One of the hottest R&B exports in the UK right now, North London-born talent Col3trane delivers intimate reflections across his new EP Hamartia – dropping on November 22nd via his own label Trane Of Thought.
With Hamartia, the highly acclaimed artist, producer and vocalist shares some of his most vulnerable self-expression to date; amid a tapestry of sleek, tender R&B and his
own new-wave flavours, his intricate lyrics explore the balance and adversity of ‘hamartia’. The unyielding journey and manifestation toward something real, where experiences of love and heartbreak, intoxicating influences past and present, flaws within our connections, and the self-awareness to grow can blossom from darkness into light. A richer, more multi-layered sound, the EP’s arc holds a deeply poignant yet magnetic edge, with Col3trane’s vivid storytelling elevating the powerful sonic and visual universe that surrounds him.
Across five tracks that navigate his personal odyssey and offer anthemic melodies raw with emotion and honesty, the opener “Memory Game” emerges with a stripped-back atmosphere; dark, tender guitar notes setting pace for the 25-year-old artist as he reminisces about intimate moments with someone he’d like to forget – “Oh I don’t remember anything, but if I did, I think that I would love you” he preaches.
Independent singer-songwriter Madison Margot succumbs to the allure of old love in her new single, “TOO MUCH!”.
As another remarkable slice of Margot’s deeply vulnerable, autobiographical storytelling – a hallmark of her musical hero, Taylor Swift – the artist shared that she “wrote ‘TOO MUCH!’ about the bittersweet tension of revisiting an old love” to capture “the push and pull between familiarity and distance, the magnetic allure of shared history, and the lingering chemistry that refuses to fade.”
Penning the lyrics herself and producing “TOO MUCH!” with Tone Def (Nat & Alex Wolff), “TOO MUCH!” hears Margot expertly balance nostalgia with emotional confrontation. An exploration of being drawn back to intimate moments while facing the harsh truths of what led to the end, Margot seamlessly blends her past and present in “TOO MUCH!” by infusing the track with a relaxed Southern California vibe while grounding the story in West London. “The story unfolds in London, but I gave the production a laid-back Southern California feel since that is home and where I eventually returned after going to get my things,” Margot explains. “I wanted to merge my two worlds, lyrically and sonically.”
The production itself is a slow-burning fusion of smoky guitars, soft Americana drums and a subtle bassline, which perfectly complements the song’s introspective lyrics. “You seem so different from when I last saw you / What could we be if we started this brand new?” Margot nostalgically asks, her voice floating effortlessly amid the sultry atmosphere. With “TOO MUCH!”, Margot artistically captures the magnetic pull of love: mysterious, enticing, and impossible to ignore.
Meanwhile, the “TOO MUCH!” music video channels a sense of femininity and liberation, with every scene perfectly matching the intensity of the song’s lyrics and production. To visually bring this story to life, Margot intentionally worked with an all-female crew, including Cassie Howell (Director and Editor) and Olivia Neil (Director of Photography). “It was so epic to have an all-female set,” Margot remarks of the video’s production process.
“TOO MUCH!” follows hot on the heels of Margot’s well-received September release, “Heralds of Hope.” The introspective number – which landed Margot on Ones to Watch’s ‘Now Watching’ playlist – marked a new shift in Margot’s artistic direction, contrasting with the stadium-rock sounds of “God Laughs,” praised by Wonderland as a “soaringly uplifting number that showcases Margot’s lyrical acumen,” and the wistful country vibes in “All My Wishes,” which Rolling Stone India highlighted in their “Hits of Tomorrow” series.
Newcomer colby! Today releases her debut EP, Dead Giveaway, today, marking the first project from one of the most exciting new voices in alternative-pop. The record was a collaboration with her sibling RJ Johnson, who co-wrote and produced the music.
Listen to the EP now: https://colby.lnk.to/DeadGiveaway
“I’m so excited—and honestly, a bit nervous—to finally share this EP,” said the 19-year-old Texas native. “My brother, RJ, and I started making music just for ourselves in a makeshift studio at home, never really thinking anyone else would hear these songs. Music has always been something we do just for the love of it.”
Over five tracks, the singer and songwriter’s dreamy rasp floats over striking synths and otherworldly melody lines. Never-before-heard songs include “Moving On” and the title track.
“I wrote ‘Dead Giveaway’ about those moments in a relationship, whether romantic or platonic, when you realize there’s no real depth there,” shared colby!. “You’re putting in the effort to keep things going, but it’s clear the other person isn’t meeting you halfway, and they’re unlikely to change. There’s nothing left to save, and it’s time to accept that you need to go your separate ways.“
rising Brighton-based artist Tabi Gervis unveils her highly anticipated second EP, ‘Fall Into Me’, introducing listeners to her unique blend of jazz-pop and soul. The EP is led by her brand-new single, ‘Clearly’, a soul-pop anthem that shares an empowering message of self-worth and authenticity. As a self-proclaimed “theatrical jazz-pop princess”, Tabi’s distinctive sound blends warmth, lush instrumentation, and an ethereal quality that make her a standout in today’s music scene.
‘Fall Into Me’ is available now on your streaming service of choice via APOLLO Distribution.
Leeds-based producer/DJ Jey Kurmis has shared a new single ‘Spiral’ out now via Dirtybird Records.
‘Spiral’ is an imaginative sonic adventure that twists and turns through dizzying synth melodies and buoyant percussive rhythms. Aptly named, the popcorn-patterened track gyrates with psychoactive energy throughout its stimulating 3 minutes. An outstanding offering from Kurmis, ‘Spiral’ is a charismatic cut that aligns with the frisky attitude of Dirtybird’s near 20-year catalog.
Hailing from Leeds, Jey Kurmis has been carving his way through the tech house scene for over a decade. Set apart by his distinct dark heavy bass lines and edgy vocals, Kurmis’ wealth of releases have landed on Hot Creations, Moon Harbour, Armada, Repopulate Mars, and more. He’s secured residencies with brands like Paradise and Kaluki, and performed at renowned venues like DC-10 and The Warehouse Project.
rising indie-pop artist Dalia drops her new EP ‘girl’s insane’ – featuring two brand-new tracks, ‘volatile’ and the title track ‘girl’s insane’, the EP dives deep into the complexities of self-discovery, emotional extremes, and embracing the chaos of life. With its confessional lyrics and sweeping melodies, ‘girl’s insane’ promises to be Dalia’s most vulnerable and ambitious release yet.
‘girl’s insane’ is out now on your streaming service of choice, via APOLLO Distribution.
YDG has dropped his new single ‘Echo’ out now via HypnoVizion.
‘Echo’ showcases YDG’s ambidextrous production style as the track moves through eerie melodic dubstep leads into edgy, bass-heavy breaks. The track builds with thunderous energy, peaking with wobbling synths and fiery vocal chops as it enters its final minute. YDG’s debut showing on HypnoVizion is an electrifying blend of his grimy signature and daring creativity.
“I wanted a record that combined the old school dub feel fused with a new school energetic sound that would fit well into my festival sets. The result was ‘Echo’.” – YDG
Phoenix shoegazers Glixen are excited to announce their second EP, quiet pleasures, arriving February 21, 2025 digitally via AWAL and on vinyl via Wichita Recordings. To celebrate, they’re previewing the project with today’s single, “lick the star.” Starting eerily quiet, the band swallows silence in favor of lulling strings and vocals, leading into a whirlwind of feedback and distortion. A tornado of silver-lined melodies and swirling guitar riffs, Glixen continues to push the envelope.
“This song is special, it begins with a mellow sonic bath of an intro and explodes into a whirling wall of sound and melody,” says bandleader Aislinn Ritchie. “Also, we are excited to announce our first full US headline tour. This is going to be a very busy and fun year for us!”
LISTEN TO “LICK THE STAR”
This year, the band released “lust,” “foreversoon,” and “sick silent” beginning to preview what the upcoming Sonny DiPerri (My Bloody Valentine, DIIV) produced EP will sound like. Today’s song is a step forward within their sound; atmospheric and drenched in distortion, continuing a sonic evolvement that feels fresh and completely locked in.
London-based Indonesian-talent LEDI reveals her captivating debut EP ‘She’s 24’.
Arriving with two previously un-released singles ‘Nothing New Under The Sun’ and
‘Who I Was’, the new EP is an exquisite first look into LEDI’s sound, style and talent.
Based in London, LEDI has nurtured a sound that gives nods to R&B/Soul, Bossa nova and Pop, all unmistakably tinged in her Jazz background. The record stands out as a timeless and enticing release that pulls inspiration from the highs and lows of navigating life in her mid 20’s.
The record’s focus single ‘Nothing New Under The Sun’ is produced by fellow-jazz infused artist James Berkeley. The track sees LEDI lend her distinctive, heavenly vocals to matters of the heart. It touches on that familiar feeling of unease that often goes hand in hand with a blossoming romance.
Sharing more, LEDI explained; ‘I was seeing someone and I had this familiar feeling from the start that it wasn’t going to last and it really affected me as I’d been through it before. This fleeting love, the bittersweetness of excitement and potential heartbreak. I was really anxious about the situation. Nothing new under the sun is originally a biblical phrase, it’s saying that ‘things that happen, they have happened before, and they will happen again’.
It’s a reminder that it’s all just part of life’s cycle and eventually we may well go our separate ways’.
When I’m sad, I really feed into it and I listen to sad songs. My best songs seem to be born from sadness.”
Drawling, oozing, vibey alternative rock music that draws on artists such as Lana Del Rey, Arctic Monkeys, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Fleetwood Mac. Behind the name and the electric guitar, you’ll find Danish singer/songwriter and fuzz-loving guitar player Lauritz Carlsen. Dressed in leather jacket and a freshly trimmed mullet he swings by themes like heartbreaks, loss, sorrow and the inevitable and unbearable detour of the human kind – in a way that is best described as melancholic, heavy-hearted, but to-the-point….clean cut and with a pair of tired, dreamy eyes.
The music is covered in gritty and textorous analog soundscapes with many layers, but always with the electric guitar as the main supplement to the songs and vocals. In the studio Lauritz is playing many of the instrument’s himself, but often with the aid of accomplished musicians such as drummers Sterling Laws (Matt Berninger, The War On Drugs) and Silas Tinglef (Trentemøller).
Having previously released 2 EP’s as Lou Z, his debut album is now releasing in November 2024 on the danish indie label Møs Møs. The Copenhagen based musician is a part of different other bands of the local underground rock scene, such as PBSM and Some Speak of the Future.
Step into the world of Lyubov Kay – an alternative-pop artist, video game streamer, and fashion lover whose music resonates with both intensity and honesty. Known for her soothing vocals, honest storytelling, and evocative instrumentation, her songs are “time capsules, preserving stories of love and transformation.” With nearly 1 million views on her YouTube channel and over 30,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, Kay’s creative vision is a uniquely immersive experience—she writes, co-produces, and directs her own content. Her genre-blending collaborations in pop, rock, and EDM offer pleasant surprises, making her an artist to watch as she continues to push creative boundaries and connect deeply with her audience.
Kay describes the subconscious tendency to make connections between people and the world around us as the inspiration behind these tracks. “Everything around you is suddenly a reminder of your losses. Instead of moving forward, you feel as though you’re moving backwards, and that feels unfair,” she says.
Riot Games and Virgin Music Group will release Arcane League of Legends: Season 2 (Soundtrack From The Animated Series), featuring 22 original compositions that were crafted for pivotal moments in the Emmy-winning series, which is based on Riot’s iconic video game League of Legends. The soundtrack will be available on all streaming platforms.
The soundtrack’s release comes alongside the final three episodes of Arcane, which will debut on Netflix on Saturday, November 23. Arcane season 2 reached the #1 spot on Netflix upon its Act I debut on November 9, and both seasons currently hold 100% critics scores on Rotten Tomatoes.
Additionally, GRAMMY Award-winning duo Twenty On Pilots today released “The Line,” the latest single from the globally diverse soundtrack. The emotional anthem is featured in a pivotal moment in the third and final act of the series, and was written by the duo’s lead vocalist, Tyler Joseph. “The Line” marks the most recent single for the superstars, whose music has tallied over 33 billion global streams throughout their career. It is currently available wherever you can listen to music, and its music video will be released on Monday, November 25.
Following the success of their acclaimed debut album Traumatic Livelihood, Jazmin Bean has had a very busy and successful 2024. The momentum continued with The Traumatic Livelihood World Tour, which gave fans another chance to experience Jazmin’s captivating live show. Now, Bean is excited to relaunch their vegan beauty brand, Cult Candy Cosmetics, by sharing The Traumatic Livelihood Palette, which features 14 shades of eyeshadow named after each song on their debut record.
PURCHASE THE TRAUMATIC LIVELIHOOD PALETTE
LISTEN TO TRAUMATIC LIVELIHOOD (EXTENDED)
Founded in 2019, Cult Candy is a Vegan Makeup Brand founded by Jazmin Bean and their mother Angie Adams. The brand is all-inclusive and gender-neutral. With no limits or rules, everyone is embraced. Cult Candy caters to all styles, whether it’s the wonderful and outlandish, or the simpler side of makeup.
Ted Z and the Wranglers is a band hailing from Southern California, known for their unique blend of Americana, rockabilly, and roots rock music. The band was formed by frontman Ted Zakka in 2012. With Ted Z at the helm, the musical collective have cultivated a distinct sound that pays homage to the rich musical traditions of the American West while infusing it with modern energy and flair. As a songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist, Ted Z brings a raw authenticity to the group’s music, drawing inspiration from his own experiences. His gravelly, whisky-drenched vocals and passionate delivery are trademarks of the group’s sound. The Wranglers, consisting of Jackson Leverone (lead guitar, vocals), Marcos de la Cruz (drums, vocals), Henry Clift (bass guitar, vocals), and James Hamilton (guitar, vocals), provide the perfect musical backdrop for Ted Z’s evocative storytelling. With their tight rhythms, explosive guitar solos, and soulful thick vocal harmonies, the band adds depth and texture to Ted Z’s songs, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
Since their formation, Ted Z and the Wranglers have built a loyal following with their electrifying live performances and catchy Americana tunes. Sharing bills with heavy hitters including Lynyrd Skynyrd and Steppenwolf among others, the band brings their relentless energy and passion to every show.
Their first label release Ghost Train was recorded at Yellow Dog Studios in Wimberley, Texas and produced by Monte Byrom (Big House, Eddie Money). The 11 track album received acclaim from the likes of PopMatters and catapulted them into the spotlight. Their 2019 album release Southland was featured in Billboard, with the outlet praising their music as “a foot-stomping honky tonk revival”.
A classically trained Russian-born and Los Angeles-based musician with a skyscraping voice and unapologetic hustle and attitude, Cooper Phillip asserts herself as a bold, blunt, and boundary-breaking force for pop music and culture. The artist’s outsized personality matches her towering vocal range and instinctual musical intuition. As such, she’s independently emerged as a buzzing presence on her own terms, tallying millions of streams and earning acclaim from the likes of WONDERLAND., American Songwriter, Earmilk, and Hollywood Life, to name a few.
Now, Cooper amplifies her voice on the global stage like never before with a series of 2024 singles and much more to come.
“I went through some quiet time of transformation, but I know who I truly am as an artist now,” she exclaims. “I’m making honest music and talking about things that matter.”
Following the release of his heartfelt ‘Copium’ EP, Swedish pop sensation Boy In Space (Robin Lundbäck) unleashes striking new single ‘Too Much To Lose’, outnow.
With a steady string of releases throughout the year, Boy In Space is taking a fresh approach to his already recognisable sound. He has been making music in the American Upper South, discovering places like Nashville and collaborating with Country rooted musicians. Following single ‘Dancing On Dynamite’the Swedish artist now presents ‘Too Much To Lose’, arguably one of his strongest songs to date. This new release showcases a shift towards more guitar-heavy influences compared to his earlier work. A haunting pop track that tells a tale of star-crossed lovers, with their hearts entangled in an unwanted romance that has simmered beneath the surface for far too long
Final words – ‘Taxi take me home/I should be alone/Should I stay instead’ – poignantly express the dilemma, being torn between wanting to be with someone while wanting what is truly best for them.
The song explores the complexities of a forbidden romance, depicting two individuals struggling with long-suppressed emotions. The closing lines of the track poignantly capture the central dilemma – the internal conflict between desire and doing what’s right for the other person.”
Boy In Space: “‘Too Much To Lose’ talks about the sensation of wanting someone you’ve been with but knowing it would just make things so much worse if you would cross that line. And what it’s like dealing with that, going back and forth in your own head.”
emerging London-based indie-pop artist Ellie Evans shares her highly-anticipated new single ‘Ur Gf’s Stereo’, a catchy, upbeat track that underscores her powerful vocals and the growing excitement around her right now. Layered with vibrant electronic instrumentation and captivating melodies, ‘Ur Gf’s Stereo’ firmly establishes Evans as a fresh new voice in the indie-pop scene
Rapidly rising London based artist Charles releases his highly anticipated new EP Gorgeous, Sick & Tired.
Equal parts charismatic and tender, Charles’ sleek vocal abilities have seen him become a significant one to watch on the London music scene. Oozing with nostalgic, cinematic production, Gorgeous, Sick & Tired takes inspiration from 70’s disco and funk, infusing witty lyrics with heartfelt, raw, and emotive storytelling. Charles delves into love, heartbreak and the trials and tribulations that have made him the man he is today. Laced with perfectly pitched harmonies, crisp backing vocals and feel-good percussion, the intricately produced EP looks set to continue the attention surrounding a rare and prominent new voice finally coming into his own.
In true showman style, an epic intro, interlude, and outro seamlessly merge the songs together. Combining smooth synths, soulful drum claps and funky guitars, the first track “Lucky Star” sees Charles’ tone effortlessly dance between his signature baritone and falsetto vocals. “Man” stands as a timeless entry, with its catchy chorus and scintillating lyrics the track acts as an uplifting take on feeling blue. Lead track “Right On Time” exudes depth as Charles sings “But baby we’re right on time, I swear
this love was made for me, I find a piece of you inside of me in this life, I know you want to see but baby we’re right on time.” as he acknowledges the feeling of having to catch up with a life that has often felt like its slipping out of his control.
South African/Canadian multi-disciplinary CON THE ARTIST bleeds creativity into anything he touches. From scoring films and producing records, to sound design, video direction and recently a 34 piece orchestra in Greece, CON has his hands in every aspect of his art. With a bold approach and an avant garde vision – alongside a global team, and a year-long audio-visual rollout plan, these infectious upbeat bops are ready to set off into the stratosphere
REGENT return with the spellbinding new single “Don’t Be Long”.
With shades of classic brit-pop heartbreakers like “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” or “The Drugs Don’t Work”, the track is an emotional, edge-of-your-seat guitar ballad to rival the best there is.
“Don’t Be Long” is an emotive tribute to a close friend of frontman Ben Rooke, with lyrics that urge them to search for silver linings during a particularly difficult time in their life.
“The song is about a close friend of mine who’s been struggling with his health and was close to death this year…”
From its impassioned vocals to its soaring solos, “Don’t Be Long” is another confident step forward from the prolific Southampton rock sensations.
Swiftly following on from Summer single release “Stuck Like Glue”, the Southampton Brit-rock revolutionaries are already hatching plans for their third Album, titled ‘The Cognitive Revolution’, which will feature both tracks. The album will be released in 2025.
Los Angeles-based artist Hana Giraldo is a multi-talented pop music sensation who quickly gained popularity through acting, fashion design, and celebrity styling, leaving a trail of enchanted social media followers in her wake.
As the daughter of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees and legendary musicians Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, music was introduced to Hana at an early age, with the soundtrack to her childhood being a masterclass in musical greatness. Hana’s significant music inspirations include female powerhouses such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and Madonna, each of whom left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and music. These icons influence not only her style but also her artistic expression through music – bold, provocative, and with a flair for cultured controversy.
In 2023, Hana Giraldo debuted “Broke My Heart,” a cathartic fusion of timeless disco and modern alt-pop. The “kiss-off anthem” showcases her distinctive vocals and knack for irresistible melodies, drawing comparisons to Miley Cyrus’s hit songs. Edgy and powerful, Hana brings an element of rock rebellion to colorful dance pop. Her latest single from this summer, “Reputation”, is a fierce unapologetic statement of self-assertion. With themes centered around identity, fame, sexuality, and public image, Hana weaves together evocative layered vocals, dynamic verses, and a chorus brimming with tension as she sings, “You know I got a famous reputation. I don’t do this all the time.”
Hana was also selected to cover Madonna’s “Burning Up” for International Women’s Month in an exclusive premiere with Cover Nation and Warner Chappell Music and recently co-wrote the main song “LA Here I Come” for the new film, Dance Rivals.
Hana Giraldo is a multi-faceted artist who aims to lift and inspire others through music and shared experiences. As an ambassador for the non-profit Boo 2 Bullying, she advocates for mental health awareness, fostering inclusivity, and empowering youth to stand up against bullying.
Electronic legends – 808 State – have announced a new UK tour for 2025.
A celebration of their seminal album ‘ex : el’, the band will be performing the album in-full in live spaces for the very first time.
Due to be a show of two distinct segments, the dates will include ‘Part 01: a full performance of ex:el’ followed by a second set entitled ‘Part 02: great transmissions – new : classics : deep cuts’.
The tour will see 808 State taking in shows in Birmingham, Norwich, Glasgow, Sheffield, London, throughout November and December next year. Plus, following the overwhelming demand for tickets for their SOLD OUT Manchester date this December, the band will return to the city’s New Century Hall for a homecoming finale to close their 2025 tour in style
Released via the ZTT label, 808 State’s ‘ex : el’ was both a major critical and commercial success for the band. Powered by Top 10 single “In Yer Face”, plus pivotal tracks like “Lift”, “Cubik”, and “Olympic”, ‘ex ; el’ saw 808 State fusing their trademark acid-techno beats, with a newfound confidence in catchy melodies and a penchant for pop cultural sampling of the highest calibre. It also featured Björk on no-less than two tracks (“Qmart”, “Ooops”), while fellow Mancunian electronic trailblazer Bernard Sumner (of New Order) lent his vocals to “Spanish Heart”; demonstrative of a band clearly enjoying a creative and collaborative streak.
TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY @ 10AM HERE
We Found a Lovebird excels at trance-like chiming rock. Since 2009 they’ve released three albums, one EP and eight singles. Highlights include a Polaris Music Prize nomination and radio support from CBC and KEXP. Since 2020, they’ve released seven singles from their upcoming long player With Friends Like These. We Found a Lovebird have been compared to Television, Lord Huron, Frank Black, Kinks, Wilco, etc.
In the sunsetting months of 2023, Nicole Cerminara, her brother Joseph “Junior” Cerminara, and their adopted brother Myles Rogers, (FKA JIN THE BAND), fatefully met in a greasy Toronto diner with legendary producer Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, KISS, Phish). Even if they weren’t aware of it yet, the group that had entered that diner, already a powerhouse for 6 years in the Niagara / Toronto gigging music scene, left as a band with a new found life.
The songwriting team of Cerminara and Rogers took a new face, focused on their combined love of Americana and British Invasion style melodies. It ignited a stint of colorful, harmonic, sticky songwriting – reminiscent of the female-fronted power of Janis Joplin and Fleetwood Mac, other times the genre-bending acrobatics of Led Zeppelin or the Rolling Stones.
The live show is a ruthless war machine, with Nicole leading the charge and Rogers and Cerminara fully committed to the battle alongside her, all three dictating and adapting to the changes on-stage, steering the machine with telekinetic instinct and harmony, the type of thing only forged through the timeless crucible of countless three-set cover gigs and dues paid during years of on-stage experience together.
With a new moniker, named ‘Permilla’ after their songwriting house, and the ultimate resource, a fully functional analog studio wielded by Myles and his father, ‘Permilla’ have begun a lightning paced record-and-release schedule in 2024
Rising LA artist, producer and creative Uche unleashes his incendiary new single and video for “AWAKE” – dropped independently.
Equal parts raw, stylish and disruptive, Uche continues to flaunt his rare lyrical integrity across “AWAKE”. A vigorous atmosphere laced with distorted synths and power-charged percussion produced by JU and Die Next Weekend, the young talent quickly emerges with vengeance, delivering infectious flows bursting authority and menace. A frantic yet hyper-vigilant focus leads with intent; Uche battling the toxic influences
that threaten to disrupt his vision, only to return with renewed hunger for progression as one of the most exciting emerging talents across the underground.
Paired with an electric, self-directed music video, we see Uche manoeuvring through industrial settings – flexing his high-octane approach with sharp textures and gritty cinematography, instantly conveying the fast pace and disorientation of inner-city life at street level.
Speaking on the track, Uche mentions: “Life’s been a whirlwind, the world’s been in a frantic place and as a result I’m lying awake all the time trying to get to where I’m going. ‘AWAKE’ is that energy.”
It’s not every day that a long-dormant experimental noise project reappears as an elite electronic-pop outfit intent on burrowing into your subconscious and unearthing deep-seated memories of a time when we could congregate freely without worry.
In 2014, the duo known as Allegories began to experiment across genres, melding eclectic soundscapes with pop inclinations. Gathering further inspiration from DJing house and hip-hop nights around town, Allegories went onto create electronic music that shifts throughout the over/underground spectrum.
Allegories’ music is at once earnest and abstract, tricking listeners into the thought that they might be hearing straightforward dance music before the duo’s inherent eccentricities shift interpretation. They deliver unguarded ballads as effortlessly as they develop layers of cut up samples reaching into the worlds of IDM and psychedelia.
From chance meeting to dynamic partnership, their story is nothing short of awe-inspiring. In the heart of El Paso, TX, Ruben Zamora, originally destined for a career in the Military, found himself contemplating his future. Despite previous band experiences, Ruben’s unwavering passion for music propelled him towards a career in the industry. His professional approach to the chaotic music world has been instrumental in his success. A fateful visit to Guitar Center would accelerate his life’s trajectory.
On the other side was Brien Allen, pursuing a Petroleum Sciences degree at the University of Texas. Brien’s musical journey began in middle school when he taught himself the guitar, overcoming challenges with a unique determination. Inspired by musicians and situations that pushed him, Brien’s dedication to improvement became his trademark. All this led him to an encounter at an Austin Guitar Center.
Their paths aligned as if scripted—Brien and Ruben, drawn by the magnetic pull of music, met in the afore-mentioned Guitar Center, recognizing each other’s exceptional talent. The mutual admiration sparked a connection, leading to the formation of Bridges Ablaze in 2019. With a lineup of talented musicians, Bridges Ablaze made their mark with a compelling cover of 30 Seconds To Mars’ “The Kill.”
Their quest for the perfect producer led them to Robby Joyner (Fire From The Gods), where synergy on a personal and musical level flourished. The collaborative process became a harmonious blend of respect, flow, collaboration, and vulnerability. In 2023, armed with insights gained through mentorship under industry luminaries, the band orchestrated a professional release strategy, assembling a stellar team to execute every detail with precision.
Blurry Paige is a captivatingly talented multi-instrumentalist and producer whose soulful melodies and poignant lyrics have set her apart from the crowded soundscape of today. With a voice that effortlessly blends raw emotion with a subtle elegance, Blurry paints relatable stories through her music, inviting listeners on an intricate journey into the depths of her personalized human experience.
Early Beginnings: Blurry Paige’s journey into music started at an early age. As a young girl growing up in San Antonio, TX music first presented itself as a form of escape from her own personal struggles with depression, anxiety, and self-doubt. This catharsis would gradually transform itself into a lifelong passion, sharing her personal experiences with the world through melody and music. As she grew more comfortable with being uncomfortable, Blurry blossomed into a gifted songwriter and musician. Her lyrics often read like pages from her diary, revealing the innermost thoughts and feelings of a young woman navigating the complexities of life while also battling to overcome her own demons. Her powerful voice provides the backdrop, giving her audience an intimate glimpse into her emotional honesty while also inviting listeners to find solace in a shared experience.
Breaking Boundaries: As a young artist in an ever-changing industry, Blurry Paige is unafraid of pushing boundaries while challenging traditional conventions. She believes that music is a powerful platform for growth, and she uses her voice to amplify messages of empowerment and self-discovery. In a world that continually seeks to categorize and file everything away into convenient little boxes, Blurry and her music are certainly the exception. Her music is often described as gritty yet soft, approachable yet defiantly unapologetic. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of styles and genres, she molds her influences into a message that is distinctly her own by combining raw authenticity with an almost surreal delivery.
Philanthropic Soul: Beyond her musical endeavors, Blurry Paige is a passionate advocate for using the power of music to make a positive impact. She collaborates with various charitable organizations to raise awareness and support for causes that are close to her heart. Blurry currently sits on the board of Texas Music Project (TMP), where they focus on helping children and families in need through the gift of music.
Dynamite singer-songwriter, Jessica Chaz is a performing artist with a unique vocal talent. Now a Vancouver based beauty, Chaz grew up in Durban, South Africa where her passion for music started out. She formed her first band, Seasons during her undergrad in Music. The band killed at various South African venues including the renowned Centre for Jazz & Popular Music founded by Darius Brubeck, the Ballito Jazz and Prawn Festival, a featured vocalist at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival, headlining various corporate events at the International Convention Centre, with the greatest of the band’s moments taking place at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. She finished her Bachelors degree in Music in 2011.
Shortly after entering the Canadian music scene, she was featured as an artist to watch at the 2014 MIX Showcase in Vancouver. In 2019, she performed at the Canadian Music Week Festival in Toronto, Canada and “Yes to you” was featured in Isidingo, a popular South African TV Show {S22 Ep 16.} On June 1st 2018, the newcomer released her heart-warming debut EP titled Dreamin, a story of searching. Dreamin’ reached #23 in Pop Albums on the iTunes Charts in South Africa and #53 in Canada in June 2018. In 2020, she performed “Answer” live for the UKZN Jazz Centre’s “Voices against Gender Based Violence” virtual fundraising concert; the positive response after the concert inspired Chaz to release the live performance in 2020.
Apryll Aileen is a classically trained pianist turned dynamic pop artist, captivating global audiences for over a decade with her unique sound. Her music blends the introspective essence of Madonna’s Ray of Light era with the soulful power of Adele’s vocals, all while embracing the dark romanticism of Lana Del Rey. The result is a fusion of profound lyrics, emotional depth, and innovative production that pulls listeners into a world of longing and passion.
Following her high-energy disco anthem “Take Me,” Apryll presents “Under My Tree,” a heartfelt R&B holiday ballad that evokes nostalgia and longing. With soulful melodies and a warm Wurlitzer backdrop, this timeless tribute captures the bittersweet essence of missing a loved one during the festive season, reminding us that the most cherished gift of all is love itself.
“Do you feel lonely during the Holidays? I wrote & recorded my very first Christmas song and it drops today. Hopefully it brings a bit of sparkle to your heart, like sipping cinnamon & eggnog, around a cozy stone fireplace, surrounded by loved ones.”
Underground alt-pop riser Extrazen unveils his vulnerable new track, “BACK TO LIFE,” as the latest slice of his forthcoming new body of work.
Offering an intimate soundscape which offsets the braggadocious “STUNT” and expansive synthwork of “HOLLYWOOD” with poignant production choices, “BACK TO LIFE” dives into the confusion of navigating a one-sided relationship, where love and affection aren’t always returned.
Written and produced by Extrazen to capture the emotional chaos of unreciprocated love, “BACK TO LIFE” builds from minimal beginnings into a crescendo of frenzied drum rhythms and swirling synths – perfectly mirroring the emotional rollercoaster of a love gone awry with his fragile vocals.
Meanwhile, the music video’s eerie, industrial landscapes set the perfect scene for the track’s themes, as we watch Extrazen attempt to find the light within the darkness – a gripping metaphorical representation of frustration, confusion, and ultimately, isolation.
Talking about “BACK TO LIFE,” Extrazen shared the following: “‘BACK TO LIFE’ is a very special and personal track to me. It’s been on my computer for about two years, but it just felt right to put it out now. The song talks about unreciprocated love and fighting for someone who has lost all interest while being so in love that you’re easily tricked. It’s a beautiful chaos where love, anger, and disappointment coexist. I produced and wrote the song in its entirety, and I wanted it to feel like a rollercoaster from beginning to end—like a song you would just play and dance to at max volume when feeling lost and in love; an escape.”
Natisa Gogol is a compelling singer/songwriter based in Prague. Her journey to get to where she is today is truly inspiring and is reflected in her stunning dream pop soundscapes through emotional, storytelling lyrics and mesmerising melodies. Having been forced to flee her home in Kyiv upon the outbreak of war in Eastern Europe, Natisa turned her life upside down, determined to continue pursuing her dreams. In the years following, her empowering music has caught the attention of listeners across the globe, as people connect with her story of resilience and hope.
Her latest release “Heavens Create” was co-written by Natisa and renowned musician and producer Gregory Darling. The hypnotic release shimmers with a vibrant, kaleidoscopic melody that dances over oscillating synths and a pounding beat, drawing you deeper into Natisa’s mesmerizing sonic universe.
The stunning music video for “Heavens Create” was created by a young Ukrainian director, Stas Morozov, with the shoot taking place in Natisa’s homeland of Lviv, Ukraine. The concept was based on five Renaissance paintings, Christ in the Storm on the Sea of Galilee by Rembrandt, The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli, Primavera by Botticelli, The School of Athens from the Raphael Rooms and The Arnolfini Portrait by Jan van Eyck. The idea was to use graphics to bring these paintings to life, enhancing the song’s lyrics through these animated works and adding a sense of grandeur and epic scale to the video. The result is an arthouse cinema style video that is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Natisa reveals, “I can say that this video is the most anticipated release of my career. My team and I waited nearly 10 months for the final version, as we had to make constant revisions, and, admittedly, there were some significant disagreements along the way. But in the end, I believe we achieved true art.”
One of the most infamous and influential drill collectives in Australia right now, ONEFOUR, follow up their recent collaboration featuring UK rapper Headie One with a powerful new single titled “SPINNIN”—tapping another of the UK’s hottest lyricists in the game right now, Nemzzz. For this release, ONEFOUR are featured on New Music Daily on Apple Music.
Staying true to their dedication and artistic integrity, ONEFOUR continue to rise up as Australia’s hottest export with poignant new single “SPINNIN”. Layered with trademark woozy bass kicks and atmospheric piano notes, the thought-provoking soundtrack provides the perfect foundation for ONEFOUR to lay down their effortless bars with typical finesse. Joining them on the beat is Manchester-based rap prodigy Nemzzz
who serves up his trademark flow, innately touching on recent relationships and personal achievements. From the streets of Mount Druitt to Manchester, both artists display authority as “SPINNIN” acts as a timely reminder of their influence at street level and determination that has marked them as their national spearheads of rap music.
“SPINNIN” comes hot on the heels of ONEFOUR’s monumental “GANG TIES” collaboration with North London drill pioneer Headie One—alongside recent singles such as “NATURAL HABITAT” (watch) and “PROVE EM WRONG” (watch)—as well as an APRA award for Most Performed Hip-Hop Work for their Gold single “COMMAS” ft. CG (watch) and their headline national tour, playing to sold-out venues across Australia and New Zealand for the very first time.
Rose Ranger, who originally hails from Vancouver, Canada, could be found in an encyclopedia under “multi-talented”. Her music spans multiple genres, and has powered through a long time of evolving sounds and demands.
Rose’s new single “Dear Dad” is an homage to her late father. She recorded her new single in Nashville, teaming up with multi Juno Award winning pedal steel and guitar player, Steve Dawson who also co-produced. Dave Jaques (who toured with John Prine for twenty-five years) plays upright bass and Justin Amaral (David Olney) plays drums on her new music. This time around, Ranger has gone back to her Americana and Folk sounds of her “Hero” days. “Dear Dad” is the first single to be released that showcases a new era in the artist’s music evolution.
In 2002, Ranger’s first full length record, Replies came after having songs on iconic TV shows like Party of Five and Dawson’s Creek. On Replies, Ranger gives an edgier sound, and draws on influences from rock, pop and jazz, to name a few. For a first album, Ranger blew it out of the water in the early aughts, and everything that has followed has ridden those waves.
Growing up in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Ranger initially studied dance and theatre. She was eighteen when she picked up the guitar and began writing her own songs. She soon found herself on a new career path in music. After spending a year in a recording studio honing her songs, the artist released her debut album and struck a distribution deal with Pacific/Warner Music. Garnering a national buzz in the media and on radio for her version of the Eurogliders’ hit song “Heaven Must Be There” she caught the attention of the original songwriter, Bernie Lynch and a few years later Ranger’s own version of “Heaven” was featured on Discovery Coast Tourism Australia television and radio ad campaigns.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
