Yearning for fun, Animals on TV was formed in 2019 in Austin, Texas after friends Rob Hogan and Andrew Davis had seen one too many boring indie shows.
Animals on TV was created to bring out the best of Rock and Roll, mixing eras by drawing on bands like The Strokes, The Clash, and The Rolling Stones, and to translate these influences into joyfully unruly live shows and classic songs.
Most importantly, Animals on TV would have no shortage of personality or cheek.
Getting into their groove just as Covid took over the world, Animals on TV spent 2020 writing and honing their craft. In 2021, the band was nominated by Austin Chronicle as the best new act of the year. In 2022, the band won Resound’s, “Unreleased,” a battle of the bands competition featuring 20+ local acts and opened for Beach Fossils in a sold out show at Mohawk in Austin. In 2023, the band is focused on writing and releasing more music as well as setting their sights beyond their local Austin scene.
The current line up consists of Rob Hogan on vocals, Andrew Davis on rhythm guitar, Ben Baron on drums, Alex Ward on bass, and Gabe Posada or Sam Franklin on lead guitar. Their new EP Spring Break 2095 isan homage to the MTV era (early 80’s – late 00’s), particularly when things got really weird with MTV in the early 2000’s and the channel was synonymous with reality TV, proto-influencer celebrities, and tacky pop culture. The further away from it we get, the weirder it looks. The three songs on the EP take a past, present, and future look at this strange phenomena.
Gearing up to make a major statement, rising Los Angeles rapper ICECOLDBISHOP will unleash his anxiously awaited full-length debut album, GENERATIONAL CURSE, on March 24, 2023 via Epic Records. Pre-order/Pre-save GENERATIONAL CURSE—HERE.
Paving the way for this bold body of work, he just shared a visual trailer for the album, giving fans a quick glimpse into his world. Watch it here The clip examines both the gun and drug epidemic from a different perspective, aiming its crosshairs at the politicians and pharma-industrial complex plaguing the people. Through his razor-sharp high-pitched flow, he proclaims, “Pills and promethazine fucked up my generation.” At the same time, he opens up about the struggle, “been daring to be different, but these drugs are in my way.”
GENERATIONAL CURSE rails against the rigged system with unfiltered storytelling and some of the most undeniable and unbreakable rhymes you’ll hear all year.
He initially teased the record with “THE GOV’T GAVE US GUNS,” piling up half-a-million total streams. In addition to plugs from Enigma, OutLoud! Culture, and more, AllHipHop put it best, “ICECOLDBISHOP is exactly what his name embodies, and he’s here to make a lasting impact on the rap game.”
Experience GENERATIONAL CURSE March 24…
Ransom and the Subset debut a classic meets modern style pop-rock track with their new single, “Sara Kandi, “out March 30, 2023. The Washington-state band inspired by hit makers like Elton John, Steely Dan, Nick Lowe, and Ben Folds Five, received a smattering of critical acclaim since the release of their debut album “No Time To Lose” in 2014. Their newest single, “Sara Kandi,” is the second drop off of their full-length album “Perfect Crimes” out in April.
Mingled amongst modern rhythms and a rockabilly-style chorus, “Sara Kandi” explores an imaginary relationship that can only exist in your mind. It follows the tail of a man who runs into Sara Kandi at the bank, immediately infatuated by her name and the idea of who she might be in the outside world. Legendary bass player Graham Maby (Joe Jackson, They Might Be Giants, Marshal Crenshaw, Regina Spektor, Joan Baez) contributes a burgeoning bass line that undulates alongside the ruckus rocky pre-chorus. It’s a cacophony of vintage vibes and modern grooves wrapped in a storytelling style that makes room for the imagination. Check out Ransom and the Subset’s new single, “Sara Kandi,”
Growing up with a jazz pianist father and visual artist mother, HALIENE’s first performance was at four years of age. She rose to fame in the worlds of trance and melodic dubstep, toting collaborations with the likes of Armin van Buuren, Illenium, Gareth Emery, Tritonal, Excision, and Seven Lions to name only a few.
Following the colossal success of her debut solo album Heavenly (5M streams across platforms, remained on the cover of Spotify’s Bass Lounge editorial playlist for six weeks following the release, radio support from SiriusXM’s BPM, iHeartRadio’s Evolution, and local markets from Seattle to Miami, et al), HALIENE is back to deliver the ‘Divine Edition” of the record. Heavenly (Divine Edition) features three new tracks – ‘Hollow (w/ Elephante)’, ‘Reach Across The Sky (Ben Gold Remix)’, and ‘Glass Heart (Acoustic)’ – and showcases the incredible group of artists that were tapped for Heavenly remixes, including Last Heroes, Craig Connelly, Crankdat, Nifra, Crystal Skies, MaRLo, Nikademis, Awakend, and Markus Schulz.
Phil Firetog, in full Philip William Firetog, (born May 8, 1985, Farmingdale, NY, U.S.), is an American singer-songwriter and musician. He is best known as the lead vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist for the Phil Firetog Trio.
Firetog predominantly focused on songwriting and performing with the Phil Firetog Trio, which he started in 2015 shortly after his debut solo EP Portrait Songs. Phil Firetog Trio later debuted their own EP Circles in 2017.
The members of the Long Island trio, Phil Firetog (Vocalist/Guitarist), Johnny “Pots” Potocnik (Drummer) & Liam Gordon (Bassist) have entertained the industry’s toughest critics & built a loyal fan base since the trio’s formation in 2015.
Singer-songwriter Firetog develops music that is rich and intricate and spans the spectrum from clean to grit and ambient to rocking by mastering acoustic guitars with pedals and distorted amps. Johnny “Pots” Potocnik & Liam Gordon fill the spaces with complex & rhythmic grooves, intriguing listeners while they connect on another level outside the lyrical storytelling.
Currently undertaking an expansion project to include new talented artists for special live performances, PFT has further enriched its signature sound. We welcome our new members to the new “Trio and Co.”
Phil Firetog Trio & Co. will continue new single releases in 2022 starting in September with their release of “Fall”. It’s clear that Trio and Company will continue to reshape and reinvent itself in this ever-shifting industry while staying on the edge of new sounds and genres – never losing the essence of the core trio: ‘Rare and Transformative’.
Persian-Native American pop act Chloe Star returns with her new single and video, “Straight Girls,” out on all streaming platforms today.
Following her empowering debut release “Element,” Chloe’s second single, “Straight Girls,” is a high energy anthem packed with infectious trap-inspired beats and electro-pop vocals. “The song is about exploring my own sexuality,” says Chloe “I don’t know what it is, but I always find myself dating quote on quote straight girls.” The pairing music video, which was directedby Carlos “Bawwse” (Kali Uchis, Justin Bieber, Emotional Oranges) and Emilio Sanchez (Becky G, 21 Savage), is a sexy and fun-filled visual that further expands the Chloe Star universe.
Chloe Star is an indigenous singer, songwriter, visual artist and tribal advocate. Growing up she split her time between Los Angeles and her family’s reservation in San Bernardino. With a childhood that was chaotic and often unstable, she found solace in journaling and writing poetry. She taught herself to play piano and guitar and soon started transforming her prose into lyrics.
After spending the past few years finding and cultivating her sound, Chloe is now ready to make her introduction to the world. “Element” and “Straight Girls” will be included on her forthcoming EP due out later this year.
BENTLE — the project of New York-based Australian artist Josh McVey — returns with his new single, “Sideshow,” out on all streaming platforms today.
Following on the heels of his late 2023 single “Darkest Blue,” “Sideshow” sees BENTLE once again enveloping listeners into his hypnotic pop world. Pairing synth-laden production with emotive chords and melodies, “Sideshow” tells the story of two people drifting apart. “It’s about fractured communication, the blurry lines between inevitability and control, and the romance of the situation that smothers the true feeling,” he adds.
Josh McVey (aka BENTLE) is a singer, songwriter and producer originally hailing from Brisbane, Australia and now living in New York City. Producing and writing all of his own material, he delivers glowing indie-pop tunes packed with reflective and introspective lyricism. He’s been laying a foundation over the past few years with a number of single releases, including his 2021 hit “MONDO,” and is now preparing to reveal his debut EP.
THE UNDERCOVER HIPPY is back with the scathing new single “Greed”.
STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE
Chiming with the wave of scandals that have rocked the UK in recent weeks, from Hancock’s Whatsapp messages to Boris’ botched honours list, despite being written at the height of the Covid outbreak the themes at play in “Greed” couldn’t be more apposite to the here and now…
An anti-capitalist tirade that also touches on the innumerable Government scandals and crack-pot conspiracies we were subjected to during the pandemic; this latest cut from the alias of Billy Rowan is a blend of ambitious hip-hop infused stylistics with darkly satirical lyrics. Drifting on a bed of ska-infused basslines, reggae-fied rhythms, and bursts of bright brassy sections, you’ll find some of Rowan’s most arch and politically damning lyrics to date. Listen out for some Spitting Image-esque Boris Johnson impersonations too.
Speaking about “Greed”, Rowan says:
“During Covid I wrote “Greed”, in response both to the Government’s abysmal and borderline corrupt handling of the pandemic, and to the collective insanity that took over my social feeds when half the world discovered conspiracy theories for the first time…. I’ve also tried to experiment with new sounds and genres, taking my songwriting and producing in new directions. This is pretty evident in “Greed”, which is probably my favourite track on the new album, purely because of the sheer dirtiness of the drop after the chorus! It’s a really lazy swung hip hop track about covid, conspiracies and corruption, but still with that acoustic reggae flavour that makes it recognisably my style.”
London-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist – CLIFTON 2.5 – has unveiled “Outskirts of Nowhere”, the second single and title-track of her debut EP due 14 April via Leafy Outlook.
STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE
A lush slice of opulent and airy alt-pop, “Outskirts of Nowhere” sees Clifton 2.5 find a shimmering synergy between gentle acoustic melodies and fluttering electronics, served with a side of crystal-clear vocals and an ethereal sense of optimism.
Standing as the first song she ever recorded, it is also one influenced by the evocative settings depicted in Delia Owens’ celebrated coming-of-age novel ‘Where The Crawdads Sing’. As Clifton 2.5 explains:
“”Outskirts of Nowhere” was written after I finished reading the book ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ as I was inspired by the landscapes painted in the book, especially the marshes and the imagery of a lonely, heartbroken girl who had been left behind. The song just landed in my head in about 20 minutes and I knew it would be the first song I recorded.”
Warrington indie-rock risers – THE K’S – have unleashed their latest single “Chancer”, as they head out on a UK + Ireland headline tour this March.
STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE || YOUTUBE HERE
A feel-good indie-rock track filled with buoyant choruses, a pulsating live-ready energy and danceable rhythms made for the big rooms, “Chancer” sees The K’s take a change tack from wistful previous release “Hoping Maybe” with joyous results.
“Chancer” balances Boyle’s trademark eye for the lyrical descriptive and nous for clever phrasing, with guitarist Breslin’s ear for a bouncy and melodic chorus. The result makes for one of The K’s most immediate singles to date. Elaborating on the story behind the track, Jamie explains:
“”Chancer” is a first person account of finding drunken solace in a private members’ club after being stranded in an unfamiliar city — and the events that ensued.”
After a ceaseless year of headline shows, major support slots, main stage festival appearances at Reading and Leeds, Isle of Wight and Kendal Calling and a run of European dates with Mancunian stalwarts James and Liam Gallagher, 2022 was all about laying the live foundations for The K’s. Now finally able to stay still for long enough to record more music, 2023 is all about raising the roof with new material for the band.
Bunkering down in a studio close to their Earlestown base to record the first in a raft of new releases, “Chancer” is their second single of the year and sees the band make good of their promise that new tracks would be coming thick and fast.
Earlier release “Hoping Maybe” saw the band reach number 2 in the iTunes Chart — pipped to the post only by pop icon Miley Cyrus — and the track also reached number 1 in the iTunes Alternative Chart. A testament to the strength of their fanbase, the success was an impressive effort for an unsigned band still determined to take the independent route.
With a bold five-single release schedule set to culminate in a digital and physical album release in November, The K’s aren’t abandoning their live roots just yet and have already embarked on a 12-date UK and Ireland headline tour ahead of a large summer festival run.
Having kicked off in Glasgow last week, tickets are flying with multiple dates already sold out. Due to popular demand the band have also upgraded the venue for their Liverpool show to the 1200-capacity O2 Academy (previously Academy 2).
Rising London rapper KayOrAlpha delivers his latest drill-infused offering “Brodie’s Keeper” via GRM DAILY.
Continuing to deliver a potent lyrical approach that belies his relatively young age, fast-rising artist and creative KayOrAlpha encapsulates the vigorous sounds of South East London across his latest cut. Seamlessly gliding atop the heavy, drill-soaked instrumental, the 21-year-old expresses the strength and resilience he’s gained across his turbulent journey, flaunting an unwavering confidence as he seeks to reclaim his place as a standout prospect in the UK rap landscape.
With the accompanying music video tailing an eventful night in Central London, the young talent manoeuvres through sharp cinematography that depict the pace and disorientation of London life against his calm, inspirational flows.
After a life-changing situation halted his musical career, KayOrAlpha has been steadily perfecting his craft, delivering sharp, potent visualisers that quickly earned the young
talent breakout status. His recent track “Lemme Introduce Myself (Intro)” amassing 50K views on its GRM DAILY debut while receiving significant praise from key tastemakers incl. NOTION and VIPER MAGAZINE. A true multi-faceted artist, KayOrAlpha’s shining authenticity and flair will no doubt continue the hype surrounding one of London’s most innovative and exciting new names to a rise.
With a plethora of releases confirmed this year all funded by selling royalties directly to his dedicated fans (via SongBits), keep your eyes on KayOrAlpha as he is set to trailblaze the precedence for a new era of UK rap.
Hotly tipped songstress Alex Vaughn delivers The Hurtbook: HomeGirl Pack – a stunning deluxe version of her highly-acclaimed recent album The Hurtbook. With massive new features from Ari Lennox, Summer Walker and Muni Long, some of the hottest names in the R&B landscape adding their cosigns to Alex will be sure to continue the attention around the young star.
A breath of fresh air for R&B,The Hurtbook captured the true essence of Vaughn’s classically-trained musicianship. Growing pains in relationships: romantic, platonic and with self at the forefront of a mesmerising eight track body of work, HomeGirl Pack’s significant collaborations add new depth and a fresh texture. Joining forces for the first release is GRAMMY-award winning singer/songwriter Muni Long on “IYKYK” a stunning track full of R&B nostalgia and perfectly pitched adlibs. After supporting Ari on her Age/Sex/Location tour, Ari Lennox now returns the favour on fan favourite, the
stripped back “Demon Time”. R&B queen Summer Walker finally adds her charm and soulful tones to powerful ballad “So Be It.”
Talking on the body of work, Alex states: “The project started off as a compilation of thoughts from an old relationship but grew into a quilted map of patterns and events that applied to more than just romance. It’s about being honest with yourself and how you feel about those changes that are happening. Most importantly, it’s a reminder that though these series of events may have hurt you, you are not broken”.
acclaimed Haitian producer Francis Mercier and legendary, Grammy-winning Jamaican reggae band Black Uhuru release their collaboration “Welcome to Dinna” on powerhouse record label, Insomniac Records. Gifted Moroccan guitarist Neyl Nejjai serves up infectious riffs that tie the track’s bassline and breezy vocals together, creating a feel-good summer groover with tasteful global appeal.
Francis Mercier has been reshaping the house music landscape with a culturally rich sound that incorporates deep, melodic, and worldly elements. This star-studded collaboration is of huge personal significance to Francis, having been inspired by the sound of Black Uhuru during his youth in Port-au-Prince. “Welcome To Dinna” is a modern take on Black Uhuru’s classic “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” from 1979, and this new vivacious groove weaves through spry hand percussion, feverish guitar play, and the group’s iconic, enduring vocals.
Black Uhuru is a genre-defining band from the second wave of Reggae who is the first to ever win a Grammy in the genre in 1984. The prolific band recently celebrated their 50-year anniversary in 2022, also now having 8 Grammy nominations and record sales rivaled only by Bob Marley in the Reggae genre, allowing them to become ‘Ambassadors of Reggae’.
This single marks Francis’ second appearance on the Insomniac imprint, following his breakout single ‘Sete’ alongside BLOND:ISH, which enjoyed 16 weeks in Beatport’s Top 10 overall chart and drew praise from Billboard, Forbes, and BBC Radio 1. Francis is slated to perform at this year’s Coachella and has headline shows coming up at Spybar (Chicago), The Midway (San Francisco), Miami Music Week, Coachella, and other esteemed venues around the globe.
Australian producer/DJ EDDIE releases his anticipated Onzeker Kraft Vol. 1 EP, out now via HypnoVizion.
The sophomore EP from the midtempo powerhouse, Onzeker Kraft Vol. 1 is a sublime 5-track offering that curves the sound of HypnoVizion’s otherworldly style. The EP opens with ‘No Tomorrow’, a haunting collaboration with Canadian dark bass duo The Arcturians, before diving into the glitchy, off-kilter stylings of ‘Apparatus’. Including previously released singles ‘Incubator’ and ‘Post Rave Heist’ with LŪN, Onzeker Kraft Vol. 1 unfolds with perplexing contrasts between slow-burning builds and distorted drops. The EP wraps with ‘Hypnotic’, a mesmerizing standout featuring in-demand vocalist Fknsyd, known for her work alongside Rezz, RL Grime, and SLANDER.
A sonic labyrinth that surprises with each twist and turn, Onzeker Kraft Vol. 1 is a unique balance of anthemic vocal cuts and complex instrumentals. Through rhythmic, industrial basslines and moody, energetic melodies, EDDIE continues to awe with his forward-thinking, genre-fusing soundscapes.
Regarding the EP, EDDIE said, “Quite simply, this is the most effort I’ve put into a project. It’s got a heavy festival trippy feel to it with sprinkles of melodic sections and emotive vocals. I couldn’t be more hyped for everyone to get down to this new era of the EDDIE sound.”
Lisbon multi-Platinum R&B artist Richie Campbell delivers his highly anticipated new album Heartbreak & Other Stories – dropping alongside a stunning cinematic music video for lead track “Heartless”.
A bona fide superstar in Portugal with over 500K dedicated monthly listeners, Campbell’s soulful fusion of Afrobeat, R&B and Dancehall is now crashing into wider public consciousness, collaborations with Brixton’s Sneakbo and Jamaican legends Anthony B, Agent Sasco, Jesse Royal and Ky-Mani Marley pointing to his growing influence across the rap world and sound system culture.
Heartbreak & Other Stories emerges as a dedication to themes of sincerity and vulnerability, polished, melodic vibrations play alongside a refined, rustic purity of
Richie’s vocals, his connection to the Afro musical landscape forged via iterations across R&B, Dancehall, Soul, Reggae and Afrobeat.
The 18-track record opens with “Chapter V” – an enthralling intro that sets centre stage for Richie’s raw vocal talent, floating atop a sparse piano production. Across the run of “Let You Go” (certified Platinum), “Closer” and “Love Again”, sharp percussion layers and dream-like melodies meld with a melodic intimacy of an artist at his most comfortable. Tracks like “Star” immerse us in eclectic Afro/R&B tropes supplied by Grammy Award-winning producer Kel-P (Burna Boy, Wizkid), a sultry backing for Campbell’s hedonistic flows reconciling the pain of past relationships with a more optimistic present.
YOUR ANGEL — the project of LA-based singer, songwriter and producer Maddy Boyd — shares her much-anticipated sophomore album, A Star in the Headlights.
Following her 2019’s debut Pipe Dream, her sophomore record, A Star in the Headlights, sees YOUR ANGEL fearlessly coming into her own as an artist. The 11-track LP is the product of years of experimentation and introspection — both in her work and in her personal life. Over cinematic indie-pop soundscapes, she delivers razor-sharp lyricism that captures her journey of self-discovery.
“‘A Star In The Headlights’ is about longing for something more and the journey to find it. The album explores the feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, jealousy and weakness that I felt while on this transformative path,” she says. “I drew inspiration from my childhood musical role models like Britney Spears, Dido, Portishead and Timbaland. I wanted to write songs that hit so close to home that they make you feel nostalgic, even though you’ve never heard them before.”
Rising singer-songwriter David Kushner has shared his eagerly anticipated new single, “Elk Grove,” available now at all DSPs and streaming services. An official music video premieres today via YouTube HERE.
“In ‘Elk Grove,’ I’m trying to paint a vivid picture of the struggle between love and loss in the lives of two individuals,” says David Kushner, “one of whom ultimately comes to terms with the inescapable reality of their parting.”
With over 556M global career streams in under 12 months, more than 3M monthly Spotify listeners, 24.5M combined YouTube views, and over 70M TikTok likes, David Kushner has swiftly drawn a fervent fan following for his unique tone and storytelling ability. Produced by Hayd and Sarcastic Sounds “Elk Grove” is the first song from his forthcoming debut album. The eagerly awaited debut sees Kushner joining forces with a number of iconic artists and producers, including The Lumineers’ Wesley Schultz, David Baron (Matt Maeson, Shania Twain), and 2x GRAMMY® Award-nominee Rob Kirwan (Hozier, PJ Harvey, U2). Pre-adds/pre-saves are available now HERE.
Europe’s silver-tongued lounge lizard, Cosmic Crooner releases his alluring debut album The Perks of Being a Hypocrite.
With his Cuban heels and wide lapelled suits Amsterdam’s Cosmic Crooner exudes the sort of absurdist suave exclusive to the most ice cool of 70s rock star revivalists. An ode to vintage psychedelia, his debut album, the curiously titled The Perks of Being a Hypocrite draws influences from classic doowop, legends like Frank Sinatra and Lou Reed plus iconic 60s/70s European film scores, especially those of French Nouvelle Vague hero Jean-Luc Godard.
“I think we’re all hypocrites,” says Cosmic Crooner on his album title The Perks of Being a Hypocrite. “But calling yourself one gives you an unlimited amount of freedom.”
Drawing from a rich history of psychedelic lounge pop the album starts as it means to go on with the addictive openers “Deep Down in Jazz” and “Spoiler Alert” which sees Crooner dissecting the annoyances of 21st century pop. “Popsicle Place” harnesses the charms of 60s/70s French and Italian film scores, lavished under a smooth glaze of candy-coated guitar licks as he serenades a distant place of rock ‘n’ roll escapism.
Inspired by the impassioned songwriting of Roy Orbison and the theatrics of Jacques Brel, “Bolero” is the first hint of romance on the record, Crooner surrounded by cinematic strings paired with passionate percussion, resulting in a gentle transcendental piece. The romantic flare continues in “Late Night Obsession”, a Beach Boys inspired ditty that questions its own right to exist. In “Reflexopolis” Crooner became “obsessed” with instrumental dubbing–layering arrangements with multiple forms of instrumentation–leading him to achieve the almighty ‘Wall of Sound’ adornment heard within the track. Then in “Goodbye Hollywood” Crooner bids a romantic farewell to the past.
With its retro grandeur and smooth melody, “Tema di Filippo” sounds like it’s lifted straight from a 60s espionage film – complete with ultra-stylish black and white video inspired by the Italian film maker Michelangelo Antonioni. Directed by Cosmic Crooner himself along with Lin Bartraij, it’s a nostalgic nod to film-making of yesteryear and one that wouldn’t look out of place as a James Bond intro.
Stark influences are scattered throughout the rest of the record, transitioning from The Ronettes on “Goosebumps on a Tuesday Night” to those classic Italian scores in “Girlfriend” plus “Sweet Reprise”, the album’s finale which drips in Galanti vibraphonette.
The Perks of Being a Hypocrite is a merit to the artistry Cosmic Crooner has built for himself over the last couple of years. By taking notes from an array of songwriting legends; Ennio Morricone, The Beatles, Marvin Gaye and Caetano Veloso, Crooner has created a beautifully arranged body of work that is filled largely by his own observations judged by emotions.
the Paris-based pop punk quartet Two Trains Left have released a new single and music video for their captivating track, ‘Lack Of Sleep’.
Watch the music video here premiering with Atwood Magazine.
The new single boldly tackles the issue of mental exhaustion. Through its intense lyrics and haunting melody, ‘Lack Of Sleep’ urges listeners to confront the root cause of their exhaustion rather than relying on quick fixes. The song’s pre-chorus, bolstered by a driving beat and evocative vocals, sets the stage for an explosive chorus that channels the listener’s pent-up frustrations into a cathartic release.
Pulling inspiration from Neck Deep and Foo Fighters, the group offers a perfect blend of angsty pop punk paired with soft self-reflection. Their infectious energy and catchy melodies alongside the fantastical and evocative music video make for a personal, introspective track about facing fears and inner demons.
“‘Lack Of Sleep’ is screaming the words many are too exhausted to speak, searching the reason of tiredness everywhere but inside your mind, taking pills instead of healing.” – Dimitri Ben Hamou (Singer/Guitarist)
Following a tour with Chunk! No, Captain Chunk! last summer, the two bands created the track together, recorded, mixed and produced by Bert Poncet and Bastien Lafaye of Chunk! No, Captain Chunk!
Blurring the line between the realms of dream and reality, the music video pulls inspiration from Wes Craven’s Nightmare on Elm Street to create a hauntingly beautiful visualization.
The dynamic, blink-182 esque band with over 1M streams to date hopes listeners will sing along out loud and express those feelings that often stay quiet. ‘Lack Of Sleep’ is the newest release from Two Trains Left’s highly anticipated debut LP, due out in 2024
“It’s good to face your problems once in a while and figure out who you really are, even if it hurts, it’s always for the best.” – Dimitri Ben Hamou (Singer/Guitarist)
Ways In Waves is the brainchild of Brian Raine, a multi-instrumentalist and music producer living out of Edmonton, Alberta. Originally hailing from Yellowknife, NT, Raine began playing music when he was four years old, and it became his singular focus before moving down to Alberta to study music at MacEwan University. There, he began developing the project that would eventually become Ways In Waves. With malleable form and the spirit of experimentation at its core, the group began as a live duo, and eventually expanded to a five piece live band with Raine picking up vocals as well as guitar and keys parts.
The first record “Bloodless Arches” (2019) was entirely self-produced by Raine and performed by himself and the drummer from the live band. As a whole, the album was conceptualized as an experience that takes the listener through the paces of making it through a bad day. At first it focuses on personal experiences, but zooms out toward the end of the track list. This conceptual writing in the lyrics was reflected in the production elements as well, placing each song in a specific physical space where the story of the lyrics existed.
Funk 4-piece from Brooklyn, NYC Dakota Jones invite you to their interstellar pool party with new single ‘Misbehave Me’, out 27th March.
Once again, Dakota Jones showcase their capability of expertly delivering slinky funk with a generous dash of soul on their latest release. Diving into this smooth mix, ‘Misbehave Me’ is an alluringly sensuous single, tipping over into ecstasy with a sultry rhythm and lustful lyrics – “Legs so long, make your knees go weak / Thighs so thick, make you miss your seat.” Imagine a classic soul single blasted into the stratosphere and landing in a world of otherworldly passion and freedom… ‘Misbehave Me’ soundtracking your arrival.
“You’ve just touched down on another planet far, far away, and you exit the ship – a stranger in a strange and glorious land. ‘Misbehave Me’ is the song that plays as the door glides open, and you begin this moment of self-discovery and exploration in a world beyond your wildest imagination.” – Dakota Jones.
And be sure to check out the vibrant music video, featuring the ever-charismatic lead vocalist Tristan Carter-Jones guiding the viewer in grooving along with the single’s irresistible beat, while kitted out in a gloriously colourful wardrobe. Across a number of retro settings, including an old school American diner and arcade, her charm and power are unmatched as she is joined by the band for the full Dakota Jones experience.
“To me, this song is about that newfound feeling of true self-expression, and sexual freedom. We wanted the video to represent that feeling of sultry play, the true joy that you can only find within yourself.” – Tristan Carter-Jones.
Dakota Jones have been stomping around and making noise for nearly 8 years now. Featuring Tristan Carter-Jones on vocals, Scott Jet Kramp on bass, Steve Ross on the drums, and Eddy Marshall on the guitar, Dakota Jones have moulded their sound into something at once commanding and vulnerable, spontaneous and deliberate, familiar and refreshing. Harnessing a timeless groove and magisterial queer black power, they first burst onto the UK scene in 2021, easily translating their formidable energy as a live act into their debut record. Channelling furious energy inspired by the likes of Chaka Khan, Janis Joplin and Marvin Gaye, the group showcased their uncensored songwriting and were unafraid to take a deep dive into life’s most visceral emotions.
The result, ‘Blacklight’ went on to win critical praise from the likes of The Times, Classic Rock, DIVA Magazine and Echoes Magazine – establishing them as one of the best new funk/soul bands to emerge for a very long time. Since then the band have been busy in the studio writing new music, whilst continuing to build their live reputation, following that gritty funky sound wherever it would take them; through some of NYC’s most respected venues, on tours exploring America’s coasts, and well beyond.
Following the viral hit single Shining Light, Aime Simone unveils his mesmerising latest single “Baby Don’t Quit”.
Written upon his return to Paris, “Baby Don’t Quit” blends the sound of Aime’s Fender Stratocaster guitar with his mastery of digital production. The track effortlessly mixes the organic side of pop song writing with a powerful trap background, created with a Roland TR-808 [a drum machine used by both Marvin Gaye on Sexual Healing and Kanye West on his 808s and Heartbreak album.] The result is a captivating and powerful song that conveys a message of hope.
Talking on the track Aime tells us: “This song is about not giving up, not letting yourself down no matter how long it takes, believing in the vision, seeing it vividly and saving the world and yourself on the way.”
The Paris-born singer-songwriter and producer, recorded his debut album Say Yes, Say No in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020. The album included the aforementioned single “Shining Light” (+25M) and served as an introduction to Aime’s musical and stylistic vision. A musical style that Aime describes as “post pop”, his compositions combine the finesse of pop song writing and club music that fed him during his years spent in Berlin. With an ever-growing fans base of over 1.6M monthly listeners on Spotify and a recent stand out performance for the Montreux Jazz Festival’s ‘Spotlight Sessions’ the release of “Baby Don’t Quit” is the first of many this year, bound to set Aime Simone on an upward trajectory, as he continues to carve his own lane in the Alt-Pop world.
John Oates (of the iconic pop-rock duo Daryl Hall & John Oates) is thrilled to release Timmy Thomas’ cover song “Why Can’t We Live Together” that is out now.
Oates says, “When thinking about the state of our world today I was reminded of the brilliant, classic 1970’s anti-war anthem by Timmy Thomas. The original was a stark and powerfully beautiful recording using only a primitive drum machine and Hammond B3 organ to support his haunting vocal performance. I felt the time was right for me to cover this great song…but I wanted to reimagined in my own style with “doo wop” style background vocals, a live band and as a final touch a very 1970s electric sitar riff that I did at home to add a little more period sweetness.”
“Why Can’t We Live Together” is the third single from his series of tracks that he will release each month. The recently release singles are “Disconnected” and Pushin’ A Rock.”
Nearly a month after the audio was released, fast rising star Nigerian artist KHAID releases the video to his first single of 2023 ‘Jolie’, an Afro Classic song filled with themes of love.
The video is full of romance showing a couple’s intimate moments and connection with each other, with colourful and vibrant scenes. The video was directed by Neville Records boss Sydney Talker.
‘Jolie’ is full of smooth melodies and lyrics, dedicated to the girl he desires but can’t seem to pin down. He expresses his love to her, describing his attempts and persistence over a track drenched with an infectious hook, drumbeats and KHAID’s alluring voice.
He began nurturing his talent from the early age of 12 years old via freestyle videos and performing on the streets of Ojo, Lagos State Nigeria where he was discovered by Sydney Talker, one of Nigeria’s biggest content and owner of Neville Records where he is signed too.
His debut single ‘With You’ become one of the country’s top hits with over 3.7 million views on YouTube and 3 million Spotify streams. Following this, he released a 6-track project ‘Diversity’. He has now gained over 80 million streams on all platforms and is tipped to be the ‘Next Big Thing’ at the age of 18 years old.
Marking a fresh chapter for the year with a new EP on the way that is due to make an explosive entrance onto the music scene. KHAID is definitely one to watch.
Velvet Beach are an independent band from Toronto. Originally formed by members of Newcomer, Matias Gutierrez and Martin Camara were then joined by Sean Stover (Silus, The Honeycomb Flyers), Suhail Othman (Per Su) and Meagan Aversa. Fusing a wide range of sonic elements with emotive lyrics, the band arrives at a unique sound through each member.
Velvet Beach have been on an upward trajectory since their debut single release this past September. They were honored to be a part of Exclaim’s Class of 2023 show in January and are excited to finally release their debut album “The Dream”. A culmination of nearly 3 years of work, “The Dream” showcases the eclectic mix of dream pop and shoe gaze that has come to define Velvet Beach’s live sound so far. Of particular note is Uncertainty, a driving yet ethereal ballad that pushes the bounds of Velvet Beach’s songwriting so far.
On March 18th, Velvet Beach will be performing at Longboat Hall for their album release show. Stay tuned for future releases, including live recordings of the Class of 2023 show as well as live off the floor recordings of some the album’s best songs.
Singer, songwriter, and model Delilah Belle, has released her highly anticipated debut single “Nothing Lasts Forever,” today. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, Delilah began her career modeling at just 17 years old, making her runway debut in the Tommy Hilfiger Show at NYFW. After years of modeling, Delilah is now set out to pursue her true passion of creating music. Now, after privately working on music behind the scenes, Delilah is ready to share “Nothing Lasts Forever” with the world. “I’ve always been an open book and I’ve never been scared to really share what I’ve gone through,” she tells Billboard.
“This song holds a very deep and personal message that I hope will be perceived in different ways, and will help someone who is at the lowest of lows, get through the pain. Because Nothing Lasts Forever… even the good times. And with that, I hope it puts life into perspective and I hope it ensues gratitude for the good times that we tend to take for granted.” – Delilah
Bold, brash, playful, slightly odd and gloriously left-of-center, future superstar Bava’s juggernaut debut single ‘Itsy Bitsy,’ out today, feels like a breath of fresh air. Teased online to the Haitian-American’s millions of social media followers, it represents the first offering from a singer, songwriter, producer, and performer who innately understands where pop is headed. Expect lots of brilliant shapeshifting songs from Bava to always lift your mood in the build-up to the summer.
Watch the official video for Itsy Bitsy now that premiered over on PAPER now;
Playlisting here
There’s been a strong build-up ahead of releasing her first song today, with over 13,000 of her fanbase already creating their own content from the teaser of Itsy Bitsy that Bava has uploaded. Written alongside collaborator KillaGraham, Bava explains “Itsy Bitsy is bold, unapologetic, cheeky and cute with intricate production that was lovingly yet painstaking to create . But most of all, it’s fun! It’s my first release as an artist and I wrote it at a time when I felt disempowered and needed to escape into a fantasized 1000ft tall boss version of myself taunting the one who hurt me. I hope it brings confidence and joy to everyone who listens”
Few artists launch their debut song with a hit already under their belt, but in the instance of Bava, she’s already co-penned DJ Snake, Cardi B, Ozuna, and Selena Gomez’s global smash Taki Taki in 2018 – where she coined the phrase for her sound: Slinky Pop. “My first instinct in calling it that was just this sinuous, playful nature of my music,” she says. “That it slinks around beats. I want you to be able to move to everything I’m doing.”
Speaking about what to expect from her future releases Bava adds “Itsy Bitsy is an introduction to me as an artist. My music goes between kind of feisty, ear-wormy, and flirtatious. I love blending the organic with the digital, so there’s real recorded cello and subway sounds mixed with digital drums and stylized synthetic effects.”
RORY CONNECTS WITH JAY ELECTRONICA & REGGIE ON ‘ ENOUGH’// WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Rory connects with hip hop legend Jay Electronica and Reggie on standout new offering, Enough. Arriving with a cinematic visual, the track showcases the distinctive flow of Jay Electronic, soulful vocals of Reggie and woozy beats to create a must listen. LISTEN HERE
MORE ON RORY
Rory, formerly of the Joe Budden Podcast, is now the co-host of one of the most popular podcasts in the world, New Rory & MAL, with millions of listeners per month. Rory’s involvement with the management of Emotional Oranges made the partnership with Avant Garden a natural fit. After teasing on his platforms over the past few months, Rory has released his hotly anticipated debut single, “I WANT YOU BUT YOU’LL NEVER KNOW…” A stunning alt-soul cut featuring brilliant contributions from SHELLEY FKA DRAM and Alex Isley, the track is an attention-grabbing entry point for Rory, who has spent the past 3 years carefully curating his debut album. Hand selecting and helping write and co-produce alongside artists that he’s supported over the past years, the project serves as a full circle moment.
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
