We Speak Indie Artist

Pepous People Drop Bold And Unfiltered Debut Album Banshee

Published

9 months ago

July 23, 2025

Music4U

Sometimes a debut album doesn’t just introduce a band, it plants a flag. That’s what Pepous People have done with Banshee, a 10-track explosion of fuzzed-out guitars, vintage keys, and honest-to-the-bone lyrics. It’s the kind of record that feels alive, like something that grew out of instinct and gut feeling rather than marketing plans or algorithms. With Banshee, this Brazil-based group proves that rock is still a powerful outlet for emotion, storytelling, and pure sonic release.

There’s a real chemistry at play here. You can hear it in the grooves, in the way the drums lock in with the bass while the guitars swirl and snarl overhead. The band recorded with Grammy-winning producer Leonardo Marques, and the decision to track everything using analog gear adds a warm, textured feel that sets Banshee apart from the digital slickness of many modern rock records. The songs feel handcrafted and full of character. Tracks like “Love” and “Pink Moon” bring a dreamy, psychedelic edge, while others like “Cheater” lean into raw garage rock with a punk heart. “Cheater” in particular is a standout – brash, groovy, and catchy as hell, it captures the no-filter spirit that runs through the entire record.

What makes Banshee so refreshing is its emotional honesty. The band isn’t afraid to sit with uncomfortable feelings or call themselves out. Whether it’s regret, restlessness, or the thrill of reckless decisions, Pepous People deliver it all with an energy that’s both relatable and electrifying. This isn’t rock that tries to be perfect. It’s rock that’s trying to be real. And in that mission, Banshee absolutely succeeds. If this is the sound of a band just getting started, the future’s looking very bright – and very loud.

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.