Had a great break? Yes? Good, because it's time to hit the books! Whether you're in your final semester or second quarter of the year, getting back into the routine of morning classes and finishing assignments can be quite ... difficult. So please, remember to take some time to relax and enjoy the little things in life! Here are some of my favorite upcoming indie finds to get some relaxation and rest. There are so many more artists I could add on here, but these are the ones who are just a little under the radar right now.
1. mxmtoon - Cliche
Mxmtoon, or Maia, writes soft and uptempo ukelele songs with very relatable themes. It's a nice start to get you into the mood of relaxation.
2. khai dreams - Ultimately
Similarly to mxmtoon, khai dreams started his music on the ukelele. His songs range from softer, instrumental songs to fast-paced, mellow raps. But, they all have in common a strong lyrical sense in creating beautifully painful songs.
3. Mogwai - Take Me Somewhere Nice
Of course, not all music focuses on lyrics. Sometimes all you need is pure music. Mogwai has been around since 1996, and their focus has changed over the years, but they still prove to be masters of non-verbal music.
4. peachy! - falling for you (ft. mxmtoon)
Bringing up the mood a bit, here's a cute little song I'm sure many can relate to. Peachy is a young artist, and I mean young as in 17 years old according to Spotify. For so young, peachy! really knows how to stir up those feels.
5. Mellow Fellow - Dancing
For those of you who enjoy full bands, Mellow Fellow has some great soothing tunes. Some of the songs remind me of a blend of multiple past decades.
6. Biosphere - strangers (ft. love-sadkid, Chris Wright, & Ciki)
I love it when different cultures come together to create something beautiful. This gentle song features soft Korean verses with English rap verses as well.
7. MISO - Take Me
Kim Miso is Korean, though sings in English as she lived in England, according to Genius. Although she has produced quite a few songs on Soundcloud, she remains an enigma without a single official album. Her songs are full of rich rythym and blues tones with an electric touch.
8. Sylo Nozra - Right Here
Sylo Nozra also touches on R&B with some more experimental tones. His songs are filled with soul and mood.
9. Alextbh - Like That
Let's bring up the tone again with a more upbeat track by Alextbh, a producer with some fresh electronic R&B feels. This song is just happy and great.
10. CRWN - Wait (ft. Jess Connelly)
With some deep bass and soothing lyrics, CRWN really hit it off with this song. I expect to see a lot more this year!
11. Sam Rui - Better
Recently gaining a lot of attention, Sam Rui has some beautiful deep tones to her songs with relatable lyrics.
12. Distance - Emily King
Emily King has long been in the music scene, and it definitely shows through her rich compositions and lyrics. She just has beautiful vocals that can't make you not relax.