indie underrated

Gray Hawken-GOLDEN STATE

Gray Hawken’s new single GOLDEN STATE is proof that he is a superstar in the making. Having cultivated a following as the soulful vocals behind hip hop hits for artists like Jack Harlow’s and Joyner Lucas, the Toronto based producer demonstrates his equal level of expertise in the songwriting department on this song. This song is a meditative, soulful piano ballad that is sure to soothe a downtrodden spirit. Gray’s angelic tenor is accompanied by soft upright piano and pad-like Hammond organ, for a soundscape that would be right at home in a James Blake or Bon Iver song. The 808s that come in near the second half of the song feel like a punch to the chest which match the longing, emotional lyrics.This blend of classic R&B songwriting and electronic production feels right at home in the playlist of any lover of left field pop music.

You can follow Gray on Instagram here. You can listen to this song on Spotify here.

Kowloon-Coasting

Kowloon carries on the chill R&B feel with his new single, Coasting. The Californian multi instrumentalist is renown for his funky grooves and this single is no exception. Breezy synth pads combine with a funk bassline and off kilter drums that bring to mind the beats of hip hop legend J Dilla. Kowloon’s vocals are boyish and layered with effects, with a pitched down sample in the hook that provides a particularly catchy melody. Kowloon’s lyrics speak to the anxiety of navigating relationships in the digital age, juxtaposing the upbeat yet mellow grooves well. Fans of artists like Thundercat and The Internet will appreciate the soulful feel, with an emphasis on vibe and texture. Using a plethora of vintage equipment and synthesizers, Kowloon recorded his debut album, Come Over, himself in his home studio. Such attention to detail can really be felt in the music.

You can listen to this track on Spotify here. You can follow Kowloon on Instagram here.

VANDALISBIN-Bottle of Wisdom

Rounding out this selection of tracks is VANDALISBIN’s new song “Bottle of Wisdom”. VANDALISBIN, the solo project of drummer and Jazz School alum Helena, steps out from behind the drum kit to deliver a heart wrenching indie rock banger. Her lyrics touch on various themes including love, anxiety and sexuality (her artist name is a combination of Vandalism and Lesbian), themes that many young people today will relate to. Artists like St. Vincent and Arctic Monkeys come to mind when describing the music. The influence of artists like Mitski and Hole are felt in the angsty guitar parts and driving bass line.

You can follow VANDALISBIN on Instagram here. You can listen to this track on Spotify here.