Banger’s Weekly Finds (Vol 6): Hidden Gems Of The Week

By: Chris Buxton // Instagram: @chrisbuxtonllg

Wolfe- “Faces”

I don’t think there’s a better feeling than finding a song that changes your whole mood in a positive way. Although Mondays can often be a pain, I came across a song that truly saved my day. That single comes from emerging Texas-bred singer-songwriter Wolfe. Known for his dynamic production and exceptional vocal range, Wolfe enters our pages with his latest single “Faces”. The record dives into the idea of feeling drawn to someone that isn’t good for your well-being. As people, I feel like we can all relate to certain aspects of this single. Over the song’s runtime, Wolfe takes listeners on a chaotic journey of excusing his bad decision to allow this person in his life due to personal imperfections that make him think it’s okay. Basically, the idea of the song is to show how two imperfect people blend together. With his comforting vocal tone and upbeat sonics, Wolfe shines. “Faces” is the perfect song to listen to with your windows down on a sunny summer day. I hope you enjoy one of my favorite recent finds.

Zoe Ko- “Rib Cage”

Vulnerable lyrics, firework vocals, and an ear-worm hook seem to be the recipe for success for singer-songwriter Zoe Ko. At only 22-years-old, Zoe has shined with her innate ability to craft infectious records that pull at her listener’s heartstrings. Although you can hear influences from artists like Olivia Rodrigo & UPSAHL, Zoe has a refreshing sound that I find raw and genuine. Her music has substance. Now, she enters our pages with her introspective new single “Rib Cage”. On her self-reflective single, Zoe comes to terms with the instability & hardships of her childhood, a realization that homesickness can often be found in a person. "Rib Cage" is heartbreaking with constantly building instrumentation that concludes with a strong emotional release from the ever-present tension. The harmonies & raw lyricism tie all of these ideas together. From a sonic standpoint, I loved the sonic arrangement & Zoe’s vocals were a gift from heaven. This is a single you want in your rotation.

Loser Company- “Vivarium”

Loser Company is a band that deserves to be in your playlist. With origins that trace back to a Metro-Detroit basement, their rise was anything but easy. From near death experiences to mental health issues, the group has formed a bond that has made them lifelong mates. That love and support has translated into their raw & genuine sound. The band is made up of its 3 members Mas Kihira, Will Saunders, & Shawn Stafford. Although I’m fairly new to their discography, the debut on our pages with their recent single “Vivarium”. “Vivarium” is the third single from their new album “The Floor”. The record is a grungy slacker rock anthem that brings back all the nostalgia of the late 90s & early 2000s. It has a cinematic feel that makes me feel safe. Sonically, I loved the percussion, warm instrumentation, and the vocals were exceptional. The added texture on the main vocals really took this home for me. I really got some hints of Nirvana & The Verve while listening to this. Overall, this is a must add. So, stream the single below along with the rest of the project.

Eleanor- “Former Friend”

Rising singer-songwriter, Eleanor, has the voice of an angel. The emerging R&B artist has a colorful sound carried by exceptional harmonies that represent the very best of modern R&B & Soul. Now, she releases her latest single “Former Friend”. Resonating in a more alternative and folk frequency, “Former Friend” is the latest preview from her forthcoming debut EP, “A Late Bloom”. Preluding her wistful new single, “Former Friend,” she explains that “Emotional intimacy requires surrender and interpersonal faith. When a relationship is unsuccessful, it can cause folks to break faith with themselves, as it is a personal choice to trust love in the first place.” Take a listen to the song below!

Lukas Delgra- “Stuck With Me”

Lukas Delgra has recently become my new guilty pleasure. Hailing from my home state of North Carolina, Delgra has been cultivating a dedicated fanbase locally. His sound can be described as alternative rock with light elements of folk with some pop undertones. Now, the Charlotte-native enters our pages with his debut single “Stuck With Me”. "Stuck With Me" is the first release off of his 4-song EP "The Struggle", and it’s a special record. It’s an acoustic masterclass that is a testament to his songwriting ability and exceptional vocal range. With his passionate vocals and ability to express his feelings, Delgra delivers a single that evokes raw emotions. Delgra has truly impressed me, and I can’t wait to hear the rest of his EP. Until then, stream the single below and vibe out!

Xar0- “I Don’t Want Her Love”

Hailing from Tampa, Florida, rising artist, Xar0, might be the next artist to blow. At only 17-years-old, he has listeners yearning for more releases. The kid has one of the most refined sounds to be so young. His vocal ability is exceptional, and he really surprised me with how mature his songwriting is. When I listen to his records, I hear elements of artists like Cuco, Clairo, & Spooky Black. This week, he enters our Hidden Gems list with his dreamy new single “I Don't Want Her Love”. The record is an anthem for the “lonely boys” and misunderstood. Laced with lush melodies, engaging synths, and dynamic production, Xar0 shines. At times, I wish the song was longer. Regardless, this song will definitely be on repeat.