Hyde ~ SEEDS

Sporting an impressive vocal range and a keen ear for focused production, Hyde’s debut EP is vulnerable, bright, and full of potential. Much of the songs on the EP feature Hyde’s signature high-pitched harmonies wielded calmly, as to keep from being too airy or atmospheric. Priding herself on being her own manager, Hyde is a multi-talented artist worth keeping tabs on going forward.

Ray Vaughn ~ Peer Pressure

With a barking delivery and tough-as-nails production, Ray Vaughn’s debut for Top Dawg Entertainment, the same label as Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and Isaiah Rashad, is explosive and attention-grabbing.

Two-Headed Deer ~ Music I Should’ve Released a Long Time Ago Pt. 1

With intricate instrumentation and a calm composition, Two-Headed Deer’s second streaming-services release is refreshing and easy to replay.

Elujay & HXNS ~ 1080p

With a flow as light as a cloud, Elujay’s romantic vocals swoon about a high-definition lover atop an up-tempo, engaging beat delivered by HXNS.

Ryal ~ Suit Yourself

Continuing a strong run of singles in 2021, Ryal dedicated this song to the relationships lost during the pandemic. Poignant as ever, the track will be helpful for many listeners that are looking for silver linings in a persistent pandemic.

Phantomelo ~ Space Prom

A toned-down, surf-rock ballad about experiencing climate change from space, Phantomelo’s new song is an endearing reminder that we can always take new perspectives on life.

Bicoastal ~ A Million Miles

Marking Bicoastal’s first single of 2021, “A Million Miles” is a bright re-introduction to the artist, a sprawling composition. The song sees Bicoastal gain confidence with his voice — instrumental proficiency has been a trademark of his music since the beginning.

Host Body ~ Every Night

Host Body’s debut single is aching and engaging, with lyrics about life passing them by. Masterfully mixed, “Every Night,” is a sign of compelling alt-rock music to come — tight guitar and drum sections breathe life into emotionally trying and well-delivered lyrics.

Syd & Smino ~ Right Track

Syd’s new album is about to be fire if she keeps this up. With the already-released love ballad “Fast Car” and now this smooth hip-hop tune with Smino, Syd is giving fans plenty of reasons to be excited about a new solo album

Ari Lennox ~ Pressure

Ari’s unstoppable on fast-tempo, bubbly tracks. “Pressure” is full of momentum and sings about Ari’s romantic preferences in a playful fashion. If she’s in album mode, we’re all about to be blessed.

Planet Giza ~ FTW

A brooding, dark track, “FTW” is a noble claim for Planet Giza, who are clearly tired of being called underrated.