Los Angeles-based Maya Ixta concocts a silky and stirring debut EP ‘Diary Entries’ that will leave you with a new perspective.

Stream: ‘Diary Entries’ – Maya Ixta

There is nothing more intimate than reading a diary.

When let inside a person’s innermost thoughts and emotions, you feel deeply connected by their truth. Maya Ixta’s debut EP Diary Entries is a wise and cathartic window into her soul. The intricate and ethereal EP explores themes of passing time, fierce friendships and the practice of gratitude. Atwood Magazine previously featured her single “Time,” describing it as a “pillow of wistful warmth.” That profound piece is one of many delectably soft songs off this EP.

Diary Entries EP - Maya Ixta — Diary Entries EP – Maya Ixta

A professionally trained musician, Maya Ixta’s creativity and proficient craft is present in every offering. She is a singer, songwriter, and arts advocate, founding a non-profit scholarship, HeARTS. Her deep dedication to all she does can be heard in the radiant and reflective nature of Diary Entries released on September 16^th2024.

As if we are turning the page of a journal itself, the opening work is entitled “First Entry.” The artful a capella track is a stunning showcase of lush vocal harmonies. Ending with the sound of paper tearing, we can relate to writing that stream of consciousness and immediately wanting to rip it apart. It’s an imaginative metaphor for our process of self-expression.

Maya Ixta 'Diary Entries' © Devin Dygert — Maya Ixta ‘Diary Entries’ © Devin Dygert

“Little Things” is a valuable lesson we can all learn from. Oftentimes as humans it is natural to sweat the small stuff, but instead we could be focusing on life’s simple pleasures. Whether it is a vibrant flower or the clouds over a deep blue ocean, life has so much beauty that is sometimes lost on us. Lines such as, “Little things are all I ever notice and simple things are all I never focus on,” show how we could appreciate the splendor that is right in front of us. Her dreamy tone glides over delicate piano for a relaxed piece that will have you entranced.

“Someone Is You” is the perfect tender tribute to best friends. The impassioned, echoing vocals over gentle strums, warms our core. The track is about the once in a lifetime connections we hold dear. There are those people in your life who never judge you and understand you like no one else does. This is an authentic ode to that intense bond.

This whole EP paints a candid picture of all things personal to Maya Ixta. She is courageously letting listeners in, making them feel like a close friend themselves.

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