Top Underground Projects of 2023
TOP 15 UNDERGROUND PROJECTS OF 2023
From Pop to R&B to hard-hitting rap albums and unexpected hyperpop and experimental projects that made their way to the top of the underground, these are DMTV’s top picks for the best projects of 2023.
In 2023, the music landscape experienced a remarkable surge, particularly within Toronto's underground scene. A multitude of artists emerged, showcasing high-caliber music and delivering some of the most outstanding projects and albums of the year. I've compiled a list of 15 personal favorites that captivated me. Entering 2024 fills me with anticipation. I can only envision the abundance of music awaiting us next year and the significant moments our city is destined to create. It's important to note that the following entries are presented in no specific order, the order of these entries is arbitrary; this list is not arranged from best to worst and vice versa.
- Maxim Bayarsky
15. ultrrviolet, INFLUENCE
Release date: April 29th
"INFLUENCE," a captivating 7-track EP that exhibits an immaculate and polished sound for a hyperpop, rage-directed sound. This project took me by surprise, and from the moment I first listened to it, I was pleasantly impressed. The artistry and attention to detail displayed by Ultrrviolet in assembling this EP are truly commendable. One aspect that immediately caught my attention is the unique style and aesthetic that Ultrrviolet brings to the table with this project. The beat selection throughout the EP is impeccable. A consistent sonic thread weaves through the entire project, providing a cohesive and immersive experience. Mixing his vocals is masterfully executed, utilizing tools to enhance his sound without veering into excessive editing or heavy autotune. Additionally, his voice carries a subtle rasp, adding a finishing touch to his overall sound. I must say, “INFLUENCE” is one of the better experimental projects I have heard of in recent times. Ultrrviolet is gonna be an underground gem very soon, his time to shine is coming soon.
14. RYE. 783, The Boy Who Lived
Release date: January 6th
RYE’s “The Boy Who Lived” EP showcases RYE's ability to deliver a classic R&B sound, with vibrant production, and beautiful melodies. RYE’s mix of genres is one of the reasons he has been able to create such a strong and quality sound. His voice is both angelic and powerful, with a lot of versatility in his style and delivery. He specializes in alternative R&B and infuses his personal experiences into his music. He has some of my favorite tracks this year, some of which are “Never Know,” and “IDK.” RYE is an artist to watch out for, especially in the Toronto music scene. He possesses immense talent and the potential to make a significant impact in the industry. I can assure you that RYE will be doing something big in 2024.
13. Moeski, Not 4 Me, 4 Us
Release date: November 2nd
MOESKI stands as a hidden gem, his artistry carving out a distinct niche. His unique style, both in terms of vocal delivery and production, sets him apart. What makes MOESKI truly exceptional is his cadence. His project “Not 4 Me, 4 Us” is a showcase of a collection of music that creates its vibe and world. His ability to navigate seamlessly between low and high vocal tones is incredible, you can hear it in a lot of his most recent music. I feel like it’s becoming his signature sound now. There is just something so memorable and catchy about his music that it gets me every time. His single “Ghosts” is one of his best so far and it’s the perfect late-night car ride song. Moeski is someone who will set trends, he has this vibe and aesthetic that I can only describe as unique. I would highly recommend y’all to give this project a listen and his whole discography a listen.
12. Kavale, AREN'T YOU LUCKY?
Release date: September 7th
"AREN'T YOU LUCKY?" has emerged as a standout Rap release in recent months. Kavale possesses a distinctive quality that sets him apart from the crowd of lyrical rappers in the city. His authenticity shines through in his music, characterized by a genuine passion and creative vigor. The unique and varied soundscape Kavale brings to this project contributes to its distinctive and invigorating feel. Beyond impressive lyrics, Kavale showcases his vocal prowess in tracks like “WOULD YOU LIKE A HEART?,” “EYE LANGUAGE,” and “TOO MUCH, NOT ENOUGH.” For those who appreciate music with depth and a compelling message, I highly recommend immersing yourself in this project—it's an experience that transcends the ordinary and demands attention.
11. K-T3 & Underdawgbuju, KEN3
Release date: March 17th
K-T3 and Underdawgbuju are among the most impressive duos I've heard in the past few years, with a natural chemistry and a similar sense of energy and style that brings us one of the most energetic projects of the year titled “KEN3.” Kile and Buju's catchy and melodious performances make this project unforgettable. The production of this project is superbly crafted, with a range of different vibes and styles to suit different moods. Buju and Kile created a quality rager project that stands out as one of the best in its lane. Kile’s energy is like nothing I have ever seen, his camera presence is some of the best I have ever experienced and his energy on the mic really and truly reflects that. The same can be said about Underdawgbuju, his style and aesthetic are one of the most unique in the city. These two created one of the best rage and hyperpop albums in 2023 and If you have a can of the underground, you must give this a listen.
10. Dr. Bushman, Canvas
Released date: January 13
Bushman's most recent project, "Canvas," has a long list of hits, and it's no comparison. Bushman's voice and cadence are one of his most distinguishing and noticeable musical characteristics. His flows and delivery are important, but his vocal tone and style are truly unique. "Canvas" is a full-length project featuring 17 singles. Everything from the beat selection to the delivery, to the mixing and overall production, and even the album art was very well done. Even with that distinct voice and super melodic overtone, you have a man telling his story with some profound lyrical content. Bushman has experience outside of music, and that experience is what makes his music so powerful and interesting. Bushman’s “Canvas” is a must-listen, especially if you want great storytelling.
09. Lil Grayski, ATIMUV (Complete Edition)
Release date: October 20th
"ATIMUV (Complete Edition)" is an extended version that brings 11 new songs to the original 8 from Grayski’s "A Trip In My Unfocused Visions." The "ATIMUV (Complete Edition)" feels like a cohesive and well-structured project. In his previous work, Grayski seemed to be searching for his musical identity, but now, he appears to have found it. His sound and style have evolved in a direction where he can truly thrive. The opium aesthetic he embraces serves as a promising starting point for his future direction. Grayski’s darker grungier aesthetic and sound have truly found their place in the underground scene. Grayski has become one of my personal favorites over the past few months with tracks like “Unfocused Visions,” and "GRUNGE GIRLZ." His sound is so distinct and pronounced. I really enjoyed "ATIMUV (Complete Edition)" and I can’t wait to see what he has planned for 2024.
08. MICO, the tears we fight EP
Release date: March 17th
MICO recently caught my attention, and I must admit, his music has left a lasting impression on me in the short time I've been tuning in. This talented young artist has built a robust fanbase of over 100,000 followers, a testament to the impact his music has on listeners like myself. His music, a fusion of various styles, particularly embodies a Pop-Rock aesthetic reminiscent of the early to mid-2000s. What sets MICO apart is his modern twist, making his music more accessible than traditional Pop-Rock. His project “the tears we fight EP” is a great collection of tracks that showcase a matured artist putting some of his best work out into the world. "m.i.a.," "prove me wrong," and "maybe i'm the problem now," are some of the most memorable and exciting tracks of the project. I would highly recommend this project if you're a fan of modern pop-rock, MICO is one of the best multi-genre artists coming out today.
07. FBK, FRESHYY!
Release date: September 5th
Over the past year, FBK has grown as an artist and found his niche in the underground music scene. One thing that stands out in his music is the way he mixes his vocals – it's a defining feature that I always recognize when I hear his music. FBK also has a knack for picking beats that perfectly match his style, and I have to say, his beat selection is top-notch. He always manages to find fresh and unique ways to flow over them. I love Klay’s unique delivery, his flows and rhythms don’t fall on the traditional side. He has this flare to him that feels and sounds new which is very hard to come by these days. The vibrant, spacey production and the darker vibes across all six songs on “FRESHYY!” create a cohesive and exciting listening experience. If you want to vibe out and have fun this is the project for you.
06. Duvy, How Did I End Up Here (Deluxe)
Release date: March 24th
Duvy’s full-length album titled “How Did I End Up Here (Deluxe)” is Duvy’s most fleshed-out body of work. This 28-track project has given the fans a lot of music to enjoy. Duvy is a great representation of the Toronto scene and one of the few street rappers who is not only talented but also carries the Toronto Rap scene. He is one of the reasons for the influx of US rap listeners in recent months. He is one of the guys who is putting in the effort, and this project demonstrates that. His versatility is fantastic, his music has this vibe that is just unshakable. His melodic raps create a fun and exciting listening experience that is also very deep in meaning. Duvy isn’t your regular rapper, he has truly experienced and faced the challenges he talks about in his music, and that is something that will always make his music hit that much harder. I’m really hoping to see more music from Duvy, even though his situation is difficult, I hope his team continues to give us quality music during his absence
05. slayde, Nights of No Sorrow
Release date: August 18th
slaydes latest project showcases some of his finest work to date, solidifying its place as a standout underground project of the year. Slayde's remarkable talent shines through in every aspect of this project, but it's in his production skills where he truly excels. It's important to note that Slayde is a one-man show, handling all aspects of his music himself. What stands out most in his work is his masterful use of both acoustic and electronic drums. Regardless of the type of drums he employs, they consistently pack a powerful punch and a memorable pattern. His music feels rich and complete, a stark contrast to the dull and neglected sounds that often saturate the music scene. You can sense that slayde has poured his heart and soul into this project. slayde has created some of the best music coming out of the city this year and his project “Nights of No Sorrow” is a one-stop shop to experience some of the best of what this city has to offer.
04. Afta Hill, NOTHING nothing
Release date: June 16th
Afta Hill’s “NOTHING nothing” album is one of the best most cohesive bodies of work to come out in 2023. His modern Pop-R&B sound is one of the most exciting sounds coming out of the city. I have to say that Afta Hill is one of the most multi-talented artists coming out of the city. Afta is not only a vocalist, he’s a producer, sound engineer, visual artist, creative director, and even a multi-instrumentalist, the list goes on. His talents across all of these fields are showcased on “NOTHING nothing.” The most memorable tracks are “RANGE,” “HEART BEATING,” “I’M DIFFERENT,” and “HE BOUGHT IT.” I would highly recommend you give this project a listen, especially the songs I listed. Afta is one of the brightest minds in the Toronto music scene today, and I can’t wait to see what he has planned for 2024.
03. Avenoir, NOIRE
Release date: December 8th
"NOIRE," a seven-track compilation showcasing the best of his musical prowess. I must say, this project stands out as a true masterpiece. Avenoir emerges as a distinctive R&B artist from the city, bringing a unique future-oriented style to his music that elevates it to new heights. Avenoir's soulful and grounded vocal performance adds a natural, almost earthy feel to the music, conjuring images of a foggy, wet forest amid a rainstorm. This vivid imagery is a powerful experience that resonates throughout the entire project. What struck me most was the careful precision evident in every aspect of the project. Avenoir’s “NOIRE” is an atmospheric and soulful experience that transcends modern R&B. If you’re looking for a quality listening experience, look no further than Avenoir’s “NOIRE.”
02. Jonah Zed, LOVEGONEBY
Release date: December 1st
"LOVEGONEBY," stands out as one of the best projects of 2023. His music carries a distinctive aura that resonates with listeners, weaving emotions and pain that feel deeply genuine. Creating such authentic music requires a special touch, and Jonah embodies that uniqueness. There's an undeniable vibe and aesthetic present in Jonah's music that sets it apart. Despite exploring dark themes, the music exudes a natural and vibrant quality that is captivating. Most of Jonah's tracks fall into the category of amazing chill-vibe music, offering a perfect blend of various elements. Jonah’s “LOVEGONEBY” is the perfect vibrant and larger-than-life anthemic music that you can ask for, I would highly recommend “LOVEGONEBY” to average listeners and also enthusiast music lovers.
01. Lil Esso, NEVERMIND.
Release date: October 13th
This 12-track project packs some of the best most well-rounded music coming out of the city today. Esso's work on this album is impressive, with a tight arrangement of hard-hitting tunes, many of which carry profound messages that hit home. The lyrics throughout the album represent Esso's best and most mature work to date. The production has also been stepped up, featuring acoustic drums on some of the songs of the project and a cohesive aesthetic that guides you through the journey. The project is filled with anthemic, memorable moments that have stuck with me for months. Esso just has this incredible way of writing that is just different from anything else coming out of the city. Lil Esso’s “NEVERMIND.” is easily one of the best pop/hip hop albums coming out of Canada.
Written by Maxim Bayarsky