• Essentials: “No Inbetweens” – I AM D

    Essentials: “No Inbetweens” – I AM D

    Since its inception as a genre, hip hop has glamorized a lavish lifestyle by flaunting money, cars, chains, and the like. In the midst of this subject matter, hip hop has also walked the thin line between acceptable commentary and derogatory sentiments. Specifically, women are often portrayed as a prized-possession or trophy—a touchy subject that [continued]

  • Essentials: “Electric (feat. Khalid) [Tim Gunter Remix]” – Alina Baraz

    Essentials: “Electric (feat. Khalid) [Tim Gunter Remix]” – Alina Baraz

    In the midst of a slew of releases, Tim Gunter‘s chill and simplistic take on “Electric” is a can’t-miss listen to consider for your summer playlist. The California-based producer incorporates his signature 808-infused percussion to overlay an atmospheric ambiance created by electric guitar, background synths, and trombone. Tim’s production meshes beautifully with Alina Baraz‘ vocals – a refined [continued]

  • Album Review: don’t smile at me – Billie Eilish

    Album Review: don’t smile at me – Billie Eilish

    If you wanted to add another vocalist to the list of art pop sensations, 15-year old prodigy Billie Eilish is on track to claim her spot in the music world. Recently signed to Interscope, the young artist initially went viral after uploading “Ocean Eyes” on her SoundCloud page in 2016. Billie’s lush voice and jaw-dropping production may very well [continued]

  • Essentials: “Better Now” – Jordan Raf

    Essentials: “Better Now” – Jordan Raf

    If you want a perfect heater as the summer is winding down, lower your sunroof and take a cruise to the latest original by California-based artist Jordan Raf. Reminiscent of the soundscape presented in Views by Drake, “Better Now” seamlessly blends R&B, dancehall, hip hop, and pop that melts as it hits your ears. When the song reaches the [continued]

  • Pitchfork-Organized MCA Talks Coming This Fall for 50th Anniversary

    Pitchfork-Organized MCA Talks Coming This Fall for 50th Anniversary

    If you are in the Chicago area this fall, mark your calendars for a star-studded affair at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Pitchfork-partnered In Sight Out talks are being held at the museum in celebration of their 50th anniversary.  Specifically, In Sight Out is a discussion series on music, art, and culture, and showcases each [continued]

  • Essentials: “Silence (ft. Khalid)” – Marshmello

    Essentials: “Silence (ft. Khalid)” – Marshmello

    If you were looking for happy hardcore samples or snappy synths, the latest effort by Marshmello does not contain sounds that are synonymous with his discography.  In surprising fashion, the mystery producer delves into a crooner that sheds light on a darker subject matter—a contrast to his scintillating renditions. His cheerful approach in production provided an inkling [continued]

  • Essentials: “Rewind (ft. Ashe & Armani White)” – Louis Futon

    Essentials: “Rewind (ft. Ashe & Armani White)” – Louis Futon

    After a slew of remixes for the likes of Kendrick Lamar and Notorious B.I.G., Louis Futon is back with a breakout gem tailored to hit the airwaves. Formerly known as a duo, Louis Futon garnered support from the electronic music community for their unique production. Heralded as a pioneer of the future bass movement, the no solo Philadelphia-based producer [continued]

  • Essentials: “Crawl Outta Love (ft. Annika Wells)” – Illenium

    Essentials: “Crawl Outta Love (ft. Annika Wells)” – Illenium

    If you want to crawl out of your music funk, Illenium’s “Crawl Outta Love” is the perfect addition to your summer soundtrack. [continued]

  • Essentials : “Redrum (What So Not Remix)” – Era Istrefi

    Essentials : “Redrum (What So Not Remix)” – Era Istrefi

    If you were wondering where What So Not went, look no further than the remix of “Redrum” by Era Istrefi, a Kosovar-based vocalist. Formerly known as Emoh Instead, the Australian producer is back with another track containing his signature sound. Ultra-signed singer Era Istrefi recruited What So Not to produce her song “Redrum” slated for release in February. However, Emoh [continued]

  • Essentials: “Redrum (What So Not Remix)” – Era Istrefi

    Essentials: “Redrum (What So Not Remix)” – Era Istrefi

    If you were wondering where What So Not went, look no further than the remix of “Redrum” by Era Istrefi, a Kosovar-based vocalist. Formerly known as Emoh Instead, the Australian producer is back with another track containing his signature sound. Ultra-signed singer Era Istrefi recruited What So Not to produce her song “Redrum” slated for release in February. However, Emoh [continued]