It is a rare feat for an artist to possess the surgical precision required to dissect their own psyche while still living through the experiences they are describing. For 18-year-old Makaio Huizar, this kind of radical transparency isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s a survival mechanism. Based in Arizona but rooted in the complex soil of his childhood in Oceanside, California, Huizar has spent his teenage years refining a sound that sits comfortably at the intersection of dream pop, folk, and bedroom pop.
On April 24, he will unveil his debut 7-track EP, ‘What Do You Want To Be When You’re Older?’, a title that feels less like a gentle enquiry and more like a confrontation with time itself. The EP isn't just a collection of polished radio anthems designed for easy listening; it’s a bold, personal statement that goes far beyond the norm. The project functions as an auditory journal, documenting the friction of moving from the safety of youth into the accountability of adulthood.
The record opens with ‘Older’, a track that explores the chilling possibility that growing up simply means becoming emotionally numb. From there, Makaio explores the fractures within his own history. ‘Father’ and ‘Town’ tackle the heavy lifting of family dynamics and the mental claustrophobia of feeling trapped by one’s surroundings. The EP’s emotional anchor, ‘Oceanside’, serves as a cinematic tribute to his roots, using the vivid imagery of an avocado tree from his childhood home to illustrate how a sanctuary can eventually become a scar.
As the narrative shifts into the latter half, Makaio pivots towards self-reflection. ‘Medicine’ examines the precarious nature of using love as a temporary plaster for deep-seated wounds, leading into the stark honesty of ‘I’ve Never Been Much Of A Liar’. Here, he refuses to play the victim, acknowledging his own role in the chaos of his relationships. It’s a perfect balance between introspection and beautiful sound, creating a complete artistic vision that will hold you ensnared.
The journey culminates in ‘Stars’, an expansive, atmospheric closer that finally answers the EP's titular question. Despite the weight of financial strain and childhood trauma, Makaio’s ambition remains intact: he wants to be a star, even as he grapples with the lingering doubt of whether he truly deserves the light.
You can pre-save ‘What Do You Want To Be When You’re Older?’ on all major platforms now, ahead of its release on April 24th. To keep up with Makaio Huizar’s journey and future live dates, follow him today on Instagram and TikTok.
