THE DELI

Brooklyn based producer Esseks (Sam Eckstein) brings a distinctive flavor of electronica to his latest EP release, “Broken Bones” (Sticks & Stones).

The EP is divided in two: Five tracks under “Sticks.” Five tracks under “Stones.” This concept plays nicely. The “Stones” tracks are tonally “heavier” than the rest of the EP. 

At times, “Broken Bones” almost feels like a throwback to the stomping fuzz of prime-era dubstep. But ultimately, Esseks’ glitch-hop and hip-hop influences assert dominance. J Dilla-referencing tracks like “Dill” show off Esseks’ swagger and ear for inventive melody. While the emotive, “wonderfully strange “Pigeon Toes” showcases the range of Eckstein’s inventive production. “Broken Bones” is good ‘ish. -juan leon

Jean Jeanie, of the avant-pop project Future Twin, offers up a deliciously synthy power ballad in new song “Head Like a Halo.” Future Twin’s music is above all else fueled by activism and social theory.

This is clear in her single’s 360˚ music video that was filmed in a living art installation on the night of the presidential election. The video captures the frenzied energy of that night and its kaleidoscope of emotions, all of which are fueled by the lyrics insisting on the need to step back from the computer and interact with others off-screen. You can catch Future Twin at KWTF Sonoma County on 10.15. —Amanda Ogea

The funky, stripped-down Southern soul made by emerging act Wheetay—fronted by Thomas White—is exactly what the Nashville scene needs right now. White takes on the responsibility of writing, recording, producing, mixing, and mastering all the tracks, yet he still considers the project a collaborative effort as his friends play a role in inspiring his tracks and bringing them to life. Explained in his own words as a “lo-fi approach to high fidelity music,” Wheetay is finally taking to the stage with a lineup of live shows, in which he will combine live instruments with looping tracks. The sultry, semi-electronic sound created by White and co. is fresh, fun, and a nice change of pace for Music City. If you can’t make his show tonight at the Tin Roof, then definitely make sure to catch him opening for Willie Shaw at The Country on the 13th. – Lilly Milman

Listen to our favorite track “Probably Nothing” streaming below.

Fits stay true to their name with their especially short songs, each one bursting into the limelight with compelling and near-addicting guitar riffs. It’d be too easy for a band to get lost in the music, but Fits know just when to end a song early enough to cause a craving for more. Fits’ penchant for brevity (as well as quirky humor) keeps the themes of their upcoming LP “All Belief is Paradise,” themes of queer identity in the shadow of grief and disillusioned meditations on childhood, from being too overwhelming. Instead, the music is refreshingly sincere. Celebrate the LP’s release with Fits at Alphaville on 11.17.  —Amanda Ogea

We added this song to The Deli’s playlist of Best songs by emerging NYC artists – check it out!

New York’s electric pop artist, Blonde Maze is the project of self-produced Amanda Steckler whose sound is anchored on a dreamy blend of woven piano, electronic marimbas and layered vocal harmonies. Her newest single ‘Thunder’ is a translucent dive into melodic bliss that needs only a repeat button. Her 2015 debut EP ‘Oceans’ was very well received, going to #18 on Spotify’s ‘US Viral’ chart, and receiving attention from MTV’s ‘Radar’, and BBC Radio 1 among other channels. She is currently armed with a new and improved material, and another EP slated for 2018 release. – Vernon McGhee

Saturn Rising produces moody R&B that sounds as astral as his name suggests. The singer/dancer crafts dreamy, dark soundscapes that strike powerfully on the rawest of human experiences, while still managing to fit in against other club bangers. The musical prowess and fierce individuality of Saturn Rising makes his music a must-listen, so be sure to stream him below.-Olivia Sisinni