OFM New Music: April 2021

This month’s must-catch new releases from the artists you already love and the musicians you need to know.

DijahSB: Head Above Waters

Toronto-based rapper DijahSB is not only demanding a space in the art of hip hop, they are like a magnet with witty, agile inspiration. The release of the new album, Head Above Waters on April 23, takes a raw and honest look into the mind of a Black, nonbinary creative, Dijah brings a unique and fun take on dealing with heartbreak, hope, and breakthroughs.

Stemming from a love of  West Coast music, they took a deep dive at a young age into the rap and hip hop genre and knew those genres would be their forever home.

Making synth loops, booming bass claps, and smoothed-out production look easy, their music buzzes effortlessly as it blends grungy guitar rock and heavy drum boom bap. Spilling sauce and raking up confidence, every track on Head Above the Water delivers a variety an insistent and urgent call for uplifting community during these pandemic times of social distancing.

With the aim of providing representation for queer folks who feel like outcasts, Dijah encourages folks to go against the grain and forage their own path. As a masc-presenting, nonbinary young person, they openly share about their struggles with depression, mental health, and financial instability. Their music serves as a remedy, and comfort to those who feel unseen, and those who want to reach out for support.

Partnering with producers like Harrison on single “By Myself,” the tracks feel fresh and deliver hot beats and bars that are like a swift kick to the chest. You’ll feel these songs deep down in the place that music hits just right and feels healing for the soul.

Tom the Mail Man: Sometimes Sorry Isn’t Enough

Genre-defying, Atlanta-based artist has departed from his formerly released hip-hop focus to incorporate an interprolation of Foo Fighter’s hit “Everlong.” Showcasing his talent to never be placed into a box, the skilled rapper is still best known for his ability to mix caption-worthy verses and fast flows, penning earworm melodies that make Tom the Mail Man an equally compelling singer. From afrobeat to rap, to punk, to pop, Sometimes Sorry Isn’t Enough is a new chapter for the song writer.

Noods: Blush 

The indie-pop outfit Noods are releasing their debut album, Blush, that features tracks which draw from the rich fabric of personal and romantic experiences. Released by queer-run, independent label Get Better Records, the quartet of introverts and wallflowers push the boundaries of indie with the nonstop, driving, catchy energy. No space for pause, the beats are quirky, and the depth of exploration is vast. Playing off awkward shyness well, this record brings riotous fun.   

Luminous Kid: at the end of the dream 

Swedish visual artist Olof Grind, aka Luminous Kid, spent more than two years writing songs that centered around themes of the queer experience, cute love stories, heavy hearbreaks, and the feeling of constantly searching for direction. Album tracks are infused with lush analogue soundscapes, the subtle and entrancing debut album at the end of the dream is a standout release in 2021. The out artist also creatively contributed the album art and accompanying coffee-table book.

Black Fly: Black Fly 01 

The musician and visual artist Joseph Rittling, aka Black Fly, has hand-crafted a meticulous and intimate piece of art in Black Fly 01. Creating an imagined space and creating sonic scenes inspired by rural landscapes, technology, and where the people intertwine, Rittling leans into dark imagery and allows the imagination of the listener to wander. Through pulsing synths or moody beats, his soaring vocals at times explore the vastness of organic clash and environmental texture.

Blood Lemon: Blood Lemon

Post-riot grrrl trio Blood Lemon are releasing their debut, self-titled album. This politically charged LP is a great soundtrack to 2021, as we enter the unknown and are seeking for a cathartic, good time. From climate change, American politics, social justice, to navigating adulthood as women, the alternative sound features rad riffs and stellar shredding. These tracks are a guitar-centric genie that is emerging at just the right time.

KUČKA:Wrestling

A collection of intricately produced songs showing her deepest sense of self, Wresting is the debut album for the queer, L.A.-based artist. Transcending traditional understanding of techno and dance production, KUČKA uses these carefully chosen tracks to help heal from a tough-but-fruitful, transitional period in her life. The lyrics are revealing and are a intricate contrast against the layered melodies and beats.