First on our Undiscovered Gems list, we’re exploring new trip-hop hits. From TOVI, Nobody Ever Warned Me is hauntingly poetic, composed to stir your comfort while being equally intriguing. String chords, electronic sound effects, and a touch of electric guitar make up the spooky melodies of the instrumental, paired with minimal, but intense drums.
The softness of the vocals makes you transcend when listening to the track, hypnotizing you into its melancholy sound. We appreciate the unique production style of the track, as it pieces together separate elements to make them feel whole. Since her debut album in 2022, TOVI has released an EP and other singles. We hope this new release means more in the future.
Another trip-hop gem, brought by Blue Loop, is Cycles, a new track full of vibrant, unexpected turns. It begins with an enchanting electronic synth effect, building layers of sounds and vocals, leaving you on the edge of anticipation for what comes next. Once the drums are added in, the vibe is shifted, although in a similar direction, it brings the track into a well-rounded atmosphere.
The rhythmic elements of the melodies are long and drawn out, contrasted with the quicker rhythms of the drums. Overall, the chords created by the layering of electronic sounds and vocal harmonies encapsulate you in a majestic feeling. Cycles is the title track to Blue Loop’s upcoming album, coming in November of this year.
Listen to both these tracks on our Women of Trip-Hop Playlist on Spotify.
Shifting over to our indie gems, we were mesmerized by My Heart from REXEN. Its calm, gentle atmosphere is created by the serene bassline and soft drums, elevated by the sweet, tender vocals. We appreciate the composition of the drums, as it’s written to support the instrumental, maintaining the same vibe without being overpowering.
The sounds of this track are reminiscent of artists like Wilco and Nick Drake, as it highlights its acoustic elements similarly. This track is the first single release of REXEN, and he has already proved to hold great artistry. We hope this single leads to more music in the future.
We were enchanted by You Are You, from Attawalpa, another gem for our indie playlist. The layering of string chords, electric guitar, and vibrant vocals gives this track a symphonic feel. We appreciate the produciton style of this track, as it fills your ears with well-rounded sound, panning to make it sound like its in the room with you.
The energy of this song is sure to lift your spirits, as its theme is all about celebrating you. The instrumental matches the theme, using bright chord progressions and euphoric melodies. Check out their new album, Experience, where this track is featured among many other greats, and is available to purchase on vinyl.
Last on our list is from The Portland Sound, who brings their new single, Slow Down, featuring Mizzie. Immediately, this track captivates your attention with its electronic approach and breakcore drums, layering along with clean, bright vocals. The tone held by the vocalist is blissful to hear, charming you with the feminine, high sounds.
You will resonate with this track’s uplifting, experimental electronic approach, especially if you’re a fan of artists like MGMT and Tame Impala. It’s pyschedelic indie pop composition is unpredictably joyful, allowing you to clearly explore the artists vision. With every project this artist has released in the past year, we can’t wait for what comes next.
Listen to these indie tracks by checking out our playlist on Spotify, Best New Indie 2025.
The Wild Is Calling 