Welcome to Off the Radar, On Repeat! As a huge music fan, I consistently try to find new ways to diversify my playlists or curate new ones for certain situations. I’ve been a music lover since I was able to dance, and I’ve always loved the more folksy, acoustic, slower songs above all else.
As for my credentials, the concerts I’ve attended so far include Hozier, Noah Kahan, The Backseat Lovers, Harry Styles, and Niall Horan, and I’m hoping for so many more.
I’ve grown tired of relying on the same five songs to impress my friends with, so I’ve made a point to discover smaller artists and explore their discographies to share my favorites with you all.
I’ve spent the past few weeks listening to more artists, and now that the weather has officially cooled off (hopefully for the season), it feels like the perfect time to introduce some new ones to your rotation.
These musicians I’m sharing with you today all have breathtaking vocals with gorgeous lyrics that will have you hooked from the second you start listening. Here are four artists that need to be added to your playlists!
Matilda Mann
Matilda Mann employs intricate chord progressions throughout her music, adding an extra layer of musicality to each of her pieces. I first heard “In Plain Sight” in early 2024 and became obsessed with her voice and the lyrics she writes. She released her first full album, Roxwell, on Feb. 28.
My favorites from that album include “All That Was Said,” “Dazed and Confused,” and “Worst Person Alive.” Her Spotify artist description shares a beautiful line about her music, saying that her album Roxwell is a “portrayal of the bittersweet transition to adulthood.” Go give her a listen; you won’t regret it.
Martin Luke Brown
I found Martin Luke Brown randomly on my “Discover Weekly” playlist from Spotify. I was introduced to “love is a black hole !” and fell in love with his voice. His storytelling through his music is something I envy, along with the acoustic guitar that plays throughout most of his songs.
Brown released his deluxe album, man oh man !, on Oct. 17, which includes my favorites “hello !” and “to be a man.” He’s also written and produced for artists such as Lizzy McAlpine, James Smith, and Sam Tompkins. His music is extremely vulnerable and completely relatable, and his voice is gorgeous!
Katie Gregson-MacLeod
Now, I have a feeling almost everyone has heard Gregson-MacLeod’s song “complex,” an utterly heartbreaking piece fully piano-driven with her beautiful voice. She recently released an EP on July 4, called Love Me Too Well, I’ll Retire Early.
She somehow blends a more upbeat instrumental with melancholic lyrics, especially in “I Just Think of It All the Time.” Her song “Mosh Pit” on that same EP has a charming string ensemble playing with the guitar and is just stunning to listen to. I think everyone should listen to all her versions of “complex,” and explore all her new beautiful music!
Searows
Now, I wouldn’t say this artist is the most underground, but they’ve quite literally been my favorite artist for the past three years. Alec Duckart is the voice and brilliant mind behind Searows, and he’s just so incredible. The first song I ever listened to by Searows was “Haunted,” which had the most beautiful lyrics and guitar I’d heard from an artist.
His album Guard Dog is a repeat on any long drive I take, with my favorites being “Used To Be Friends” and “Keep The Rain.” Searows has multiple EPs and singles out, and I encourage you to explore them all. He has a new album called Death in the Business of Whaling coming out on Jan. 23, 2026, so listen to all of the songs beforehand so you’re caught up! If I’m ever asked who my favorite artist is, he’s the one I recommend. Every. Single. Time.
All these artists have a special place in my heart, and I hope you can take the time to listen and add a new artist to your rotation. Until next time, happy listening!
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