conversations

merci, mercy has made her name as one of Australia’s most exciting up-and-coming alt-pop artists in the Sydney scene–but she’s quickly taking the whole world by storm with her raw and open lyricism. Her new single “Sick To My Stomach”, fresh off her forthcoming sophomore EP, is a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced substance abuse and addiction. Unpublished sat down with the artist to chat about her musical family, the evolution of her sound, and what she hopes to offer listeners through her music.

Alt-pop artist and songwriter Lexi Aviles, otherwise known by the name of her solo project Love You Later, is a master of creating catchy, 80s-inspired songs that stay in your head for months–and yet also carry a vulnerable, honest message. Her new single “Keepintouch” is perhaps one of the best examples of this, pairing heavy 80s synths and shimmering vocals with lyrics that see her learning to love being alone. Unpublished sat down with the artist to chat about her early start in community theater, how she first created Love You Later, and how she’s found ways to “keepintouch” with herself.

Singer, songwriter, and actress Lola Kirke (known for her role in 2014’s Gone Girl) has made a name for herself as a fierce triple threat in the entertainment industry. Her recently released song “Better Than Any Drug”, the first single off her forthcoming album Lady For Sale, is an addictive ode to country music, the 70s and 80s, and falling in love. Unpublished sat down with the artist to chat about her musical upbringing, creative evolution, and what she’s excited for fans to hear in future projects.

Since first emerging in the music scene at 15, genre-bending artist Tobias Dray has always been in a league of his own. As much as his new single “Espada Primo” blends funk, bass, thick electronic sounds, and vocal layers within its production, it also mixes his love for heist dramas, films like Ocean’s 12, and anime in its visual and thematic styles. Unpublished sat down with the artist to chat about his early inclinations for the medium, influences, and unique approach to music creation.

Caroline Romano was first inspired to move to her current home of Nashville through a Taylor Swift documentary but since then, she’s made the city and her music all her own. Her new single “Panic Attack”, released from her forthcoming debut album Oddities and Prodigies, is a stunning confession and exploration of her anxiety and depression. Unpublished sat down with the artist to chat about her career beginnings at 13, releasing her first single at 15, and what she hopes listeners take away from her music.

Singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Maddie Jay has always been her own artist–writing, mixing, and recording songs herself, even shooting cover art with friends. Her newest single “Gutterball” is no different, all while invoking 80s synth sensibility, millennial angst, and childhood blues. Unpublished sat down with the artist to chat about her smalltown childhood, her initial foray into music, and her current gig as a bassist for Remi Wolf.

Caroline Grace Vein, otherwise known by her alt-pop alter ego blondestandard, may have just begun her music artist journey but she’s been a star for years. From her roots as a visual artist, to working as an industry professional, to recently releasing her debut single “BLUE EYES”, she’s one of the most versatile up-and-coming artists to watch this year. Unpublished sat down with her to chat about her upbringing in L.A., her early inclinations for music, and her hopes for the future.