10 Coachella Hidden Gems 2018

I’m doing it again - please hold the applause! I blissfully ignored all of my responsibilities to listen to all the performers at this year’s Coachella Valley Music & Art Festival. So I present to you, without further ado, my 10 Hidden Gems of 2018 that are buried in the dense lineups that are worth giving a listen. And as always, You’re welcome.

1. LION BABE: R&B - Sun, April 15 + 22

Rolling Stone / Via rollingstone.com

This soulful duo of singer Jillian Hervey and producer Lucas Goodman illuminates the bright the future of R&B. Lucas provides the dope beats while Hervey steals the show and your heart. Her angelic voice is second only to her charming personality that she unveils during each verse.

2. Cherry Glazerr: Garage Rock - Sat, April 14 + 21

Westword / Via westword.com

Lead guitarist and singer Clementine Creevy’s vocals pull from the new wave movement and are perfectly accompanied by her crunchy, lo-fi riffs. Her honest, female empowerment lyrics plod down the slogging slapping of her six-string to create an oddly enjoyable performance.

3. Carpenter Brut: Electronic - Fri, April 13 + 20

Pure Grain Audio / Via puregrainaudio.com

If the boys from Justice had a baby with the guys from Chromeo, they’d give birth to a carpenter named Brut. This unknown French DJ comes in heavy with his intros and bridges, but his verses and choruses are a dancing delight. He performs live with a backing guitarist and drummer, supplemented with intense visuals. Maybe the bright Coachella lights will illuminate the identity of this mystery man…

4. LÉON: Indie Pop - Fri, April 13 + 20

Glamour / Via glamour.com

It doesn’t seem like Adele will be making it to the polo grounds this year. Yet she won’t be missed as LÉON carries a wide range similar to her favorite influence. Her poppy tunes embrace the emotions and heartfelt lyrics that will leave standing in awe before remembering to dance.

5. Perfume Genius: Indie Pop - Fri, April 13 + 20

GQ

“Queen” was the song that you heard everywhere in 2017, but could never figure out who performed it (thanks Shazam). After listening to Perfume Genius’ catalog, I not only discovered the artist but found a full arsenal of ornate songs by Mike Hadreas. Get ready for an elaborate show on Friday.

6. SuperDuperKyle: Rap - Fri, April 13 + 20

Bay Bridged / Via thebaybridged.com

It’s been a turbulent 365 for Kyle Harvey AKA Kyle AKA SuperDuperKyle. He lost his family home when the Thomas Fire engulfed most of Ventura, CA. With that behind him, he brings his light flow, optimistic lyrics and smooth lisp to the polo grounds.

7. Omar-S: Deep House - Sun, April 15 + 22

Resident Advisor / Via residentadvisor.net

With all the hype that comes during Coachella, I plan at some point relaxing. And who better to take me down-tempo than with Omar-S. This Detroit DJ has a raw, minimalistic style that’s sure to bring a little R&R to anyone that checks him out on a sunny Sunday.

8. Motor City Drum Ensemble: Soulful House - Sun, April 15 + 22

Resident Advisor / Via residentadvisor.net

The first things you’ll come to learn about Motor City Drum Ensemble is that it’s one (not an ensemble) DJ (not a drummer) from Germany (not Detroit). Once you get passed all the “deception” you can accept him for who he really is - a bombastic producer with a large collection of drum machines and a fun set.

9. Party Favor: Trap - Sat, April 14 + 21

YouTube / Via youtube.com

Dylan Ragland’s trap game is on point. Need a hard-hitting, heavy bass jam? He’s got you. Need jubilant, victorious repetitive vocals? He’s got you. Need to lose your shit for a duration of a whole set? He’s got you. You can’t leave Coachella weekend without a Party Favor.

10. Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever: Indie Rock - Sun, April 15 + 22

Mushroom Promotions / Via mushroompromotions.com

What makes RBCF truly unique is the fact they have three very different singer-guitarists in Tom Russo, Fran Keaney, and Joe White. This creates a different aesthetic to every song. Their patented sound never strays too far from the chill vibe these boys brought with them all the way from Melbourne.

Listen to the Hidden Gems playlist:

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