Explore Our Latest Music Discoveries Of Talented Independent Artists.
Welcome to Discovery 10/10, where we highlight ten standout artists in every edition. Each feature includes a short, impactful review alongside the artist’s music, making it easy to dive right into the music. Whether you’re here to find fresh talent or just explore new sounds, Discovery 10/10 has you covered. Stay tuned for the latest picks.
Eylsia Nicolas — Odds To Heaven:
“Odds To Heaven” stands out primarily through its lyrical depth and vocal restraint, which together form the emotional core of the song. Lyrically, the track navigates self-examination, uncertainty, and spiritual curiosity with a sense of honesty that never feels forced or preachy. The title itself operates as a metaphor rather than a declaration, framing life as a series of odds, choices, and quiet reckonings where faith, hope, doubt, and self-awareness intersect. The songwriting is conversational yet carefully shaped, allowing each line to feel intentional while still leaving room for personal interpretation. Vocally, Eylsia Nicolas delivers with measured intimacy, her tone warm, controlled, and reflective, prioritizing emotional truth over technical display. Her phrasing feels natural and unguarded, echoing the introspective nature of the lyrics and making the performance feel deeply personal. This restraint becomes a strength, as the vocals gently guide the listener through the song’s emotional questions rather than overwhelming them with dramatics.
Musically, the track unfolds as a rich country-rock composition with layered, expressive instrumentation that enhances its reflective tone. The melody flows smoothly, shaped by organic progressions that feel rooted and authentic, while the harmonic structure adds subtle complexity without distracting from the vocal narrative. Rhythmically, the song maintains a steady, grounded tempo that reinforces its contemplative mood and allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to resonate fully. The instrumentation is full-bodied and cohesive, creating a warm, earthy atmosphere that complements the song’s themes of introspection, resilience, and personal reckoning. Production-wise, the balance between vocals and instruments is carefully maintained, ensuring clarity while preserving depth and texture. Every musical decision feels purposeful, resulting in a track that succeeds through intentional storytelling, genre richness, and emotional cohesion, and further solidifies Eylsia Nicolas’s ability to translate inner reflection into a compelling musical experience.
Stevie Holland — Help Me:
Stevie Holland’s “Help Me” is a masterclass in vocal interpretation, where emotional intelligence and technical restraint work in perfect balance. Her vocal delivery is clear, supple, and deeply intentional, allowing the lyrics to breathe with renewed intimacy. Rather than leaning on the familiarity of the song’s legacy, Holland reshapes its emotional core through phrasing choices that feel conversational yet deliberate. She slightly stretches lines, eases into consonants, and places certain phrases just behind the beat, heightening the song’s sense of emotional hesitation. Lyrically, “Help Me” revolves around vulnerability, desire, and the tension between emotional freedom and romantic surrender, and Holland treats these themes with maturity and quiet honesty. There is no exaggeration or melodrama; instead, she presents the narrator as self-aware, conflicted, and emotionally exposed. This approach makes the song feel less like a plea and more like a moment of internal reckoning. The warmth and control in her tone give the lyrics a reflective depth, reinforcing the song’s central theme of falling into love while fearing the loss of independence.
Musically, the arrangement supports this emotional narrative with elegance and discipline. The rhythm section establishes a smooth, fluid jazz foundation, with piano and bass engaging in a subtle dialogue that keeps the song grounded while allowing flexibility. The drums provide tasteful, restrained motion, never distracting from the vocal line. Horns and strings are used as emotional accents rather than dominant voices, adding harmonic color and gentle emphasis at key moments in the song’s progression. The reharmonization introduces extended chords and jazz inflections that enrich the original structure without overpowering it, giving the melody a more sophisticated contour. Production-wise, the mix is clean and balanced, ensuring that Holland’s voice remains the focal point while preserving the richness of the ensemble. Every musical element feels intentional, serving the song’s emotional arc rather than competing for attention. As a whole, “Help Me” succeeds because it respects the song’s lyrical vulnerability while elevating it through jazz sensibility, refined musicianship, and a vocal performance rooted in emotional truth.
Gem Xander — Oh Alright:
“Oh Alright!” by Gem Xander is a song that immediately draws the listener into a world of emotional intimacy, personal connection, and liberation. The lyrics, particularly “oh alright! We can take a little ride if you want to see the city” and “I can make you feel alive, I can make you feel pretty,” encapsulate a theme of shared exploration and emotional affirmation, where the act of being together becomes a space for confidence, joy, and self-discovery. Gem Xander’s vocal delivery carries this thematic weight with subtle inflections and expressive phrasing, creating a sense of warmth and invitation that makes the listener feel personally included in the narrative. Jay‑Sim’s feature adds texture and contrast, complementing Gem Xander’s tone and enhancing the layered storytelling, giving certain lines more resonance and depth. The repeated phrase “oh alright!” functions as a mantra, a reassurance both to the listener and within the song itself, signaling a release of doubt and an embrace of life’s small adventures. Through these lyrics and vocal choices, the song communicates an underlying message of freedom, emotional openness, and the uplifting power of human connection, while encouraging listeners to experience life fully and embrace moments of joy and beauty.
Musically, the track creates a sonic environment that amplifies and mirrors the lyrical and emotional essence. The instrumental layers, including soft synth textures, subtle rhythmic percussion, and melodic harmonic choices, establish a spacious and inviting atmosphere that perfectly supports the themes of exploration, liberation, and emotional reassurance. The arrangement carefully balances energy and intimacy, allowing Gem Xander’s vocals to remain the focal point while the production enhances the mood rather than overpowering it. Each instrumental element, from the rhythmic foundation to the ambient harmonics, works in tandem with the lyrics to evoke the sense of movement and vitality suggested by the city ride imagery. The interplay of melody, harmony, and vocal expression captures the uplifting and empowering message embedded in the lyrics, creating a cohesive listening experience that resonates on both an emotional and musical level. “Oh Alright!” successfully fuses heartfelt storytelling, dynamic vocal performance, and thoughtful production into a track that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable, establishing Gem Xander as an artist capable of crafting songs that engage the listener’s emotions while delivering a compelling artistic identity.
Eylsia Nicolas — Never Stop Loving You:
Eylsia Nicolas delivers an incredibly captivating and emotionally resonant vocal performance on “Never Stop Loving You”, demonstrating a rare blend of technical precision and heartfelt vulnerability. From the opening lines, her voice draws the listener into the intimate narrative, carrying both warmth and strength as she expresses unwavering devotion. The lyrics, “I ain’t never gonna stop loving you … Doesn’t matter what you put me through” and “Let them talk they never knew … How it feels when I lean into you”, are rendered with such sincerity that the listener can almost feel the weight of the commitment she is declaring. Her phrasing, dynamic control, and subtle vocal inflections bring the story to life, making every word feel deliberate and deeply personal. Complementing her voice is a contemporary, richly layered soft pop production, smooth piano chords, gentle percussive elements, and ambient synth textures create an immersive soundscape that allows the vocals to shine while maintaining emotional depth. Each instrumental layer is carefully balanced, adding warmth and richness without overpowering the lyrical content, highlighting the song’s intimate yet expansive feel.
The song’s lyrics and thematic core of steadfast love form the heartbeat of the track, presenting a narrative of loyalty, resilience, and intimate connection that resonates universally. Eylsia’s songwriting captures the complexity of love in a few precise lines, and the production enhances this storytelling through its lush, polished, and contemporary soft pop arrangement. The track flows smoothly, with harmonically rich progressions and subtle textural layers that give it depth while keeping the focus on the emotional journey. The gentle percussion, layered synths, and ambient flourishes give the song a sophisticated and modern sound, elevating it beyond a simple love ballad into a richly immersive listening experience. Overall, “Never Stop Loving You” stands out as a masterful fusion of expressive vocals, poignant lyrics, and contemporary, layered production, demonstrating Eylsia Nicolas’s ability to create a love song that is intimate, resonant, and timelessly compelling.
Jaxon Tonic — Needle On The Brain:
Jaxon Tonic’s “Needle On The Brain” is a masterclass in electronic production, creating a soundscape that is both immersive and hypnotic. From the opening moments, the track envelops the listener with layered synth textures, arpeggiated motifs, and atmospheric pads that establish a spacious, contemplative mood. The bassline is deep, fluid, and tightly integrated, providing a grounding presence that drives the track forward while complementing the shimmering electronic elements. Percussion is precise and subtle, using crisp hi-hats and percussive accents to maintain momentum without detracting from the overall ethereal feel. The instrumentation evolves dynamically, with breakdowns that strip back the layers to highlight individual synth melodies before rebuilding into full, multi-layered sections, creating a continuous sense of tension and release. The production quality is meticulous, with careful attention to spacing, effects, and stereo placement, allowing each element, from the airy pads to the intricate melodic sequences, to breathe while contributing to a cohesive, enveloping sonic experience.
Vocally, the track features Tonic’s signature electronic-infused delivery, which blends seamlessly with the synthetic textures of the instrumentation. The key lyric, “all you gotta do is put the needle on your brain,” carries a hypnotic, mantra-like quality, providing a thematic anchor that subtly guides the listener’s focus without dominating the track. The voice is processed with effects that make it feel like an additional synth layer, further merging the human element with the electronic environment. While the lyrical and thematic content emphasizes focus and mental clarity, it is the instrumentation, the interplay of pads, arpeggios, and resonant bass, and the careful layering of electronic elements that define the track’s emotional impact. Overall, “Needle On The Brain” delivers a richly textured, immersive experience where production and sound design take center stage, creating a meditative yet energizing atmosphere that captivates the listener from start to finish.
Desu Taem — Stupid Circus:
“Stupid Circus” by Desu Taem is a bold and immersive track where the vocals take full command, raw, expressive, and charged with both urgency and theatrical flair. The recurring line “stupid circus round and round” anchors the song’s theme, reflecting the relentless cycles of absurdity and the chaotic spectacle of life. The vocal delivery perfectly conveys this duality: tension and frustration at being caught in the chaos are interwoven with ironic detachment and dark humor, creating a layered emotional texture. The phrasing and dynamic emphasis on key words transform the repetition into a hypnotic device, echoing the circular motion suggested in the lyrics. The vocals feel performative, as if the singers are both participants in and observers of the absurdity they describe, mirroring the exaggerated gestures and constant motion of performers in a circus. Each inflection, pause, and shouted line reinforces the narrative, conveying a sense of emotional depth while immersing the listener in the dizzying spectacle of the song. The vocals are the driving force, giving the track its identity and thematic resonance.
Instrumentally, the music amplifies the chaotic, round-and-round energy of the lyrics with aggressive, distorted guitars, punchy and unpredictable drums, and a driving, grounding bass. The guitars cut sharply through the mix, accentuating tension and adding a performative intensity, while the drums provide both momentum and rhythmic variation, evoking the rapid, cyclical movements of acts within a circus. The arrangement is compact yet dynamic, featuring abrupt transitions, layered textures, and tightly woven instrumental interplay that reflect the song’s circular theme and frenetic energy. Production choices emphasize raw immediacy, allowing the vocals and instruments to coexist with full presence, maintaining the track’s visceral, almost live quality. Every sonic element, from tonal color to rhythm and dynamic shifts, works in harmony with the lyrics and vocal delivery, creating a cohesive, immersive experience. Stupid Circus stands as a compelling exploration of life’s absurd cycles, transforming energy, performance, and repetition into a potent, unforgettable musical statement.
Desu Taem — Assassins When We Need One:
Desu Taem’s “Assassins When We Need One” delivers a masterful balance between lyrical intensity and musical innovation, and its core strength lies in the vocals and thematic depth. The song explores a profound disillusionment with corrupt power structures and a yearning for genuine justice, a theme brought to life through impassioned, gritty vocals that alternate between controlled delivery and emotionally charged exclamations. Lyrically, the track is sharp and evocative, using pointed metaphors and vivid imagery to convey betrayal, systemic failure, and the necessity of decisive action. The chorus emerges as a powerful rallying cry, enhanced by layered vocal textures that amplify the urgency and resonance of the message. Each vocal inflection and phrasing emphasizes the weight of the words, making the listener feel the tension between societal frustration and the hope for accountability, while the song’s poetic cadence keeps the thematic narrative compelling and relatable.
Instrumentally, while the track retains the familiar Desu Taem setup of distorted guitars, resonant bass, and driving drums, the rhythmic approach introduces an unexpected, refreshing feel. Unlike the duo’s typical patterns, the rhythm incorporates rock influences and a sunlit, almost uplifting atmosphere, complemented by subtle hints of a Latin twist that adds a unique sway to the percussion. The guitars maintain their gritty power, but are played with a slightly brighter, more open tonality that aligns with the energetic rhythm. The bass underlines the harmonic structure with a firm but fluid pulse, while the drums provide a rhythm that is both driving and slightly syncopated, reflecting the Latin-influenced swing. Dynamic flourishes, brief guitar accentuations and percussive highlights allow the vocals to soar and emphasize the lyrical message, creating a musical landscape that is both emotionally charged and rhythmically engaging. In essence, this track not only conveys its message with intensity but also reinvents the Desu Taem sound by merging thematic gravity with a vibrant, sunlit rock-Latin energy.
BlackTop Gospel — Lazy Don’t Win:
BlackTop Gospel’s “Lazy Don’t Win” delivers an extraordinary vocal performance that dominates the track with unwavering authority and emotional intensity. The vocals are raw, commanding, and precise, moving effortlessly between rhythmic spoken-word patterns and moments of melodic emphasis that capture attention from the very first line. Every word carries weight, giving life to the lyrics’ powerful message about resilience, discipline, and personal accountability. Lines like “Everybody want the crown at hand, you wanna stand where the work gets blamed” resonate with clarity and purpose, illustrating the stark reality that success is earned, never handed out. The lyrical content forms the heart of the song, communicating that every achievement is the result of persistent effort, quiet determination, and continuous action, even when no one is watching. The repeated mantra, “Lazy don’t win, never did, never will,” reinforces the central philosophy of the track, embedding a sense of urgency and conviction into the listener. The song’s thematic focus on grit, hard work, and self-reliance is unwavering, compelling, and fully realized through a vocal performance that balances storytelling, authority, and heartfelt motivation.
The instrumentation of “Lazy Don’t Win” is intentionally minimalist, yet it is masterfully constructed to support and amplify the vocal and thematic presence of the song. A prominent acoustic guitar establishes the rhythmic and melodic foundation with consistent strumming patterns, providing a grounded, folk-like feel that evokes authenticity and resilience. The percussion is subtle and precise, consisting of a steady kick and snare pattern that drives the song forward while allowing the vocals to remain the primary focus. Deep, resonant bass lines add warmth and harmonic depth, enriching the sonic texture without overwhelming the message. Every element of the arrangement is designed to serve the lyrical narrative, creating a sparse, spacious, and impactful soundscape that highlights the story of hard work and determination. The production balances clarity and rawness, ensuring that every nuance of the vocal delivery and every rhythmic gesture of the instrumentation enhances the overarching message. The result is a track that is musically cohesive, thematically compelling, and emotionally powerful, leaving the listener inspired and fully engaged in the philosophy that success is forged through consistent effort, discipline, and perseverance.
Amerakin Overdose — Timebomb:
“Time Bomb” is a masterclass in tension and emotional storytelling, with Amerakin Overdose delivering a performance that is both intense and deeply textured. The vocals dominate the track, capturing the fragile balance between restraint and eruption that the song embodies. Each line is delivered with a controlled aggression that mirrors the lyrical theme of internal conflict and psychological pressure, portraying the sense of a ticking “time bomb” ready to explode. The layering of the vocals adds depth, creating a dynamic interplay between whispered introspection and powerful, almost confrontational outbursts, which perfectly conveys the turmoil and duality embedded in the song’s narrative. The lyrics themselves are the centerpiece, using metaphor and vivid imagery to explore themes of mental strain, conflicting identities, and suppressed emotions. Lines that question how long one can hold themselves together while under immense pressure resonate universally, drawing the listener into a reflection of their own struggles, making the song as cathartic as it is aggressive. The thematic coherence between the vocals and lyrics ensures that every word and inflection heightens the emotional tension, allowing the listener to feel the buildup of inevitable release.
Musically, “Time Bomb” complements its lyrical weight with a meticulously crafted soundscape. The instrumentation is both heavy and precise, featuring groove-driven guitar riffs, punchy basslines, and rhythmic percussion that drive the song forward while maintaining a sense of mechanical urgency. Atmospheric electronic textures and industrial elements enhance the tension, weaving seamlessly with the live instrumentation to create a layered and immersive sonic experience. The song’s structure, from the tense introduction through the dynamic shifts of verse, chorus, and breakdown, mirrors the psychological escalation of the narrative, providing a perfect framework for the emotional content. Production-wise, the mix is polished yet raw enough to retain the visceral intensity, ensuring that every drum hit, guitar note, and vocal inflection carries impact. The music video further amplifies this effect, translating the song’s inner turmoil into visual storytelling with dramatic angles, lighting, and pacing that echo the sense of a contained yet looming explosion. Overall, “Time Bomb” is a cohesive, multi-dimensional work where lyrics, vocals, instrumentation, and production converge to create a powerful, emotionally charged experience that resonates long after the track ends.
Romain Gutsy — Je ne sais pas comment te dire:
“Je ne sais pas comment te dire” is an emotionally captivating and intimate track, anchored by Romain Gutsy’s warm, expressive, and deeply nuanced vocal performance. His voice conveys both vulnerability and quiet strength, capturing the tension, longing, and emotional hesitation that permeates the lyrics. Every phrase is delivered with careful attention to tone, phrasing, and emotional weight, allowing listeners to experience the raw, confessional quality of the song. The lyrics are at the heart of the track, telling a story of romantic uncertainty, inner conflict, and the delicate struggle to express deep feelings. Collaborators Michael Wookey and Dweech add additional vocal textures and harmonic layers, enhancing the emotional depth and richness of the track without ever overpowering Gutsy’s central narrative. The melodic line mirrors the emotional journey, with gentle rises and subtle falls that reflect the oscillation between hope, doubt, and vulnerability, creating a seamless connection between vocal delivery and lyrical meaning. The thematic focus on honesty, self-reflection, and the courage to communicate love resonates universally, making the song both intensely personal and widely relatable.
Musically, the production and arrangement of the track are precise, elegant, and perfectly attuned to the emotional core of the song. Acoustic guitar and piano create a soft, organic foundation, giving the vocals ample space to remain central while providing a melodic and harmonic framework that reinforces the lyrical tension. Subtle harmonic textures, carefully arranged backing vocals from Michael Wookey and Dweech, and restrained rhythmic elements create a dynamic flow that carries the listener through the narrative with gentle momentum. Every instrumental choice is deliberate, building emotional layers without ever overshadowing the vocals or lyrics. The interplay between melody, harmony, rhythm, and textural depth produces a richly immersive listening experience, where every note and vocal inflection serves the storytelling. Together, Gutsy and his collaborators deliver a masterful, cohesive track that blends lyrical vulnerability, emotive vocals, and thoughtful instrumentation into a seamless expression of heartfelt confession and human emotion.