Floating to the forefront of pop culture on their own terms, buzzing alternative pop duo BETWEEN FRIENDS—Brandon and Savannah Hudson—reveal a new single and music video “more” today. It marks the first release under their newly minted deal with 10K Projects.
Listen to “more” HERE and watch the music video HERE.
On the track, the brother-and-sister group’s hypnotic harmonies levitate above sparse beatcraft threaded together with delicate guitar. It hovers towards the bold, breathy, and bright refrain, “I think I could use some more of you…I don’t know you, but I really need to.” The accompanying visual opens with a grainy VHS-style clip akin to some long-lost seventies sci-fi video complete with a blue-haired spacebound starlet urging to “Sit back, relax, enjoy.” The clip intercuts psychedelic vignettes of Brandon and Savannah, ebbing and flowing with the tension and release of the track.
About “more,” they commented, “When making ‘more,’ we imagined a suburban love story taking place in an alternate reality. We wanted to modify our memories from childhood, our old neighborhood, the things we used to do to occupy our time.”
The band Loud Forest is based in Los Angeles, CA where Bernard and Rachel Chadwick, a married couple, collaborate out of their experimental project space in Pasadena. Merging elements of alternative rock, Americana, and pop as well as post-punk into their moody, crafted indie rock, their earliest albums won a dedicated fan base and radio attention.
An album-oriented band, Loud Forest is doused in indie credibility from years of self-releases, homemade microphones and hosting rock shows in their studio. With influences ranging from Wilco to the Staples Singers, from Bob Dylan to Trey Sivan, from Spoon to Anderson .paak – the band distinguishes themselves with an acute attention to hooky melodies and intentional lyricism that plays with themes of love, fidelity and family. Drawing inspiration from their two daughters, Bernard and Rachel started the band to end all other bands they were in; a merging of creative forces and a project surrounded by their LA community.
Their 4th and forthcoming album, “Family Tree,” returns to their DIY approach; a beautiful lockdown creation of sparkly jams and alternative rock anthems that tell stories of their childhood through raw and angular expressions. Coming May, 2022.
New York natives – Laveda – return with their first glimpse of new music: “bb”. STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE
Born out of untamed anger and frustration at the cruel state of the world, “bb” taps into a universal mood: its downcast melodies and restless guitar lines speak to the collective sense of agitation and boredom we’ve all experienced over the past two years.
Weaving together an ansty mesh of gossamer vocals, driving ‘90s guitars and a steady drum beat, the track was first penned in September 2020 when vocalist Ali Genevich found herself increasingly restless in the face of the seemingly never-ending pandemic.
Feeling disheartened by the “depressive daily routine” of being stuck inside with no social interaction — and even less inspiration to write songs — Genevich locked herself in her bedroom with a guitar when “bb” took its first breath and stirred to life.
Speaking of the inspiration behind the track’s moody sound, Genevich says:
“In the winter of 2020, every day really started to feel the same for me. The pandemic seemed to be getting just as bad as when it began back in Spring and like everyone else all I had been thinking about was the possibility for life to feel normal again. For a while I was just thankful that most of my friends and family were in good health and that we were able to keep ourselves afloat in such a crazy time, but of course that’s not all I was feeling. Both Jake and I felt like the past year had been so wasted.”
Fiercely dynamic and exuding an infectious confidence that is just too compelling to resist, ‘Girl’ is the latest offering from UK Soul newcomer Mica Millar; a feel good female empowerment anthem that will undoubtedly speak to the hearts of women everywhere. Out 8th March in celebration of International Women’s Day 2022.
A triumphant follow up to the foot stomping, Gospel infused ‘Preacher Man’, the new single ‘Girl’ sees Mica explore themes of female empowerment, racial injustice, relationships and human nature – a social and spiritual commentary that spans a diverse range of challenges and implores us to reflect, accept and take inspiration from the commonalities of our respective journeys through life.
“Other women’s stories can be like looking at a reflection of your own life” says Mica “there’s something really special about the connections we make when we share what we’re going through and encourage and empower each other.”
With backing vocals provided by Mica herself alongside Angeli Sweeney and Ellie Hulme and Rhodes by Manchester keyboardist Ben Lee Smith, a team of New York’s finest were recruited on behalf of Mica by Vince Chiarato (Bass) owner and engineer at Hive Mind – an analog recording Studio in New York best known for capturing the signature soulful sonics of artists like Black Pumas and Corinne Bailey Rae, including guitarist Jesse Barnes (Aloe Blacc), Organist Colin Brown (Harlem Gospel Travelers) and drummer Jim Bertini (Ikebe Shakedown).
Alongside thirteen other songs from the forthcoming debut, ‘Girl’ was mixed by LA-based, multi-platinum producer Brian Malouf (Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder) and mastered by Geoff Pesche (Ed Sheeran, Adele) at Abbey Road Studios, credited by him as “his favourite Abbey Road project of 2021”, continuing ‘watch out for this one. I said the same about Adele when I did Chasing Pavements’ here”.
At the time of writing ‘Girl’, Mica was in recovery from a spinal injury that had very nearly left her permanently paralysed from the waist down. “Some of these stories were inspired by my backing singers” she says, often shared around her kitchen table “over a glass of wine (or three) after rehearsals and studio sessions…At the time, I really needed something to lift me up and it was support from other women that brought about the initial idea. I wanted to write something honest and truthful, based on real stories that we can all relate to”. An ode to these women, ‘Girl’ is as much of a love letter to those that need it as it is a reminder to encourage and uplift yourself in challenging times.
Hope you’ve had a nice week thus far! Something gorgeous here – 21 year old newcomer Jack Kane continues to build the rising interest around him with the reveal of his stunning debut EP, Under Your Spell. Inspired by classic writers and vintage sounds, Jack’s arresting vocal delivery takes you through the highs and lows of early love and heartbreak, all backed by the fresh alternative pop production.
(Credit: Malina Weissman)
NYC-based recording artist Ayla D’Lyla has released the official video for new single titled “MONEY,” out now via Snafu Records.
Watch the video now here.
In an exclusive on the video, Ayla told PAPER, “‘Money’ captures feminine pain and glamour. The song plays with the ongoing stereotype that women are money hungry. Money’s music video embodies all the themes of the song in a poetic way. In the video, we see a glammed up popstar singing to an empty audience. Singing to an empty audience is a metaphor for the money and fame.”In support of the new single and her growing catalog, Ayla D’Lyla will play a debut headline show March 15 in NYC @ Mercury Lounge. Tickets are available here.
MNYS- photo credit Skyler Barberio
Los Angeles, California- Prolific writer and platinum selling producer Nick Cozine otherwise known as, MNYS has released another single on his new home of Pure Noise Records, titled “Backseat”.“Backseat” was written on my first ever trip to Nashville.” says MNYS. “It’s about a conflicted relationship. There are people that come in and out of your life and for various reasons the bond may go separate ways. “Backseat” is about that struggle of once being so close with someone and now not even on talking terms. There’s no ill will – you’ve just grown apart. “What happens when we die?” – is metaphorically speaking about the relationship itself. We just become memories of one another. Nor sad or happy, just what it is.”
Nigerian born, New York based singer and Grammy nominated artist Kah-Lo today releases her new single, the ultimate night-out anthem ‘Drag Me Out’ out now via Epic Records.
Drawing on influences from living in Lagos, London, and New York, Kah-Lo skillfully blends groovy house basslines, punchy drum kicks, and infectious lyrics to deliver the pre-party soundtrack of 2022. Kah-Lo’s global dance pop appeal rings true on the new track and brings out the best of her ‘life of the party’ persona. Discussing the inspiration behind the track, Kah-Lo says “I’m usually the last one standing at a great party, so ‘Drag Me Out’ is an actual account of how nights like those typically go for me. It’s my very own recklessness anthem.”
Hackney based R&B collective GRAMN. release their hotly anticipated new EP KillaGRAMN, out 1st April.
The fast-rising London collective, fronted by singer Aux and rounded out with producers and multi-instrumentalists James Lowe and Johnny Tomlinson, jump into 2022 with KillaGRAMN. marking their third EP to date. Featuring the collective’s signature concoction of charismatic lyricism and sonically adventurous soundscapes, GRAMN. continue to push boundaries in an expression of liberating creativity, melding groove laden R&B, trap influenced beats and spliced-in samples in an EP that keeps authentic, London life at the forefront.
Having built a cult fanbase and significant critical attention across a string of successful projects over the past two years, GRAMN. have made their mark as one of the most innovative and textured acts coming out of the city right now. A combination of tightly wound R&B with Aux’s gifted vocal and flamboyant persona quickly carving a unique path and drawing attention from the likes of COMPLEX, WONDERLAND, GUAP, GAL-DEM and THE BLUES PROJECT, as well as BBC R1Xtra.
With its unique capability to mix the rough and the smooth, KillaGRAMN.’s diversity shines as the soulful vocals of “Diamond” transition to the dynamic rap stylings of lead single “Do It For The GramN”. Spitting testimonial verses with masterful precision, futuristic production makes for a darkly melodic background to perfectly overlay Aux’s effortless take down of fakes in hustle culture.
Born from the idea that strength can emerge from the wreckage of vulnerability and tough times, the latest cut from Gathering of Strangers gnaws its way through shadowy indie-rock riffs, an anthemic chorus and a narrative of overwhelming emotions. Crepuscular and catchy in equal measure, the Manchester-based five-piece blend affecting lyricism — touching on the transformation to hope from helplessness — with earworm guitar rhythms that similarly seesaw between light and dark. Speaking of the conception of the thunderous new track, Gathering of Strangers say: “We wrote this song last year in the middle of the madness of the pandemic. Tom, our guitarist, led the rehearsal with a subtle yet captivating lead line that we ended up forming the whole song around.”
Photo credit: Phoebe Fox
Nashville newcomer Frances Baker dazzles on her latest cut “Hair Turns Grey,” and her uniquely charming 5-track EP “Frances Baker“ via Beatnik Records.
Today’s single comes with her first-ever official video; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v3hgnJcbLE&feature=youtu.be
Speaking about Hair Turns Grey, Frances explained “Hair turns grey is a love song about enjoying spending time with someone, so much you want to hang out with them till your “hair turns grey”. The production around it emulates the sound of pulling up to someone’s house to take them out, and then being filled with love when you see them.”
On the EP also released today, Frances added “This EP was so fun to make. I learned so much and had the loveliest team working with me. All the musicians (Courtney, Kyle, Josh, and Ciaran) were so kind and encouraging; they all lived where we recorded, in the downstairs, by the kitchen,”
“This is the first project I have released under my name. I have never been so involved in the recording/ arranging process before, and have not gotten to make something that reflected my interests, inspirations and passions so loudly until now. I really love these songs, and am so excited to share them.”
25-year-old rising talent Timur Flores’ deep love for the arts was present from an early age. Born and raised in Malaysia and the UK, it was there she studied ballet and also an array of musical instruments. Learning to play piano, ukulele and saxophone, Timur often performed on stage at various showcases. Taught by vocal trainer Datuk Syafinaz, she went from singing in the shower to becoming a full-blown powerhouse. Now contracted by prominent Malaysian record label KRU Music, their plan is to catapult the singer into international stardom. She reveals, “Having signed with KRU Music is very exciting for me because it means a big step. Here’s to hoping that everything will be going well!”
Fluent in English, Mandarin and Malay, Timur’s upcoming six-track EP is the perfect representation of her multicultural upbringing. “NOT A CRIMINAL” is a part of that colorful body of work. Penned by a team of Swedish writers, the piece further reflects that worldwide diversity. With a striking display of pop and dance, the song packs an energetic punch. Music is a positive way for her to kick-start the day and this tune is definitely one to get listeners fired up. Timur’s aim is to concoct infectious hits that others can profoundly connect to. “I put my own personal flair on each of my songs and hope that it will be well-received. I hope that everyone out there can be supportive of my musical journey and continue to be interested in everything I have in store.”
Juvon Taylor is one of Toronto’s most talented hidden gems. His soul sound derives from a few places. The pentecostal church choir, the guitar and lastly Toronto’s music scene. He began writing at the age of 13, years later while singing them in subway stations his soaring vocals were discovered by Canadian artist Melanie Fiona. This sparked a cascade of new connections and opportunities, including working with MAGIC! member Mark Pellizzer on his debut EP, King of Hearts.
Having had his single (In Too Deep) selected in the Denzel Washington film “Roman J. Israel, Esq.,” Juvon is no stranger to features, being showcased at Labels like Monstercat and Provoke Records have also featured his single (Just Wait For It) with DJ Chris Ramos, where he was publicized on compilation album Enhanced Sessions Vol. 4., along with another single (Homecoming) featured in the Utopia Soundtrack Album. Juvon’s latest single (Keep Us Close) is currently on the rise, surpassing 30,000 streams on Spotify.
Following on from releases “Congratulations” and “10 Minutes”, Spanish born artist and musician Shanghai Baby releases the third single “Go Home” from upcoming self-titled debut EP.
In equal parts dark and charismatic, Shanghai Baby, born Ade Martin’s latest indie track “Go Home” invites listeners into a world of confusion and compassion. Layering electronic indie guitars, and marching rhythmic drums the track makes for an effortlessly cool sound. With Ade’s raw vocals and deeply personal lyricism the track combines a familiar nostalgia with something particularly unique.
Speaking on the track Shanghai Baby says: “I wanted to write a song about the conflicting feelings of wanting to say home cause of your problems whilst equally wanting to stay away from home because of your problems. I’ve had those two feelings and I’ve seen friends have them too. To me this happens when my worries surface. Worries such as; what the future looks like, bank accounts running low, not being able to concentrate, not being inspired etc. These worries can make us want to be by ourselves and not get out and on the flip side can make us want to surround ourselves with people and distractions to get away from the problems.”
LOYAL REVEAL STUNNING NEW OFFERING, FLOORS// LISTEN HERE & WATCH HERE
Brighton based collective LOYAL continue to make impressive inroads into 2022 with the reveal of stunning new offering, Floors. A sprawling electronic alt-pop cut showcasing LOYAL’s ability to create warehouse ready beats and pair them beautifully with ethereal vocals, the track serves as a stellar taste of what is to come from them for the rest of the year. Returning after a hiatus, the group are set to build upon the sound which saw them pick up acclaim from areas such as Pigeons & Planes, Stereogum and more. Speaking on the release, LOYAL state:
This is a light song in a post conflict world that see’s new beginning and hope. It was recorded at the same time as Pre Battle, thus giving it the same Juju and feeling. This track also features the amazing swoon guitar talent of Steve Wireman. We Synced many analog synths in real time and recorded passes through endless pedals and FX to create the textures in the song. The bass is live and the drums carefully selected from sessions with Rob Thomas. Again the choir BV’s support the lead to let her know she’s not alone.
Stockholm artist Miynt has released a brand new single, “Lonely beach,” the title track from her forthcoming debut album. Stream the single everywhere now here.Blending classic psych-rock with Miynt’s cool, haunting vocal, “Lonely Beach” takes us further into the sonic textures splayed across the collection of songs comprising the full-length, Lonely Beach, due out May 6 via B3SCI Records. The album will be available this fall on limited edition 12″ vinyl. Pre-order now here. On the new track, Miynt describes, “Lonely beach is kind of a metaphor for periods of my life. At times there’s a lot of friends and tourism at the beach, but the beach never leaves the beach. Leonardo di Caprio never finds the beach. Life is a beach.”
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