Gems & Secrets

  • Blog
  • Spotify Playlists
  • Shop
  • Contact

D.R.E.A.M., a song by Brian Bradley on Spotify

Brian Bradley's latest feels like a D.R.E.A.M., listen to their new song here

March 06, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Electronic, Experimental

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

Classically trained and technically efficient, Brian Bradley is a photographer, explorer, musician and a visionary. With their latest release, ‘Before Light / D.R.E.A.M.’, the artist blends a luscious soundscape with eery vocals, cinematic textures, and tops everything off with a beautiful sounding violin. It’s a real treat from start to finish and if you have a quick moment, we strongly recommend you check it out for yourself. Don’t forget to connect with the artist online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“The opening lyrics of D.R.E.A.M. "this is the life that you wanted, it’s the call of the wild, in the fog of the city I was losing it all, without you by my side, without you in my life, I can only dream." are representative of the dream we have of our life and the reality of our life in this moment.  Dreams must not be forever dreams. They must be lived. Life looks to be full of dark chapters when our fullest potential is not realized. It takes faith, true faith, to project oneself into the future and hold that energy of our new being. Faith is the process of allowing physical reality to mirror our dreams and anchor the new versions of ourselves with reenergized molecules.” — Brian Bradley

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Brian Bradley: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

March 06, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Electronic, Experimental
Comment

Official music video for "gold" by Michael Paradise, released Feb 28, 2019.

Have you checked out Michael Paradise's 'gold' yet? Stream it here 🎶

March 06, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Bedroom Pop, Indie

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

For fans of chill-wave and bedroom pop, Michael Paradise’s ‘gold’ is right up your alley. For us, we love the entire soundscape of the track. It’s brilliantly produced and the instrumentation is both relaxing and calming. There’s a level of depth behind the lyrics that keep us intrigued and the mixing sounds solid from start to finish. Go check it out for yourself and let us know what you think down below. Don’t forget to connect with the artist online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“the concept for gold came from thinking about how we always want more out of our lives, our relationships, our experiences. I think it’s simply a product of living in such an intensely capitalistic world -- the result is an inability to be satisfied. The line ‘looking back I wanted more, all that ice and gold’ felt like it captured both this capitalist greed for more wealth and status, but also that emotional and social desire to be cool. It also felt a bit playful because I’m not one to ever be iced out haha.” — Michael Paradise

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Michael Paradise: Instagram | Spotify

March 06, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Bedroom Pop, Indie
Comment

Don't Stop Me Baby, a song by Montrell on Spotify

Brand new music from Montrell, stream 'Don't Stop Me Baby' here

March 04, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Indie

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

Montrell is back with a brand new release titled ‘Don’t Stop Me Baby’. And if you haven’t checked it out yet, you’re missing out. For starters, we love the laid-back attitude behind the track. Not only does the energy feel calming from start to finish but the lyrical depth behind the music keeps the listener focused and attentive—surely it’s what separates the band from everything else you hear.

Everything from the dreamy guitars to the vintage sounding drums are crisp and warm, creating a vibe that you’ll love for years to come. Check it out for yourself and don’t forget to subscribe to the band online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

Screen Shot 2019-03-04 at 5.47.04 PM.png Screen Shot 2019-03-04 at 5.50.08 PM.png Screen Shot 2019-03-04 at 5.47.26 PM.png

WHAT THE BAND HAS TO SAY:

“Don’t Stop Me Baby is the first track of our second EP, produced by Flyte drummer Jon Supran. We hope to release more for you before the beginning of May. It’s about trying to speed up a process when you want it all to happen for you faster than it is. We’re looking forward to eating chillies and playing chess in our camper van during our first ever tour this summer, and to meet the wonderful people of Germany.” — Montrell

CONNECT WITH THE BAND:

Montrell: Instagram | Spotify

March 04, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Indie
Comment

Freaky Genius, a song by GROWING YOUNGER, PETER PS¥LØ, the PARMESAN PRANKSTA on Spotify

An interview with Growing Younger. Catch their live show this Friday in Nashville.

March 04, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Interview, Experimental

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

We sat down and interviewed Growing Younger, a rising duo based out of Nashville, Tennessee. Their sound could be described as experimental; it’s creative, it’s unique, and it features a variety of vocal samples and gritty drum beats. They’re debuting their first live show this Friday, March 8th at Boulevard Record Shop in Nashville, Tennessee.

Be sure to arrive early to enjoy the fun!

How much: $5 at the door

What time: 7:30pm-8:00pm

INTERVIEW:

Where does the name 'Growing Younger' stem from?

The name “Growing Younger” came from the bridge of a song I wrote called “Wounded Youth.”

What does your creative process look like?

It usually starts with an idea. Often times, I’ll know the name of the song before it’s written. Jake and I rarely sit down to ‘write a new song.’ It’s almost always premeditated. One of us comes to the other with an idea and we sit down for “Session 1.” That first session is typically dedicated to tracking the initial idea and flushing out the arrangement of the song. After that 1st session, Jake and I bump the instrumental in our earbuds and finish writing our verses on our own. Session 2 is typically dedicated to embellishing upon the core elements of production and building upon the initial idea. The creative process can be very abstract in sessions 1 & 2, but generally speaking, the song starts to take shape, and the sessions become more tedious from that point forward. We almost always keep our verses exactly as they are, lyrically speaking. I trust Jake and he trusts me. Next, we track vocals once our verses are fully written. There’s a few rounds of notes that go back and forth on the mix. I tweak various aspects of production. Then things get reaaaallly tedious around session 8 or 10. After we’ve mixed the instrumental and the vocals are in a good place, I flatten the tracks and we do a final vocal session. I’m really JUST now beginning to realize how important it is to print stems. I used to track final vocals in the same session that we’ve produced the track in, but I’ve found that we’re able to make bigger moves on the song if we commit to moving forward. Anyway, all in all, the creative process is complex & tedious in many ways, but very abstract & enjoyable in other ways. It’s hard work. Some of these songs go through 15 to 20 different mixes before we’re happy with them.

Who/what inspires the music you're making?

The human psyche is a major source of inspiration. Jake and I are into psychology & philosophy. We’re using the music as a tool for exploring the deeper aspects of our own minds and the minds of others. Tragedy is a big source of inspiration as well. Struggle. Some of our greatest songs come from a place of pain. Honestly, everything and everyone inspires and informs the music. It’s the type of thing where I’ll be driving on the side of the road and see someone walking with a paper bag and a bottle of liquor and then a new lyric is born. The inspiration is in the air, and we’re always open to receiving it.

Where do you see this project in 5 years?

Jake and I see this project becoming bigger than ourselves. What we love most about Growing Younger is that it is more than a band, it is a lifestyle. G¥ is a path towards connection, a journey through addressing & expressing the tragedy & triumph that we all experience throughout the phases of our journey. We hope to use this project to create a culture focused on healing through creative expression, to facilitate an increase in human exploration, both intrinsically, and expressively, to help reduce suffering in the world through the power of music, art, & story, to create a platform that allows us to raise awareness and induce productive conversation on various social, political and humanitarian challenges. I mean to be quite frank, we’re looking to find our people, and fuck the game up. Currently, Jake & I are the fuckin’ weird kids. You know? People look at us like, “What the fuck is up with those guys?” It’s because we’re being ourselves. So in 5 years, jeez man, I don’t know. Coachella?

Who's an artist you see yourself collaborating with within the next 2 years?

To be totally honest, we won’t be collaborating with many artists in the next two years. Jake and I are sitting on about 20 unreleased songs that we’re pushing towards full development. We’re hoping to release them

Paint, paint, and more paint... what's the purpose behind this?

The paint is a metaphor for emotion. Don’t keep it bottled up.

How did Growing Younger form?

Blake & Jake, creators of Growing ¥ounger, crossed paths for the first time at Green Hills Mall in 2014. Jake had just moved to Music City from Detroit and was selling his merch at a kiosk when Blake caught a vibe for his style. “There was something different about Jake –– I mean, just look at the guy. He’s a straight up misfit,” says Blake.

What makes Growing Younger different?

We’ve always been different. We were the kids that didn’t fit in. Popular kids were fuckin’ assholes to me growing up. Jake and I bring that crazy youthful spirit to the G¥ project. We’re not your average band. The music isn’t normal. The show isn’t normal. We are not fucking normal. We’re here to tell the tale, all those years. We’re using the music as a tool for healing, growing through what we call the “Phases Of Our Journey.” We’re creating an entire universe with this project. It’s like a manifesto. Every detail matters. There’s always an omen or a clue.

We’re leaving clues for the kids to find.

The kids that are just like us.

It’s almost like we never grew up.

But a part of us is being forced to face the real world.

That’s what this project is all about for me.

My goal is not to return to childhood. It’s to champion the innately positive qualities within the child, to rehabilitate these qualities within my grown self. Our message is about finding the genius within, before it’s crushed by the judgment of society. We want to get people back in touch with that part of themselves, the magic, the genius.

What are some of the problems you recognize in the music industry?

This is a great question. One problem I see is that it feels way too hard to get payed. I don’t know, man. I hear that the money is in the touring. Getting out on the road and actually connecting with people. And I get that. Jake and I are really excited to tour when the time is right. But what problems do I recognize in the industry? Hmmm, it feels cliquey. I don’t know. It kinda feels like high school in a sense. But maybe I’m bringing that bull shit baggage with me. Sometimes I feel like I don’t belong. It makes me want to stay home and create by myself. I’m discouraged from engaging with the industry for some reason. G¥ is my escape from reality.

I’m just happy to be a part of it though. I’m starting to feel more open to contributing to the evolution of the industry. I think radio is tending to become less relevant with streaming platforms, but radio still influences the big charts, so idk. I try not to think about it too much. I’m trying to just stay focused on our plan, to do what we do best: creating, & entertaining.

What should people expect at a live performance? And what do you hope they take away from it?

People can expect to be shocked. In many ways, I think Jake and I are doing things that will make people uncomfortable. There’s 2 of us. Blake & Jake. We’re singing, rapping, splatting. It’ll definitely be different. Be ready to bounce though. That’s for-sure. We’re gonna get the place bumping.

Should we expect an album or EP soon?

We’re dropping two singles this month (march) called “Allstar Misfits” and “Ball Game.”

Hopefully our first EP will be coming early 2020.

What/Who are some labels/curators you'd love to work with?

We would love to partner with Fueled By Ramen when the time is right. They’ve put on some of our favorite acts: Twenty One Pilots, Fall Out Boy, Grandson, etc. We’re considering meeting with Thirty Tigers in Nashville. We’re super down to work with people but at this point, we’re kinda cooped up in our bedrooms, working on the music independently.

List a few of your favorite songs right now:

Blood // Water by grandson

CONNECT WITH THE ARTISTS

Growing ¥ounger: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

March 04, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Interview, Experimental
Comment

Just Slide (feat. Jaden Smith), a song by Harry Hudson, Jaden Smith on Spotify

This Harry Hudson and Jaden Smith collab is incredible, stream it here:

February 28, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Contemporary R&B

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

When this collab between Harry Hudson and Jaden Smith landed in our inbox, we were immediately drawn in. Harry and Jaden work extremely well together and each bring a unique narrative to the track. For us, we love the verses all the way to the hook, it’s dark, it’s melodic, and the song carries a special tone from start to finish.

We would love to hear a collab project down the road from the two artists, but until then, we’ll just have to keep this on repeat. Don’t forget to subscribe to the artists down below to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“It’s a continuation of the Can Cowboys Cry saga with an unexpected and surreal twist. The story will continue in the next chapter of the journey and my next project.” — Harry Hudson

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Harry Hudson: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

February 28, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Contemporary R&B
Comment

Music video by Cassia performing Small Spaces. (C) 2019 Distiller Records LLP Pre-order debut album 'Replica' now: https://orcd.co/cassiareplica

Watch Cassia's epic music video for 'Small Spaces' here!

February 28, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Indie

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

Cassia released an epic music video for their latest work titled ‘Small Spaces’ and it’s honestly one of their best videos yet. Cassia’s sound is something that brings people together, it’s fun and energetic and their latest music video does a great job at reflecting just that. Whether you’re a fan of indie-pop or surf rock, Cassia has a unique sound that you’ll keep you coming back over and over again.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the band online to stay up to date on their upcoming EP (due April 5th) and enjoy!

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Cassia: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Spotify

February 28, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Indie
Comment

Watercolors, a song by Emily Rowed on Spotify

Emily Rowed sings beautifully over new song 'Watercolors', stream it here:

February 28, 2019 by Gems Secrets in R&B, Contemporary R&B, Bedroom Pop

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

Emily Rowed makes her return with a beautiful new song titled ‘Watercolors’. The latest in a 3-part love story—after ‘Pinball’ and ‘Hey Love’—‘Watercolors’ is fueled by heartache and loneliness, leaving us with a performance that feels genuine and heartfelt. There’s a certain magic in Emily’s writing style that keeps us coming back for more and that’s exactly what we get here, pure magic.

Check it out for yourself and let us know what you think down below. If you love the song as much as we do, be sure to subscribe to the artist online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“Watercolors is about an effortless, flowing love that came out of nowhere,” says Rowed. “It was hypnotic - everything turned into sweet purples and vintage film.” — Emily Rowed

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Emily Rowed: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

February 28, 2019 /Gems Secrets
R&B, Contemporary R&B, Bedroom Pop
Comment

Call It Fate, a song by Macey Estes on Spotify

Macey Estes has an incredible voice, listen to her new song 'Call It Fate' here

February 26, 2019 by Gems Secrets in R&B, Contemporary R&B

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

Macey Estes released a new song over the weekend and upon hearing it for the first time, we immediately fell in love. Not only does Macey have a rich and vibrant writing style, but she possesses a unique and powerful voice that both demands your attention and brings comfort to the soul.

When you click play, pay attention to the lyrical depth behind the music and how Macey transforms even the most common emotions into a fully immersive experience.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the artist online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“Call It Fate is one of those easy-going yet emotionally-driven songs. It’s about respecting someone and feeling that love without articulating it. I wanted listeners to feel that vulnerability in the track, to feel that feeling when you know someone or something is just right. In the chorus I wrote “I call it fate, I call it magic / Comin’ on strong with your sweet sensations / Stringin’ me along with your wild temptations / I call it fate.” These words speak to that exact feeling for me - and I hope it speaks that to everyone listening.”

— Macey Estes

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Macey Estes: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

February 26, 2019 /Gems Secrets
R&B, Contemporary R&B
Comment

A Little More, a song by Alice Gray on Spotify

Alice Gray returns with new single 'A Little More'

February 25, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Pop, Indie Pop

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

When it comes to writing lyrically vibrant pop songs, singer/songwriter Alice Gray, represents some of the best of the best. With the release of her 4th single titled ‘A Little More’, we witness a more stripped down version of Alice’s writing style… which ultimately highlights a more heartfelt side of the artist that we love more and more every time we press play.

Check it out for yourself and be sure to subscribe to the artist online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Alice Gray: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

February 25, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Pop, Indie Pop
Comment

Waiting Around, a song by Brent From School on Spotify

Brent From School releases 6-track EP 'Yeah OK'

February 25, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Bedroom Pop, Indie Pop, Indie, Pop

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

We’ve been a huge fan of Brent From School’s work since the release of ‘Graceful’. His laid-back and chill attitude is a sound more often tied to the rising popular bedroom pop sound, but nonetheless, remains unique with a strong vintage feel.

Brent From School’s work is something that only a genuine artist writing from the heart can achieve and it shines bright through his lyrics and through his carefully crafted instrumentation. Go ahead and check out his EP here and let us know what you think by commenting down below. Don’t forget to subscribe to the artist online to stay up to date on any exciting news and enjoy!

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Spotify

February 25, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Bedroom Pop, Indie Pop, Indie, Pop
Comment

SUGA. THE ALBUM. MARCH 8TH PRE-ORDER: https://t.co/37fse4hE11 SPOTIFY PRE-SAVE: https://t.co/PiSUVNy431 SUBSCRIBE TO MOTH: https://bit.ly/2BwlVZ6 http://mothmothmothmothmoth.com

Watch Kyle Dion's new music video for 'Not All The Way' + New album coming March 8th

February 24, 2019 by Gems Secrets in R&B

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

Kyle Dion released the music video for their song, ‘Not All The Way’, and it’s absolutely brilliant. Not only did we love the cinematography throughout the video, but the locations, the makeup and styling, are all on point.

Kyle’s creative vision is something that truly demands your attention. But not only that, the music and the lyrical energy behind the artist’s writing process goes beyond your ordinary talent. We love how easily Kyle can transport the listener into a completely different world and keep them coming back for more.

Check it out for yourself and let us know what you think down below. Don’t forget to subscribe to the artist online to stay up to date on their upcoming album—coming March 8th—and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“This record is one of my heavier R&B and Soul records off the album and I chose to drop this song because I wanted to give fans something a little different than the previous two singles. My brother and creative director Nick really brought the song to life with the music video. We shot this one out in Palm Springs and is the first time we see all three characters from the album together. It might just be the best video we’ve dropped to date! Very excited to finally release SUGA for everyone to enjoy.” — Kyle Dion

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

Kyle Dion: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

February 24, 2019 /Gems Secrets
R&B
Comment

Rewind, a song by Coquí on Spotify

COQUÍ reminisces on chill hip-hop track 'Rewind'.

February 24, 2019 by Gems Secrets in Hip-Hop

WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY:

We’re obsessed with this new laid-back hip-hop track from COQUÍ. Titled ‘Rewind’, the debut single from the Los Angeles based artist is a solid knockout. Blending a chill and kick-back attitude throughout the instrumental, the song is packed with a nostalgic and warm energy from the moment you press play.

Dedicated to the artist’s abuela (whom has since passed), COQUÍ shares his experience processing this event and how important it is to slow things down and rewind from time to time… check it out for yourself and let us know what you think down below. Don’t forget to connect with the artist online to stay up to date on any upcoming releases and enjoy!

WHAT THE ARTIST HAS TO SAY:

“This song was inspired the passing of my abuela last year. At the time, I was over 5,000 miles away on tour in Europe. I decided to write a song about my family as a lullaby to help ease the pain. The first line I wrote was "When the weight of the world seems to pull you behind, just stop take a breath and rewind." These were actually the words of my late grandmother. I wrote this song a few weeks before she passed away so it holds a very special place in my heart.” — COQUÍ

CONNECT WITH THE ARTIST:

COQUÍ: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

February 24, 2019 /Gems Secrets
Hip-Hop
Comment
  • Newer
  • Older
 

gems & secrets - estd. 2018