THEGUUDS w/ Cyan, Malik Elijah, Illusion Hills, Skodi & Keys Open Doors
Keys Open Doors - “Sip N Slide”
Hilltop, Washington native Keys Open Doors dropped his latest groovy single “Sip N Slide.”His vocals are bright and dreamy, creating a comforting setting as he unpacks on a relationship that may have a chance to continue on. The blended west coast chords with neo-soul essentials suit perfectly for Keys to have fun with his writing. Poking fun at the situation by making marvel references and flirtatious warning as “try not to lose your mind.” Keys is in his world and listeners should be grateful to experience a glimpse of his sonic endeavors. In 2021, Keys Open Doors released two EPs, Northwest Approval and Fool’s Journey. Our eyes are glued to what’s next to come from Keys.
ILLUSION HILLS ft ALDRCH - “CHASM”
Collective Illusion Hills recently teamed up with Aldrch for their latest sonic offering “Chasm.” This song sets an empowering tone for steamrolling through the changes life brings you. The writing is direct and drives the feeling of the song. Produced by 21-year-old Aldrch; The high distortion levels and striking guitar riffs add to the group's endless sound spectrum. Consisting of eight members, the group’s prestige is finding a well-balanced groove so each member could flex their creative skills. On their latest single, the collective is embracing their hyper-pop side confidently. Last April, the group released their single “genesis” and the month before that, they opened up for KennyHoopla. We’re excited about what else the collective has planned for this year.
Skodi - “1984”
FL native Skodi returns with her latest single “1984.” On her latest single, Skodi is done playing games and stepping in her own. The hook gets straight to the point. As if what she’s saying is a promise, not a threat; which is dope af. Her cadence and flow add an extra bounce to the production provided by HeavyKev. The hushed 808s and steady high hats hold the song together effortlessly. This track serves as a soundtrack for steamrolling through your haters and self-doubt. The hook is catchy and gets right to the point. Last March she released the single “RACE!,” and we heard it through the grapevine that she’s planning on releasing a new project within the next coming weeks.
Cyan - “Costing”
UK R&B artist Cyan recently dropped her latest single “Costing.” This song is refreshing and nostalgic at the same time. Cyan’s tonality paints a vivid silhouette against her heartfelt writing; it feels personal and therapeutic for her to get it on paper. The harmonies are alluring and gracefully lead listeners to a place of appreciation. The production plays a great part in the arrangement. The soundscapes blend modern and 2000’s R&B with Reggae, as if it’s an experiment that never fails. It legit feels like Timberland’s and Pharrell’s doppelgängers had something to prove and wanted to provide a twist. The sticky snares, the four-count into the song, and airy chords provide the perfect canvas for Cyan to fully present her talent with no interruptions. Earlier this year, Cyan released “DWYW.” Definitely excited for what she has in store for the year.
Malik Elijah - “DONTPLAY”
Maryland native Malik Elijah returns with his latest single “DONTPLAY.” On his latest offering, Elijah exudes confidence and displays his lyrical abilities at a high level. His pacing and voice inflictions highlight his comfortability in his practice. What’s dope about Elijah’s writing is there’s a message he’s trying to get across but it doesn’t feel preachy. He speaks about the preciousness of life and how we need to live every day like it’s our last because life is short. The whimsical sample and ear-punching kicks suit well with his cadence and delivery. Earlier this year, Malik Elijah opened up for EARTHGANG and released a few singles along the way. We’re excited for what he has in the works.
Ajna - “Lifelines”
LA-based artist Ajna returns with his latest single “Lifelines.” The bright jazzy production provides a safe space for Ajna to reflect on his current schedule of life and ambition to overcome the obstacles that try to deter him from his goals. On his latest sonic offering, he speaks about deciding to better himself and go harder for what he wants in life. His delivery is compelling and makes his words feel like a mantra. The metaphors that bleed through his pen are poetic and allow listeners to make their interpretations. Last month, Ajna released “Fall So Short” and is expected to drop a new project this summer.
