Excitement is an understatement when I think about being a part of the Invest in Music Onchain Curator Season 1. This is a thrilling opportunity to dive headfirst into the world of music, by combining my passion for writing with my love for music-- onchain! I've got something unique in store for this activation, and I can't wait to share it with you all.
A Different Approach:
You might be wondering what sets my journey as an Onchain Curator apart from the rest. Well, as a writer and an avid music lover, I've decided to take a slightly different path. Instead of the conventional approach of just sharing referral links, I want to use the power of words to breathe life into this incredible journey of musical discovery.
Throughout my time in web3 I've dabbled in music-based writing. It's been an exciting ride to explore the intersection of technology, music, and creativity. Now, with this new opportunity, I'm ready to combine my two greatest passions once again—written expression and music—to help fellow music enthusiasts discover hidden gems on the blockchain.
Onchain Music Discovery:
So, what can you expect from my journey as an Onchain Curator? Here's a sneak peek:
Regular Updates: I'll be regularly updating this Mirror article, sharing my thoughts, insights, and recommendations. Through my words, I hope to take you on a journey through the world of onchain music.
Curated Sound Playlist: One of the highlights of my process will be the creation of my master Sound.xyz playlist. This playlist will be a reflection of my musical tastes and discoveries, providing you with what I consider the best of new onchain music. While it will not be curated by genre/sonic journey like my other playlists, this will serve as a home base for my music discovery/reccomendations over the season.
Weekly Twitter Threads: In addition to the article and playlist, I'll be active on Twitter, sharing my thoughts, reviews, and recommendations for the tracks that resonate with me the most. Expect weekly (or perhaps more frequent) Twitter threads that dive deep into the music I love.
So without further ado…….
UPDATED September 17, 2023
PELYUH's "Can You Feel The Beat" is a heavy house music masterpiece. The production quality shines throughout the track, immersing you in a deep house trance. I couldn't resist hitting the replay button multiple times when I stumbled upon this gem.
Collect here:
Joe Urso (@joeursomusic) dropped "Bubbly," and I instantly fell in love with it on the first listen. Remarkably, this song was created in a single session and part freestyle. It's worth noting that the version you hear here is labeled as a 'rough cut,' a testament to Joe Urso's musical prowess, as my ears couldn't detect a single flaw. This track is a testament to his talent, delivering a fantastic mellow rap love song with a great vibe from start to finish.
Collect here:
"Electrobodies" by Sonic Heads (@SonicHeads) had me hooked from the moment those synth-y 80s beats kicked in. It's a flawless synth-pop banger that leaves no room for critique or doubt from start to finish. What adds intrigue to this track is that it's the creation of a virtual band. While I may not be a huge fan of the metaverse artist/virtual band narrative, it's undeniably cool to witness creativity and innovation thriving in onchain music. The talent behind this virtual band is undeniable.
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"Frenemy" by Sven Dayz (@iamsevndayz) won me over with its vocals, which are nothing short of incredible. The lyrics tug at the heartstrings, and the song's production is incredibly well-executed. The music is full-bodied, and if you let it, you can feel it resonate deep within your soul.
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Halo Kitsch (@HaloKitsch) stands out as one of my favorite artist discoveries this week. Her track "(I Like to Be Lonely) Lonely" takes over your senses with its full-bodied sonic embrace. Halo Kitsch's voice is immaculate, and the chorus exudes cinematic vibes that could easily find a place in a movie scene. Someone, please get this artist a sync placement.
Collect here:
Ari Gumora (@AriGumora) graces my list once again with his song "You." I was instantly reminded of Oxis (@iamoxis) with its ethereal vocals, combined with a blend of guitar and electronic elements. Just give it a listen; this track fires on all cylinders. Perhaps we'll even get an Oxis x Ari collab someday!
Collect here:
Gateway Girl (@gatewaygirl) was a delightful discovery this week with her song "Deal with it." The track exudes Billie Eilish vibes, and I absolutely loved it. The soft vocals and intricate layering gave me literal chills as I listened. When music elicits such a somatic experience, it's a definite win in my book.
Collect here:
This week, I have a double feature from serboy (@serboynft), an incredibly talented electronic music producer from Turkey. I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with him through DANC3 (@_DANC3). Serboy's mastery of electronic music is evident in both "Melancolica" and "Moonlight." In his latest release, he collaborates with HeyBela (@HeybelaNFT), whose music I've been enjoying onchain since September 2022. Seeing her featured on two outstanding electronic tracks this week was a hype moment.
Collect here:
LXBERTY MXTON drops "DIGITAL UNKNOWN," a low-tempo electronic track channeling the energy of "wook bass," which I absolutely love. This is the kind of music that you'd find me freestyle dancing to at festivals and concerts. It's hard-hitting, dank, and serves all the right vibes.
Collect here:
SOS On Side (@sosonside69), a one-man band, treats us to a lovely indie pop-rock bop with "Dr. Periwinkle - Sola Stella." Beyond it being a good song, I personally appreciate seeing this genre represented onchain and want to highlight anyone bringing us such sweet sounds. Additionally, the artist delves deep into onchain music tech, so be sure to read the track description to learn more about their blockchain endeavors.
Collect here:
"Lost" by JED XO (@1jedxo) features a groovy beat and lovely lyrics. This track is versatile, allowing you to either get up and dance around or simply lay back and let the vocals carry you into a state of sonic bliss.
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"Plugged In (remix)" by Sunshine Vendetta (@sunshinevndetta) featuring Block6, Fumez, YA6, Lucii, and Tzgwala is an instant anthem for board sports enthusiasts like me. It's fast, gritty, and I can't wait to hit the snowy slopes with this track blasting in my headphones. This song gets me hyped up like no other!
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"No Limit The Album" by Dope Stilo (@DopeStilo) was a standout in my week of listening. Initially, I was in the car and had no idea it was an entire album presented as one track. The first song immediately captured my attention with its subtle Pop Smoke influence on the production. As the song changed, I felt a hint of YG energy, making me think it was a new artist and track. To my surprise, I looked down at my phone, and saw it was the same artist/track still, and I enjoyed every second of it. Dope Stilo's skills are undeniable, and I'm now a fan.
Collect here:
Selections from September 12, 2023
"Wait For Me" by K-Zen Beats ft. Kish (@Kzenbeats) is a sublime 3-minute masterpiece that exemplifies musical excellence. The production quality is nothing short of remarkable, which is something I can't emphasize enough. Furthermore, it's not just a well-mixed and mastered track; it's an exceptional song that had me hitting the replay button multiple times.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/kzenbeats/wait-for-me?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
Discovering "Paper Soldiers" by Karma Haze (@kamrehaze) amidst the new music releases this week was an absolute gem. His flow is reminiscent of early Joey Bada$$ and Odd Future, complemented by sharp, memorable bars. Lines like "she's sucking me like outer space, they say that sh*t's a vacuum" hit hard and resonate deeply.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/kamrehaze/paper-soldiers?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
ZOYA (@zoyanaumchik) is a newcomer on the web3 radar, with her debut track "THIS IS THE END." This electro-pop ballad is an absolute perfection, hitting all the right notes. It's a flawless beginning for ZOYA, setting an impressive standard for her future releases.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/zoyanaumchik/this-is-the-end?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
Stumbling upon Ari Gumora (@AriGumora) and his album "Blue Spirits" caught me by surprise. I didn't just enjoy one or two tracks; I found myself captivated by four out of the eight. This collection of work is something truly special. In a landscape filled with one-off tracks, Gumora's cohesive and masterfully crafted body of work stands out as a testament to his artistry.
Collect here:
Waiting: https://www.sound.xyz/arigumora/w-a-i-t-i-n-g?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
good | advice: https://www.sound.xyz/arigumora/g-o-o-d-a-d-v-i-c-e?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
"Dawn" by GritBeat (@GritBeatMusicis) is an all-encompassing electronic track. This instrumental track doesn't feature vocals, making it a unique listening experience that is definitely an acquired taste. However, as an electronic music enthusiast, I can appreciate the greatness in this composition.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/gritbeat/dawn?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf&referral_source=link
Let me introduce you to Kevin Thomas (@kevinmthomas). While his track "Rock Me All Night Long" may not be everyone's cup of tea, especially in terms of mixing and mastering, it certainly channels solid AC/DC vibes. I eagerly anticipate his growth and mastery of this under appreciated sound.
If you haven't heard of Domino (@dominosmusic), you might be new to the world of onchain music. This smooth, low-tempo rap track, featuring the great Sara Phillips (@Sara_JPhillips), is a true masterpiece. It's not just an evergreen bop; it's a collectible you'd want to add to your wallet.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/domino/love-ft-sara-phillips?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf&referral_source=link
Back on my list for all the right reasons, Beats by LOR (@BeatsLor) continues to push the envelope. From last times ‘wubs’ to this indie rock instrumental titled "The Mission," this artist fearlessly explores different genres. Keep an eye out for his future releases; he's coming in hot.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/beatsbylor/the-mission?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf&referral_source=link
"Water" by Mayblu is the perfect golden-hour afternoon track. No seriously, my synesthesia was serving shimmery gold light the entire time. This song is ideal for unwinding with a glass of wine and basking in the natural beauty around you. This artist is a fresh face on the scene but is already delivering instant hits.
Collect here: https://www.sound.xyz/mayblu/water?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf&referral_source=link
"Brighton" by Jade (@Jadeyours) is a delightful 2k pop-rock masterpiece that absolutely made my day. It's challenging to put into words just how joyous this song made me feel, but take my word for it—Collect here and hit that collect button without hesitation.
Collect here:https://www.sound.xyz/jade/brighton?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf&referral_source=link
Selections from September 10, 2023
If you know me, you know I REP Oxis. Valentina (@itsvalentinacy) debuted her alt project Oxis (@iamoxis) earlier this year and it has been some of my favorite music release in 2023— even outside of web3. “Apteros” is no exception. Valentina brings her mastery of guitar to the world of electronic music, and the world is a better place for it.
Collect here:
https://www.sound.xyz/oxis/apteros?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
This song is anything but SALTY! Matthew Chaim @matthewchaim (Production by Rabbit) brings us a solid house track worth checking out. 10/10 quality music!
Collect here:
https://www.sound.xyz/chaim/nacl-with-rabitt?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
Hossein Taheri brings us a beautiful electro-pop meets deep house banger. Reminiscent of the early days of EDM this track is easily a crowd favorite at your next party.
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It may have been made at 4am with a touch of sleep deprivation, but this bass house track by ZenAware (@zenawaree) hits all the right spots to light up those neurons any hour of the day (or night)
Collect here:
https://www.sound.xyz/zenaware/hot?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
Prey by Santos Romero Barrientos (@BarryBigBucks) brings a flow reminiscent of early NYC hip-hop. What is even more powerful is his lyricism. I like to call tracks like this “conscious rap” and this is a great example of the style.
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Covex (@CovexMusic) has been blowing my mind recently with his releases. This man really has talent that extends all the way to his LIVE performances… yes you read that right LIVE electronic. This track is beautifully written and produced— if you are looking for quality, this fits the bill.
Collect here:
https://www.sound.xyz/covexmusic/i-miss-u?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
This artist needs no introduction… the great Daniel Allen (@imdanielallan) has done it again! DA and KG (@itskevingeorge) join forces to bring another all around bop. The drops on this are WET!
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NO BRA NO PANTIES is a standout in web3 music by the awesome duo So Tuff So Cute (@SoTuffSoCute). This is some badass girl boss punk music… and also a really perfect nod to the cult film “Thirteen” with the title.
Collect here:
This one is a real hot take from a lowkey producer that I personally have not heard of before. Beats By LOR (@BeatsLor) drops a grimy nasty get down stay down track that tickles my little soul. If you are a wubby, trappy, bass head like myself, then this track is for you!
Collect here:
https://www.sound.xyz/beatsbylor/queen?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
Everyone loves a good cry, and Nico Franc (@itsnicofranc) is king of a good “im not crying, you are crying” indie-folky bop. This one is no exception! Nico is brilliant songwriter and brings top quality music on-chain. He is one to love and one to watch
Collect here:
https://www.sound.xyz/nicofranc/take-my-hand?referral=0xb408a9ee6332477b143c8cfe6c2c8899849a2edf
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