Holly Munro is an Irish musician reshaping indie pop with her captivating vocal and distinct songcraft and she releases her new EP A Crescendo Ending 21st June. This sophomore EP from Holly includes previous singles ‘Out of Style’, ‘Dead Ends’ and ‘New Years Moon’ as well as unheard track ‘First Prize’. A Crescendo Ending harnesses Holly’s real strength as a songwriter by embracing a warm production and a close look into her unique perspective. Listen to A Crescendo Ending here.
Similar to first single ‘Dead Ends’, new track on the EP ‘First Prize’ was also written after a meditation session. Holly explains, “‘First Prize’ is about longing to be connected to something somewhere that is bigger than myself, and the fear that can come with being unable to articulate what that is”. As well as post-meditation clarity, the new EP delves into the complex dynamics of relationships, self-discovery, and sexuality, offering a nuanced exploration of Munro’s evolving identity. The EP reflects on the blurred lines that emerge as one navigates through youth to young adulthood, touching on themes of personal growth and maturity. Munro shares profound insights into her connection with herself as an artist, her relationship with the world, and delves into the realms of spirituality and sexuality. In essence, this EP becomes an existential journey, providing the most sincere and multifaceted reflection of Holly Munro’s evolving talent as a songwriter.
Speaking of the EP she reveals, “A Crescendo Ending feels really personal to me. It’s a collection of songs that I wrote on my favourite nylon guitar, after moments of meditation or reflection sitting on my bed. In terms of the recording, we tracked everything live, with only a few overdubs – the intention was for the EP to sound more in line with how the songs were actually written, as opposed to my last EP that had a bigger production. ‘Out of Style ‘and ‘New Years Moon’ explore themes of communication and introspection, while ‘Dead Ends’ and ‘First Prize’ delve into vulnerability and longing. Overall the EP is an exploration of personal growth and vulnerability”
London-based funk, disco creative Henry King sets out to electrify the music scene with his vibrant new single ‘Love Anthem’. With Henry’s ethos being to ‘take you HIGHER through music’, he has made a track that is brimming with quirky instrumentation and a jazzy beat, encompassing a delightful fusion of both contemporary and classic funk sounds. ‘Love Anthem’ is out now on your streaming service of choice, via APOLLO Distribution.
Listen to ‘Love Anthem’ below:
https://apollodistro.lnk.to/henryking
In Kings’ words; “The track is a funk, disco energy ball that blasts through the layers of your eardrums to only make one thing happen. For you to get up off your feet to move.”
‘Love Anthem’ is a testament to Henry King’s unique artistry, showcasing his ability to blend the old with the new. The song’s infectious groove, coupled with its playful instrumentation, captures the essence of disco. With its playful rhythm and jazzy undertones, ‘Love Anthem’ is poised to become a favorite on the dance floor.
“Love Anthem” is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of love and joy, encapsulating the spirit of funk in every note. Henry King’s charismatic style shines through in this track, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to add a bit of groove to their day.
LA indie-dance band ASHRR are set to release new album ‘Sunshine Low’ on 20th September 2024 via 20/20 Vision Recordings (home to Maya Jane Coles, Soul Clap, Crazy P, and more). Formed by lead vocalist Steven Davis and producer-musician-vocalists Josh Charles and Ethan Allen; the outfit cast their net over electronic soul, post-punk, space disco and indie-dance. The trio catch a sound reflecting the melancholic haze of late summer combined with the thrill of late night adventure.
The third single taken from the album, ‘Deux Sons’ began as an improvised jam session. The track conjures the New Orleans gris-gris vibes that run deep in their musical history and marries it with a ’70’s soul inspired hook sung in French. Ethan explains, “The loose meaning of the lyrics with the two combined parts made sense as it’s a captivating journey into the heart of freedom and unity”.
ASHRR came together from varying backgrounds working in music. Josh started as a jazz pianist, mentored by the late Dr. John, before working in pop, rock, and country as a critically acclaimed singer/songwriter. Josh met Steven in Nashville, after both moved from NYC where Steven was headlining huge rooms, singing big band standards, as well as writing for film and TV. Then moving to LA, they were introduced to Ethan, a Grammy nominated engineer working with everyone from Ben Harper, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, and Mavis Staples.
Paving a deal with Ralph Lawson’s 20/20 Vision Recordings, connections were made from LA to the UK via underground dance legend Felix Dickinson and his (and Crazy P’s) manager suggesting the two would be a good fit. Felix went on to expertly reimagine ASHRR’s ‘Fizzy’ into a dubbed out disco epic, featuring on the ‘Crazy P Curate: Vol 1’ 12 inch EP. Their expert taste continues with remixes from Scientist, System Olympia, Lovefingers, Ron Trent and Massimiliano Pagliara, all providing an array of special versions on EPs leading to the album release. There is also a new version of the album in construction, made under their dancefloor friendly ASHRR SOUNDSYSTEM banner.
Terrorizing Fantasia Billiards bar in Los Angeles, folk-pop band Trousdale today release the official video for their track “Point Your Finger.” This comes ahead of the July 12 release of Out Of My Mind Deluxe via Independent Co. The band also announced the tracklist for the deluxe album and upcoming features from Ben Abraham and BAILEN. Watch the video for “Point Your Finger” / Pre-Save the deluxe album.
“We’ve been wanting to do a music video for ‘Point Your Finger’ ever since the song was released, and it wasn’t until our dear friend and talented editor Colton Stock reached out to us about wanting to direct this one,” shares Trousdale. “He came to us with a fully realized vision for the video and we could not have been more excited. The idea is that there are three bandits on the loose who walk into a bar and stir up some sh**. We cause a bit of a commotion which leads the bar patrons to start pointing some fingers. It’s fun, silly, we LINE DANCE, and of course, sing our asses off.”
Following the release of her new EP, ‘Frankie,’ multitalented music & visual artist Laura Pieri now presents the EP’s accompanying short film. With subtle transitions between each track, the ‘Frankie’ visual adds new dimension to the EP’s narrative.
‘Frankie’ tells the story of a woman (Frankie) reclaiming her voice and power. Opening with “Sea of Tragedy,” Frankie begins her hero journey after realizing she’s been held back by people who will never be able to see the world through her eyes. “Daughter of Demeter” sees her become flooded with anger and frustration, and she begins the process of reclaiming her power. Next is “Come Clean,” where we see the protagonist emerging from the ashes to find her freedom. The EP/film concludes with “Goddess Energy,” a love letter to women accepting themselves, embracing their identities, and living in their truth.
“‘Frankie’ was born out of my struggle to be in control of my identity and career, since it more often than not felt controlled by the hands of men whose vision did not align with my own,” Pieri explains. “Although I still have a long way to go, I really am learning to love, trust, and stick up for myself. It’s definitely aspirational to not care about what other people think, but I am manifesting that. And, like the character Frankie, this doesn’t have to make sense for anyone else. Just for me. And it does.”
“As a musician, music fan and doctor, music truly is therapy for Adam Zwig. With a Ph.D. in psychology, Zwig joins the ranks of Renaissance men like Brian May of Queen and Bad Religion’s Greg Graffin.” – Billboard
Dr. Zwig is an American musician, teacher, and author. He has 9 Top Ten hit singles on the U.S. Adult Contemporary charts, and is an internationally renowned singer-songwriter, workshop leader, and lecturer (he has a PhD in psychology). Dr. Zwig has been featured on Billboard, SiriusXM Radio, CBS Radio, and many other stations, and in People Magazine, SPIN, Pollstar, and many other publications. He has released 7 albums, and his music can be heard on National TV, including NBC, Fox, and Fuel TV. Dr. Zwig has more than 160 million views on YouTube, over half a million social media followers, and has scored in the top 10% of rock artists streamed on Spotify in 2022 and 2023. Dr. Zwig’s forthcoming book, Music in the Mayhem: Tales of Total Transformation from a Rock n Roll Doctor, shows how painful states of mind and difficult life issues aren’t pathologies but rather signs of personal growth trying to happen. His psychology music podcast, The Dr. Zwig Show, posts new episodes every Wednesday.
LOS ANGELES, CA (June 1, 2024) —Education during the Renaissance era emphasized the whole person. People were encouraged to develop their intellectual, artistic, social, physical, and spiritual abilities. One was expected to speak several languages, play a musical instrument, write poetry, and excel in science, mathematics, and the arts. Enter Dr. Zwig—Top Ten recording artist and touring musician, bilingual life coach, clinical director, international workshop leader, author, podcaster, lecturer, and teacher.
Whether he’s working with clients, inspiring at the lectern, or rocking a packed theater, Zwig unlocks a powerful, passionate, and pure form of release. If rock ‘n’ roll equals freedom, then Dr. Zwig’s approach to the human condition is rock n roll therapy. “Traditional psychology and psychiatry have it wrong,” Zwig explains. “Your problem isn’t a disease—it’s your personal growth trying to happen. It’s your calling. It’s your life song trying to be heard. Even your worst issue is a meaningful and purposeful process that’s trying to awaken you to deep change. Just suppressing your symptoms misses the whole point.”
creative collective MILLENNIUM PARADE announces the “Who And How” 2024 world tour, powered by Crunchyroll, the global anime brand offering fans the ultimate anime experience. Kicking off in North America, the multi-continent run kicks off on November 2nd in Mexico City, MX at Lunario, with stops across Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, Berlin, Paris, London, and The Netherlands, culminating in two hometown shows in Tokyo, JP at the Tokyo Garden Theater on December 19 and 20.
Tickets for the “Who And How” 2024 tour will go onsale to the general public on Friday, June 21 at 10am PT at https://millenniumparade.com/live/. Beginning tomorrow, a special Crunchyroll pre-sale will launch at 10am PT until midnight PT on the 20th. Local venue pre-sales will begin on June 20 at 10am PT. Find the full touring itinerary below.
Already well-known for their distinct live show in Japan, MILLENNIUM PARADE will bring new experiences across the globe via a unique immersive take on music, art and storytelling.
MILLENNIUM PARADE is a vibrant collective from a variety of creative fields including music, film direction, visual effects, design and illustration. Led by Tokyo-based producer/songwriter Daiki Tsuneta—who also fronts one of Japan’s biggest bands King Gnu—the collective also includes Tsuneta’s closest collaborators, Art Director Cota Mori and Creative Director Shu Sasaki.
Roisin O’Hagan is a singer-songwriter from Essex, UK, who has been writing, performing and releasing music since she was 12 years old. Having grown up in a musical household, Roisin was inspired to create songs that upholds storytelling songwriting at its core, much like the music she grew up listening to such as Counting Crows, Taylor Swift, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Ed Sheeran and Coldplay.
Following her 2022 EP, Dreamstate, which was a Nashville-recorded country/pop EP, Roisin is now entering a new chapter, as she begins to unveil her most authentic work today. As she opens up about difficult themes from a real, raw and human approach, Roisin sucks listeners into her world. A departure from her previous country/pop releases, her latest single “Midnight Indigo” sees Roisin exploring a mix of pop, rock and singer-songwriter elements.
“Midnight Indigo” narrates the story of two people and the toxic dynamic between them. The songwriter explains, “There is some kind of undeniable, toxic passion between them that neither can leave alone. That is until eventually one takes the power and leaves the situation with no real explanation, apology or closure.” The two individuals both know they are playing a losing game but are too afraid to pull the trigger, until one finally instigates its demise.
The angsty track is fuelled with driving guitars, upbeat percussion and move-inducing melodies. Through determined vocals and storytelling lyrics that are both honest and playfully blunt, Roisin chants, “You’re a nightmare and I can’t stop dreaming, if not us then who do I believe in, in another life I’d be running from you.”
As an independent artist, Roisin has supported Chris Shiflett (Foo Fighters) on tour, performed for Whispering Bob Harris (BBC Radio 2) and BBC Introducing and been named a Fender Undiscovered Artist finalist. As she embarks on this new journey, 2024 is set to be an exciting year for Roisin O’Hagan, kicking off with “Midnight Indigo.”
South African-born, NYC/Dublin-based folk-rock musician Tuelo shares hopeful, calming track & official video “Green Light” out everywhere now. The latest release sees Tuelo reckon with a fast-paced, ever-changing world as she attempts to maintain her sense of self and find brightness in the future. Tuelo will celebrate the release at Debbie’s in NYC on June 20, open to the public.
The artist’s bold second studio album Regarding My Heart is due out September 27 and available for pre-order now. With her most refined, self-assured sound to date, Regarding My Heart is a sweeping sonic exploration of love, loss and loneliness that allows Tuelo to proudly re-introduce herself as she carves a space in folk-rock that is all her own.
Written in Belgium in 2018, the track poured out of the artist as she began to reckon with major life changes, relationships evolving or ending, and the pace at which life moves today, aiming to calm her mind in any way she could. Tuelo explains, “It’s like I needed to give myself the impetus to restart friendships, to reexamine relationships, to be at peace with a period of self inquiry and questioning the universe, and of calming the noise. It stems from the fact that I started walking straight into traffic in New York City, oblivious to things around me. I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders without anyone to lean on. More than that, I started worrying that I would be involved in an actual accident if I couldn’t get my mind right.”
Ultimately, the track gives Tuelo the necessary space to quiet the outside noise and reassure herself of her path, desires and the brighter future ahead, acting as a crucial beacon of light. “There is so much stimulation, confusion and make-believe emerging, it felt urgent to be reminded to focus. Concentrate on the ‘Green Light’ – on good advice, on guidance, on the “everything is ok” sign.”
The track also chronicles Tuelo’s journey away from religion and its impact on her meaningful new relationship with herself, as well as music’s vital role in this. The artist says, “I found that I was even more focused on being good, doing right, listening and serving what is good and serving my spirit. Song is always part of my practice.”
The track’s accompanying video, directed by Kevin Wenzel, is a mirror of a mysterious ancient artifact and Tuelo, the visitor. A visit to a museum reveals an African masquerade, an idea from brilliant and spiritual West African masquerades. Tuelo says, “In it I awaken an ancient artifact that takes up space in a museum and let it free. Green Light is exactly that – a vibration.”
Inspired by a visit to the British Museum, Wenzel recalls, “When we were recording the album we traveled to London to work with producer Robbie Nelson, and I remember talking with Tuelo after she visited the museum for the first time about seeing all of the looted artifacts from around the world there. When creating the concept for the video we wanted to pull from that experience, and from the feeling in the music of finding direction in chaos–finding clarity and connection. So much of that clarity comes from traditions, history, and art, yet in a modern setting so much of it is distorted, walled off, or completely hidden from sight. We wanted the song and dancing to be a way to break through.”
Catchy as hell, LIQUORLIPS is outrageous, potent and not to be missed.
The brand new bop sees Montreal party girls MINOE and Renon kick off their Saltburn summer with this electrifying collaboration. This one is made for anyone who likes to have fun, drink cheap wine, and indulge in naughty fantasies one might think but never dare to say out loud.
Both hotly tipped emerging artists in their own right, MINOE and Renon’s first point of connection happened by chance after MINOE found Renon’s bag on the streets of Montreal. With a little help from the internet, MINOE returned the lost property and in the process the pair became fast friends. The girls initially connected over a shared love of songwriting and their similar Tumblr obsessions from back in 2014. Their natural alignment clearly shines through in the sexy, carefree lyrics of the track as well as the intense skins-style production.
By no coincidence, the release of LIQUORLIPS aligns with Pride Month, paying homage to the queer culture that has inspired both artists to be unapologetically themselves. Pulling inspiration from the likes of early Charli xcx, Crystal Castles and princess superstar, LIPQUORLIPS channels raunchy, playful lyricism and not to mention, irresistible melodies.
Verdict Music’s Leaving Eden is the living embodiment of the modern touring rock band while still maintaining an archetypal rock & roll mindset of “all in…there is no back up plan” and it is precisely this mantra that has sustained them. They have since toured throughout North America, Europe, and select cities in Canada and have shared the stage with many legendary acts, literally hundreds of the most iconic names in rock. The list is long and distinguished but most notably, Alice Cooper, Anthrax, Alice in Chains, Black Sabbath, Big Brother and The Holding Company, Lynyrd Skynyrd, LA Guns and Nickelback just to name a few. They have worked closely with Grammy Award winning engineer Johnny K (Disturbed, 3 Doors Down, Megadeth & Sevendust) and will soon be reuniting with him on an upcoming studio project.
Vancouver folk-rock musician Etienne Siew is pleased to share his debut album Chasing Dreams out now on all digital streaming platforms. Listen to the full album here.
Etienne is also showcasing ‘Starlight Girl’ as the 3rd feature single from the album, a track that leans heavily into 70s AM radio influences, resulting in a laid-back love song that feels straight off the Almost Famous soundtrack.
“This is a rocking tune for all the love birds and hopeful romantics out there,” says Etienne. “I believe the right person comes into your life when they are meant to, they are just walking through the clouds somewhere in the world, slowly making their way to you. This was my call to the universe, to keep that person safe until your paths crossed.”
Etienne’s winding path from kinesiologist/coach to singer-songwriter is reflected in his debut album Chasing Dreams. In this project, Etienne aims to share his reflections as an independent artist and explores the themes of healing, empathy, resilience and social and environmental justice, which were amplified during the wake of the pandemic.
Says Etienne: “Chasing Dreams draws attention to and celebrates our connection with our environment and with each other, despite our differences, inspiring audiences to consider their own experiences in these themes. The Album represents the many universal lessons I have transformed into songs from spending time in nature, working with people from all walks of life and pursuing the exciting and challenging path of an independent artist. This project also represents the continued mindfulness and growth I continue to keep at the forefront of my mind, as I develop into the artist I want to be.”
Brooklyn-based psych rock quintet ZEBEDEE share the Jeremy Bastard remix of their new single “For God’s Sake” out now. The group’s sophomore studio album Going Nowhere Fast is due out August 2 and available for pre-order now. The band is set to play live across New York City this Summer including at Crown Hill Theatre on July 7 supporting Mark Kelly, Kirk Douglas of the Roots and members of Living Color. Get tickets here.
The “For God’s Sake” (Jeremy Bastard Remix) out today is a new take on the recent single by ZEBEDEE. Lead guitarist and vocalist Zebedee Row is thrilled to get to work with Bastard on the reworked version of the latest single. Row says on the new, cutting version, “I’ve wanted to work with Jeremy Bastard for a while. I catch his sets around NYC all the time, and I’m a big fan of his band Autodrone. I really let him do his “industrial thing” to create something wild and completely different. I hope the kids appreciate it as much as I do.” The original track nostalgically recalls the freedom and innocence of growing up, in this case for Row, in the Western suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. The remix takes a dark wave spin that gives the song a completely different energy that’s entirely its own.
Brooklyn-based psych-pop trio Psychic Lines announces their fifth studio album SUNSET ON SUNSET due out August 23 and available for pre-order now. Alongside the announcement, the band shares bright, bouncy track and colorful, hand-drawn video “Mind Control” out now. On June 22, the band will celebrate the new music with a free show at Brooklyn’s Mama Tried–find more information here.
SUNSET ON SUNSET sounds unlike any previous Psychic Lines release. Lead singer-songwriter Phil Jacob shares, “Lyrically, the album touches on all the delusions we cling to. They may give us hope and spur us on but set us up for disappointment when we inevitably discover that the real world doesn’t quite measure up. Many of these delusions are shaped by our lifelong immersion in social media, film and television.” The LP delves into escapism and the stories we tell ourselves to make sense of the surrounding fast-paced world. Jacob continues, “In order to bridge this reality gap, we further deceive ourselves and others, seeking escape in the same stories and mythologies that caused our faulty expectations in the first place.” These deceptions and coping mechanisms form a backdrop for the darkly surrealistic, yet wryly humorous collection of tunes on this album.
Basic tracks were recorded by Charles Burst in two sessions–one at the dearly departed Seaside Lounge Recording, and the other at Figure 8 Recording. Both sessions were tracked live with Phil Jacob on guitar, Dann Baker on bass, and Tim Simmonds on drums. Overdubs were recorded at Jacob’s studio during the pandemic lockdown and Burst came back to mix the project in 2022. The album was mastered by Carl Saff and the artwork was done by Andrew Sax.
On “Mind Control,” Phil Jacob drew inspiration from Captain Beefheart, incorporating some of the rhythmic ideas found in The Magic Band’s music. Jacob says of the track’s lyrical content, “As with the rest of SUNSET ON SUNSET, the lyrics deal with comparing our lives to our perceptions of other people’s lives. Ultimately, if we want to be fully engaged with the world around us, we have to break these negative cycles with positive thoughts that lead to positive actions.”
Silent Mass invites disciples of Post-Punk, Ethereal Wave, Shoegaze, and 90s Alternative to a wailing wall of sound that is irresistible for anyone who has prayed for a darker and heavier Enya or is beckoned to embark on a sonic pilgrimage through territories claimed by The Cranberries, Chelsea Wolfe, Cranes, and Dead Can Dance.
In sun-drenched pre-pandemic Los Angeles, Silent Mass emerged as a solitary pursuit by Ammo Bankoff. Her debut single, a cover of ‘Total Recall’ that Big Takeover Magazine called “melancholic escapist dreamery,” was released in 2020 on Dune Altar as part of the charity compilation ‘Do You Feel That Way Too? A Tribute to Adrian Borland & The Sound.’ Shortly after, she relocated with audio engineer and guitarist Robert Duncan to join drummer and producer Alex Posell in NYC.
Encompassing haunting vocals and lush guitar lines with primal percussive rhythms that nod to Ammo’s punk-infused youth, Silent Mass released two more singles, ‘Rose + Crown’ and ‘A Cold War City’ in 2021. “Ammo recalls so many different artists (Kate Bush, Jane Siberry, Cocteau Twins, Slowdive), while not sounding particularly like any of them very much. This is melancholic loaded reverie, capable of entrancing you into Lynchian territory” noted The Spill Magazine. Their latest single “The Great Chaos” “finds beauty in the spiral of self-discovery. It’s a love song about mourning a version of your past self,” proclaims Ammo.
Currently hailed as “ethereal Brooklyn goths” by Brooklyn Vegan, Silent Mass will get you into a “dreamy state” with a sound that has disseminated to sold-out shows as far as Berlin and Los Angeles. They have shared the stage with occult rockers True Widow and played NYC’s five-day New Colossus Festival. In honor of the Summer Solstice, their debut album ‘The Great Chaos’ was released. The songs unfold as a collection of vignettes, illuminating dark, hidden areas of consciousness. Each track channels themes of self-alienation, distorted emotions, restlessness, self-forgiveness, and realization. The memories from these periods emerge like stills taken from a film—sometimes blurred and disorienting, other times dreamy and almost illusory.
New York native singer-songwriter ROREY (24) grew up bi-coastal between Manhattan and LA. She started playing guitar at age six and taught herself piano at age 14. In 2019, she left college and moved back to LA to pursue music, releasing her first single, “Predictable” in 2021.ROREYprides herself on her unique rhyme schemes and brutally honest, vulnerable lyrics paired with unforgettable hooks.
ROREY draws lyrical inspiration from anything and everything. She will even pull lyrics from text conversations. “My songwriting has been my greatest confidant and my creative process my only reprieve from the precarious nature of life,” she confides. Although ROREY is the only musician in her family, her house was never quiet. Her early musical influences attributed to her parents were Santana, Pink Floyd, and Jethro Tull.
In 2021 ROREY was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. It was during this time she wrote six of the eight songs featured on her upcoming sophomore EP, Dysphoria. Co-produced by longtime friend and collaborator, Scott Effman, the collection of music emulates her cognitive dissonance navigating her mental health journey through haunting melodies, ethereal vocals and swirls of hypnotic instrumentals. The second single “Sleepwalking” is a dreamy indie pop masterpiece featuring hazy vocals and melodic hooks that blur the lines between the conscious and the subconscious, inviting introspection and exploration. ROREY confides, “Sleepwalking is my disassociation anthem. I wanted to paint this vivid image of me walking down the street experiencing life in a way that made absolutely no sense. I felt so delusional and removed at the time; (sleepwalking) through life in this almost dream-like state”.
ROREY organically caught the ear of Apple Music’s Zane Lowe show. and has since landed coveted spots on Spotify and Apple Music playlists, such as Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds Indie, New Music Daily, New in Pop and a myriad of Japanese editorial playlists. She has further gained notoriety in prominent publications like Office Magazine, Ladygunn, Notion, and more following the release of her debut EP, Apt 7d (Anna Shoemaker, Ryn Weaver, and Blonder). She most recently played Baby’s Alright in Brooklyn, opening for singer songwriter Mitte Hope. She is performing her first headline show at the Knitting Factory (Baker Falls) in Manhattan’s East Village.
ROREY is here to unnerve you and push you to confront the depths of your psyche. She shares, “I think I say outloud what some people are afraid to say. It keeps me going to know my songs help people get intouch with their emotions.” Whether you want to cry in your bed, or dance alone in your room – ROREY has a song for you.
The music of Brooklyn-based Violet Sands is an ethereal soundtrack for a rite of passage, harnessing the alluring vocals of Deidre Muro (Deidre & the Dark, previously Savoir Adore), the inventive production of David Perlick-Molinari (French Horn Rebellion) and the cinematic, classical-tinged arrangements of derek muro.
Embracing themes of beauty and the struggles of transitioning from one phase of life to another and a dreamy mix of nostalgia with the present, their genre-bending approach began attracting a following after they quietly uploaded two tracks to Soundcloud in 2016. Those tracks gained traction after a number of blogs organically picked up the songs, leading to the release of the “Strange Attractor EP.” The trio followed up with the release of their debut album “Hotel,” and shortly thereafter, a collaboration with DJ and producer Justin Faust yielded the single “What Do You Feel” – with a Jean Tonique remix that has continued to bring in new listeners to date from all over the world.
2024 sees Violet Sands back in collaboration, with the band members spread between Brooklyn and Los Angeles, exploring the next chapter of the project. Their latest single “are you still watching?” evokes Y2K-era technological anxiety, with the song taking the view of a streaming service achieving consciousness and hypnotizing the minds of viewers. With swirling atmospherics, stark guitars and a skittering, incessant drum groove, the track evokes alienated electronica of the turn of the last century (such as Portishead or Massive Attack), but with a timely contemporary resonance as technology accelerates.
the ever-prolific Kaelin Ellis, unveils his highly anticipated album, ‘You Are Here, Start.’ Ellis’ Fool’s Gold debut, perfectly encapsulates his innovative approach and artistic vision, making it a landmark release in his career to date. Led by the eclectic blend of hip-hop, R&B and alternative influences on focus track ‘Heart (feat. Saba & Lophiile)’, this album promises to take listeners on a captivating journey, blending diverse sounds and genres in a way that only Kaelin Ellis can. ‘You Are Here, Start.’ is available now on all streaming platforms via Fool’s Gold Records.
Listen to ‘You Are Here, Start.’ below:
“It’s been a minute” was a record that I made back in 2022. It sat for years until I realized I needed a restart, a start over, a blank slate. that’s what this album is about, starting over and starting a new” – Kaelin Elllis
London-based, Swedish-born pop singer-songwriter Josefine Ridell shares her debut EP ‘When You Were Mine’. With her angelic voice and poetic lyricism, Ridell captures the essence of love and heartbreak, taking listeners on an emotional journey through five captivating tracks, led by brand new singles ‘Whole Again’ and ‘Only Heart That’s Bleeding’.
‘When You Were Mine’ is available now on your streaming service of choice via APOLLO Distribution.
Take a listen to ‘When You Were Mine’ below:
https://apollodistro.lnk.to/josefineridell
Speaking on the story behind her EP, Ridell shares; “The ‘When You Were Mine’ EP is my debut EP and it tells the story of love and heartbreak. The 5 tracks cover the different emotions you can feel from falling helplessly in love with someone, to the resentment and at times self-empowerment that comes hand in hand with having your heart broken, but also the sadness and self-reflection you might feel – asking yourself “was there something I could’ve done differently”. If you listen to the track list in chronological order it goes from the hurting to falling in love, and is meant to give the message that there will always be love after heartbreak.”
Grammy-winning live electronic trio RÜFÜS DU SOL are back, unveiling their highly anticipated new single “Music is Better” via Rose Avenue/Warner Records. Listen HERE.
The group first premiered the song during their headline DJ set at Coachella earlier this year, and marks RÜFÜS DU SOL’s first new music since their 2021 Grammy-nominated album, Surrender. The long-awaited single captures the themes of hope, intimacy, and connection that have long defined the RÜFÜS universe, while showcasing a more expansive and ambitious sound than ever before.
“Music is Better” offers a window into a new creative groove for the band, a new era that is defined by creating from the now and enjoying the process, continuing to create art that binds organic and electronic. The single adds to a catalog that soundtracks life’s most formidable moments for an entire generation of music fans – from heartbreak to romance, euphoria and despair.
In the three years since Surrender was released, RÜFÜS DU SOL won a Grammy for Best Dance/Electronic Recording in 2022 for lead single “Alive,” were twice-nominated the following year for Best Dance/Electronic Album and earned their fifth ARIA award in Australia. The band circled the globe appearing at festivals across Europe and South America, and brought Surrender to the stages of iconic North American venues like New York’s Forest Hills Stadium, Denver’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl. The band also launched their boutique Sundream Festival, which held its second edition in San José del Cabo in 2023.
Italian dance music force Mind Against have released their new single “Love Seeking” via DJ Tennis’ home for underground explorations, Life and Death. The single marks a triumphant return for the duo to the label from which they launched their careers with their seminal 2013 single “Atlant.”
With “Love Seeking,” Mind Against flexes reinvigorated songwriting depth. While the duo is best known for their dark, intense productions, this new soulful, retrospective single hones in on the euphoric sensations tied to finding love on the dancefloor. The sound, with its shape-cutting bass line, addicting hook, and rushing synths, aligns perfectly with what Life and Death does best, accentuating melodies, vocals, and indie dance elements in club-forward electronic music.
“This EP is very special to us as it marks our return to our very first label,” remarks Mind Against on Love Seeking. “Since the release of our Atlant EP in 2013, both ourselves and Life and Death have grown our own paths, and it’s a great feeling being back to our very first mothership with an artistic proposal transcending the usual genre boundaries”
Sharply rising Miami-based Ibiza mainstay Cole Knight, versatile producer Joseph Ashworth and hit-maker KDA have combined for a triple-threat dancefloor single, “Money,” out now via Higher Ground.
“Money’ is all about feeling yourself,” says Knight. “A high-energy groove to get lost in.” The single is the perfect middle ground between techno and house, capturing the driving energy and glitchy sound design of the former while elevating the ladder’s hallmark, uplifting shuffle. It’s a collision of heavy and light sounds that works unexpectedly well, like a feather made of steel.
“This one came from a high-energy studio session,” says Joseph Ashworth on the collaboration. “The three of us on a hot summer’s day, windows open, 5 iced coffees each, speakers up. We landed on a chaotic slammer, out just in time for the Ibiza terraces.”
“We wanted to make a track that wouldn’t fail anywhere,” says KDA. “It sounds like all three of us—beat-heavy, memorable, and no sell-out. I’ve been called worse.”
Everything about singer- songwriter Nathan Ball feels unforced. A natural, easy, calming presence, his music scales universal emotional highs with as much fluidity as it descends into moody introspection.
His latest single “Stateline” is demonstrative of just that. Written whilst on tour in Australia, trying to capture the spirit of life on the road, Nathan found inspiration in the long dusty roads, life in transit, new people, new faces and new spaces. He confides, “It’s an adaptation of the story of Icarus ignoring advice and flying too close to the sun and meeting his demise. It’s a coming of age love song about dreaming your life away and the innocent beauty of young love, only to be brought back down to earth and all its reality.” “Stateline” glows with warmth, as jangly guitars and driving percussion create an all-encompassing atmosphere, layered with emotion-fuelled lyrics that tug at your heartstrings.
Based in Cornwall, the outdoors is a huge catalyst for much of Nathan’s material, with the songwriter sharing, “It’s where I write best; by the sea, in the mountains, in the woods. I love being totally immersed in nature so naturally those themes find their way into the music. I love being in the ocean – just being in it and feeling totally insignificant. It’s a reminder of the order of things.”
Nathan’s work fuses two chief loves – classic songwriting and an eagerness to experiment and push sonic boundaries. Perhaps unexpectedly, he finds inspiration in left-field house music. “I love the way it makes you feel – it’s euphoric, but sad, introverted but expressive. I love that darker side of the genre.” His love for the electronic world led him to a feature with seminal British electronica act Faithless and as a result he is now touring as their vocalist, where he will be headlining festivals including Wilderness and The Glade Stage at Glastonbury.
Nathan’s songs have impressively amassed over 60 million streams to date. He’s had the pleasure of supporting artists such as Bon Iver, Van Morrison, Ziggy Alberts, Matthew and the Atlas, and has also performed at festivals including Boardmasters, Green Man, Secret Garden Party, British Summer Time, All Points East and many more.
“Stateline” is the first single to be released from his upcoming EP Lost Track of Time, with new label partners V2 Records.
Native American/Canadian musician Keanu Ienco shares his new single ‘Playful Love’ out now on all digital streaming platforms. Listen here.
‘Playful Love’ follows the release of Keanu’s acclaimed 2022 debut album, Celestial Desires. The instrumental guitar piece is a moving tribute he wrote in remembrance of the family members he’s lost over the past couple of years.
“The title refers to the platonic love one feels with family or friends,” says Keanu. “The tune explores how it feels when that love is gone. While the melodies and feel of the tune take on a somber and melancholy nature at first, the piece climaxes with loud and hopeful sounds to remind the listener that those we love are never truly gone. I have recently had to say goodbye to my grandmother, brother and dog, so ‘Playful Love’ is a piece for them.”
With the unique ability to translate stories and Native American culture into dynamic guitar driven soundscapes, Keanu is an Indigenous jazz/rock artist unlike any other on the scene. During his childhood, Keanu discovered his passion for music when his mother gifted him his first guitar for his eighth birthday. At thirteen he started playing professionally and by the age of sixteen had already performed live with numerous groups and received radio airplay of his own originals.
Following the completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies at Vancouver Island University, Keanu has naturally grown his career and has shared the stage with industry professionals such as Steve Vai, Delfeayo Marsalis and Rufus Reid. 2020 saw the birth of Keanu’s original instrumental project under his own name. Drawing from his authentic lived experiences as a Native American, Keanu’s music transports listeners on an emotional journey that honours his heritage while still being able to pull inspiration from his instrumental heroes such as Steve Vai, Pat Metheny and Plini.
Electronic visionary Rezz has released an official remix package of her 2016-released hit ‘Edge’ out now via mau5trap. The new remix package includes Rezz’s recently-released 2024 version along with a new remix from Blanke and collaborative remix from Rezz and anonymous producer X1-Y2.
One of the most iconic tracks in her discography, ‘Edge’ has received three exciting uplifts that catalog the evolution of Rezz’s sound and the long-standing impact of her breakout record. Alongside Rezz’s own rework, Blanke’s fan-driven festival flip has received a well-deserved upgrade, revamped into a proper remix fueled by monstrous synth leads and zippering basslines.
“Blanke’s remix is so good and I’ve been playing it in my sets for like a year. He’s a great artist and I’m so grateful he did this for leisure and now it will be an official release.” – Rezz
Rising alt-pop artist Karina Stone releases her highly anticipated new single, ‘fireproof’, a heartfelt tale that delves into the struggle of trying to erase the memories of someone who you can’t seem to forget. Recognised for her evocative lyricism and captivating melodies, Karina Stone once again proves her ability to connect deeply with her audience through her music.
‘fireproof’ is available now on your streaming service of choice via APOLLO Distribution.
Take a listen to ‘fireproof’ below:
https://apollodistro.lnk.to/karinastone
Speaking on the inspiration behind her new song, Karina Stone shares; “’fireproof’ is all about the attempt to move on & torch memories of a past relationship, but somehow not even fire can erase it.”
With a sound that blends atmospheric production with alt-pop sensibilities, ‘fireproof’ showcases Karina’s unique ability to fuse introspective storytelling with infectious hooks. The single is a testament to her growth as an artist and her commitment to creating music that resonates on a deeply emotional level.
Karina Stone has quickly garnered a dedicated following with her previous releases ‘ghostwriter’, ‘daylight robbery’ and ‘afterparty’, and ‘fireproof’ is poised to solidify her status as a compelling voice in the alt-pop scene. Her ability to craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable has been the main driving force in her growth this year.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
