Banger’s Weekly Finds (Vol 10): Hidden Gems Of The Week
By: Chris Buxton // Instagram: @chrisbuxtonllg
maxime. - “apartment402”
maxime. has been one of the most polarizing artists this year. After heading out on his 10-date headline tour across US/Canada, the rising singer-songwriter returns with his anthemic new single "apartment402". The single is off of his upcoming album "the life and death of a dog", and it is a dream-pop masterpiece. "apartment402" is nostalgic at its core, and it is carried by lush melodies, warm sonics, and an otherworldly hook that will make you reminisce all the good times in life. For me, I love the way the song develops sonically, and the robust and dynamic sound of the musical base are the perfect hook to catch your attention. So, stream the song below and add maxime. to your rotation. Berry Jones - “Atomic Bomb”
If you could take the very best elements of Frank Ocean & Steve Lacy, you would get rising singer-songwriter Berry Jones. With roots that trace back to my home state of North Carolina, Berry Jones has spent the last few years perfecting his sound in Los Angeles. The 21-year-old artist has this innate ability to craft relatable records that share his POV, and they serve as a reflection of his life experiences. His records are raw, and his lyrics evoke emotions that pull at listener's heartstrings. Now, he debuts on our pages with his single "Atomic Bomb". His latest record, "Atomic Bomb", is another testament to his maturity and exceptional ability as an artist. The record explores the complexities of love and heartbreak. Jones' melancholic melodies, soulful vocals, and poignant lyrics tell a compelling story of love's intense and explosive nature. "Atomic Bomb" captures the raw emotions of a tumultuous romance, drawing listeners into a world of passion and longing.Felicity Estelle - “Pity”
Felicity Estelle may be the industry's best kept secret. Hailing from Lynn, Massachusetts, the rising singer-songwriter has taken the industry by storm. Her blend of Pop & R&B has made her an artist to watch. After breaking onto the scene in 2022 with her single "P&C", she has continued to grow as a singer & songwriter. Now, she fully has our attention with her daring single "Pity". "Pity" is a vulnerable record that describes the desperation & fear of being alone. We all yearn for love at some capacity, and Felicity does an exceptional job in writing a single that conveys these feelings. Stream the single below!Tim Buds - “avalanche”
If you are a fan of artists like Jutes, Paris Shadows, & TITUS, then you will love the angsty sound of Tim Buds. Although he's relatively unknown, I consider him to be one of the industry's best kept secrets. Buds has immense talent. Personally, I would say his sound is an infectious blend of alt-rock with pop undertones. For those of you who are still wondering who Tim is, I present to you his latest single "avalanche". "avalanche" is a colorful record laced with dream-pop vocals over atmospheric sonics. Sonically, I loved the arrangement and progression of the production. His songwriting is exceptional, and his vocal texture was perfect. Overall, this is one my favorite songs of the week. Keilani Mai - “PROM NIGHT”
When it comes to music, there is a special high I get from finding records that take me back in time. As a writer, I'm always yearning to find timeless songs that allow me to re-experience the best moments of my life. Whether it's a song's production or the lyrics, the feel of being seen and connecting with an artist over something you both have experienced is a beautiful thing. Although it's hard to find records like this in an oversaturated industry, there are still artists that take pride in creating singles that truly take you there. This week, I came across emerging singer-songwriter Keilani Mai, and she debuts on our pages with her latest offering "PROM NIGHT". "PROM NIGHT" is an exceptional single that brings back all the nostalgia of Prom. Although it has been some time since I've gone to Prom, the record makes me feel youthful again. I haven't heard a record get stuck in my head like this in a long time. "PROM NIGHT" is infectious, and it makes me want to stay up all night and dance with my best friends. The record is wholesome and relatable to its core. David Rice - “Sumthin I Donno” ft. Taber Shy & Corey Smith
Although he is still finding is footing in the industry, David Rice is an artist that NEEDS to be in your rotation. Hailing from Las Vegas, Rice has built a dedicated following due to his innate ability to craft nostalgic hits that pull at your heartstrings. His music is intentional, and it is carried by synth-driven soundscapes and exceptional vocal delivery. After impressing me with his single "SOLO", he arrives on our pages with his intoxicating record "Sumthin I Donno" featuring Taber Shy. "Sumthin I Donno" is a must-listen for fans of pop and anyone looking for a dreamy song to listen to on late-night drives. Everything about this song is perfect. The vocal performances were sublime. In addition, Taber Shy's verse was a chef's kiss & Corey's guitar solo went crazy! Personally, their ethereal & wet vocals create a beautiful balance with their production. Overall, David Rice has become one of my acts to watch for this year. He has my attention, and he should have yours as well!