Des Plaines- Q Prodigal & DVNTBEATS

Buffalo rapper Q PRODIGAL and Chicago producer DVNTBEATS team up for their sonic offering Des Plaines. The five-track EP is sharp and soulful with feature appearances from J WADE, 500, JAY FOSTER, and BLAKE PARKER (formerly known as Blake Saint David.) DVNT and VIC ROSE took the honor of executive producing the EP, providing the realm for Prodigal to flex his lyrical abilities and display his growth as an artist. Q’s confidence feels natural and his delivery irresistible.

DVNT’s production builds a distinct atmosphere by using heavy vocal sample chops to create a timeless and living sound. There’s a feeling of solace and warmth that comes from the production, complementing the dynamic verses from both Q and the featured artists. Both Q Prodigal & DVNT released projects last year; The Wind Behind Me and This Is Not a Lofi Record. Des Plaines is a well-crafted, concise, and engaging EP that rewards more with each listen, proving that Q PRODIGAL and DVNTBEATS are a duo to keep an eye on in the future.

PASTIMES+ - Hadji Gaviota

New York native Hadji Gaviota returns with a deluxe version of his EP PASTIMES that dropped last year summer. Even with the addition of a few new songs, this project feels refreshed with in-depth textures of Gaviota unique approach to genre-blending.

“put the L in style!” is a song about growth and finding appreciation in the unforeseen future. His energy throughout the track provides comfort and guidance; This song would make you dance through the growing pains. His confidence exudes on “EN VOGUE” and “jawn cena!” solidifies his infectious delivery. Gaviota continues to build off the momentum of joyous indulgence as the eight-track project plays out. Go give this project a full listen to and tap in!

THEGUUDS w/ Swami Sound, Frank Sativa, Paris Michael, Quail P, & David Saint Val

Swami Sound & JOON - “Hope It Stays”

New York City native Swami Sound is changing the soundscape for the tristate. On his most recent single “Hope It Stays” featuring JOON, he’s in his own universe crafting the next evolution of music. The glitchy hi-hats and drums, submerged by synth chords created an introspective melodic drift that feels spacey but upbeat at the same time. With the use of blended alternative R&B and garage elements, his sonics come off as unprecedented. In 2020, Swami Sound dropped two projects titled It Is What It Is and Feel It Redux. We’re excited to see what’s pending for 2022.

Paris Michael - “TMZ”

Chicago-based rapper Paris Michael arrives with his latest single “TMZ.” The heavy 808’s supported by Michael’s jammed pack delivery provide the perfect to feel raged and invincible. Michael is steamrolling through this track with the use of braggadocious rhyme schemes and the energy to back it up if anyone dares to question him. Last year March, Michael released his debut project DIVA! DIVA! DIVA! embodying those same elements that perspire through his latest single. We’re hype to see what he has planned for the year!

Frank Sativa - “THAT’S MY GIRL”

LA-based artist Frank Sativa is providing soothing sounds with his latest offering BEDROOM FILES EP. Sativa has a way of meshing alternative sounds and hazy vocal arrangements that feels grounding as a listener. “THAT’S MY GIRL” stands out the most for us on his latest EP. There’s a nice nostalgic feel to it. A week before dropping his EP, he released a single “Runnin' Out Of Time” with emerging musician Tommy Richman. We’re excited to see what he has in the works for 2022.

David Saint Val - “Codependency”

Houston Texas native David Saint Val returns with his latest “Codependency.” This song embodies those traditional R&B elements with an refreshing twist on lofi production. On this track, Val is taking accountability for his past actions and through the use of soothing vocals arrangements, trying to move forward. The way Val paces himself throughout the song allows listeners to digest words and intonations. Last year, David Saint Val released a few singles and developing his sound.

Quail P ft. Taleban Dooda - "Street Appreciation”

Florida-based rapper Quail P is on the rise with his latest single “Street Appreciation.” He provides a comforting steadiness with his ballad-like anthem blended with relentlessness to break through the sonic cracks. On “Street Appreciation,” P is reflective of his journey and endurance as a black man growing up in The Sunshine State, while also displaying his admiration towards those moments of triumph. The strong piano presence establishes an open scope for him to clear his conscience. Last year March, Quail P released his debut project Who Is Quail ? and a bundle of singles right after. We’re looking forward to seeing what he has planned for 2022.

LISTEN HERE

THEGUUDS w/ Tommy Richman, Sedona, Sintoria, Keni Can Fly, THEHONESTGUY & MAR1ASOL

Tommy Richman - “Games”

VA-based artist Tommy Richman returns with his new single “Games.” The energy is prominent and pure as Richman reflects on his life and how taking a chance on yourself could change your life for the better. Produced by Richman and his ongoing collaborator cybertrash; The production feels like a journey into multi-dimensions filled with thumping drums and polish synth chord progressions. Richman’s ability to alter his voice provides the creative realm to adopt different emotions that feel warm and intuitive. Richman is pushing music forward and ascending his creative contributions.

Keni can fly - “mr. wednesday”

Keni kicks the year off with his latest soulful single “mr. wednesday” ft. WES. It’s the lazy flows and layers of inhaling and exhaling sounds in the background that creates the perfect track to add to your Cyph rotation. He has the perfect balance of melodies and witty lines that’s imposing enough to show he’s willing to blur lines for the sense of art. Last year, Keni dropped a three-track EP titled garden of earthly delights where he explore his genre-blending sounds featuring contributions from Sumit and Chris Emond. Looking forward to what’s next!

Sintoria - “Good Look”

LA-based Singer-songwriter Sintoria starts the year off with a few words of advice, on her latest single “Good Look.” Sintoria’s harmonies are reposeful as the contemporary production opens the realm for her to divulge emotions she usually tries to keep to herself. The production tampers with traditional jazz and molding elements of funk. Produced by frequent collaborator Kevin Holliday, when these two links up, listeners are destined to be captured. Last year, Sintoria featured on a few singles, and the year before featured on a few pivotal bodies of works for upcoming artist Hadji Gaviota and Kevin Holliday. We’re patiently waiting to see what Sintoria has in store for this year.

Sedona - “blue swivel chair”

Singer-songwriter Sedona dropped a self embracing project titled FISHBOWL last year November. The production is consistent and filled with tranquility. Holding no punches, she’s fully aware of what’s in store for her and willing to work for it. On “blue swivel Chair” Sedona goes back in forth between soothing harmonies and dense stanzas highlighting her divinely idea of where she sees herself in the future. A blue swivel chair usually represents success and the freedoms that come along with it. As Sedona explores her future endeavors, we’re here sitting patiently to see where she takes her art.

MAR1ASOL - “Rip These Moments”

Mar1asol’s vocals are gentle and her words are availing on her most recent single “Rip These Moments.” The trumpet arrangement at the end is such a nice touch over the contemporary neo-soul production. MAR1SOL hook arrangement is mesmerizing and satisfies those traditional groove elements.

Last year, the Argentina native released a few singles highlighting her effort to influence the evolving modern R&B we know today. We’re looking forward to what she has in the works for 2022.

THEHONESTGUY - “Can’t Wait”

Toronto-based singer-songwriter THEHONESTGUY recently dropped a sensual R&B single titled “Can’t Wait.” This song truly embodies those 90’s R&B elements most listeners hold onto dearly. On this track, he makes love feel hopeful and euphoric. Accompanied by the calming chords and sticky drum patterns, THEHONESTGUY displays his desires for his foreseeable love interest. Last year, THEHONESTGUY released an EP titled Love Songs For No One where he strengthens those traditional R&B elements and finds refreshing ways to display modern sonics.

LISTEN HERE

Raging Bull - Romeo+Juliet

NJ-based artist Romeo+Juliet is proving the powers of TikTok algorithms. A few weeks ago while scrolling on TikTok, I came across a video with the caption “Day 1738 of sharing my music until someone notices …” with a song playing in the background that’s hard not to acknowledge. I heard a fifteen-second clip and was instantly hooked to his wave. “NYC,” felt like a hazy soundtrack to walking around the city during gloomy hours. It still surprises me that this project came out last year in July and it’s just now getting the attention it deserves.

Raging Bull feels like the perfect score for an indie film. Nurturing in its core but forward-thinking sonically. The beat switches feel paced and unlock another layer of understanding. The words Romeo+Juliet uses are poetic, specific, and detailed in emotion.

“Dive Bar” is one of the many stand-out tracks from the project, centers around the blissful moments of vice indulgence. It sincerely feels like a conversation with a happy drunk (if that makes sense.) The guitar riffs and synth chords on “Coocoo” strike right to heart as Romeo+Juliet harmonizes against the production.

Listening to this project sincerely brought back nostalgic memories of discovering Frank Ocean’s early music. We’re looking forward to what’s next.

THEGUUDS// lamuse, Wakai, Rugby Wild & LUCA

lamuse - “Reddit”

NY-based rapper lamuse kicks off the year with her latest single “Reddit” featuring Dachelle. Lamuse has been honing in our sound and craft for the past couple of years with her solo work and also music alongside her collective thebaremax. On her latest single, she raps about the ins and outs of dating and the different perceptions of love that come to light as the relationship continues. Supported by the soothing vocals of Dachelle who zig zags out of different pockets on her verse, creating a divine spiral depicting the blissful attractions of courtship. Last year, lamuse dropped two EP’s months away from each other and is expected to drop her follow-up project weeks from now.

Wakai - “Send Off”

Baton Rouge artist Wakai commences the new year with his latest energized single “Send Off.” The track resonates with those good moments of hanging with your friends while driving your parent's car. Blasting the radio and fuckin up your parent's presets. Last year April, Wakai released Away Game Vol.2, which tampered around plush soul samples and lazy deliveries that creates a realm of zen-like. Looking forward to whatever he’s working on next.

LUCA - “Serotonin”

Harlem native LUCA dropped his single “Serotonin,” which displays a superb balance between modern R&B and alternative music. The hazy melodies, supported by the striking guitar riffs develop a unique sound, that feels subdued in heartache but smothered in reassurance. LUCA’s voice is comforting and visual on his self-produced track. This being LUCA’s only single, we’re looking forward to seeing where he takes his music for 2022. 

Rugby Wild - “Say What!”

LA-based rapper Rugby Wild dropped his latest sonic offering last year in December titled Thumbs Up. This project varies in sound and Wild’s delivery is refreshing. The cool thing about the project is it's hard to lay a finger on where Wild gets his inspiration from. The production zig-zags between calming samples and punching trap drums highlight his ability to balance classic and modern hip-hop elements. “Say What!” is one of the standout tracks from the body of work, Wild explains his perseverance to defeat the odds against him. With the use of flawless tonality and emotion-driven lyricism, he’s positioning himself to push the creative envelope further. 

Follow and listen to the full playlist!!

Marinade - Bad With Phones

South East London native Bad With Phones continues to embark on his creative expressions with his project Marinadereleased last year October. The neo-gospel elements infused with alternative R&B and afrobeat essentials create the perfect soundtrack for undiscovered rapturous. The project feels like the transition from summer into fall. At times, the production feels bright and joyous, while maintaining the consistency of evolving layers.

“Monica,” ignite a slight interpolation of Drake’s “Headlines” off of Take Care; with the calming repetitiveness of “they know, they know, they know.”

“Symmtry” being one of the standout tracks is comforting during a psychedelic experience. There’s a consistent feel of things will be alright, despite the enteral dysfunction. The funk and light synth elements place listeners with a euphoric encounter.

There’s a slight influence from Outkast’s *Speakeerboxxx/ The Love Below* that is prevalent on *Marinade.* It’s the tonality of Andre 3000 and the gregarious of Big Boi that seeps through Bad With Phones on the tracks in an honorary way. The project feels like a beautiful expedition through various sounds as Bad With Phones finds their way back to the surface.

THEGUUDS/// Kevin Holliday, MALI AMA , Thorne Malik. and many more

Kevin Holliday - “Expensive Taste”

Brooklyn-based artist Kevin Holliday starts the year off with his latest single “Expensive Taste,” shy of a few months from his OMNI EP. On “Expensive Taste,” Holliday is fully immersed in the 80s universe with modern textures that push forward distinctive grove elements. Produced alongside his collaborators Chasen Smith and Keizo Fish, the production shows admiration towards Quincy Jones's prominent years. Holliday’s vocals layered on top of subdued synth chords feel like the perfect matrimony for peace of mind. The overlapping arrangement towards the end set the tone for this optimistic feel, despite the forthcoming delusion that fame and fortune could potentially bring. At the end of the day, “It’s okay, it’s alright.” Keep your ears open for what Kevin Holliday drops next.

Mali AMA - “Not You”

ATL-based singer-songwriter MALI AMA recently dropped her latest single “Not You” right before the new year. AMA soothing harmonies create an angelic interspace between her and the plush-like production. Last year October, AMA dropped her debut project How The Cookie Crumbled; which set a precedent for her balance between traditional and experimental R&B. Looking forward to hearing more music as the year continues!

Thorne Malik. - “ego dea(t)h”

New York-based artist/producer Thorne Malik. dropped his debut project now wha(t)?! a few weeks before the new year set in. Malik.’s debut project exudes hopefulness and the blissful understanding that tomorrow is not guaranteed. His song “ego dea(t)h” is one of the stand-out tracks from the project. He finds a balance between his dense delivery and mesmerizing melodies that create an open field for him to reflect on the past years leading up to his debut. In addition, all tracks were self-produced. Keep your ears open for what’s nex(t). 

BPM - V. Cartier

Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and producer V. Cartier recently dropped his latest sonic offering BPM. It’s impossible to sit still and listen to this project. Cartier provides a refreshing approach to alternative pop and experimental R&B. “What You Want” demonstrates his funk influences and ability to incorporate deep house tempos. 

This project provides different synopsis of seeking courtship in efforts for experience, not forevermore. On songs like “ONS” and “Gonna Do” illustrates his confidence, while songs like “Call Me” and “Westside” reveal his unassertiveness. Throughout the project, Cartier finds a well-meshed balance between the two. There’s something truly special about the slowdown version of “Tempo.” 

Spoiled Milk! - Fifthpower

New York-based rapper and well-rounded creative Fifthpower dropped his latest project Spoiled Milk! This project takes listeners into an alternative universe filled with heavy 808’s and whimsical chord progressions that sets the perfect environment for Fifthpower to deliver his thoughts without any filter. On “Wsp 2.0,” Fifthpower is talking his shit effortlessly while being supported by punching 808’s that forces listeners to bounce along.

The project is fully produced by his long-time collaborator Kahlil Blu; these two are the perfect duo. The gritty drums and muffled looped sample on “IV.PC” embody 90’s underground rap and modern lo-fi. The back and forth lyrical exchange between Fifthpower and Kahlil Blu feels like those Hip Hop concerts at the neighborhood park our parents would brag about. In addition to making music, Fifthpower also creates some dope art!

THEGUUDS// Dedisart, Yaya Bey & more !

“LAST DANCE/S.O.S.” - Dedisart

PA based artist Dedisart is back with his latest offering WHATABOUTIT? Supported by enriched production from FULF, demahjae, kypat, and killerkane; Dedisart is provided the realm to explore and unpack his muse willfully. One of the many stand out tracks would be “LAST DANCE / S.O.S.” Dedisart embrace the concept of timeless thinking and not being confined to current moments. The soothing chopped sample bearing the reminisce of being a child is the sugarcoating of the harsh reality that the future not guaranteed. His tone and delivery is potent, which makes his message pierce through with ease. Earlier this year, Dedisart dropped Dunce Parade along side producer McQUAID. 

“ made this on the spot” - Yaya Bey & V.C.R.
Singer-songwriter Yaya Bey shares a new song titled “made this on the spot,” featuring violinist V.C.R. The impromptu aesthetic lure listeners into an angelic care package for accepting the absence of a past relationship. Bey is reflecting on the red flags and taking ownership of her actions as well. Bey’s subdued vocal arrangements embodies the comfort in knowing everything is for the better. “You got a friend in me” is repeated throughout the song , demonstrating her maturity and genuineness with the outcome. Earlier this year , Bey released a project called The Things I Can’t Take With Me.

Beautifully Black - LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON

Charlotte based rapper LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON released his latest offering Beautifully Black, executive produced by Navy Blue. Ogbon’s jam packed delivery over Blue’s mercurial loops feels like a poetic fairytale through a non pictorial lenses. His stanza’s vary between great story telling and rhetorical expressions. The production feels whimsical and dystopian.

The opening track “The Missing Link/The Sneaky Link,” Ogbon’s power raps through his pondered convictions, while gracefully transitioning into his appreciation towards the past and present.

LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON is establishing himself as a prominent figure in hip hop and confidently going against the grain to display his authenticity. 

Poster Girl - Talia Goddess

New York based multi-talented artist Talia Goddess recently released her debut project  Poster Girl. The 19-year-old self taught producer , singer , songwriter and creative community leader continues to break barriers and transcend her spectrum of creative mediums.

Goddess refuses to be confined by industry standards and her determination to do so exudes through her debut project.

Goddess has an honest but incongruous approach to her production and arrangements. On “4U,” Goddess is aware of what she brings to the table. In addition, the drums are so funky and sticky; the mesh between her vocals and the production resemble a saturated lava lamp. 

Through her lenses of free range, Goddess welcomes her audience into a deeper realm of her sonic contributions to the world. The titled track “Poster Girl” is a perfect example; You’re in a constant phase of transition. On “Never Wanna Fall“ Goddess finds a balance between reggae and modern R&B. The last track on the project resonates the most; her voice is soothing and nurturing in the sense of acceptance. Acknowledging that things have changed but still wishing that you could wander off into “Fantasy” like nothing happen is what we all dream for sometimes. 

Leading up to her debut project , she released a few singles , appeared in a Tommy Jeans campaign , remixed multiple tracks , hosted producing workshops through her company and managed to DJ multiple events around the city. Talia Goddess is paving out her own lane and the anticipation to see what she creates next is worth the attention. 

“We Like Being Anonymous” -Doublethink Interview

Finding music organically is impossible nowadays. With all the curator influenced playlist flooding social media and the overly saturated music blogs, it feels like a quest to discover new emerging artists without propaganda surrounding them. Earlier this year, peak pandemic, while blindly surfing Soundcloud, I came across an emerging faceless duo named Doublethink. The beautiful thing about the duo is the cloak-and-dagger energy that surrounds them. There’s barely any images of the duo online which force listeners to heavily depend on their music to capture a glimpse of their reality. 

Living Drones” was my first encounter with the mysterious duo based in NY and Bali. The track embodies funkadelic elements with pop-ish delicacies sprinkled on top. Like many of their tracks, it feels like a plot twist. While their songs encourage listeners to strike a dance move, the underlying message of their song ignites thought. Their sound resembles Daft Punk in the most admirable ways- hiding their identities and allowing their effervescent synth chords to paint a passage. 

“We like being anonymous”

Their upcoming single “I Find God,” embodies the duo’s soul purpose of creating music that’ll make you tap your foot while becoming engulfed by their underlying message. The track sends listeners on an adventure of blissful distress and immaterial beatitude. The song tells a story about a young man who battles with paranoia and seeks spiritual guidance as his world is on the verge of crippling. The duo’s production and dense stanzas heighten those internal emotions of unsteadiness that builds up throughout the song. 

As year is coming to an end, the duo is just getting started. With new music on the way in efforts to build anticipation for the debut project , Doublethink is carving out a lane with their experimental and stimulating sonic offerings. 

Our conversation, lightly edited for content and clarity, follows below.

How did you meet?

We met on Soundcloud about seven years ago but we didn’t actually meet in person till a few years later. Being on opposite sides of the world , the internet sorta brought us together.

How would you describe your first time meeting each other?

We met for the first time in 2019 in Amman, Jordan after five years of sending each other music back and forth. One of us was working over there already, so decided to meet up halfway. It felt organic and destined that we were finally going to be in the same place and at the same time.

Do you remember the name of the first track ? 

Oh man, off the top to my head , no but the thing with our music , songs never end the way they start. 

How would you describe your creative process ?

Being in two different time zones , we’ve developed a system over the years. Now that I'm in Bali, when it's morning here, it's night time in New York and when it's night time in Bali, it’s morning time there. 

(####) would record a bunch of demos and I'll go through them all and start building on the ones that resonate the most. We try not to force anything. 

Did the pandemic disrupt that process?

Truthfully, prior to the pandemic happening, we sorta took an unacknowledged hiatus. We both were experiencing these transitional phases in our lives. We still would create on our off time and would send music back and forth but didn't post anything on music platforms. As bad as the pandemic was, I also view it as a silver lining… it made the world and including us, sit still.  

What’s the meaning behind Doublethink?

In 1984, Orwell used the term Doublethink to explain how a hive mind can make people believe that 2+2=5 even though it counters everything they know. Doublethink is a take on that, we talk about the hypocrisy of it all. It’s also a kitschy name for a duo though ain’t it?

I feel like the music you make correlates with your name.  “I Find God” is one of those tracks; The production embodies a dance track but the lyrics hold a deeper message

Just as you get used to the pop structure, the song flips a 180 into ethereal synths; It’s disorienting. The song is about our main character finding god as their world comes crashing down. The verses display the character’s paranoia and nightmares coming to reality as police raid his home. Our character sees visions of his family, while peaking through the floorboard and finding god in his freedom. All of this is happening over some poppy synths and basses, which feels disconnected but it's intentional. 

Cont’d - “Bombs are hitting Yemen, send Lockheed to The Hague” sounds like euphoria; that dissonance is the message. On first listen, it’s a chill jam but on second listen it’s an apocalyptic story of fear and faith in god. The idea was inspired by Radiohead’s lyrical imagery on OK Computer, but we wanted a meandering futuristic sound and vision to set our journey. You can think of it as a chapter in a book, a piece of the story.

Is maintaining your anonymity a piece of your story or music?

It’s music first, and that’s why we value anonymity. At the same time we think it speaks to the message, somebody hiding from the world around them. Not that we’re hiding but it builds a universe around the messages in our songs. I can remember the allure of mystery around the Weekend, the clues dropped around to find him, the blogs trying to find him. You may find us but I don’t think it matters. 

THEGUUDS// Demetruest, Steel Tipped Dove, Lou Val and more

Demetruest- “MASC OFF” feat. Teddy Jackson and Akenya

Chicago based artist Demetruest dropped their latest single “MASC OFF” featuring Teddy Jackson and Akenya. The effusive production creates the realm for all artist to deliver their verbal offerings towards denouncing gender roles in society. Demetruest stands in their truth and encourages others to stop hiding behind the mask of preconceived notion’s. Demetruest’s deliver is dense; It aggrandizes their message as the track progresses. Early this year , they dropped DIRECTION EP, which was the second installment to their EP trilogy. 

Steel Tipped Dove - “Don’t Move” feat. Fat Tony, FIELDED and Pink Siifu.

Brooklyn based producer Steel Tipped Dove recently dropped a projected titled Call Me When You’re Outside featuring the likes of billy woods, E L U C I D , Fatboi Shariff, keiyaA , Shirt and many more. One of the tracks that stand out the most is “Don’t Move” featuring Fat Tony, FIELDED and Pink Siifu. Like many of the tracks off the project, it feels like a collage of opulent apprehension. The pacing of the beat is mellow and gaze worthy ; which creates the perfect orbit for Fat Tony and Pink Siifu to talk their shit , while being supported by FIELDED harmonies. Steel Tipped Dove is all about community and connecting artist. His 2nd floor walk-up studio in Brooklyn is iconic .

Lou Val - “Sublunary du Son”

Toronto based singer/songwriter Lou Val is reinforcing the constant evolving alternative R&B sound with his song “Sublunary du Son” off of his project Tayo and The Dreamer.  The instrumentation starts off light; the dusty drums meshes well with Val’s gentle thrumming vocals. This track is a journey towards hopefulness and seeks solace in tomorrow. Val’s voice is soothing and enhances those moments of zen throughout the song. His traditional elements are outshined by his free spirited inference.

THEGUUDS// Ginga Soul, KADOLEAF, Tyler Langley, Native Son and more

Ginga Soul - “Nostalgia”

Miami based neo-soul artist Ginga Soul recently dropped a six-track EP titled On My Mind. The project paints a warm and fuzzy feeling about discovering love and the lustful feelings that come along with it. “Nostalgia” featuring Näylon is one of the few stand out tracks from Soul’s musical offering. Their voices compliment each other perfectly and the melodies are comforting. 

KADOLEAF - “Berlin”

VA songwriter/producer KADOLEAF  dropped his latest single “Berlin.” Building off the same sonic textures from his EP Popmonstre released last July. KADOLEAF blur the lines between pop and alt R&B in the most harmonious way. His relentless effort of not falling victim to the current popular sounds of today is prevalent. “Berlin” feels like a montage of good and bad moments during a vacation with a significant other. The drums create the feeling of being on-the-go while, the subtle  Mac Demarco-ish strings keep you grounded for the adventure. KADOLEAF is constantly experimenting with sounds which makes it impossible to predict which direction he’ll go next. 

Tyler Langley - “ROCKFORD”

R&B singer Tyler Langley returns with her follow up project Almost There. The 20-min body of work consists of memorable melodies and smothering 808s that make you sink into Langley’s benign voice. “ROCKFORD” is one of the many tracks that highlights Langley’s growth as a vocalist since her 2020 album Return to Saturn. With a slower tempo, Langley is given the space to interchange melodies and rhyme patterns with fluency. 

Native Son - “Ctrl Freak”

NY based artist Native Son aka Ano Chrispin returns with his first single “Ctrl Freak,” which would be featured on his upcoming EP slated to drop next year. This track exudes punk ; undiluted punk in the most purest delivery. Son’s ability to tap into contemporary and modern post rock is second to none. The production is chaotic and intense; feels like one of those cool car chase scenes from a 70’s film.

THEGUUDS playlist is updated bi-weekly. Check out the other wonderful artist on this weeks playlist and hope to see you in two weeks !
THEGUUDS playlist

Bicoastal - Bathe

Brooklyn based R&B duo Bathe (composed of Devin Hobdy and Corey Smith-West) guides us through a peaceful transition from summer into fall with their latest project Bicoastal. This project embodies the feeling of hoodie weather music. Their approach towards ambient alt R&B is distinct and comforting. The duo is not afraid to blur genre lines while still keeping to their core.

Rounding off at 25-minutes, the duos maturity and growth is evident. They are beyond pouring their hearts out on the basketball court in feetal position. Both are yearning for something deeper than a summer fling and coming to terms with the depleting effects of settling. 

The title track “Bicoastal” is transcending. The soothing vocals supported by the heavy traditional rnb production; it’s clear that the emerging musicians appreciate the greats before them. This shit feel like Maxwell’s BLACKsummers’night infused with Frank Ocean Blonde. 

Their chemistry goes unmatched. Hobdy’s vocals supported by Smith-West loose but steady guitar arrangements delivers a divine path of tranquility. 

This project makes listeners take a step back and look at what’s around them. It’s easy to get caught up in the superficials of life and forget what’s important; life itself. Allowing gravitational pull to be the force beneath strong bass lines and astronomical layers to fill in those moments of silence.

LOOK CLOSELY - Hush Forte

Producer, songwriter and instrumentalist Hush Forte dropped his latest album LOOK CLOSELY. The tape is consistent in the most generous ways. Rounding at 40-min duration , filled with prodigious guitar riffs that revives alternative soundscapes and melodies. Forte’s production displays inspiration from the 1970’s Jazz infusion band Weather Report and glimpses of Stevie Wonders 1980’s classic Hotter Than July. 

What sticks out the most is his drum textures. His drums are smothered behind different chord variations but, the presence is still prevalent; not overbearing. 

The 11-track offering features Love Mansuy, Saint Lyor, Q, and more. The rugged chord progressions and falsettos on “YOU UNDERSTAND” featuring Q resembles The Parliament. This being their second track together since “summer girls;” when these two team up, stand out moments are guaranteed.

On “GREATEST FAULT,” Forte summaries the process of facing the truth. What happens in the dark will eventually come to light , or you eventually become the darkness. 

“The shadows never leave his feet“

Hush Forte is pushing creative boundaries. He finds comfort between contemporary and modern R&B . While at the same time he’s not your typical R&B artist, so expect the unexpected. 

Red Hand Akimbo - Paris Texas

LA based rap duo ParisTexas dropped their latest EP Red Hand Akimbo. Production ranging from 80’s punk rock to hip hop with punching fuzzy word vomiting that establishes the duo’s genre bending efforts. 

Escorted by grinding guitars and intensifying vocal hollowing, the duo holds no punches with their follow up to their debut BOY ANONYMOUS released six months ago. Building off of their rock appreciation from the previous work , the energy doesn’t die. Red Hand Akimbo is an refreshing approach to hip hop and embraces shapeshifting genres with songs like “BULLSEYE” , co-produced by Kenny Beats. This track goes from rock to Lofi rap with grace. There pieces of their sound that resembles N.E.R.D, especially on “girls like drugs.” The striking guitar in the beginning feels nostalgic to “rockstar.” 

The 5-track EP ends with a spooky epilogue that pokes fun at Cardi B’s summer smash “Up,” highlighting the duos effort of having fun while creating denser art. ParisTexas will soon be household names , tap in while it’s still early!

THEGUUDS: Flozigg, Tommy Richman, Ego Ella May, boylife and more

Flozigg - “serious”

FL based R&B singer Flozigg recently dropped an EP titled Beige. His neo-soul influence exudes throughout the 12-min body of work. “Serious” being one of the stand out tracks ; tailored in cohesive falsettos that ignites nostalgia. There’s a slight resemblance of Prince and Childish Gambio’s Awaken My Love era. His unorthodox approach to alternative rnb is refreshing and necessary.

boylife- “superpretty”

boylife, aka gelato, recently dropped his latest introspective project titled Gelato. This project takes a dense focus on facing vices and insecurities, while finding the ability to dance through the growing pains of life. It’s hard to pin down the production intentions because it spirals through multiple sounds with suave. Half of the project is added on my personal playlist but the track “superpretty” stands out the most to me.

Ego Ella May & Flwr Chlyd - “Speck Of Dust”

South London singer Ego Ella May and Atlanta producer Flwr Chlyd teamed up for their latest soulful single “Speck Of Dust.” May’s soothing voice is distinct and absolving over Chlyd’s chord progressions. The arrangement paints abstraction from reality. May’s harmonies over Chyld ‘s puddy-like percussion in the beginning feels plush and angelic. These two mesh together so perfectly and balance each other out sonically. Ego recently dropped an project titled FIELDNOTES, a solid collection of four songs.

Tommy Richman - “Stargirl”

RVA artist Tommy Richman recently dropped his latest single “Stargirl,” fcontinuing his freeform synth progressions, retroactive drum patterns and hollowing vocals wrapped in velour textures. Richman’s effort of pushing genre boundaries is clear-cut. Definitely a dope follow up to his single “Chrono Trigger” released last month September. 

THEGUUDS playlist is updated bi-weekly. Check out the other wonderful artist on this weeks playlist and hope to see you in two weeks !
THEGUUDS playlist