Pure XTC
Pure XTC is the brainchild of Kansas City-based artist Taylor Hughes. Her musical journey began behind a drum kit in Baltimore, MD, before she boldly transitioned into a solo career in 2020. Since then, Pure XTC has become synonymous with captivating storytelling and brooding, ambitious themes, crafting a sound that defies traditional pop boundaries. Her latest single, "Hurt Me Bad," explores the emotional cost of chasing ambition and the sacrifices that often accompany it. This track also features prominently in the short film Rangoon, which she scored, further showcasing her versatility as a composer. 2024 marked a bold creative stride for Pure XTC with the release of "Fall Apart," the first chapter in a trilogy of singles accompanied by cinematic short films. Summer saw the arrival of the second installment, "Mood Ring," a collaboration with Montucky Cold Snacks. The trilogy will conclude with the eagerly awaited "Drive" in early 2025. "Fall Apart" has already made waves, becoming a staple in retail soundscapes across the UK and Europe, featured in iconic brands like Birkenstock and Harvey Nichols. Pure XTC's live performances have been equally compelling, sharing stages with powerhouse artists like Fletcher, Slayyyter, Daya, Jenny Lewis, and Dashboard Confessional. Her music has earned prominent spots on Apple Music’s New in Alternative and Proud Radio, while also gracing major media platforms such as ABC 27 and Fox 21. Notably, her track "get lost" was featured in the award-winning comedy Midwest Skidmark, which debuted in select AMC theaters. With her fusion of haunting melodies, gripping narratives, and a flair for the cinematic, Pure XTC is redefining the boundaries of modern alternative music.