Sometimes you hear an artist for the first time and can immediately tell they are a star in the making. Such is the case with indie pop singer/songwriter Becca Gastfriend, better known as beccs. 

On her newest project, a 5 song EP titled stay moist, the Brooklyn based queer artist has created a safe space for her emotional vulnerability, unapologetic feminism and overall baddass-ery that is reminiscent of the incomparable Janelle Monáe. 

The first thing you notice on stay moist is beccs incredible vocal range. Think Sara Bareilles, but with more soul. Her velvety voice over killer grooves and outstanding production immediately draw you in, and the deeply introspective lyrics keep you there.  Self sabotaging is the theme on Good Comin’, “I don’t wanna run no more/but I keep finding one foot out the door/Why do I try and run away/ when I know something good’s comin?” beccs asks herself. The base line is so good here, I’m getting purple flashbacks of the late, great Prince. If he were still with us, I have a feeling he would love beccs. 

I Don’t Do Fun starts out a little whimsical, until the Daft Punk sounding hard hitting drums kick in, creating a more industrial pop record. The feminist anthem Jealous Bitch(feat Bitch) is one of the strongest songs on stay moist. Featuring a poetic verse by queer music icon Bitch, this track is begging to be a viral smash.

Things slow down on f00d, with an ethereal vibe that’s great to chill out to, and acts as a bit of a palate cleanser. (no pun intended) Lastly, the newly released single, Rage In My Veins is a beautiful piano ballad, that really showcases beccs raw and vulnerable voice. 

Sonically, stay moist blends elements from soul, industrial, jazz and indie pop to make a sound very unique to beccs. She gives listeners a glimpse into her soul, which is bold, strong, sensitive & determined. If this stellar EP is a sign of things to come, beccs is well on her way to becoming a household name. 

Release Date: June 28th

Rating: 7.9/10

Tracklist:

1: Good Comin’

2: I Don’t Do Fun

3: Jealous Bitch

4: f00d

5: Rage In My Veins

Reviewed by Jeremy Schmidt