Rising artist, Cat Evers, has officially released her first-ever music video for the single “Aphrodite,” today. The visually captivating video, directed by Breanna Lynn, celebrates femininity, self-discovery, and empowerment through stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling. “In developing the concept for the ‘Aphrodite’ video, I always envisioned a room full of women doing what makes them feel most beautiful -whether it’s singing, dancing, or simply embodying their femininity,” Cat Evers shares. “When I came across director Breanna Lynn through a mutual friend, I knew she was the perfect collaborator for this project.”
Electro-pop sensation, M the Myth, has unveiled the highly anticipated music video for their latest single, “Pin-up Boy,” released today. Directed by M the Myth themself, the visually stunning video is a fast-paced, evocative exploration of self-discovery, identity, and liberation. The “Pin-up Boy” video, filmed at the iconic PJ Hub in Los Angeles, is a true artistic collaboration. Styled by Manuel Sarmiento, with captivating cinematography by Chong Thao and produced by Audrey Fortmeyer, the video bursts with intensity, drawing viewers into a surreal dreamscape. Dominated by a powerful color palette of black, white, and red, the visuals explore the tension between serenity and chaos—symbolizing the constant battle between societal binaries and the desire to break free from them. The striking use of red represents the pivotal moment of realization that we are all trapped within social systems, triggering the yearning to break through.
Jamaica-born singer/songwriter Jada Kingdom shares her latest music video, “Somebody Else.” Marking her first release under her new independent entity Kingdom Mab, the track’s hypnotic beat flows seamlessly with Jada’s commanding and sleek vocals. The stripped-down music video meets the raw and vulnerable make of the track seamlessly as Jada pours her feelings on wax through her emotive and empowering lyrics.
This the new single and music video for “Love Is Uncertain” from Star2 and JJ SP. Star2 and JJ SP, both Ka-ren artists and refugees who fled Myanmar as children to escape military persecution, have channeled their experiences into a soulful meditation on the precious nature of love.
“Love is Uncertain” is a soulful track that reminds us not to be careless with love, which is very precious. Performed in both Ka-ren and English languages, the song explores the complexities of maintaining relationships while pursuing a music career. Lyrics such as, “Girl you know you my only lover // I will never put nobody else above you // You the only one I wanna sing to,” describe a longing for real love and companionship. The accompanying music video, filmed on location in Thailand, features both artists in a visual celebration of their artistic collaboration. “Love Is Uncertain” bridges cultural and linguistic boundaries while delivering a universal message about the delicate nature of love and commitment.
Star2 is excited to showcase many talented Ka-ren artists to a bigger world-wide audience. He will visit JJ SP and all nine refugee camps starting next month with Chinatown Runner and Ler Mu Dex. The nine camps are: Ban Mai Nai Soi, Ban Mae Surin, Mae La Oon, Mae Ra Ma Luang, Mae La, Umpiem Mai, Nupo, Ban Don Yang, and Tham Hin. Look for Vlogs from Star2’s 3 month trip where he will be meeting more talented Ka-ren artists!
rising alt-pop artist Tragic Sasha returns with her stunning new single, ‘Prototype’, offering an intimate look into her experience as a woman in the music industry. Departing from her recent upbeat releases, Tragic Sasha’s latest track takes a stripped-back approach that highlights her signature lofi, indie feel while revealing a deeper and more introspective side of her artistry.
‘Prototype’ is available now on your streaming service of choice via APOLLO Distribution.
Listen to ‘Prototype’ below:
https://apollodistro.lnk.to/TragicSasha-Prototype
“Prototype is one of my favourite songs I’ve ever written. It’s about being a woman in the music industry and feeling like you constantly have to reinvent yourself to succeed.” – Tragic Sasha
‘Prototype’ merges haunting melodies with Sasha’s evocative lyricism, reflecting her experiences in an industry often demanding unattainable standards. The track’s slower tempo and minimalist arrangement create an atmosphere of vulnerability and authenticity. As a producer, songwriter and performer, Sasha continues to prove herself to be an all round creative who is actively bringing new ideas to the table and challenging industry expectations.
(Nashville) Songwriter/guitarist Brad Tursi didn’t have a masterplan when he started creating Parallel Love, his unprecedented solo debut. Written over a period of years, the award-winning writer saw a ten track song cycle emerge that explores how love and life often emerge and merge in ways that can’t be seen in a linear fashion. With a quiet release, the Connecticut-born and -raised musician is creating a space to share these songs with fellow seekers and attracting notice from Americana Highways, American Songwriter, Bluegrass Situation, HOLLER. and more.
This week, iconic Americana bible No Depression/NoDepression.com, known as the Journal of Roots Music, debuts Tursi’s “Parallel Love Live from the Blue Room,” which takes viewers inside an intimate performance designed to flesh out the songs with a handful of friends delivering a 30-minute mini-set. Calling it “a song cycle that reflects a rambler’s life, considers what love from a drifter’s point of view looks like,” No Depression delivers the loose grooved, steel guitar embellished concert to its readers.
“I think these songs exist in conversation with each other,” Tursi explains. “But they really come to life when we play them. For me, playing guitar adds another language to the mix, a way of speaking beyond the words – and when I can leave a lyric and just let my guitar speak, things get said that almost transcend language. It’s why ‘Lover and A Friend’ really stand out for me here.”
Miami/NYC-based musician, producer and multimedia artist Stranger Cat embraces all parts of herself with sultry track and whimsical video, “Doin It Right,” out now. The artist’s resilient, self-produced sophomore album Slow Jam Love Letters To My Body In Pieces due out November 15 and is available for pre-order now.
A soulful slice of art pop, slinky and steady, “Doin It Right,” smoothly sits within the greater message of the forthcoming body of work. Its spacious, careful production leaves room to let the lyrics simmer as the artist unabashedly explores various sides of herself. FLOOD Magazine, who premiered “Doin It Right” says the new single “gradually stacks layers of vocals and other near-ambient pop sounds atop each other until the recording’s stark conclusion. Meanwhile, the single’s video keeps the camera rolling for another couple minutes as Cat-the-performer completes the track’s inspired interpretive dance.”
In her own practice of self-discovery, Stranger Cat hopes to inspire other listeners to do the same, sharing, “It is my hope that engagers will feel permission to be fully free in expression, even if just for a moment, and wave your freak flag to celebrate whoever you are fully.” After a serious accident left the artist bedridden the song and video came about after the artist’s morphine-induced recovery time in the hospital produced visions of all her alter egos living freely, and giving her life advice through song and dance.
Sonically, Stranger Cat cites Frank Ocean as inspiration, and used a Prophet synthesizer and beats processed through a real space echo and analog gear. Co-produced by Stranger Cat and Radio Déserte in Paris’ Studio Guillame Tell, she adds, “I brought it to a space of real surrender in myself, again, on the edge praying and asking the real questions: “Am I doin it right?”
SLEEPKIT is a band who can genuinely be described as mind-expanding; from the nucleus of their songwriting to the texturally-ornamented arrangements, they manage to imbue each aspect of their music with a sly veneer of otherness. Sprung from the minds of songwriters, singers & co-founders Ryan Bourne (Chad VanGaalen, Ghostkeeper, Plant City Band) and Marie Sulkowski (Texture Twins), SLEEPKIT’s repertoire showcases a band whose serious understanding of the pop song is buffered by beautifully detailed texture and a penchant for the slightly skewed.
The seeds of SLEEPKIT were sown thanks to Ryan and Marie’s shared membership in fellow outer-limits-leaners Devonian Gardens, whose two albums allowed the two to find their patch of common ground. That band’s stylistically wide-ranging approach is largely eschewed in favour of SLEEPKIT’s more streamlined sound, one that reconciles their textural inventiveness and zoned playing techniques with the immediacy of dance music and their inherently approachable songs. They released their debut LP Champion Weekend in 2016, an amalgam of sunshiny dream-pop, post-disco and psychedelic synth-rock with shades of Giorgio Moroder to The Stooges to ELO.
Bolstered by the addition of drummer Eric Hamelin (Alvvays, Ghostkeeper) and multi-instrumentalist Joleen Toner (Crystal Eyes, Plant City Band), SLEEPKIT are back with Camp Emotion, a nuanced and emotionally unarmoured refinement of their singular brand of experimental pop. Produced by Scott ‘Monty’ Munro, a prolific producer and multi-instrumentalist known for his work with Preoccupations, Chad VanGaalen, Lab Coast, and Ghostkeeper, Camp Emotion actualizes their idiosyncratic art-pop vision in a shimmering opus that explores the outer edges of song creation – functioning as well as a dancefloor soundtrack as it does a hazy, late-night headphone session through inner space.
Your Future Ghost is the new synth pop/rock musical project of Billboard-charting singer/songwriter, musician and actress Kate Voegele and the multifaceted songwriter, producer, composer and actor Michael Grubbs. The duo first met on the set, acting in the popular CW hit TV series One Tree Hill. Striking up a fast friendship and mutual creative respect, the two began collaborating musically over zoom during the pandemic. After months of studio sessions in Austin, Texas, intermingled with lively backyard taco breaks, Your Future Ghost was born. Kate Voegele reveals the catalyst for their creative fusion, “our voices blended in a way that inspired us both to write in this unique hemisphere of a sound neither of us had ever really explored before in our solo projects.” The two soon performed their signature dirty indie synth pop at the internationally recognized Art Basel festival in Miami to an overwhelming response affirming their artistic direction.
Their upcoming album features a collection of joyful, wild and dark pop songs. With a powerful blend of big guitars, thunderous drums, and striking synths, Your Future Ghost has crafted an album inspired by, according to Voegele, “finding the fun, the party, and the refuge in the chaos of a post-apocalyptic world.”
Leading single “We’ve Got Places” is a single all about about that place where you find refuge from whatever noise is going on in the world – whether it’s an actual place, a person, or something else, I think we all have those places where we can escape the chaos and be ourselves,” confides Kate. The track features stunning layered harmonies and lush instrumentation for an enticing listen.
“I’m Like Money” is a declaration of self-expression and unabashed uniqueness. “It’s a testament to granting ourselves permission to revel in the sheer joy of being who we truly are.” Voegele further shares, “In one sense, it’s a song about celebrating who you are and knowing you’re a badass, but also being sick of people trying to get a piece of you or tell you who to be. I’ve experienced this so often as a woman in the music and entertainment industry, where people have a very specific idea of who they want you to be and how to mold and shape you into that, but I think this is something everyone experiences in some sense. This song is about taking the power back, knowing your worth and what you bring to the table, and not being afraid to say, “hey, don’t f*cking touch me” when that’s called for.” With gritty, hard-hitting guitar riffs, punchy instrumentation and a pop hook that won’t quit, “I’m Like Money” is an exhilarating and fearless self-love banger.
The music video for “I’m Like Money” is directed by Teck and is a mini little horror movie with the two members playing scheming villains out in the desert hustling people who get lured into their trap looking to get rich. Voegele shares, “I’m basically this alien giant who entices hopeful visitors with showers of cash, but they soon realize if they touch me, they disintegrate and turn into money. It’s got some echoes of King Midas cautionary tale vibes, where the teachable moment is essentially you can look but you can’t touch, but it was also just super fun visuals to shoot. ”
Karisa is a Canadian singer/songwriter and musician based in Toronto Ontario. She began releasing music in 2020 with her debut EP titled Vaporcoast and has been releasing music since. She combines nostalgic visuals with synth/guitar-based instrumentals that use sounds from 1980’s New Wave and 1990s-2000s dance beats. She incorporates the “blonde bombshell” aesthetic with nostalgic elements to create a unique visual and listening experience.
“Singer-songwriter and producer, Olivia Reid is one of those rare talents that blends multi-layered production techniques and heartbreaking lyricism to create a complexity of evocative pop sounds that’s unlike any other music coming out.” – Earmilk, Artist to Watch Feature interview with Olivia Reid
A calming vocalist with a strong pen, songs by Olivia Reid rest well within the soul, with tempos mirroring the pace of a steady heartbeat and lyrics that articulate the most intimate parts of the human experience. Her production style blends indie acoustics with exploratory electronic pop soundscapes, landing listeners in a visceral sonic world. As a self-proclaimed “chronic collaborator,” Reid has connected with audiences around the world via collaborations such as “Time is Mine” with Kidswaste, “What You Came Here For” with Jae Luna, and “Above the Clouds” with SŸDE – a track with over 20 Million streams, a gold record certification in Australia, and a feature on Spotify’s “big on the internet” playlist.
Following her debut EP Earth Water in 2021, Olivia Reid captured audiences with 2023 project, To Be Named By The People. The recent EP featured fan-favorite singles like “Runner’s High” and “Nightmare Machine,” and received praise from outlets such as Wonderland, Earmilk, and Under the Radar, with playlist support such as Apple Music’s Happy Pop and New Music Daily, Spotify’s Infinite Indie Folk, Folk Arc, Femme Fatale, and Noteable Releases, and Ones-to-Watch’s Now Watching. Fall of 2024 will welcome an intimate new project from Olivia Reid.’
“forts” is the feeling one gets when they are deep in reminiscing about being a child and how it is to navigate life as a full-time adult. The track draws listeners in, tugging at their heartstrings and allowing them to connect with their deepest emotions. Ren Genevieve’s approach to songwriting and storytelling is what makes her stand out amongst many, “forts” is a prime example of her mastery. With its expressive and deep-seated lyrics, the track hits home for many listeners, while presenting a relatable angle on the struggles of adulthood and how it re-molds past connections people had. With the blend of soul-touching melodies and soft vocals, Genevieve captures all the elements perfectly.
Born in Boston and raised in New York, Michigan, and Bermuda, Genevieve has always been one for the arts. Genevieve started singing, acting, and dancing at a young age, her college years at NYU were what pushed her to pursue writing and sharing her music. She made a name for herself back when her single “I Like You (I Think)” dropped in February 2022 which was then followed by her second single “tongue-tied” in November 2022. Her first few projects were created to share with her friends and family, however, she took the idea and ran with it to perfect her producing skills. Genevieve’s singles helped pave her way as an ardent introduction to her story.
MVI (Mark Vickness Interconnected) was formed by Mark Vickness as a way to create music that reflects the reality of the interconnected world we live in. Vickness’s musical journey spans a lifetime of exploration and mastery across various genres and cultural traditions. With a foundation in Western classical tradition and experiences ranging from jazz to world music, Vickness and MVI embody the belief that music is a universal language that transcends boundaries.
Along with Vickness’ steel string modern fingerstyle guitar parts, he created his dream ensemble, with the initial group consisting of Mads Tolling, violin; Joseph Hebert, cello; Dan Feiszli, bass and Ty Burhoe, tabla, before eventually adding the virtuoso wind player, Matt Renzi (playing oboe, english horn and saxophone) and the Grammy Award winning percussionist, MB Gordy. Each musician is an accomplished soloist adept at many different types of music. They all bring an astounding breadth and depth of musical understanding and experience. There is almost no style of music, no musical culture or era that they cannot draw from. Vickness shares, “We have a classical trio (violin, cello, oboe), a jazz quartet, percussion instruments from almost every continent and culture, and virtuoso players capable of playing pretty much anything I put in front of them from funk to raga style improvisation, from interwoven counterpoint to rock power chords, from a fast Irish 12/8 romp to an ambient textural musical tapestry and more – they do it all with ease and with an infectious energy that is palpable on every track. I could not be more grateful to be able to work with these remarkable musicians!”
MVI’s latest release is the progressive instrumental acoustic fusion, “Mandolin Spring.” Delivering a joyous, propulsive piece, the single sees the addition of Mike Marshall, one of the most accomplished and versatile string instrumentalists in the world today and a three time Grammy Nominee. A master of mandolin, guitar, mandocello and violin, Marshall is a living compendium of musical styles and has created some of the most adventurous instrumental music in America today. Marshall seamlessly blends his American roots background with a deep understanding of European classical, Jazz, Pop and Brazilian Music.
Speaking of the collaboration, Vickness shares, “Although I have spent a lifetime in the world of guitar, I have only recently gotten closer to the mandolin. I decided to seek out a mandolin player to collaborate on a piece for MVI and mandolin. We could not have been more fortunate to be able to work with Mike Marshall, one of the most revered and respected mandolin players on the planet! This is a true collaboration in that I came up with the basics for MVI and Mike contributed the entirety of the featured mandolin part. Such a joy to work with a musician/composer of his caliber and pedigree! He has recorded and toured with some of my most important influences including Michael Hedges, the father of modern fingerstyle guitar. I felt that connection recording this piece.”
“Mandolin Spring” is a playful sonic journey with its intricately woven melodies and colorful percussive lines, providing a testament to the seamless blend of Vickness’s visionary guitar work and Marshall’s exceptional mandolin prowess. When asked about the experience of collaborating with MVI, Mike Marshall added, “Mark and MVI are all wonderful,expressive pros. It was a joy to work with them on Mandolin Spring!”.
Though a career in music seemed like a distant dream during his military years, Cody Smith always knew he was destined to be a performer. After his years of service in the Air Force, Cody wasted no time diving into songwriting and recording, blending country roots with rap and pop influences to create a unique sound that resonates with a diverse audience. His authentic style and heartfelt lyrics have earned him over a million views across social media platforms, marking the beginning of a long, promising music career.
His new single “Every Little Thing” is about the excitement and curiosity of getting to know someone new. The song captures the thrill of discovering all the small details that make someone unique, from their taste in music and coffee to their personal habits and hometown memories. It’s about the desire to uncover every little thing about someone, fueled by a genuine connection and intrigue. Through its playful, yet intimate questions, the song reflects the beauty of learning about another person and the hope of building a deeper relationship.
Get acquainted with an extremely talented newcomer, Jay Hurtt VI, who today shares his second cut “Rollin’ Like Dice.” Although in it’s project infancy, there’s a brilliance to his carefree, laid-back production that could win a lot of fans over or at least easily put a smile on their faces. He lives by the mantra of “I’m just happy to be here.” This single was self-written, self-produced and self-mixed. The Hawaii-based (via From Lothian, MD) multi-instrumentalist is perfect for fans of Phoenix & Vampire Weekend.
Listen to “Rollin’ Like Dice” now: https://open.spotify.com/track/2k1k3u4kIuBITvK92Fm4kj?si=cf4121102f03433d
Speaking about the song, Jay Hurtt explains “I wrote this song about a road trip with my ex. While I was on tour, she landed a job as an executive assistant for a “big-time” Hollywood guy. We were in Charleston then, but she had “two weeks” to move. We met up at my final show in Atlanta and, with a friend, drove her Jeep cross-country, towing her life in a U-Haul. We made it to LA in four days, fueled by prescription amphetamines. I wrote and recorded the track in 40 minutes, sitting on her bed the night we finished moving her in.”
Enigmatic artist 1788-L has announced his upcoming Nu-Type Vol. 1 EP with a new single ‘WASP.exe’ out now via HypnoVizion. ‘WASP.exe’ is the EP’s second single following ‘WARTYPE’ with Quackson.
Instantly enticing, ‘WASP.exe’ is a complex and daring dive into the mechanical and futuristic signature emblazoned throughout 1788-l’s catalog. Wild flute-like leads zipper amidst gritty basslines, bellowing percussion, and aptly-timed vocal hypes. The track unravels with the androgenous, multi-genre fluidity of 1788-L’s distinguished sound design as it swerves between dubstep and drum & bass. ‘WASP.exe’ is an exhilarating taste of what’s to come with 1788-L’s impending Nu-Type Vol. 1 EP.
1788-L is an American DJ/producer seen as one of the pioneers of the midtempo genre. Launched in 2018, the previously anonymous project quickly garnered attention with his unique techno / industrial remixes. Since then, he’s collaborated with Rezz, The Glitch Mob, Illenium, Blanke, and more. 1788-L unmasked himself last year ahead of the release of his debut album ALPHA+ via mau5trap. Set to arrive this Fall, Nu-Type Vol. 1 will serve as 1788-L’s debut EP on HypnoVizion.
Nashville metalcore agitators CHAMBER have released new single ‘Tears Of Joy’ today via Pure Noise Records. This is the bands first new music since their highly-anticipated second album, ‘A Love To Kill For,’ which came out last year.
Speaking about the new single guitarist Gabe Manuel said, “Tears of Joy was really fun to write. We were writing for our next record when we recorded this, and it stood out in a way that warranted being released on its own. The riffs and tapping parts made us laugh our asses off in the studio, and we weren’t really stressing too hard about parts flowing the way we often do. Any time we’re just in a carefree state of mind like that we tend to write our coolest songs, and this is definitely one of our favorites.”
Create Records is thrilled to announce the addition of Greg Koch to its roster. Devon Allman shares, “We are excited to sign Greg Koch to Create Records! He is loved and respected by rock stars and gear nerds worldwide, and we look forward to taking his recording career to new heights!” Greg adds, “Partnering up with Devon Allman and Create Records has me pumped. Devon’s belief in me as an artist and his broad vision for spreading the word far and wide really
Violet Whimsey’s first album, “Love, Love” is a compilation of love letters written by Love herself. The journey took 4 years to complete, and it all started in New Jersey, her home state, before it wrapped up in LA where she has been based for two years now. The album drops October 2024 along with a full Youtube video and will feature musicians and producers from both coasts. As suggested by the title, “Love, Love” is a reflection of all the many stages that one will experience while falling in, and out, of love. This includes the excitement, the doubt, the longing, the heartbreak, the grief, and everything in between. There’s a song for nearly any relationship, and assures that in your life, you can be both a romantic and a skeptic, at the same time.
She lists The Cure, Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac and Wilco among so many influences and she hopes to continue exploring different genres in future albums as she ventures into new themes. The full list of credits for the musicians and producers include: Stephen Kellner at The Burn Room recording studio, Joshua Kim, Nick Arocha, Andrew Ariza, John Merchant, Daniel Bellini, Arthur DeRosa, Jimmy Meier, Jason Taylor, Bill Marsh, Ethan Phillips, Tim Ford, William Angarola, Justin Perkins at Mystery Room Mastering.
Swedish born, now London based singer/songwriter JAZMYNE, has returned with her striking new single ‘PSYCHO’.
JAZMYNE’s mixture of UK sass and Swedish lyrical prose makes for the perfect heady brew, as the infectious track layers crystal clear vocals over an electrifying beat. Symptoms will be head nodding that leads to foot tapping, and in severe cases all out dancing. Her feisty and candid lyricism gives the track an attention grabbing grit, as the artist sings “Why you makin’ me out like a psycho / Just cos I ain’t f*in with your ego / You only want me to need you”.
Discussing the meaning behind her new track, JAZMYNE said: “PSYCHO was written about a past fling turned bad and how gaslighting and manipulation had me doubting myself and questioning my own sanity. Writing ‘PSYCHO’ became my therapy, helping me process everything and let go for good. I know many people have been through similar situations, and I hope the song can help them find the strength to move on, just as it helped me.”
After tickling our taste buds with her debut single ‘YUM YUM’, JAZMYNE is turning things from sweet to salty, with the release of ‘PSYCHO’. Following the release of ‘YUM YUM’ earlier this year, the rising artist saw tastemaker support from the likes of Spindle Magazine and Ones To Watch.
Bristol’s rising indie-rock quintet HUNNY BUZZ return with a bang, releasing their newest single, ‘Chess Game’. The track marks an exciting new chapter for the band, showcasing their knack for delivering sharp, witty lyricism through an infectious blend of electronic instrumentals and punchy energy. With distinctive vocals led by their powerhouse frontwoman, ‘Chess Game’ promises to further solidify the band’s place as one of the UK’s most exciting bands on the rise.
Electronic visionary Rezz is celebrating Halloween with the official music video for ‘ETERNAL’ off her recent NOVUS EP with X1-Y2 out now via HypnoVizion.
Imprisoned in a dystopian world and tormented by faceless beings, ‘ETERNAL’ depicts Rezz’s efforts to indoctrinate her captors with her hypnotizing force, transforming them from antiheroes into a legion under her command. The music video is magnetizing and visually mirrors the glitchy, hallucinogenic sonic movements of ‘ETERNAL’. Directed by Biagio Musacchia, ‘ETERNAL’ is a conflux of the shadowy, distorted effects and trippy storytelling that has enraptured Rezz’s universe.
“I wanted to sync the visual story to the frenetic and hypnotic landscape Rezz creates in the song. In a world of confinement and rules, Rezz finds like minded entities to aid in her escape and is able to remake it and change the captors in the process.” – Biagio Musacchia, Director of ‘ETERNAL’
Harnessing the powerhouse talents of Adam Deitch (Lettuce, Break Science, Pretty Lights), Josh Fairman (Sunsquabi, Analog Son), and Ian Gilley (DIASTRATA, Flamingosis Live Band), supergroup Nitecap have released their new single “Things Of That Nature.” PRESS HERE to listen. “Things Of That Nature” features an upbeat combination of cutting-edge, funk-laced synths, warm bass, and rhythmic drums and marks the second track off Nitecap’s debut album, out early 2025 via Perception Records.
“The combination of Ian Gilley’s cutting-edge synth sounds and compositions with Josh Fairman’s low-end bass playing and engineering wizardry perfectly complement Deitch’s style of funky, J Dilla inspired drumming,” shares Deitch on the new single. “It all creates a unique, warm analog sound that is sure to get heads bobbing and music lovers listening on repeat.”
“Things Of That Nature” follows the recent release of the Denver-based trio’s debut single “Plátanos,” which fuses modern, synth-drenched neosoul with R&B sensibilities and a hint of jazz-funk to create the unique and timeless sound that Nitecap is quickly becoming known for.
Dakota 66 is an indie rock band from Dublin, Ireland. The band’s influences include The National, R.E.M., Radiohead, and a wide variety of artists, drawing from country rock, and post-punk crafted artists such as Lou Reed and David Bowie.
The album, If Not Now When, says it all. The band has been together for more than 10 years but has only decided to release their first album. As they say, “it’s taken a long time to craft songs with something to say” and they are reflections on life, people, and emotions. The album includes songs like “Reeling Back The Years,” bringing back the carefree feeling of youth we all search for, “Bubble,” about friendship, and “Ode To A Friend” which touches on the sensitive subject of loss. The band includes J Gallagher on vocals, Brian Grace on guitar, Brian Curran on bass, and Thomas Leonard on drums.
The album drawings by Declan Considine reflect the lyrics in a picture. Hope, dreams, love, loss, and friendship.
The band will release a second album later this year.
emerging pop sensation Julia Raye reveals her new single, “Wish You Stayed.” Produced by Bret “Epic” Mazur—known for his work with Crazy Town, Prince, and the Black Eyed Peas—the track follows in the footsteps of her recent hits, “Expectations” and “Give You Up.”
With its tender guitar melody and Julia’s signature soul-stirring vocals, “Wish You Stayed” captures the quiet ache of losing a relationship that once felt perfect. Overflowing with emotional depth, the lyrics tap into those raw moments of reflection when you’re left questioning how everything unraveled.
“I wrote this song in the midst of mourning a relationship, so I took inspiration from all of the texts I sent to friends and the little notes I’d written down on my phone,” Julia says. “Ultimately, it’s about cherishing and reflecting on the good moments, even when you know it’s time to let go.”
Born and raised in Long Island, New York, 23-year-old Julia Raye has been performing for as long as she can remember. She grew up taking dance classes, singing, and performing in local theater productions. By age 17, she had starred in over twenty musical theater shows and was frequently performing with the New York All State Choir and ACDA All National Choir.
From the streets of NYC to the shores of Jamaica and the bustling cities in between, globally recognized singer/songwriter Tosh Alexander is back with a bang. Her new single, ‘My Ting Different,’ a collaboration with Rap sensation Lady London, is now available. Get it HERE and join the global celebration.
Hot off the heels of igniting Miami Caribbean carnival, Tosh Alexander and Lady London bring the vibrant energy of the West Indies to life with ‘My Ting Different.’ This tropical track, infused with base-knocking 808 beats and evocative steelpan instrumentation, is a dynamic blend of R&B, Hip Hop, and Reggae. As Jamaican-Americans, Tosh and London’s seamless chemistry is a testament to their musical prowess, conveying a powerful message of embracing one’s uniqueness boldly and fearlessly.
“My Ting Different” arrives on the heels of Tosh Alexander’s debut 2024 single, “Chat To Me Nice,” one of Tosh’s most discussed singles to date. LADYGUNN coined Tosh as “a musical fusion of Jamaican soul and Brooklyn cool,” furthermore stating that “Chat To Me Nice” “is a reflection of her [Tosh’s] journey to self-acceptance and empowerment.” Elsewhere, Kazi Magazine, Caribbean National Weekly, Global Grind, Rolling Out, Viper Magazine, and more followed suit with praise for the sultry, soulful release. Check out the official “Chat To Me Nice“
multiplatinum R&B powerhouse Jacquees returns with his slick and sexy new Baby Making project out now via Cash Money Records. It notably stands out as his first project in two years since 2022’s acclaimed Sincerely For You. Baby Making is now available to all digital partners. Listen HERE. Physical CDs will arrive in stores everywhere on Friday, November 15, followed by two in-store signings where fans can meet Jacquees. The first stop will be at Criminal Records in Atlanta, Georgia, on November 15. The second signing will be at Shuga Records in Chicago, Illinois, on November 19. Pre-order copies HERE.
True to its name, Baby Making represents what Jacquees does best. He doesn’t waste any time getting down to business with 10 sexually charged tracks worthy of the project’s moniker. This unapologetically seductive effort sees him master the dynamics of R&B.
Check out the official music video for “Sex Like This,” premiering today at 1 pm EST via Jacquees’ YouTube channel
Blondestandard, also known as Caroline Grace Vein, truly embodies what it means to set the standard. Born and raised in the vibrant cultural landscape of LA, Caroline’s early exposure to the eclectic mix of sounds and stories within the city’s entertainment scene has deeply influenced her artistic journey. This journey took a dramatic turn with a challenging cancer diagnosis shortly after releasing her first two singles, transforming her path not only into a battle for health but a profound period of artistic and personal growth. Through two years of adversity, Vein channeled her creativity into writing and recording through her treatment, deepening her craft and connection to music.
Her sound, a dynamic fusion of alternative rock tinged with pop sensibility and enriched by funk grooves, reflects the depth of Vein’s eclectic influences and her personal evolution. Defined by authenticity and emotional depth, blondestandard stands out as a distinctive voice in the indie music scene.
Her single “NOT THE ONLY ONE” is araw and unfiltered track all about theemotional turmoil of being taken advantage of by someone you trusted. She confides, “It’s about the frustration of being used—especially when you’re someone who leads with kindness and openness—only to realize too late that not everyone has your best interests at heart. It’s not easy to go through these experiences, but as much as they hurt, they also teach you invaluable lessons about boundaries, self-respect, and not letting people take your kindness for granted. I’ve found peace in being able to look back at those moments and realize that I’m better for having lived through them. The song isn’t just about the pain; it’s about acknowledging that pain, finding closure, and using it to grow.”
A troubadour of truth, Nashville resident Crys Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. An award-winning, prolific lyricist and composer, Matthews blends Country, Americana, Folk, Blues, and Bluegrass into a bold, complex performance steeped in traditional melodies punctuated by honest, original lyrics. She is made for these times.
Of Matthews, ASCAP VP & Creative Director Eric Philbrook says, “By wrapping honest emotions around her socially conscious messages and dynamically delivering them with a warm heart and a strong voice, she lifts our spirits just when we need it most in these troubled times.” Justin Hiltner of Bluegrass Situation adds, her gift is a “reminder of what beauty can occur when we bridge those divides.” In her own words, Matthews says her mission is: “to amplify the voices of the unheard, to shed light on the unseen, and to be a steadfast reminder that hope and love are the truest pathways to equity and justice.” Her new album is an embodiment of and a testament to that mission.
When Matthews attended a panel at Folk Alliance International in February of 2024, she heard a Scottish Folk artist inquire as to how many record labels pursue what the artist referred to as “music from my tradition,” four words that intrigued Matthews. “I loved the idea of that. It seems like the best way to talk about music: what is your tradition, who are your people, what is the fabric of you?”
A daughter of the South by way of Nashville now and North Carolina forever, and the self-proclaimed poster child of intersectionality, Matthews is boldly answering those questions on her new album aptly titled Reclamation.
Recorded in Nashville, TN at Sound Emporium Studios, Reclamation was produced by Levi Lowry (co-writer of Zac Brown Band’s hit song Colder Weather). The project features her partner on and off stage Heather Mae, her friends and fellow singer-songwriters Kyshona, Melody Walker, and Chris Housman, and some of the best musicians in Music City like Megan Coleman, Megan Elizabeth McCormick, Ellen Angelico, Ryan Madora, Jen Gunderman, and Michael Majett.
“This album is both sonically and ideologically the fullest representation of who I am as an artist and as a human,” she says. A preacher’s kid, a Black woman, a Butch lesbian, and a proud Southerner who sings social justice music right alongside ‘traditional’ Country and Americana music, Matthews is reclaiming not just of the space Black artists have been denied in Country and Americana music, not just of the space LGBTQ people have been denied in communities of faith, not just of the autonomy women have been denied over their own bodies, she is reclaiming the South that raised her.
Grace Davies unveils her latest single ‘Another Night,‘ a masterfully crafted, feel-good pop anthem which showcases her remarkable vocals and creative talent within songwriting & music production. The track’s infectious energy immediately captivates listeners, creating an irresistible and timeless soundscape that will leave you instantly hooked.
Crafted in collaboration with producer Paul Whalley & topliner Ben Lythe, ‘Another Night’ draws inspiration from Grace’s childhood musical influences, notably ABBA, infusing the track with a nostalgic, warm, fuzzy feeling that resonates deeply with us all. The production masterfully balances retro elements with contemporary pop sensibilities – creating a unique for current times, yet universally appealing sound that wraps listeners in a comforting sonic embrace.
‘Another Night’ is a result of an unconventional songwriting approach for Grace – working backwards from melody to lyrics. “I never work like that, normally” Grace reveals. “I usually have a specific topic I want to write about, come in with lyrics pre-prepared, and then find a melody. This time “Producer Paul” had the piano part already in his voice notes and I just mumbled gibberish over the top that happened to sound like the words “Another Night”. It was really fun to imagine what the song could be about from a title, rather than picking from past experiences.” Grace, Ben & Paul have become somewhat of a “dream-team”, in their own words, across the forthcoming project – with ‘Another Night’ being their inaugural co-write together.
rising indie-electronic project Doc. Henry shares their latest single ‘Babyface’. This bold, alternative track features a powerful blend of electronic guitar and drum-led instrumentation, drawing inspiration from the grunge-infused sound of the early 2000s.
Fusing mellow, dystopian soundwaves alongside layers of house and glitchy 2-step, the atmospheric instrumental lays groundwork for ILIKERiCO to flex his smooth, hazy vocals with typical finesse. The culture clash of sound swirls in a tour-de-force, distilling its raw energy as the rising talent taps into his ambition for growth and development beyond music. “Ready to show myself // Ready to make mistakes” he pleads, veering dizzily towards self-reflection as the shadowed confidence hiding in his intricate wordplay transforms into something compelling and universal. Backed with an electric DIY music video journeying through day and night, the vibrant yet nocturnal sonics on “BELLS” will continue to mark ILIKERiCO as a serious prospect delivering authenticity across UK sound culture.
Establishing his potent artistry between the diverse spaces of London and Brighton, the Dominican and Jamaican heritage artist has always been surrounded by powerful influences across music, fashion and culture. Most notably, early reflections on UK rap and grime allowed him to cultivate a rare lyrical focus under his previous alias. Harnessing grassroots support and critical acclaim from the likes of WONDERLAND, CLASH, NOTION and TRENCH, a natural development occurred within ILIKERiCO’s musical direction, as the crowded space of rap had suppressed his true passion and hunger for dance music. The rising talent would later swap rap sessions for raves, rediscovering a more authentic, true-to-self approach that enabled freedom to tell stories through sound.
A prolific producer and songwriter deeply rooted in the power of music as a universal language, ILIKERiCO has cut his teeth alongside esteemed names including Idris Elba, Charlotte Plank and Billen Ted, who recruited ILIKERiCO for his first official feature across “Pepper” last year. These pivotal collaborations have not only enriched his musical legacy but have also paved the way for exploration into new territories and sounds. Now primed and ready for mainstream realisation, one thing remains clear – his commitment to producing music that moves, challenges, and inspires.
Los Angeles based, multifaceted artist, producer, and songwriter Pool Girl unveils her long-awaited debut EP, ‘Trophy Wife’. Bursting with vibrant electronic instrumentals, the EP glistens with an ethereal mix of beachy, dreamy indie-pop and electronica that captures the full spectrum of her distinctive sound. Led by stunning focus track ‘Translucent’, which is her most honest song yet, the EP marks a pivotal moment for Pool Girl as she steps into the spotlight of the indie-electronic music scene.
Ottawa-based indie pop-rock musician Heliara shares her new single ‘Cloak of Fear’ out now on all digital streaming platforms. Listen here.
‘Cloak of Fear’ is a powerful pop-rock anthem about anxiety and loss of self esteem, carrying with it a message of hope and empowerment. On this track, the piano and guitar co-exist in a game between dark and light. The juxtaposition of the song’s darker themes with its uplifting melody creates an inspiring contrast, making it not just a reflection on struggle, but a celebration of resilience.
“‘Cloak of Fear’ is the most honest song that I’ve ever written,” says Heliara. “It is equal parts power, vulnerability and kindness, and I am honoured and humbled to share it with the world.”
Heliara is a passionate singer-songwriter and storyteller and has been writing songs for as long as she can remember. She released her debut album Starry Skies in 2022, which features piano, voice, cello and bass and touches on themes of love, friendship, exploration, motherhood and working for your fairy tale. In 2023, she released an indie folk track entitled ‘Under The Pines’ about intergenerational love and dedicated to her late grandfather. And earlier this year, she released another single ‘He’s (No) James Bond’, a dark indie pop track that takes a twist on a classic story, blending cellos, pianos, and her smooth vocals.
‘Cloak of Fear’ is available now on Spotify, Apple Music/iTunes, and other digital retailers and streaming services worldwide.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
