We Speak Indie Artist

comets near me’s Debut EP “Don’t Pick the Flowers” Delivers Indie Gold

Published

2 years ago

June 19, 2024

Music4U

Photo by Tristan (TreeStamp) Padron

San Jose’s latest indie sensation, comets near me, have burst onto the scene with their debut EP, “Don’t Pick the Flowers,” and it’s nothing short of a revelation. Maria and Kyle, the dynamic duo behind the name, have crafted a four-track journey that’s as raw and real as it gets, straight from their backyard shed to our ears.

Starting things off with a bang, “Pedestal” is a cheeky takedown of self-righteous moralizers. With lyrics like, “You judge someone that you don’t know for things they can’t control. It must get lonely in the corner on your pedestal,” this track pulls no punches. The infectious beat and catchy guitar riffs set the stage for an EP that’s both thought-provoking and fun.

“Hallway Light” is the heart of the EP, blending introspective lyrics with a mesmerizing soundscape. Maria’s vocals, paired with twinkling bells, create an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and eerily beautiful. The song tackles the absurdities of childhood beliefs and adult disillusionments, asking questions like, “Why were we told to believe in Santa?” It’s a contemplative piece that lingers long after the last note.

Next up is “The Last Time I Saw Him,” a melancholic ballad that tells a haunting story of a friend lost to a downward spiral. The gentle finger-picked guitar and Maria’s poignant delivery make this track a standout. It’s a stark reminder of the fragility of human connections and the pain of watching someone slip away. The lyrics, “He knows so many people but they just know his name,” hit hard with their stark realism.

Closing the EP is “Purgatory,” a track that beautifully captures the feeling of being stuck in life’s in-between moments. With lines like, “Maybe in a month, maybe in a year, I can find the strength to leave the comfort of the bed,” the song speaks to anyone who’s ever felt lost or paralyzed by indecision. The melody is both soothing and uplifting, a perfect end to a deeply introspective journey.

“Don’t Pick the Flowers” isn’t just an EP; it’s an experience. Maria and Kyle have managed to create something that’s deeply personal yet universally relatable. Their story of meeting by chance and creating music in a shed is the stuff of indie dreams, and it shines through in every note and lyric.

The EP’s title, inspired by a funny run-in with a park ranger, serves as a metaphor for the organic process of growth and self-discovery. It’s a reminder to let things unfold naturally, without rushing or forcing the outcome.

comets near me have delivered a debut that’s both fresh and timeless, capturing the essence of what it means to be young, confused, and hopeful. “Don’t Pick the Flowers” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music with heart, soul, and a touch of whimsy. Keep an eye on this duo – they’re just getting started, and we can’t wait to see where they go next.

We Speak Hip-Hop

NY Rapper Kendu 718 Defines “Gritty” (Single & Exclusive Interview)

Published

4 days ago

April 14, 2026

MJ Savino

Kendu 718 is taking over the scene with his latest single “Gritty,” produced by Juxx Diamondz of Back Block Music Group LLC. The NY rapper shows off his signature blend of storytelling and lyricism woven with slick metaphors. He’s simply writing bars and putting out heat; his deliverance though is aggressive and slightly intimidating; true NY style. Stream “Gritty” and get to know Kendu 718 in the interview below.

MJ: Before we jump into your new single “Gritty,” take a moment to let the world know who Kendu 718 is.

Kendu 718: Kendu 718 is someone who really lives what he talks about. I come from the pain of the ghetto—both my mother and father struggled with drug addiction, and growing up, all I saw was crime, poverty, and hardship. That was my environment. But through God’s grace, I was able to change my life. I left the streets behind 17 years ago, and I’ve been clean and abstinent from drugs and alcohol ever since.

MJ: When I think of gritty New York Hip Hop, you fit the mark. Define your lane in Hip Hop.

Kendu 718: I’m part of the culture, this isn’t something I picked up, it’s something I’ve lived. Hip-hop is a lifestyle, not just something you do in the studio. I’m not chasing trends or trying to fit into what’s popular. I represent authenticity, experience, and real New York energy. I’ve been doing this for years, and my lane is staying true to the essence of the culture.

MJ: Let’s talk about the new single “Gritty.” What can listeners expect once they hit play?

Kendu 718: The truth. Straight up. Real-life stories that reflect what I’ve been through and what I’ve seen in the streets. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it shows survival. When you hit play, you’re stepping into reality—no gimmicks, no filters. “Gritty” is my story. It’s everything I lived and everything I witnessed. But more importantly, it’s a message—just because we come from struggle doesn’t mean we have to stay there. We can grow, change, and build responsible, productive lives.

MJ: How did you link up with Juxx Diamondz and Back Block Music Group LLC?

Kendu 718: That connection goes back. I met Juxx through a mutual friend—rest in peace to the OG Benny Hill from Harlem, who managed both of us around 2011–2012. That foundation built real chemistry, and from there, everything developed naturally.

MJ: Can audiences anticipate a visual to “Gritty?”

Kendu 718: Definitely. Me and Juxx Diamondz are currently putting the treatment together now. The visual is going to match the energy of the track—raw, authentic, and true to the story.

MJ: What is next for Kendu 718? What are you currently working on?

Kendu 718: Right now, I’m working on my EP titled From God’s Mouth to Y’all Ears: The Sermon. It’s produced by myself and Juxx Diamondz, with additional production from SaulyOBeats, SkullzAngels, and my guy Dreadful Krueger. Everybody brought heat to the project. We also have some dope features on it.

MJ: Give audiences a little more insight into the sound and movement behind the project.

Kendu 718: We’re putting this out independently through Back Block Music Group, with distribution through Roc Nation. The project is a combination of strong lyricism, real-life storytelling, and powerful features. We represent that golden era sound—we’re keeping that foundation alive. And we’re always boots on the ground, staying connected to the people and the culture.

MJ: Let everyone know where they can find your music and stay connected.

Kendu 718: You can find my music on all digital streaming platforms. Follow me @Kendu_718 on Instagram to stay locked in. This is just the beginning—it’s going to be a hot summer. Peace.