THEGUUDS w/ LĒA THE LEOX, Amaya Santos, House of EL, Hadji Gaviota, Ashoka & femdot.
LĒA THE LEOX - “Purpose”
Lea the LEOX is a Los Angeles-based acoustic R&B singer whose latest single "Purpose" is a reflection of her self-discovery journey. The gentle, intricate string arrangements create a dreamy atmosphere that perfectly complements Lea's soulful vocals. In "Purpose," Lea sings about accepting and embracing herself, realizing that her purpose in life is not just about achieving accolades, but rather stems from a deeper sense of love and connection with her family. The single is the second and title track of Lea's highly anticipated debut EP, also titled "Purpose." Her first single "When You're Lonely," released in January, gives listeners a glimpse into the introspective and emotional world of her music. With her heartfelt lyrics and smooth melodies, Lea the LEOX is definitely an artist to watch in the world of acoustic R&B.
Amaya Santos - “Better”
Amaya Santos, a talented artist based in New York, has released a powerful song called "Better" that encourages listeners to let go of toxic relationships and prioritize self-love and self-care. Her vocal performance on this track is exceptional, with a soulful depth and silky smoothness that soothes the soul and inspires listeners to shed negativity from their lives. The production of "Better" is a beautiful blend of old-school R&B and modern pop elements. The drums provide a steady, strong beat that carries the song forward, while the instrumentation is both nostalgic and fresh. The melody is catchy, and the lyrics are relatable, making it a perfect singalong for anyone who has ever had to cut ties with someone who brought them down. Santos' voice can be compared to a flowing river that effortlessly carries the listener away, while the drums in the production can be likened to a beating heart that steadily pushes the song forward. "Better" is an exceptional track that showcases Santos' impressive vocal abilities and songwriting skills. Last year, Amaya Santos released two singles “Carousel” and “Dance with Danger.” We’re excited to see what else she has planned for the year!
House of EL - “Electric”
House of EL, an artist hailing from Northampton and also known as Kieron McIntosh, has shown his versatility and creativity by exploring new avenues of musical expression, including singing, songwriting, and production. His latest EP, titled "When It Rains It Pours," ensures a sonic journey that builds on his jazz and soul influences. One of the EP's standout tracks is "Electric," which blends jazz and soul elements into a simmering sonic stew. McIntosh's falsetto vocals glide over a melodic groove that is nothing short of irresistible, like the sun breaking through storm clouds on a summer afternoon. Layered percussion and woozy undertones add texture and depth to the track, creating a lush sonic landscape that invites listeners to immerse themselves in the music. With "When It Rains It Pours," McIntosh is poised to showcase his exceptional musicality and remind us of the power of music to transport and uplift us.
Ashoka & femdot. - “Questions”
Ashoka, a talented musician hailing from New York, has teamed up with femdot. for their latest musical project - a powerful collaboration entitled "Questions." On their latest track, Ashoka explores the internal battles between anxiety and depression, while using an lens of storytelling to present what’s been weighing heavy on his heart. Produced by the renowned Lucas Quinn, who has previously worked with Russ, the single channels a classic Alt-Hip Hop sound that takes cues from early-mid 2000s rap. Ashoka's unique delivery, characterized by his rhythmic cadence and introspective lyrics, shines on "Questions," making it a standout track in his repertoire. femdot., a rising star from Chicago who recently impressed audiences with his COLORS performance, adds to the song's appeal with his distinct style. His words are precise and short but, gets his point across thoroughly. In 2020, Ashoka dropped his debut album Through the Fire , which serves as a testament of Askoka’s evolving sound and growth as an musician. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the year.
Hadji Gaviota - “boi”
Hadji Gaviota, a Queens NY native, has just released his latest single "Boi," showcasing his exceptional musical talent once again. The track features a vibrant and upbeat pop production, perfectly complementing Hadji's smooth and infectious vocals. With his distinct delivery style and impressive vocal range, Hadji effortlessly glides over the bouncy production, bringing the song to life. Frequent listeners will recognize his trademark humor and lightheartedness in the lyrics, making "Boi" a playful and enjoyable listen. As with his previous releases, it's highly likely that an accompanying music video will also be released, showcasing Hadji's dynamic visual flair. Hadji is expected to drop a new project that continues to highlight his musical abilities and charismatic personality.
Written by: Kha Akerson
My Abstract Mental by Eimizah
Starting the year off strong singer/songwriter Eimizah has blessed the neo-soul scene with her sophomore EP My Abstract Mental.
Written by: Dakota Thomas
Starting the year off strong singer/songwriter Eimizah has blessed the neo-soul scene with her sophomore EP My Abstract Mental. For the past two years, the La-based artist has been cementing a name for herself with singles like “Teleport Me,” “Divine Feminine,” and her debut EP A Rose From E.If her name sounds familiar she was also featured on Flozigg’s “Inner Piece,” from his sophomore EP Beige. Eimizah’s most recent effort My Abstract Mental is a beautiful conflation of neo-soul and pop melodies woven together with Eimizah’s melodic storytelling and lyricism. Through the 8-song tracklist, we are brought into Eimizah’s mind, specifically her thoughts as she goes through the motions of pursuing love, sex, and passion in Los Angeles. The 18-minute project is the beautiful story of an underdog chasing their dreams while also trying to protect their peace with the occasional bottle of Moscato.
On the 3rd track “Silver Linings,” Eimizah ruminates about her place in life singing “My dreams feel like they're hiding sometimes peeking, know what I want but still feel like what am I seeking?” Eimizah’s lyrics are laced with vulnerability and poetic wordplay as she navigates the doubt that comes with being an artist. On “Basquiat,” named after the late artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, Eimizah references the late rapper and poet Tupac Shakur’s famous poem The Rose That Grew From Concrete. “It’s like 3,000 degrees feel like an outcast, the rose blooming from concrete but sometimes still mad.” The title of the song and reference to one of the greatest rappers ever makes it clear that My Abstract Mental is a love letter and celebration of black artists and black art. Emizah’s vocals are home to artists trying to find themselves and their passion. My Abstract Mental is for the roses sprouting through concrete, with her vocals Eimizah tells us about the rain that dims our pedals but also prepares us for the sun that is to come.
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.
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.
Marinade - Bad With Phones
South East London native Bad With Phones continues to embark on his creative expressions with his project *Marinade* released last year October. The neo-gospel elements infused with alternative R&B and afrobeat essentials create the perfect soundtrack for undiscovered rapturous.
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.
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.
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.
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// 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.
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.
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.