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Welcome to “Underrated Artists,” an entertainment column from the St. Louis Park Echo covering unpopular and unknown artists. Every week, a different Echo staffer takes on the role of writer, reviewing single releases and albums from four underrated artists.

One of my favorite artists who never gets the recognition she deserves is Holly Humberstone. Humberstone began making music in 2020 from her bedroom throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, she’s released two albums and multiple EPs with a range of cozy, soft-tempo tunes like “Kissing in Swimming Pools” to bangers that make me dance every time, like “The Walls are Way Too Thin.” The first song I heard from Humberstone was her hit “Vanilla (Stairwell Edition),” which I fell in love with because of the whispery vocals and dynamic, raw lyrics. When her latest album “Paint My Bedroom Black” came out in Oct., of last year, I couldn’t believe the lack of recognition this gem had received. One of my favorites, “Ghost Me,” was stuck in my head for days after its release. Off the same album, another uprising artist, d4vd, is featured on “Superbloodmoon” which I love for its melodic harmonies and equal features for both artists’ vocals and talents. Almost every single song of Humberstone’s is my favorite, but one I could do without is “Falling Asleep at the Wheel.” I wish Humberstone had experimented more with different tempos to add an edge to the song. It feels repetitive and dull. Holly Humberstone would be perfect for anyone who loves bedroom and indie pop, or anyone who wants something cozy with a soft tempo with some exciting upbeats in the mix. The main artists that Humberstone reminds me of are Gracie Abrams, Maisie Peters and Phoebe Bridgers. If melodic, cozy, storytelling artists resonate with your taste, I would try Holly Humberstone.

Grace Enger came onto the scene just two years ago with her hit single “The Neighborhood.” This song stuck out to me from my first listen, with the fluctuating tempo, emotional lyrics and hard-hitting chorus that felt like a rollercoaster. Enger is a young, aspiring artist who’s just getting started. She deserves all the attention she can get to thrive and grow in the music industry. Just beginning to debut, she’s released an album and an EP along with multiple singles. One of my favorites is “Good Stuff” featuring Jake Minch, which encapsulates raw and real feelings of the end of a relationship. Grace Enger has a limited discography, so there was never much room for me to choose a least favorite. That being said, I never listen to her cover of “River” because it’s a song meant for the holiday season and doesn’t always resonate. An upbeat favorite of mine is “Ruin,” from her album “Well Here We Are,” which was released in 2023. This song heavily reminds me of Conan Gray’s “Disaster,” featuring a similar tempo and melody. Her music often reminds me of Olivia Rodrigo and Renee Rapp. For anyone who loves something pop-like but a little alternative, Grace Enger is perfect.

Cleo Sol is my favorite artist to turn to when I need something groovy, intimate and organic. The quality that Sol puts into every song is incredible and attention-grabbing, although she’s never received much love in the mainstream. The key elements that draw me to Cleo Sol are the soft percussion, her flexible vocal range and vulnerable lyrics. Her biggest hit “When I’m in Your Arms” showcases whimsical beats, flowy and fluctuating chords along with vocal riffs for days. On multiple tracks, Sol has collaborated with Little Simz, like their joint song Selfish off Little Simz’s album. It has hypnotic drumming and melodic harmonies that leave you wanting more. My two favorite tracks from Sol’s discography are “In Your Own Home” and “‘Rose in The Dark” which showcase angelic and whispery vocals, a light tempo and an interesting plucking of strings. My least favorite track from Sol’s discography is “Woman”, written with Little Simz. This song turns me away because of its edgier nature compared to the rest of her music.. Cleo Sol’s music is perfect for any occasion, like driving down the highway, walking through the halls or just laying on your bed studying for a test. Cleo Sol reminds me of H.E.R. and Kali Uchis, with interesting vocals and bright rhythm. Anyone who wants something atmospheric and warm should give Cleo Sol some love.

The last artist that everyone should try is Olivia Dean. Dean has the longest discography out of this bunch, with so many songs exhibiting new elements that might interest you. At 25 years old, she has five years of music, having only one album but countless singles. Olivia Dean is very soulful, soft and authentic. Her biggest hits include “Dive” from her album “Messy” and her song “The Hardest Part” in which she released an additional edition featuring Leon Bridges, another melodic and dynamic artist. Along with these songs I also love “Crosswords” which utilizes multiple tempos and passionate vocals. My least favorite from her discography is the track “Out.” Unfortunately, I never gravitate to this song when scrolling through my playlist and I get bored in the middle of listening. Like Cleo Sol, Dean’s music is meant for any occasion, although my favorite occasion is getting ready in the morning. It’s cozy, but uplifting and it’s the perfect start to any day. Her music is soulful with a mix of pop which reminds me of artists like Ella Mai and Jorja Smith. I think Dean’s music could be meant for anyone, but if you are a fan of R&B and something smooth, you’ll enjoy every song.