy City and beyond, and continues his run with “Down Stream”. The song and video is the introduction into his next chapter that centers around the themes of family, nature, and the way we see the world.
“Down Stream” is a warm, wistful new release accompanied by a self-filmed new visual. The track is compelling in its lyrical imagery and minimalistic yet focused, engaging sound, as Evy reminisces upon his past and looks hopefully at the future atop balmy guitars, a relaxed, level-headed drum line, and rich bass. The video takes on a charmingly DIY approach and reflects Evy’s ethos and approach of taking everything into his own hands when it comes to his creative process.
Erik Evy is a 26 year-old Chicago-based artist who has an exceptional touch with capturing emotions and stories. Influenced by J Cole, Mac Miller, and Amine, he challenges his listeners with different themes with each of his new projects. He expresses tenderness, while flaunting the confidence to win freestyle competitions in Chicago, and opening for Wifisfuneral. Evy’s creativity is infectious, his lyriciscim is expansive, and he captures every emotion in what it means to be human.
Watch the new video for “Down Stream” below and get further acquainted with Erik Evy. Follow him on platforms as well to watch for updates.
California artist Ishmael has caught our attention for his track “Where to Now”, a soulful, introspective joint off his album The Way I See It. Ishmael is an artist from Porterville, California and he began crafting music at the young age of 14. After releasing a series of mixtapes and EP’s, he went on to found an independent label and perform at the likes of Private Wax Festival, The Getaway Fest, and more. Under his new label, Maelrose Records, Ishmael released his The Way I See It project, containing the standout track “Where to Now”.
Containing upbeat, refreshing production centred around reverby, warm soul samples layered atop organic sounding percussion. The beat contains an engaging swing and a fuzzy, throwback feel, recalling undertones of 9th Wonder’s early production. As an emcee, Ishmael sounds focused as he delivers introspective verses detailing overcoming obstacles and striving for more. It’s a relatable track that puts Ishmael’s pen game on center stage. Give “Where to Now” a listen below.
The Bronx’s Johnny VúDOE has come through with a fresh EP called 2pieceAAbiscuit. The 3-track project finds VúDOE flowing smoothly atop character-rich, dusty samples layered on psychedelic drum patterns. He shines as a lyricist, as he packs his verses with thoughtful and clever quips that beckon many re-winds from the listener to catch it all.
Coated with an enveloping warmth, the EP feels immersive, drawing one in further with each minute. In particular, “introducing” makes for a highlight with its grooving, textural bass-lines and lo-fi, grimy horns. It’s true-to-life music with a healthy dose of surrealism in its sound, and there’s a lot to be liked when it comes to the personality entrenched in VùDOE’s brief but potent 3-song project.
Connecticut artist Nick Rose has come through with a fresh video for his single “WANDERING”. While the single originally caught our attention for its vibrancy and genre-bending songwriting, the video expands upon its strengths even further- with colourful, fast-paced shots that capture the track’s vital energy, plus engaging storytelling to go with it. Capturing the song’s liveliness and subtle feeling of urgency, the video depicts a chase scene of Nick and a love interest, equipped with chaotic, psychedelic effects that add to its dizzying pace and layered sound.
Born Nicholas William Costantini, Nick Rose is a 22 year-old artist, songwriter, and producer from Connecticut, born in New Britain and raised in Plainville. Nick is the co-founder and creative director of his imprint DONT TRIP RECORDINGS LLC. Inspired by his personal tribulations and his love for popular culture, he has built an expansive discography of releases that flirt with hip-hop, alt-pop, dance, and more.
Check out Rose’s latest video for “WANDERING” below.
Austin-based Hip-hop duo Tribe Mafia are back with their new song “Reach For The Stars” The upbeat feel-good song is produced by Grammy-nominated Phil Lewis. “Reach For The Stars'” mood is carefree, energetic, and upbeat, with a pop/ electronic dance sound. Debuting on CW’s “All American”, this positive anthem about self-focus will resonate with a variety of listeners.
Tribe Mafia is comprised of longtime friends Chinasa Broxton and Carlos Moore. The duo came up in Austin, Texas underground circles, going from recording their songs in the bathroom of their high school to international touring. The group’s blend of contemporary rap styles came to life on their 2020 project Teepee Gang. With their incredible talent and undeniable energy, Tribe Mafia is quickly becoming one of the most exciting acts in music today.
Keep an eye on this dynamic duo as they continue to push the boundaries of hip hop and make waves with their engaging sound.
Take a listen to “Reach For The Stars” on all platforms HERE.
Brooklyn artist Shane, the Shaman has shared a new EP called Lifestyles Of The Young, Black, and Gifted, produced by Tenten. The potent, focused 4-song project finds Shane delivering pensive, sharply-crafted lyrics atop smoky, sample-based production. The instrumentals from Tenten creates a hazy, mysterious atmosphere and a feeling of depth that pairs cohesively with Shane’s thought-provoking lyrical style. His laid-back yet confident cadence draws the listener’s attention quickly, and on songs like “Right Place” he especially shines with sleek wordplay, while Tenten delivers a strong beat containing raw grooves and dusty percussion. “Ebony and Ivory” makes for an elegant track that slows down the pace and finishes the project on a high note, with swirling keys and textural horns that suit Shane’s vocal tone as he delivers some of his most potent lyrics on the EP.
Take a listen to Lifestyles Of The Young, Black, and Gifted below and further familiarize yourself with Shane, the Shaman.
Arkansas artist YB has delivered a fresh single called “Praying Hands”. With a style that can be best described as optimistic in tone and content, but hard-hitting and trap-based sonically, YB is an artist that has been keeping fans eyes glued to him with a flurry of poignant, powerful releases, and his latest, “PRAYING HANDS”, is no exception. The booming, expansive single employs a heavy, trunk-knocking rhythm section and ethereal, ominous keys to create a cathartic yet uplifting soundscape. YB himself shines with a fast-paced, razor sharp flow and focused mic presence that captivates from the get-go. The song demonstrates his skill as an emcee and mic control that set him apart alongside quick-witted lyricism and sleek production.
Take a listen to “PRAYING HANDS” here and connect with YB on social media for more.
Palm Beach’s music scene is heating up, thanks to the emergence of new talent like Jo$h Lee. This young artist has been working hard behind the scenes for several years, honing his sound and style to perfection. With the release of his latest single, “Dance 4 Me,” Jo$h Lee is finally starting to receive the recognition he deserves.
At just 1 minute and 17 seconds in length, “Dance 4 Me” is a short and sweet track that showcases Jo$h Lee’s ability to capture the emotional essence of a song. The seductive beat and captivating lyrics create an alluring atmosphere that leaves listeners wanting more. It’s no surprise that the song has quickly become a fan favorite, generating buzz on social media and catching the attention of music critics.
Jo$h Lee’s dedication to his craft is evident in every aspect of his work. He not only writes and performs his own music but also produces his tracks, allowing him to have complete creative control over his art. This attention to detail is also reflected in his live performances, where he brings an infectious energy that leaves the audience wanting more.
It’s clear that Jo$h Lee is a rising star to keep an eye on in the R&B genre. His ability to capture the emotional essence of a song in such a short track is a testament to his talent and dedication. With “Dance 4 Me,” he has proven that he’s ready to take the music industry by storm. Keep an eye out for Jo$h Lee, because he’s only just getting started.