Rising music artist AKICITA is making waves in the music industry with the release of her highly anticipated debut single, “You Already Know”, which is out now.
This indie-soul-pop track serves as an introduction to AKICITA’s captivating sound and the emotional depth she brings to her music. With poignant lyrics and mesmerizing vocals, AKICITA takes listeners on an unforgettable journey through her personal experiences and emotions.
“You Already Know” showcases AKICITA’s undeniable talent and authenticity as an artist. The track weaves a sonic tapestry of subtle piano chords and infectious indie-soul-pop energy, serving as the perfect backdrop for her captivating vocals. From the moment she begins to sing, AKICITA’s passion and vulnerability are palpable, as she effortlessly conveys the depth of emotion embedded within the song.
Dipped in old soul with current mainstream pop energy, AKICITA’s vocals are on fire from start to finish, unlocking heart-wrenching emotions from deep inside. The lyrics of “You Already Know” delve into the struggles she faced during a toxic relationship, delving into themes of addiction, mental health, and the pain of betrayal. With an incredible falsetto bridge that puts her broken heart on full display, AKICITA creates a powerful song that will leave a lasting impact on every listener.
As a taste of what’s to come, “You Already Know” sets the stage for AKICITA’s forthcoming debut EP, titled “Future in Disguise.” This highly anticipated project serves as a reflection of AKICITA’s unique blend of indie, soul, and pop, offering a raw and authentic glimpse into her personal journey of trauma, survival, and self-discovery.
With each song on the EP, she fearlessly explores her own experiences, delving into the complexities of her past and the resilience that brought her to where she is today. From the introspective and spiralling “Liquor” to the powerful anthem of self-empowerment in “Fuck With Me Now,” to the unforgettable title track, the EP showcases AKICITA’s ability to blend vulnerability and strength into her music.
“What’s It Matter To You,” the new single from Little Fuss, a collection of shy creatives hoping to take their introverted perspectives and write songs that make them loud enough to hear, and see if you might consider it for any news posts or playlist adds you might have this week.
The second single from their upcoming Lovely Distraction EP is one of the first songs Little Fuss wrote together, back when Olive Martinez and Cody Von Lehmden first met in Spain. It highlights the narrator’s nonchalant demeanor regarding the imminent demise of the relationship. “I had never been in a relationship or anything at that point,” Martinez admits, “but I just thought there was something funny about this girl singing about how she was sort of disinterested in her love life.”
The 60’s-sounding track, which you can stream or download now, launches just hours before the band’s appearance at Boston Calling Music Festival. Earlier this week, Little Fuss spoke with CBS Boston about playing the hometown event.
J Hus, the darling of UK Rap and the Afro-fusion pioneer releases his explosive new track ‘It’s Crazy’. Listen HERE. Produced by Fumes (Rimzee, MoStack) and The Elements (Burna Boy, AJ Tracey, Headie One), ‘It’s Crazy’ comes with a frenetic visual directed by Taz Tron Delix (Stormzy, Headie One, Calvin Harris). Hus rolls up in a black Mercedes Benz, a throwback to the iconic “came in a black Benz / left in a white one” lyric from ‘Common Sense’ single ‘Did You See’, surrounded by a legion of friends. The lyrics hit direct – Hus peering intently into the camera, before there’s a dusty battle with figures of authority. On a wall there’s the spray painted phrase “Don’t Say Militancy” – the catchphrase Hus has posted to his socials in the run up to this release.
To celebrate his return, J Hus has been revealed as the featured artist for TikTok‘s #NewMusic, the global discovery hub for the hottest new releases. #NewMusic has over 20 billion views on TikTok and is the central place to discover new sounds, where Hus fans have been clamouring for his return.
“Why you wanna see the evil in me / When I wanna live my life peacefully”
Before she was Party Nails, Elana Carroll was a guitar-toting tween songwriter, playing any open mic she could near her hometown of Chatham, New York. Performing solo or with a band of seasoned adult players backing her up, she wailed lyrics about her family’s divorce, dreams of leaving her small town, and a then-undiagnosed anxiety disorder across biker bars and community centers, often met with tears from patrons moved by her fearless expression of raw emotion. At home she recorded herself with Garageband, instigating a love of music technology which continues to this day.
Party Nails debuted in 2015 on Neon Gold’s famed blog with “Break”, a heartbreak dancepop single clearly inspired by happysad classics such as “Dancing On My Own” and “Blue Monday”. In 2016 on Vice’s Noisey blog Party Nails debuted “No Pressure”—think Haim instrumentation paired with Taylor Swift melodies—before leaving a 360 deal and rebuilding independently. Her first full-length Past Lives and Paychecks was equal parts collaborations—Caleb Shreve, Ryan Nasci, Mereki Beach, among others—and self-produced, engineering and playing guitar, bass, synthesizers and programming electronics alone in her home studio. Her first US tour in 2017 (with PVRIS and Lights) ushered in a devoted fanbase, and her live performances continue to be a core facet of her artistry, being equal parts Madonna, Hayley Williams, and Sheryl Crow. In the studio, though, her muses are Robyn, Prince, SZA and Dolly Parton, to name a few.
Since 2020 Party Nails has penned a song about period pride for Kathryn Hahn’s character to sing for Loren Bouchard’s Apple animated series Central Park, wrote and produced the Le Tigre-infused “Supernatural” for feminist rock duo Deap Vally, and continued to lend her vocals to other musicians (LŪN and Urban Heat both released music featuring Party Nails in 2022).
2023 started off with a bang with “Like U”, a collaboration with Austin-based Boy Sim that PAPER called “reminiscent of ’90s and early-2000s rave music”. Her second single of 2023, Bull In A China Shop, comes with an announcement of a west coast tour in July with San Francisco-based Gloomy June. Will there be more dates later in the year? Enjoy 10pmtoclose’s dreamy disco remix of “Like U” and the enticing chaos of “Bull In A China Shop” while we wait for her next move.
NEXT SHOW
7/03 Fullerton, CA – single release party at Programme Skate
TOUR DATES with Gloomy June
7/20 Vancouver, BC
7/21 Bellingham, WA
7/22 Seattle, WA
7/25 Olympia, WA
7/26 Centralia, WA
7/27 Portland, OR
7/28 Eugene, OR
7/29 Arcata, CA
8/01 San Francisco, CA
Go to partypartynails.com for tickets.
rlyblonde – the project of Brooklyn-based multidisciplinary artist Carina Allen – shares her new single, “Hot Girls Always Win,” from her upcoming debut EP, ‘Fantasy,’ releasing on June 2nd.
“Hot Girls Always Win” is an empowering anthem filled with fuzzy guitar riffs, catchy pop melodies, and slick lyricism. The new single follows the EP’s previously released singles, “Fantasy” and “Spiltmilk,” which landed widespread support from tastemakers like The Luna Collective, Enfnts Terribles Magazine and Unpublished Magazine.
rlyblonde elaborates on “Hot Girls Always Win”: “At the heart of it, I find this song quite endearing. Sometimes life has a funny way of reuniting you with the right people, karma doing its thing, etc. I went through a breakup that really left me having to rebuild my confidence and this song was kinda my triumph of realizing I didn’t have to worry about anything because the right people will always finds me. And it’s not about being hot in a physical way, but more about being compassionate, creative, thoughtful and confident.”
After years of being the go-to photographer, videographer and creative director for New York’s favorite indie acts, rlyblonde showed an exciting evolution in her artistry with the release of her own music project. Teaching herself guitar, songwriting, and all the other nuts and bolts that go into creating, recording and releasing music, rlyblonde is now ready to launch her debut EP, ‘Fantasy,’ on June 2nd.
After increasing excitement to a boiling point, Chicago hip-hop trailblazer and multiplatinum superstar Lil Durk unleashes his anxiously awaited eighth full-length offering and one of the year’s most anticipated albums, Almost Healed, out now. Stream Almost Healed on all DSPs HERE.
Superstar icon Alicia Keys notably stars in the music video for “Therapy Session/Pelle Coat,” which just premiered. Watch it HERE. The visual features her in emotionally charged and thought-provoking moments alongside Lil Durk. It marks their first collaboration together.
Tense production underlines his reflective rhymes as the accompanying visual explores his relationship with the streets and faith through a series of arresting vignettes. It instantly captivates—like everything he does.
Almost Healed pops off as his most personal, engaging, and enigmatic project to date. Laced with bold bangers and introspective anthems alike, it highlights his undeniable melodies and incisive bars at the forefront. He not only shines solo on the likes of “Never Again,” but he also distinguishes himself as the rare chameleonic force who can collaborate with country superstar Morgan Wallen on “Stand By Me” or the late Juice WRLD on “Cross The Globe.”
He may be Almost Healed, but he still takes no prisoners lyrically…
rising UK rapper Spencer Elmer drops audio for anticipated single “Calm Like Kim”with official video to follow. Get it HERE via 10K Projects.
Spencer Elmer returns with “Calm Like Kim” the second single off his forthcoming EP and track hot on everyone’s lips as it picks up big heat on socials. The single is an energetic drill track with tongue-in-cheek lyrics referencing pop culture icons, paired with an undeniably catchy flow and instrumental – features that have become synonymous with Spencer’s discography so far.
Experiencing huge up levels in his music career, the new single follows Spencer’s recent track “Far From Rude” featuring one of the UK’s most respected rappers and songwriters JAY1, alongside signing to LA-based record label 10K Projects earlier this year. In the midst of some of the biggest transitions of his life, “Calm Like Kim” shows Spencer can still keep things light-hearted and fun, qualities that made his dedicated fanbase fall in love with him from day one.
Stalking Gia is an alt-pop singer-songwriter hailing from New York City.
At age 5, Gia had her first dose of the limelight when she starred as the child lead in one of Cheerios most globally successful commercials. She was a professional Broadway actor (alongside her friend, Nick Jonas) and Top 5 Disney Radio artist with songs featured in the movie “Another Cinderella Story” starring Selena Gomez. She then lent her voice to Popstar Barbie in the 2012 animated movie Barbie: The Princess and the Popstar, which was produced by Universal Studios and premiered on Nickelodeon.
In 2016, as an independent artist she released her debut single, “Second Nature”, kickstarting her viral fame and gaining her over 13.2 million streams on Spotify. It was later sampled on the single Wish U The Best by blackbear, an A-List Top 40 recording artist with 20 Million Spotify monthly listeners. The two artists would later tour together and collaborate for their track, “Miracles”, which has earned over 4.9 million streams. From that success she secured a publishing deal with industry giant Warner-Chappell.
Last summer she teased a demo on TikTok using the famous nursery rhyme “Oh My Darling Clementine”. It gained traction and after getting a positive response she went on to release a full version titled “saddest happy girl”. Using lyrics like “ In my garden, psilocybin, fill my cup with lemon-lime, on the back porch with a crown for, saddest happy girl alive”.
From co-writing with other artists for their projects to creating her own “no rules” music, Stalking Gia is a sought after name in the game; bicoastal between New York City and the music scene of Los Angeles. She has released several singles, including a few tracks under Epic Records. Since then, she has returned to releasing music independently and continues to gain a loyal fan base. Her upcoming single “Euphoria” is “about the desire to find a deeper connection with someone and the fear of losing them. The lyrics describe the struggle to break free from the monotony of everyday life and the search for something more…. A longing to escape the mundanity of their current situation and reach a new level of intimacy,” confides Stalking Gia. The striking alt pop anthem is out now.
Returning with his first solo music in 18 months – Richard Walters – is pleased to present the new single: “Move On”.
Released on 26th May via the Nettwerk label, the track is an initial taster of a brand new album from the Oxfordshire artist and composer, which is due for release later in 2023.
STREAM “MOVE ON” ON ALL SERVICES HERE
Entwining atmospheric, pin-drop arrangements with confessional lyrics to stir the soul, “Move On” is the sound of an artist searching deep within to accept those imperfections that make us human. As Richard explains:
“In arguments or heated moments I’m the person that loses my cool and then the moment passes, the grievance dilutes and I’m able to gather myself. It’s like I need the release. My wife is the opposite, and this is a song of apology and acceptance of my flaws and inability to sit with negativity too long.”
Rippling with the kind of unsettled stillness that can follow the eruptive drama of an argument, the pared-back piano motifs and low-key electronics of “Move On” leave acres of space for Walters’ heartfelt lyrics to settle with all their emotional gravity. “Can’t you see my hands are shaking? It’s almost light and I haven’t put right the mess that I’ve made, like a phrase that stays unspoken” he yearns here.
Performed and written by Richard Walters, “Move On” was recorded, produced and mixed by Eliot James at Eastcote Studios, London and arrives as a first insight into a new project the pair have been working on together. Further details to be revealed very soon.
An artist, performer and songwriter based in the UK, Richard Walters has amassed over 100 million streams across his five critically acclaimed albums and four EP’s to date. Since his debut release in 2005, his music has featured on a number of TV shows including Grey’s Anatomy, CSI: Miami and Tin Star, while receiving praise from titles including The Guardian, Clash, Line Of Best Fit and other tastemaker press. Richard’s solo releases have also gained notable support from BBC 6 Music’s Lauren Laverne and Guy Garvey, plus BBC Radio 2’s Jo Whiley and Dermot O’Leary.
Sought-out by stars including Grammy-winner Joe Henry, British icon Alison Moyet and Oscar nominated actress and singer Florence Pugh, Walters has also lent his talents to influential electronic artists including Kx5, Solomun, Sonny Fodera, Sultan + Shepard and more.
A member of the group LYR (with poet laureate Simon Armitage and Patrick Pearson, who release their second album ‘The Ultraviolet Age’ on 30th June); Richard also released the album ‘Shapes In My Head’ under the name Sun Lo, a collaboration with ATTLAS, earlier this year.
Readying his first solo studio album in over three years, Richard has announced a short series of UK live dates for the Autumn of 2023 (dates below). Standby for further album news from Richard Walters very soon…
RICHARD WALTERS – LIVE DATES 2023
24 Nov – BRISTOL, The Louisiana
25 Nov – OXFORD, Jericho Tavern
29 Nov – MANCHESTER, The Castle Hotel
30 Nov – LONDON, The Grace
Tickets on sale now:
https://www.richardwaltersmusic.co.uk/live
Toronto pop performer Bianca James bears her soul in new single ‘Till I Remember’ out now.
Following her summery retro-pop debut single ‘Monaco’, Bianca James’ is back with ‘Till I Remember’ – a powerful balladwith deeply layered backing vocals and intimate gospel piano, focusing on finding the strength to move on from a broken heart. Lifted from her self-titled debut album out summer 2023, the song showcases Bianca’s voice perfectly, beautifully offset by simple production, a 60’s warm vintage organ, and her earnest lyrics that will resonate with anyone who has struggled to move past a relationship to find hope on the other side.
“The song came to me in a moment of aching heartbreak. It’s about the distance between your head saying, ‘this isn’t working,’ and your heart catching up and being able to let go.” – Bianca James
‘Till I Remember’ was produced by JUNO Award-nominated & Platinum certified producer Thomas McKay in Toronto and at The Kinks’ iconic Konk Studios in London, UK. And don’t miss the single’s understated music video, which sees Bianca cutting a striking solitary figure, contemplatively masked in shadow – coming soon.
For Bianca, music has always been a means of transforming heartbreak and pain into strength and freedom. “I don’t think I consciously wrote songs about empowerment, but there is a message of overcoming, of finding hope on the other side. That’s an undercurrent in all my songs,” she explains, adding that although she typically draws on personal experience in her songwriting: “My mission is to inspire others to live their life, and their dreams, to the fullest.”
Growing up in Montreal with her Italian father and mother of UK descent, Bianca James glamorised the wild, free lifestyle of the Italian and French Riviera and the swinging rock ’n’ roll scene of 1960s London. She was constantly singing, she adds, developing her voice by singing along to the classic records spinning on the family’s turntable. “I dreamed of living in London, driving to Paris or the south of France, and playing shows with a killer backing band. That’s the dream that built this album.”
Timeless is perhaps the best way to describe Bianca’s contemporary take on a truly classic, international sound – one that draws reference from American and British 1960s styles with a melding of elements of Motown, Soul, and modern pop. “I didn’t care about trends or what other people were doing. I wrote what I wrote and focused on making something earthy and organic sounding.”
‘Monaco’ and ‘Till I Remember’ are just the first glimpses into this world of heritage sounds crafted by the singer, with more on the way very soon…
Following on from last year’s releases, VALA are ecstatic to announce the release of their first EP, propper, ‘I Love The Sound‘. Featuring last years singles ‘You Don’t Want My Love‘, ‘This Town‘, ‘Swimming‘ and ‘Don’t Think Twice (It’s Not Alright)‘ as well as several new tracks and new single ‘It’s Magic‘.
With a genre-crossing sound, VALA, are a fusion of indie rock and pop, incorporating melodic hooks and smooth guitar riffs which has seen them likened to indie giants like The Strokes, so it’s no wonder legendary producer of the bands first two albums, Gordon Raphael, took an interest in the band and helped guide them on this record. This E.P. brings a close to this generation of tracks before new music and shows on the horizon.
Roxx Revolt & the Velvets release their defiant debut record Turn Your Head This Way via Steven Machat’s SSK Records. At first listen, one could easily mistake the Florida four-piece for seasoned veterans amongst the rock greats, but this entourage of noisemakers is just beginning to rev their engines. They seamlessly shift the dial between arena ready rock, power pop, blues sensibilities, Western twang, punk, and everything that falls a half step in between. Roxx Revolt & the Velvets are no replica of rock acts of the past — no, they are pioneering a modern sound that is fully their own, deftly innovating upon the music they were raised on with effortless flair and swagger – Stream.
Turn Your Head This Way is a capstone on the band’s time of self-discovery, emerging with an unshakeable confidence in their ability to maneuver between genres. Raucous, fuzzed-out instrumentals provide a strong backbone for the command of frontwoman Roxx Revolt’s rich, raspy vocals. Kicking off in full throttle with “Coming Down,” the band sets the energy level for the body of work. Then snaking through a series of soundscapes, they show their prowess across musical styles before leaving it all out on the table with “Second Thoughts.” As glitzy as it is edgy, Turn Your Head This Way introduces listeners to an even more assured Roxx Revolt & The Velvets.
On today’s release, the band said, “I think we can all agree this is a very musically diverse album. We wanted to experiment with different colors and be open to showcase each band member’s influences and talents. You can find yourself head banging one minute and dancing to a ballad the next one. It is a mix between the classic and the modern and will for sure make you wanna sing along.”
Chinese-American female house music creative XIE returns to Thrive Music with the release of her new single ‘C’est La Vie’.
The follow up to her frisky tech-house hit ‘Birds In Paradise’, XIE continues to shine as a multidimensional artist with her UK house heater ‘C’est La Vie’. Driven by shiny piano stabs and crisp percussion, ‘C’est La Vie’ is a hypnotizing blend of progressive tones and spellbinding lyricism. Her charming vocals offset by rhythmic builds and melodic drops, XIE’s ability to incorporate elements of house, techno, and pop continues to set her apart. With ‘C’est La Vie’, XIE captures the anthemic energy that sparks an emotional connection on the dancefloor.
Regarding the track, XIE said, “Life can feel heavy and complicated. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in all of it but sometimes it’s actually easier to just let things go. I wrote ‘C’est La Vie’ when I was dealing with some extreme anxieties as a reminder to take the good with the bad and each day in stride. You always have to move forward and remember life just is what it is and it will get better.”
Los Angeles-based producer, DJ, and singer-songwriter XIE (pronounced “Shay”) is a burgeoning force in the house music scene. Capturing hearts with her moody, melodic soundscapes and edgy lyricism, XIE’s unique personality and inherent artistry coming from a family of fine artists runs deep through every aspect of her project. From designing her artwork and lyric videos to writing, producing, and performing her songs, XIE’s multi-hyphenate creativity knows no bounds.
prolific Haitian DJ/producer Francis Mercier and celebrated Canadian singer/songwriter Kiesza team up for a scintillating new single, “Egyptian Sun.” Both artists team up with the global dance music entity, Tomorrowland Music, to deliver their debut collaboration.
“Egyptian Sun” is a perfectly-timed summer anthem that tells the story of lust-bound lovers in the heat of the moment. With Francis Mercier’s pulsating bassline, thumping drums, and spellbinding chords paired alongside Kiesza’s soaring vocals and swooning songwriting, this song will not only evoke powerful moments on festival circuit dancefloors but can resonate with people from any walk of life.
According to Kiesza, “Egyptian Sun” was the result of a highly productive studio session between her and Francis. “Francis and I came together to work on a different song that day, but we were so inspired in the session we wrote about three songs together,” she says. “‘Egyptian Sun’ felt new to me, like I was exploring another side of myself in that moment. I’ve also always dreamed of going to Egypt and when Francis turned on the demo track, it transported me there in my imagination, and the lyrics and melody began to roll off of my tongue.”
The session also marked a full-circle moment for Francis Mercier:
“Back in my early 20s, I used to play Kiesza’s mega-hit “Hideaway” on repeat and used to dream of attending Tomorrowland one day. Now, to be officially collaborating with Kiesza and Tomorrowland, it is a very exciting moment for me, and I cannot wait for the world to hear this track. We composed it during the pandemic, and I’m so happy to have it finally see the light of day.”
Amassing over 18 billion streams to date, RIAA triple-platinum certified Texas-based pop duo Surfaces release their new single “Real Estate.” Get it HEREvia 10K Projects.
“’Real Estate’ is about the infatuation with that place in someone’s mind that you can’t get enough of,” says Surfaces. “It’s a familiar place to call home that feels safe and deserves all the love in the world. We wanted to capture the bliss of finding that space and reveling in it.”
The new single arrives on the heels of “Thankful,” marking the start of a new era for the group, following their 2022 album Hidden Youth. Featuring standout singles “What’s Been On Your Mind?” and the groovy “I Can’t Help But Feel,” the project has since amassed over 540M streams and was hailed by the likes of Rolling Stone, PEOPLE and Forbes who solidified their lasting power saying, “duo has a long runway in front of them.”
Last year, also saw the continued rise of Surfaces’ live show, as they traveled the world delivering captivating performances to their energetic fans. Alongside alt-pop group LANY, they spent the summer ona 34-city Summer Forever Tour, while also performing at festivals throughout the year including Splendour In The Grass, Hangout Fest and Tortuga Music Festival.
Nashville based pop-rock/alt-rock band, Arrows in Action, have released their highly anticipated debut album, Built To Last.
Listen to Built to Last now HERE.
Produced and mixed by Dan Swank, Built to Last finds the fast-tracked Nashville trio at their most poignant and personal. The record chronicles a coming of age story, bringing listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions and conflicts that occur throughout the process of finding your place in the world. Ruminating on the distance and loss that’s only amplified by 20-something malaise: falling out – and out of touch – with loved ones.
Speaking on the album, guitarist Matt Fowler shares, “This record captures the feeling of estrangement from old friends, past homes, and yourself after a period of growth. It explores the desire to fix and heal those relationships, the realization that not all of them can be fixed, and how to still move forward. Built To Last weaves through major life changes, mental health, emotional-awareness, and finally the difficulties of keeping loved ones close. Exploring this stage of life called for wildly different sounds and songwriting styles which is why you’ll hear such a wide variety of influences throughout the record’s thirteen tracks.”
Brooklyn-based, Italian-born alt-pop artist Birthh announces her cinematic, kaleidoscopic third studio album Moonlanded due out September 1 and available for pre-order now. Alongside the announcement, Birthh shares the sunny, lovestruck track and video “Jello” out everywhere now. On the latest feel-good track, Birthh dives headfirst into a sweeping new crush.
The forthcoming Odyssean LP Moonlanded invites listeners into Birthh’s world, where she revisits her childhood in the Tuscan countryside after unexpectedly starting a new life in Brooklyn. “When COVID hit it just felt like it was gonna be over in a couple months, I ended up not going back home for 2 and a half years. A lot of life happened in that timespan.” Over ten tracks, the rising alt-pop artist makes space for herself to begin to process the life-altering last three years, who she is now, and who she wishes to become. Birthh calls the project “warm, open, and ambitious” and adds, “This is my journey into what it feels like to be a sensitive human in their 20s in the 2020s, through all the pressure coming from within and from the world we were left with. Landing is finding a way to stay present and to love the process, it’s about creating space for ourselves and realizing that each of us is the protagonist in our own story.”
New Orleans-based duo sfam and experimental bass producer DMVU team up for their collaborative single ‘neutral ground’. The single serves as the first off sfam’s forthcoming EP of the same title due out this summer on Rezz’s label HypnoVizion.
A rebellious collaboration befitting the dark, ominous sounds curated by HypnoVizion, ‘neutral ground’ is a gritty, off-kilter bass track that defies the traditional dubstep formula. A dizzying array of heavy basslines and disorienting synths, ‘neutral ground’ offers a perplexing listening experience as it wavers between dramatic builds and crunchy drops. Attention-grabbing from start to finish, ‘neutral ground’ acts as the catalyst for what’s to come with sfam’s upcoming EP.
Regarding the track, sfam said, “We’ve been good friends with DMVU for many years now. He’s one of the best producers in the game and we’re proud to have made multiple songs with him. He’s also incredibly handsome and nice. We’re ecstatic to have him as the only collaboration on the EP.”
DMVU added, “I had started this song a while back and just really couldn’t figure out which direction to take it. I had been talking with Micheal about swapping tracks to get a couple collabs done, so I sent it over to the boys, and they really polished it. The addition of the second drop was really the cherry on top.”
Dirtybird Records highlights its Birdfeed sub label with the release of the third edition of its Best of the Birdfeed compilation.
Marking the latest class of birdie inductees to be promoted to the main label, Best of the Birdfeed Vol. 3 showcases eleven of Dirtybird’s finest up-and-comers. Tapping into the far-ranging base of artists who have been inspired by the label’s unique brand of off-kilter house and underground techno over the last 18 years, Best of the Birdfeed features acts from all corners of the globe.
Vol. 3 kicks off with LA-based GrebMog’s boisterous track ‘Addicted To You’ and Brazilian tech-house maker Hype Bass’ wonky original ‘Room 69’. Canadian jazz-house artist Left Ear Right offers his wavy 5-minute cut ‘Lots Of Honey’ while Italian tech producer MAGNVM! unleashes ‘Poopdeck Pappy’. São Paulo-based duo Malik Mustache raise the energy with ‘Brazil’ and UK-bred Ray Vingh moves into shuffle mode with ‘Hot Steppa’. Brazilian beatmaker Reconeckt brings eccentric tones to ‘Turn It Up’ while LA’s Rodney Dinkles goes synth-heavy with ‘Welcome Dance’ and tech-funk maker Sam Shelby adds his rhythmic flair with ‘Hoje Eu Sento’. Denver-based experimental producer Shady Jones bubbles up with his percussive original ‘iComputer’ before Brazil’s Tamar Sabadini closes the compilation with his electrifying bass thumper ‘Run’.
Tyler Posey has released his first full-length album, UNRAVEL. Produced by Matt Malpass and John Feldmann, the album features sixteen new tracks spanning genres, including previous singles “Lemon” – which premiered originally in Teen Wolf: The Movie on Paramount+ – “Gravity,” “Don’t Mind Me,” and “Runnin’.”
Fans can stream UNRAVEL now at https://ffm.to/tylerposey-unravel and shop the merch collection at https://www.merchbucket.com/collections/tyler-posey
“Being an independent artist, there is a lot of freedom, and that’s exactly what this album is,” shares Tyler on the new album. “Freedom. It’s got every genre from screamo hardcore punk to chill beach vibes. Listen to it from start to finish in order, to really experience the ride that is UNRAVEL, my first full length LP!”
The previously released singles have garnered praise from Entertainment Tonight, Consequence, J-14, Substream Magazine, Sweety High, MTV, Zach Sang Show, and other notable outlets, with idobi Radio claiming “Runnin’” to be a “cheeky, funny, catchy and thoughtful” track that is a “summer-ready hit.”
Brooklyn-based duo Gardenia have released their debut album Knowing You Know Nothing, out May 26. Through eight tracks, including lead single “Hall Pass” and focus track “Believe Me (Or Don’t)”, Gardenia is aiming to tell listeners one thing – “We’re pissed, and you should be too.” They push the idea that it’s okay to be angry at the state of things, that although every story might not have a happy ending, it doesn’t mean that you can’t try to find yours.
LA-based multi-instrumentalist rocker Graham Czach shares his genre-bending full length concept album Originalien out everywhere now via Ropeadope. Alongside the release of the full project, Czach shares the birth story of the album with the momentous track and video, “DOB 2023” out now.
The solo LP Originalien, out today, was born out of the life-altering effects of the pandemic, the drive Czach has to bring about positive change, and the support the artist had from his closest friends and family. Expanding on the significance of the album, Czach says, “It feels like a culmination of my long and diverse career in music that tells a story about universal messages and issues I’m passionate about to help make a difference.” He continues, “The world has changed a lot in the last few years, and this is my way of trying to bring people together to realize what’s important in this fleeting life, which is love, kindness, compassion, and respect.” It was throughout this creation process that Czach turned inward to expose his deepest vulnerabilities, culminating in his most realized, honest work to date.
Over eleven tracks, Originalien blazes a new path where music doesn’t need to fit into a genre or be classified, rather it ties together a wide range of influences from the past and present to propel the music forward into the future in a new light with a completely unique sound free from any constraints. Czach’s work commands instant attention with its sincerity wrapped in soundscapes rich in texture and depth. Czach expands on his process and the new album, articulating, “I’m a very visual composer inspired by real life experiences, issues, and causes, where I can see the scene and story unfolding through the music. This album comes from a very deep place in my being during some of the hardest times the world, myself included, has seen and lived through.”
Sultry, raw and catchy as hell, MINOE comes bearing ‘Cherry’.
An explosive offering, here to rip through your intrusive thoughts.
Written over lockdown and born from her deepest insecurities, Cherry sees the Canadian newcomer dive into her more undesirable emotions.
Turning to songwriting to disarm her inner saboteur, MINOE explained more: ‘Over the pandemic I spent a lot of time alone, at home. I was in a really bad place struggling with myself internally, during a bad bout of depression and feeling disconnected from the world. I lost confidence and my self image really took a hit.
Seeing my friends on social media, I convinced myself they left me out on purpose. My inner demon was telling me that they hated me. Usually, I would be embarrassed to admit these vulnerabilities and feelings of jealousy. I’d shove those feelings down as they aren’t productive.
Cherry is the result of leaning into it, letting myself be jealous and giving the demon a voice. The songwriting process was so healing. I think it’s important to explore undesired emotions and show people its okay to have these feelings’
Born in Nova Scotia, now based in Montreal, MINOE has been making a name for herself with her soulful songwriting and alt-pop sound. Fusing elements of disco and pop with more dark and alternative moments, MINOEs sound is the perfect vessel for her honest, empowering and cathartic songwriting.
Growing up in a troubled home, MINOE took to songwriting at a very young age to understand, process and cope with her trauma. Her goal is to provide a safe space for her listeners to heal, dance, and find common ground.
Since launching in 2019, MINOE has put out an increasingly diverse body of work, evolving and scooping more recognition with each release. Her work has been supported by the likes of Rolling Stone, Cult MTL, Okayplayer, and more while racking up over 250,000 streams.
With live performance playing a big part in who MINOE is, she’s already performed at Montreal Jazz Festival, opened for Tom Grannan, Dadi Freyr and sold out her first headline show in Toronto. Releasing thanks to the help of the Factor JSR grant, MINOE is a force to be reckoned with. Giving nods to female greats such as Lana Del Rey, Kimbra and Banks, MINOE’s here with her own spin, dripping in empowerment and queer liberation.
The world is watching Kevin Ross. As a record-breaking pioneer and R&B artist who is reshaping the music landscape, this is an independent artist paving the way for other artists to follow.
With upwards of 100 million streams across platforms and unparalleled historic feats, Kevin Ross recently became the first independent artist in music history with two simultaneous singles in the Top 20 of the Hot Adult R&B Airplay Chart. Additionally, Ross broke a radio record with his hit single “Sweet Release”, which had the longest run as the #1 requested song on Sirius XM’s Heart & Soul.
Originally signed to Motown records, Kevin Ross formed his artist-owned label Art Society Music Group (AMG) in 2019. Since then, Ross has garnered over 100 million streams across platforms, multiple Billboard charting songs, and a strong presence in both film and television. His work has been celebrated by Rolling Stone, Billboard, BET, Vibe, Essence, Good Day NY, and many others. Ross has collaborated with renowned artists such as Toni Braxton, Trey Songz, Tank, Ne-Yo, and T.I., and has earned nominations from the Soul Train Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and iHeart Radio Music.
For more information on Kevin Ross and his upcoming tour dates: https://www.kevinrossmusic.com/
Ghanaian-American rapper Vanessa Tha Finessa shares her debut EP, CURRENT, available today at all DSPs and streaming services HERE. Heralded by the sultry video for “It’s You,” CURRENT is a look into Vanessa’s fast-moving life, shaped by her experiences as an African woman in America. Full of empowering bad bitch anthems and inspired by the afrobeats music of her childhood, this debut EP is just the beginning for Vanessa Tha Finessa.
LISTEN TO CURRENT
WATCH THE “IT’S YOU” MUSIC VIDEO
“I’m so excited to be releasing my debut EP. CURRENT represents my life over the past 3 years, and it’s an honor to have been able to work with so many incredible close friends and collaborators on the project. The EP really serves as an introduction to who I am, and teases what is to come,” said Vanessa Tha Finessa. “I’m especially excited to be premiering the video for my single “It’s You” today, shot by my friend Bryan Ramos (Karats). This was a labor of love that we got done with the homies in LA and it’s an ode to my musical roots.”
French DJ and producer Folamour releases today his latest album, Manifesto. A project two years in the making, the fourteen-track album sees the Marseilles-based artist reveal his most personal project to date, exploring his own concepts and vision of the ideas of “love and freedom”, and welcoming a deep dive into productions stretching the breadth of the house spectrum and beyond loaded with the signature touches listeners have come to expect from his rich sound palette.
Building on his critically acclaimed 2021 LP The Journey, which has since gone on to rack up close to 15 million streams globally, and the launch of his new label House Of Love in August 2022, Manifesto sees the globally renowned producer and selector partner return with a wealth of solo material alongside a selection of vocalists, songwriters, and fellow producers across the package – including Baccus, Amadou & Mariam, Jungle By Night, Khazali, Emmanuel Jal, and Tim Ayre
Apryll Aileen is a classically trained pianist with a touch of science and spirituality; an alt-pop soulful vocalist, guitarist and songwriter from Atlantic Canada. Sultry vocals and an alluring stage presence make Apryll a fan favourite at music festivals worldwide. She transcends genres, creating her own undefinable sound with influences coming from pop, rock, electronic, folk and R&B. She doesn’t imitate – she creates.
Her new song “Wicked Ways” is a reflection about human nature and our propensity to act out and get angry at others. It’s an introspective examination about why she gets angry and says hurtful things sometimes, as well as how we judge and perceive the actions of others. Through this, we may be creating our own narratives (which are often untrue) and it’s only through walking in someone else’s shoes that we truly understand what caused their actions and words.
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
