At the corner of melodic indie pop and something entirely new sits idkraeven, an outspoken new artist who defies genre barriers while bearing it all in each new song. Though the song is called “shit,” its stripped-down stylization and honest lyrics are like reading pages out of my own diary. Many lyricists aim to achieve this feat, but there is a certain level of realness that’s almost instinctive to pinpoint as a listener.

idkraeven audibly experiences catharsis when writing; her performance feels like a release, as though letting it all out is the final push to closing this chapter in her life. Her vocals are powerful, but she knows where to soften up to articulate key points. Masterful production work by collaborator DVNCY adds depth, making room for each harmonic layer to have its moment.

The voicemail sample is both ruthless and profound. As a shy, non-confrontational journalist (and musician), idkraeven’s confidence to stand in her convictions not only makes her a reputable narrator, but intriguing performer.

Acoustic numbers are having a bit of time in the sun right now, with artists playing around sonically utilizing the basics. Perhaps this is due to the many years of oversaturated production efforts in mainstream pop, but regardless, this explorative subgenre of indie pop creates honest narrations that have been missing in music for some time now. idkraeven is completely necessary in the scene today, with ambitious choices like “shit” eventually becoming career-defining.

Her audible love of performance has created at least one new fan (me!!!) and I’m certain that many will buy into the clickbait to stream “shit,” leaving pleasantly surprised.