Tyler, the Creator
Sure, everyone will be screaming along to 'See You Again' and 'EARFQUAKE', but the Carnival's ringleader has a catalog full of gems. To really get his journey, go back to '2SEATER' from 'Cherry Bomb', a lush, sprawling track with a gorgeous beat switch
that showcases his cinematic ambitions. Then, jump forward to 'MASSA' from 'CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST', a brutally honest reflection on his evolution and creative freedom. It's Tyler at his most lyrically dense and compelling.
Steve Lacy
The 'Bad Habit' phenomenon is real, but Steve Lacy has been crafting silky, genre-bending earworms for years. A prime example is 'N Side', a seductive and minimalist funk-R&B tune that demonstrates his 'less is more' genius. For a different flavor, explore 'Infrunami', a track that builds from a simple guitar loop into a hypnotic, dreamy escape. These songs highlight the incredible nuance that makes him one of the most exciting artists on the bill.
SZA
From 'Kill Bill' to 'Good Days', SZA has mastered the art of the chart-topping confessional. But her earlier work holds some of her most potent tracks. Check out 'Sweet November' from her 'Z' EP, a hazy, beautiful song sampling a Marvin Gaye deep cut that shows her early promise. Also essential is '20 Something' from 'Ctrl', a raw and relatable ballad about the anxieties of navigating young adulthood that remains one of her most poignant and honest songs.
Turnstile
This band blew up with the infectious energy of 'MYSTERY' and 'HOLIDAY'. To understand their roots and range, you need to dig deeper. 'Blue By You' from 'Nonstop Feeling' is a fantastic, almost pop-rock song that shows their melodic sensibilities have always been there, hiding under the hardcore exterior. Also, don't miss 'I Don’t Wanna Be Blind' from 'Time & Space', a track that perfectly welds their signature aggressive drive with a soaring, anthemic chorus.
Earl Sweatshirt
Performing with MIKE, Earl is a master of dense, introspective lyricism that rewards close listening. While tracks like 'Chum' are iconic, his more recent work is where he's truly honed his craft. Dive into 'The Mint' (feat. Navy Blue), a sparse, looping track where Earl's intricate rhymes are front and center. Another must-listen is 'Nowhere2go' from 'Some Rap Songs', a frantic, sample-heavy piece that captures a sense of anxiety and displacement with stunning clarity.
beabadoobee
Beyond the viral fame of 'Coffee' and its Powfu-sampled counterpart, Bea has a rich catalog of '90s-indebted indie rock. 'Care', the lead single from her debut album 'Fake It Flowers', is a blast of cathartic, fuzzy guitar and honest lyrics. For a more atmospheric vibe, try 'See you Soon' from 'Beatopia', a dreamy, layered track that showcases her growth as a songwriter and producer. It proves there's so much more to her sound than her breakout hit.
Vince Staples
Vince is a chameleon, shifting from West Coast bangers to experimental electronic rap. While he has his share of hits, his album cuts are where the real stories are told. 'Norf Norf' is a classic, but listen to 'Summertime' from 'Summertime '06'. It’s a dark, brooding, and surprisingly vulnerable track that sets a stark, immersive tone. Then there’s '745' from 'Big Fish Theory', a hypnotic house-infused track perfect for a late-night drive, showing his willingness to push sonic boundaries.
Toro y Moi
Chaz Bear, aka Toro y Moi, has been a pioneer of the chillwave movement and beyond for over a decade. You might know him from tracks like 'Girl Like You'. To really appreciate his artistry, listen to 'Rose Quartz', a shimmering, synth-heavy track with an incredible build that feels both nostalgic and futuristic. Also, check out 'Omaha' from the 'Boo Boo' album; it's a beautifully melancholic and atmospheric piece that highlights his understated vocal delivery and knack for creating a mood.
PinkPantheress
Her short, sample-heavy tracks like 'Boy's a liar' are built for modern attention spans, but there's depth in her brevity. 'Close to you', a fan-favorite unreleased track that finally got an official release, is a perfect example of her garage and 2-step influences, blending a nostalgic beat with her signature soft-spoken delivery. For another angle, 'I must apologise' shows her ability to craft an infectious, slightly melancholic dance-pop gem that sticks in your head long after its two minutes are up.
