Neo-Soul pop group Caroline Smith is a group you should put on your playlist immediately. They’re a combo of musicians from Minnesota that describe themselves as a “soul explosion.” Their most recent album, “Half About Being A Woman,” is full of funky riffs surrounded by Smith’s stunning vocals. The album is a story about Smith changing from an unsure girl to a full fledged woman.

“I wanted to find my way back to the reason why I started playing music in the first place. Over the last year I began to embrace that being a strong, confident, opinionated woman is something to be proud of, not subdued. I have to embrace where my roots are and stay true to who I am: an unabashed fan of 90’s R&B, pop, and neo-soul,” Smith said.

A year ago Smith played a show at Summerfest and she is just finishing up a tour with the well-known Hozier. She is considered underground because of her very unique sound that is incredibly indie.

“It is a shame that record labels today will only hire you if you have the right look or story. Even if an artist is more talented than someone you would hear on the radio, they won’t get hired, which is a shame,” band director Jonathan Untch said.

She is someone you could listen to on your way home on a late night or in your room while doing homework. She mixes the calmness of jazz and soul with the beats and grooves of pop. She is also coming out with a new album soon; indie and pop fans should keep their eyes on her. You can find her on Spotify where she has all of “Half About Being A Woman” posted.