Intros like this always seem to demand some grand commentary, a recounting of how things supposedly stand at the present moment. And, really, we do our best to provide that sort of insight as best we can, as often as we are able. It’s part of our mission, after all, to both document and provide context for the artists and music we choose to highlight, but sometimes it’s better to skip the formalities and get right down to the business at hand. Because how much, in truth, has changed since we last unveiled this list? Gentrification and income inequality continue to persist, the mood around the country remains grim, and the struggle for collective empathy and human dignity rages on.
Perhaps, then, some solace can be taken from the way the local music scene continues to branch out and evolve. It’s not perfect by any means, but as the 25 artists on the list show, there is a wide range of sounds, styles, and personalities making themselves seen and heard. We can argue about the most efficient means to make our community grow and how best to confront the sociopolitical challenges that continue to mount around us, but I’ll take issue with anyone who doesn’t recognize the plethora of talent we have around us and their willingness to reimagine boundaries and inspire change. With the year already well underway, here’s to the hope that 2019 will be another transformative, pioneering year in local music. – Guillermo Castro
BOREGARD.
Of BOREGARD.’s multiple social handles, the one that sticks out the most is his Instagram: @therapgamebojackson, which, not so incidentally, is also the title of the mixtape the Henry County rapper released last month. It’s both a throwback reference and a nod to his versatility, his willingness to assume risks and stretch out his game. With collaborations with everyone from producers Popstar Benny and Saint Nick to fellow wordsmiths Kenny Mason and Larry LoudPack, BOREGARD. has the skills and the network to breakout in 2019. – Avery Shepherd
More Info
Web: boregardmusic.com
Facebook: @boregardmusic
Instagram: @therapgamebojackson
SoundCloud: @boregardmusic
Twitter: @elbomoloco
Challenger Deep
There are no doubt many people who will laud Challenger Deep for their imaginative soundscapes and technical virtuosity (as well they should), but what excites me most about the band is their ability to make instrumental music sound exhilarating and fun. Where that adventurous spirit will take the group next is anyone’s guess, but with an eponymous LP in the works hopefully we won’t have long to wait for the next magic carpet ride. Recorded by Corey Bautista and mastered by Mike Kalajian, the eight-song effort will be out later this year. – GC
More Info
Bandcamp: challengerdeepdude.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @ChallengerDeepDude
Instagram: @challengerdeepdude
Corporate Lingo
If this list was a race (spoiler: it’s not), Corporate Lingo would already be sporting a sizable lead. The Atlanta rapper and producer is fresh off the release of his latest EP, Corporate of the Year, which has garnered him considerable attention, including a co-sign from Awful Records. For anyone looking to play catch up, don’t expect him to slow down anytime soon, either. The Patio Mob recording artist spent 2018 releasing a veritable avalanche of music, and 2019 promises a further deluge of fresh bops and accolades. – AS
More Info
SoundCloud: @lingolingolingo
Instagram: @corporatelingo
Twitter: @jackinthebaux
CRT
Just because Michael Patrick Keenan Jr. is a veteran of the Atlanta scene doesn’t mean he’s immune to evolution as an artist. Though most recognizable for his work in noise-rock band Hawks, the frontman has created pulsing EBM since the early 2000s. Still, it’s only since last year that CRT got a new lease on life, as Keenan reassessed, rebranded, and released CS1, an outlet for the incendiary side of the artist which also proved a deep dedication to modular synths and the craft of electronica. Keenan shows no signs of slowing in 2019, kicking off the year with a tour and planning to release his second tape, CS2, on DKA Records in February. Look out for a single and video from the album in the next couple of weeks. – Russell Rockwell
More Info
Bandcamp: cathoderaytube.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @crtatl
Instagram: @cathoderaytubenoise
Deep State
You could argue that Deep State already established a significant presence in Athens and beyond when they released their first full length Thought Garden in 2017. But just listening to the string of raw, combustible singles emerging from their upcoming sophomore LP, it’s clear the band is ready to take a giant leap forward in 2019. It’s no mystery that punk and garage rock remain a potent force when delivered with a smattering of smarts and a fistful of cathartic urgency, and The Path to Fast Oblivion appears to contain both in droves. We’ll find out for sure when the LP hits store shelves on Feb. 1. – GC
More Info
Basecamp: deepstate.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @deepstatega
Instagram: @deeepstate
SoundCloud: @deeepstate