Banger’s Weekly Finds (Vol 9): Hidden Gems Of The Week
By: Chris Buxton // Instagram: @chrisbuxtonllg
Tyler Miller- “SHINING”
Love is a feeling that we all yearn to experience in life. As people, regardless of what we say, we all want to feel wanted and taken care of. When it comes to relationships, it's beautiful when both people commit to loving each other unconditionally. However, when love isn't reciprocated from one party, this feeling can feel like the sharpest knife in the back. The feeling of loving someone that doesn't feel the same can be the most painful thing someone can experience. On his latest single "SHINING", 21-year-old singer-songwriter, Tyler Miller, pens a pop ballad about unrequited love. With alt-pop elements mixed with his exceptional vocal performance, he tells a story of his best friend breaking his heart. His emotive lyrics are laced with imagery that details the pain that came from this situation. Overall, this is one of the first songs I have felt connected to in a long time. It is raw, real, & intentional.Makeda- “Come Over”
With roots that trace back to Washington, D.C., rising Ethiopian American singer, Makeda, is an artist that deserves your attention. She has one of the strongest voices out, and her vocal tone is otherworldly. Makeda's voice is an instrument of its own, and she uses it to craft emotive singles. I would describe her sound as a beautiful blend of Alt-R&B & Soul. Her records are smooth, sensual, and engaging. Now, she enters our pages with her latest single "Come Over". "Come Over" is a dynamic single that captures the emotions and freedom of a summer fling. In her own words, Makeda said, " The message I want people to take away is - what if we could enjoy all the best parts of falling in love without worrying about the past or future. Summers makes us feel like that can happen." With summer closing within the next month, this single has me holding on to my favorite moments of summer 23'. Stream the record below and vibe out!DouYa- “LOSE IT”
DouYa (“Doh-yah”) is a pop artist based in Brooklyn, New York. Originally from Dalian, China, DouYa brings a multicultural perspective to the Mando-pop and R&B genres, both instrumentally and lyrically. Drawing influence from the likes of beabadoobee, keshi, & Rina Sawayama, she has crafted a sound that is both unique and refreshing. There is a rawness and sensible side to her records that draws me in. Although I'm new to her sound, DouYa enters our pages with her latest single "LOSE IT". The record is carried by warm textures, groovy percussion, and captivating synths. Vocally, DouYa is a natural singer. She has this innate ability to change cadence and still shine performance wise. "LOSE IT" embodies the turmoil of a modern situationship with stream-of-consciousness lyrics sounding like 1 am thoughts. The sexy vocals and ambient/misty lo-fi sonics convey the ecstasy of infatuation. This gender-neutral pop track is a laid-back hazy love dream filled with yearning, frustration and romantic obsession. Logan Joyce- “jet-lagged”
If you are a fan of artists like Clairo, Audrey Nuna, & Caroline Polachek, then you will love the mesmerizing sound of Logan Joyce. Although she's relatively unknown, I consider her the industry's best kept secret. She has immense talent, and she has the voice of angel. Personally, I would say her sound is an infectious blend of alt-pop with R&B undertones. For those of you who are still wondering who Logan is, I present to you her debut single "jet-lagged". "jet-lagged" is a colorful record laced with dream-pop vocals over atmospheric sonics. Sonically, I loved the arrangement and progression of the production. Although this is her first song, you can tell that Logan is the real deal. Her songwriting is mature, and her vocals are unmatched. To have that much control of your vocals this early in your career is unheard of. I'm genuinely impressed. Overall, this is one my favorite songs of the week. Pyari- “black jeans” feat. Static Res & OMEGA
Pyari is a rising producer & singer that has taken the industry by storm. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, his sound can be described as a blend of alt-R&B & Hip-Hop with Pop undertones. Sonically, his sound is captivating, and he continues to prove he has the "IT" factor. This week, he returns with his highly anticipated single "black jeans" featuring Maryland rapper Static Res and UK singer OMEGA. The record is the first release from his upcoming album "it was nice while it lasted", and it's a summery Indie R&B/Pop song that focuses on mental health. The record is a chef's kiss. "black jeans" shines from start to finish. If I could describe the record, I would say intoxicating, vibey, and it's very relatable. We have all had an experience where we felt low when the weather around was warm. That discomfort is the core subject of the song. This is one of my favorites of the week so stream it below! Mermaid Blood- “Way Too Cool”
Although they are still finding their footing in the industry, Mermaid Blood is a duo that needs to be in your rotation. Hailing from Toronto, they have built a dedicated following due to their innate ability to craft nostalgic hits that pull at your heartstrings. Their music is intentional, and it is carried by their dream-pop soundscape. After impressing me with their single "By the River", they arrive on our pages with their introspective record "Way Too Cool". "Way Too Cool" 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. Personally, their ethereal & wet vocals create a beautiful balance with their production. Overall, Mermaid Blood has become one of my acts to watch for this year. They have my attention, and they should have yours as well!