Sidney Bird is a southwestern darling making a name for herself in Brooklyn. Born and raised in Arizona, Bird holds her own in the scene of western pop artists like Kacey Musgraves and Leon Bridges, but also leans into the indie pop scene taking influence from the likes of Maggie Rogers and Noah Kahan. A true crossover act, Bird feels a strong creative impulse when home in Arizona, writing all of her songs there before fleshing them out with producers in Brooklyn. Her latest single “bitters” is about her encounters with snobby young men in high society who act childish and chauvinistic. The accompanying music video was filmed in Palm Springs and is a cinematic visual narrating the comedic story of a housewife and her pool boy.
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Join Grammy-nominated hitmaker, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Billy Mann on a journey through the twists and turns of failure in “Yeah, I F****d That Up.” Mann has had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with some of culture’s most influential figures. Drawing inspiration from one of his kids who really struggles with failure, Mann invites his guests to peel back the veneer of success and reveal the humanity beneath. From legendary musicians to top CEOs, the stories of failure, fuck-ups and redemption will inspire, enlighten, and entertain. So buckle up and get ready to learn from the best – and their worst – in this fascinating exploration of the human side of success.
In this week’s debut episode, Kelly Rowland opens up about the challenges she faced when Destiny’s Child disbanded, the heartbreaking moment she discovered she was let go from Sony through the internet, and even shares a story about accidentally revealing the gender of Beyonce’s baby during an interview.
Check out the premiere HERE
Maya Donovan is a 24-year-old singer-songwriter raised and based in Brooklyn, NY whose style draws on a host of genres: folk, soul, pop, and jazz. A masterful storyteller, Donovan writes of the most painful parts of life with unflinching honesty, empathy, and humor. Her rich voice, armed with delicate control, will pull you into her music and keep you there.
A graduate of New York City’s prestigious LaGuardia High School for Performing Arts (the “Fame” school), Donovan has been making music for as long as she can remember. Some of her first songs she wrote before the age of 10, hunched over a first-generation iMac computer. Donovan comes from a long line of creatives: daughter of Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Vanessa Roth, and granddaughter of screenwriter Eric Roth, whose prolific work includes the Forrest Gump screenplay.
Listening to Donovan’s music is an invitation to walk with her through the world as an anxious homebody, as someone who loves deeply and overthinks everything. In her songs, she reflects on subject matter ranging from living through the pandemic as a hypochondriac to the way the internet deludes us as we navigate interpersonal relationships.
Donovan’s songwriting has a distinctly modern sensibility, while remaining grounded in the familiar, accessible sounds of Laurel Canyon in the 1970s. When she’s looking for inspiration, Donovan immerses herself in the music of fellow contemporary female singer-songwriters such as Julia Jacklin, Weyes Blood, Madison Cunningham, and Fiona Apple.
About every 6 weeks, you can find Maya at The Bitter End in Greenwich Village where she is currently an artist in residence. There, she plays the same piano once touched by Stevie Wonder, Carole King, and Joni Mitchell (among many others). Onstage, Donovan is at home. She is wry, self-deprecating, and raw as she shares intimate stories with audience members and demonstrates that vulnerability is her greatest strength.
Quebec City-based The Blaze Velluto Collection shares new single ‘Baby (You Set My Love on Fire Everyday)’ out now on all digital streaming platforms via Duprince Records. Listen here.
‘Baby (You Set My Love on Fire Everyday)’ is the second single from The Blaze Velluto Collection’s third LP What’s on Your Mind? set for release on September 29th. Written by Blaze about his musical and life partner Little Miss Roy (who shares vocals on the song), the countryfied folk rock track feels new and timeless at the same time.
“We met twenty years ago in the month of May,” says Blaze. “We had our share of bad weather, but mostly sunshine. Infatuation is a phase, love is not. Here’s an introduction to our story.”
The Blaze Velluto Collection takes its name from a collection of songs assembled by the enigmatic Blaze himself. Raised in Quebec City’s anglophone community, he carries a music without boundaries through a blend of rock n’ roll, folk, country, pop and R&B, wrapped in a benevolent psychedelic spirit and fertile imagery. This amalgam of genres also shines through the project’s iconic visual identity. Over the years, Blaze has delivered music videos that transcend the limits of the mind. Look for the live session video for ‘Baby (You Set My Love on Fire Everyday)’ later this month.
Since releasing their debut album Weatherman in 2017, The Blaze Velluto Collection has captivated Quebec and Canadian audiences, playing in festivals with a show that transports us to coastal America in the heart of July. On stage, Blaze is surrounded by a core group of musicians and singers composed of Little Miss Roy, Sheenah Ko, Guillaume Chiasson (Bon Enfant) and Jean-Étienne Collin-Marcoux (Beat Sexü). In the studio, he has made a habit of bringing together more than fifteen artists and friends during the production of his albums. Once again, the experiment has been fruitful, with Blaze preparing to unveil the expansive sound of What’s on Your Mind? this fall, like a pledge to an endless summer.
The Hails release the next single off their upcoming debut record, “Heaven” featuring Kwin. Tactfully intertwining the soaring delicacy of front man Robbie Kingsley’s vocals and the fervent richness of guitarist Franco Solari’s, the song sees the band locked into perfect step with each other. Celestially multiplying in sonic elements, “Heaven” is almost waltz-like as the Florida five-piece demonstrates the fluidity of the grooves they are known for creating – Stream.
Solari shared, “’Heaven’ emerged as our first in-person collaboration after months of remote songwriting, fostering a melodic exchange between myself and Robbie. As the penultimate single from our debut album, it incites introspection about one’s lasting influence, even in absence. The poignant question, ‘If I was in heaven… would you fall in love again?’ persists, underpinned by a steady drumbeat symbolizing life’s constant progression. A climactic flurry of strings offers a glimmer of hope for an eternal reunion.”
The band today also announces their first ever headline tour. Throughout the month of September, The Hails will hit key East Coast and Midwest markets including D.C., New York, Chicago, Nashville, their home state of Florida, and many others, with support from Cannibal Kids and Shallow Alcove. Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at 9am local. See all tour info here and below.
Most recently, the band wrapped up their Fun Run Tour alongside The Happy Fits, The Beaches and the moss, with sold out shows in Nashville, Dallas, Chicago, Columbus and Brooklyn.
Avant-garde pop anti-hero – ENJOYABLE LISTENS – will release a brand new single suitably-titled: “Summer Hit”.
Planning a number of UK shows around the release, the alias of Luke Duffett will be taking his live performance to venues and festivals across the nation, including multiple appearances at this year’s Glastonbury, plus support shows with Electric Six and Suep. Dates below.
Enjoyable Listens is a man, a machine and an enigma wrapped in a ball of mysterious dark wool. Having built an indie-rock-solid foundation using only melody, mayhem and an admirable ability to croon a series of pop smashes whilst teetering on a bar stool, new single “Summer Hit” sees the infallible actor continuing to warm to the task.
Funnelling inebriated ‘80s theatricality through luxurious layers of molten melodies and sun-dappled dreamhouse-ery, Enjoyable Listens explains:
“The original “Summer Hit” demo was the first thing I ever self-recorded. I wrote it during lockdown, and its name comes from a to-do list I had on the 9th April 2020 which read:
- Re-learn how to kick-flip
- Make focaccia
- Write summer hit
- Complete Ratchet and Clank 3”
While his attempts at gymnastics, baking and gaming may not have been quite so fruitful, “Summer Hit” certainly ticks the box. Re-recorded with Joseph Futák and Elanor Moss on backing vocals, the new track features a heady amalgam of mellotron, seagull noises and an aromatic indie-swooning that feels just as mellow as it does melodramatic.
WESSON is a British alt/rock band led by singer/songwriter Chris Wesson. Based in Milton Keynes, the four-piece band was formed under the mutual decision to find like-minded souls who needed music as part of their everyday life and essence to their being. Along with bassist Callum, guitarist Jimmy, and drummer Dale, WESSON creates music which is relatable, conversational and meaningful.
With each band member coming from a different musical background, WESSON soaks up an amalgam of influences, resulting in a collective mix of pop, punk rock and indie with soaring vocal parts and an overall sound which is entirely its own.
Emitting a gritty rock undertone, bold melodic bass riffs and driving drum beats, WESSON delivers a soundtrack to everyday life events, touching on reflections and memories that pass them by. Their organic approach to songwriting allows their music to be honest and identifiable. Spreading messages of living unapologetically, the band shares, “We hope to inspire others to be honest with their life and not be frightened to be themselves.”
Their latest track “My Self” narrates recognising vulnerability, mortality and individuality while soul searching and looking for meaning and a purpose to life. The band share, “My Self is about being triggered by watching people go about their daily activities and reflecting on how pointless it all seems in the grand scheme of things.” The track instantly hooks listeners in with its driving, upbeat percussion, gritty guitars, and infectious harmonies. With a toe-tapping rhythm the band takes you on a reflective journey. With thought-provoking lyrics, they shed light on the human experience, urging listeners to reevaluate the meaning of life and take time for moments of self-discovery.
Having gigged across the UK, supporting artists such as The Bluetones, Callum Beattie and Lucy Spraggan, WESSON are set for an exciting 2023, with more releases and gigs to be announced soon.
Sia Shells is a Toronto based singer and songwriter that rhymes about the everyday magic we find through relationships, self love, reflection and dreams. Her emotive contralto vocals juxtaposed against upbeat dream pop sounds instantly transport you to another world. Her new album is diving into the mermaid world, with enchanting lyrics and tropical sounds that are worthy of your next beach day.
Born in Ethiopia and raised in South Minneapolis, Mati has quickly established himself as a vital new voice in music. Rapping and singing with dexterity and cutting close to the bone with incisive, confessional writing, he’s shown versatility across styles while maintaining a singular vision. With his debut EP, Thoughts In Cursive (June 23, AGAINST GIANTS), Mati channels a lifetime of experience—the gospel music of his mother, his father’s refugee journey, and the wisdom of his older siblings—all into one of the most unforgettable introductions in recent memory.
Still just 22 years old, Mati isn’t letting any possible eventuality get in the way of the now. “I’m an overthinker,” he admits. “I think about the past and the future a lot. But I’m trying to teach myself to be present.” With Thoughts In Cursive, Mati offers a prismatic look at just how much joy and longing, anguish and relief, ego and humility can be suspended in a single moment in time.
Mati grew up in South Minneapolis, having moved there around the age of three from his native Ethiopia. His father had fled their home country first, landing initially in Los Angeles before coming north; soon he sent for his wife and four children, of whom Mati is the youngest.
Mati always knew he had a talent for writing, but through most of his school career, this manifested in poetry filling his math and science notebooks. Still, Mati found another medium to be a more natural outlet. The first piece of recorded work that he released to the public was a spoken word piece inspired by the civil unrest that followed George Floyd’s murder in the spring of 2020. “It was just something I wanted to do—felt obligated to do,” Mati says of the politically minded passage. “It wasn’t meant to be anything that got myself attention.”
Despite his obvious gift for language, Mati was still finding his voice. Through the gospel music that filled his house influenced the passion you hear in his work. Critics and audiences took immediate notice, he earned rave reviews from local and national press, with Minneapolis’s The Current calling him a “vibrant new voice” and Earmilk calling “Please Don’t Tempt Me” a “refreshing anthem for the summer months.”
Sparkling, sensuous, and female-forward: Ilona is a powerhouse pop performer and songwriter whose artistry presents a fierce alchemy of irresistible hooks, exquisite vocals, and self-reliant liberation.
Two back-to-back singles serve as an alluring introduction: “Catch My Vibe,” propelled by a smoldering Latin groove, is lifted by an arc of multiple harmonies — all Ilona — spiraling upward in choral ascension. “Post pandemic, we are craving human connections,” affirms Ilona of the song’s message. “I’m saying, ‘I want you to take me to a higher level of intimacy, mentally and emotionally.’ And to also have fun.”
“Talk to My Body,” is a hypnotic invitation with a proclamation of freedom. “It’s a dilemma for women” Ilona says. “We are constantly taught that our bodies are not our own. This song shows a woman in power, coming from a place of equity and equality. I am finally able to express myself sensually from a place of strength.”
Belying her camera-ready image, Ilona has small town roots. From Apple Valley, Minnesota, the daughter of a Russian/Ukrainian family, she describes herself as an “introverted extrovert,” who was ostracized for being different. “Not fully American, and not totally Russian,” she explains. But her mom, a classically trained musician, built a dance studio in their home, and encouraged her creativity. “It’s because of her guidance and support that I am here,” Ilona confirms. “It’s a privilege to carry the torch for her on the path she opened up for me, to expose the strength of her steps.”
A lifelong dancer trained in gymnastics, Ilona notes that artists who connected their emotions to movement served as a blueprint: Beyonce, Rihanna, and Shakira. As a vocal student at Berklee College of Music in Boston, she found inspiration in a virtual lecture by composer Hans Zimmer, and his journey of creative independence.
When Ilona moved back to Minnesota during the pandemic, it was her mom who encouraged her to relocate to Los Angeles. “She is a very present figure,” testifies Ilona. “ We have an unshakeable trust; she is the one who I listen to.” To finance the move, Ilona drove for Uber and Lyft, and saved up money to live for six months. “I was able to explore the city, come home to my Airbnb, and work on hooks.” And being alone, she channeled a deep introspective creativity. “Processing my thoughts through my songwriting,” she says.
Rising pop artist Gabi Sklar reveals the music video for her new single, “Good Kisser.”
“Good Kisser” is a sultry and sophisticated pop anthem that highlights Gabi’s captivating vocal range. “The song explores the ‘maybe I should, maybe I shouldn’t’ relationship with a really good friend — it’s about that push-and-pull of intuition vs. temptation,” she says. Since releasing last month, the single has racked up 150K streams, as well as praise from tastemakers like Rolling Stone and Celeb Secrets.
For the “Good Kisser” music video, Gabi collaborated with director Justin Thorne (House of Giuseppe) to bring the song to life. “What I like most about the music video is that it allowed me to step outside of myself and play various characters,” Gabi elaborates. “I also really adore 60s glamor which made it that much more fun to experiment with different vignettes, personas and aesthetics inspired by that decade.”
Capturing the hearts of millions with her powerful vocals and dynamic songwriting, 23-year-old Gabi Sklar has quickly emerged as one of pop’s most exciting new acts. With only a handful of singles released so far, the New York-based singer and songwriter has already racked up 3.5 million TikTok followers, 1.2 million Instagram followers, and 126K Spotify monthly listeners.
School’s out, and Lil Mabu is ready to heat up the summer! After cracking the Billboard Hot 100 and independently posting up hundreds of millions of streams, the rapidly rising rapper and New York phenomenon unveils a new single and music video entitled “Rich Scholar” today.
The track’s trap bass and melodic undertones provide the perfect backdrop for him to host a lyrical lesson of his own. He rips through raucous rhymes on the verses only to ignite a hard-hitting and hypnotic hook, “I’m a rich scholar, got the city shook, I make top dollar like a white collar crook!” In the accompany visual, a group of parents and students protest him outside of a local high school. They call for his expulsion and repeat in a cadence, “M-A-B-U, kick him out or we will sue!” However, he pulls up and proceeds to stir up a frenzy much to their chagrin. As an added bonus, he shot the video at a Manhattan school co-starring actual classmates.
You’ve got to see it to believe it!
quinnie is a 21 year old folk artist. Writing songs since early childhood, quinnie began making and casually releasing DIY recordings of her music in high school. She attended one year of college, though dropped out after her freshman year and moved to LA to pursue music full time. quinnie’s music is executive produced by her best friend and roommate, Jake Weinberg. The comfort and familiarity of this process provides quinnie’s vulnerable and intimate lyrics a safe place to land, lyrics which are mostly written in the comfort of her own bed with her cat by her side.
Despite being inspired by folk, ambient, and pop artists alike, quinnie doesn’t have one word to define her music. However, she can promise you this: the music is sentimental and earnest, with a sprinkle of playfulness and a truckload of honesty. Having wanted to be a marine biologist for most of her childhood years, quinnie’s music is greatly inspired by a love for the underwater world. quinnie hopes her music has the capacity to transport you to an array of biomes, whether it be the lush deciduous forests of New Jersey, or the vibrant tide pools she loves to explore in California. Above all else, she wants you to find beauty in the details: a smooth stone from the beach or a bolt found on the ground. Magic is all around us, you just need to know where to look.
quinnie just released her debut album in February called “flounder”, which boasts breakout songs like “touch tank” and fan favorites like “man” and “get what u get”. So far, quinnie has incited the applause of The New York Times, Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, MTV, Ones To Watch, and more.
Amassing over 30 billion streams to date, multi-platinum hip-hop heavyweight, Trippie Redd, returns with his new single “Took My Breath Away” featuring singer and girlfriend Skye Morales. Get it HERE via 10K Projects.
Alongside the track, arrives the official video – watch it HERE. Directed by Loris Russier [J Balvin, Burna Boy, SiR], the visual adds color to the love story surrounding the track, featuring Trippie and Skye in their first ever collaboration as a couple.
Just included Spotify’s ‘Top 50 Most Streamed Rappers,’ Trippie Redd kicks off this next era of music with the first single off his highly anticipated upcoming album A Love Letter To You 5. The series that started it all back in 2017, A Love Letter To You notoriously highlights themes of love through smooth hip-hop flows backed by iconic samples and beats. With four iterations released in the last six years, the upcoming album guarantees to see Trippie at his best, with “Took My Breath Away” hinting at more to come.
The new single follows the release of his Mansion Musikmixtape, which dropped earlier this year featuring the likes of Travis Scott, Future, Chief Keef and JuiceWRLD. The fan-focused surprise drop zoomed up the charts instantly, coming in at #1 on Billboard’s Rap Albums Chart and #2 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart. It also debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart marking Trippie’s seventh consecutive Top 5 debut on the list. Additionally, the project saw 7 songs debut on the US Spotify Chart bringing Trippie’s total career entries to 143 songs – the 6th most of any artist.
Eighty Ninety — the indie-pop project of brothers Abner (vocals, production) and Harper (guitar, production) James — present their new single, “Face Like A Sunset,” out on all streaming platforms today.
Following recent singles “2 Carat” and “Stay Alive, “Face Like A Sunset” offers another glimpse of the bands forthcoming debut album, due out later this year. On “Face Like A Sunset,” Abner’s signature breathy vocals glide over a steady, driving indie-pop instrumentation. It’s a blissful track that feels just like a warm summer eve.
Abner elaborates on the new single: “It’s a song about the little moments when you realize you’re falling in love, and how the very moment you realize you want to spend forever with someone, you begin to feel the press of time. A sunset is beautiful partly because you know it won’t last.”
Eighty Ninety is the project of Brooklyn-based brothers Abner (vocals, production) and Harper (guitar, production) James. They fuse intimate storytelling, sticky melodies, and minimalist pop productions built on acoustic instruments and electronic sounds in a style they call “808s and telecasters” — a shorthand for both their music and their anything-goes mentality in the studio. To date, they’ve racked up over 33 million streams across their singles and two EPs – ‘Elizabeth‘ and ‘The Night Sky‘ – and have received glowing reviews from tastemakers like Billboard, Alternative Press and Ones To Watch. Their debut LP is due out later this year.
Meeting widespread demand from fans everywhere, rising critically acclaimed San Antonio, TX rapper Mike Dimes presents his anxiously awaited new album, Texas Boy, today. Listen HERE.
To coincide with the album’s release, Mike also drops the highly anticipated single and video for “ARSENAL” featuring Denzel Curry. The visual is the perfect kickoff to the album and new era for Mike Dimes. When asked about the growth since the project Mike says “Im more confident, mature and vulnerable this album, less monotone and more animated. Wide range of emotions and stories, you’ll go out knowing more about me than when you came in.”
Mike will be also performing at official Texas Boy Release Party at Paper Tiger in San Antonio.
The 14-track body of work affirms his place at the forefront of hip-hop’s next generation. Fueled by airtight rapping, quotable punchlines, and woozy hooks, the album illuminates his inimitable presence. Early on, “WHISKEY N WEED” intoxicates with its soulful throwback choir sample as Mike takes stock of the journey thus far. He practically grins, “They counting me out, shout out to momma and poppa, I made a ‘ M’ in their house. I don’t think they can get to me now.” Then, there’s “ARSENAL” [feat. Denzel Curry]. Horns resound in the background as a thick bass line booms under breathy verses. He warns, “I ain’t talking for free,” and laments, “I just spilt my cup all on my kicks.” Elsewhere, “GREEN” [feat. Wiz Khalifa & Hoodlum] puffs out hazy bars as an instantly arresting smoker’s anthem. “HATCHBACK” [feat. Joey Bada$$] boasts verbal fireworks in the midst of a thumping bass line and ominous synths.
A child of Baltimore, Lauren Lakis grew to embrace the fatalistic spirit of the city in her work and art. With stunningly raw, haunting tones, Lakis is “a breath of fresh air in the music industry, arriving with her own brand of ‘delightfully gut-churning shoegaze’” (Flaunt). Authentic and honest lyricism, paired with lush, darkly romantic vibes, her songs are “a refreshing change from today’s polite rock…” (Earmilk).
Following the release of her debut full-length Ferocious with Cavity Search Records (Elliott Smith, Helio Sequence) in 2018, Lakis delivered audiences her slowcore heavy, baritone-driven follow-up EP, Sad Girl Breakfast. Both records were produced by Billy Burke (REL, Luna Lovebad) with additional engineering by Grammy-winning mixer Chris Kasych (Adele, Deftones, Phantogram, HAIM). Both releases have gone on to garner radio airplay on 40+ stations nationwide, and placement on 65+ Spotify playlists. Lakis has also licensed tracks to Dating Pains and The Drunch.
Her latest LP, Daughter Language, was released in 2021 with Green Witch Recordings. It has received critical acclaim from Flaunt, Wonderland, Earmilk, Ladygunn, Buzzbands LA, Grimy Goods, Atwood Magazine, and more, with 1st Day Fresh naming it “a rock gem…the music is equally as powerful as the message with an electric magnetism rarely found in today’s overproduced records”. Daughter Language was recorded at Seahorse Sound with Billy Burke producing and Chris Kasych & Samur Khouja (Devendra Banhart, Deerhunter, Chastity Belt) mixing.
Lakis and her full band have toured the West Coast extensively, having shared bills with Ringo Deathstarr, Holy Wave, Sea Wolf, Peel Dream Magazine, and Drowse. The band sold out the Doug Fir Lounge with Coastlands and Pacific Latitudes, as well as The Catalyst Santa Cruz, supporting Flor & Winnetka Bowling League. Lauren also performed a pair of shows with Grammy-nominated rocker Tracy Bonham. Prior to the return of live music, she performed several live-streamed shows, partnering with Bands In Town, Jam in the Van, B Side TV, Rock to End Rape Culture, KXLU, ACLU, and JuJu Live.
The upcoming album A Fiesta and a Hell was recorded in Austin, TX with Carey McGraw producing (Wild Child, Josie Lockhart), Elliott Frazier mixing (Ringo Deathstarr, Blushing), and Christopher Colbert (Mazzy Star, Starflyer 59, Leon Bridges) mastering. Leading single “TAKE MY HAND” is about “forgetting what you thought you knew, letting go and bravely opening your mind to something radically different,” confides Lauren Lakis. “TERROR TEARS” the second single is a battle cry against the media propaganda machine, government hypocrisy and lies, that is set to 80s punk/goth rock inspired beats and reverb soaked guitar and vocals. A Fiesta and a Hell will be released Fall 2023 with Green Witch Recordings.
THOM SOUTHERN is pleased to confirm ‘So Long My Friend’; a brand new solo album slated for release on 8th September 2023 (via Mighty Good Leader).
A rapid follow-up to his 2022 NI Music Prize-nominated debut ‘Plaza’, it’s also a record that finds the prolific Belfast songwriter returning to his lo-fi roots. Turning a decisive corner on the shoegazey sheen of his previous work, Southern teases this future release today with the lead single “Let Someone Else In”.
LISTEN TO “LET SOMEONE ELSE IN” HERE
With its hooky vocal refrain of “you make me complete” intended as a wry reference to the “you complete me” phrase that made 90s rom-com Jerry Maguire an endearing pop-hit, “Let Someone Else In” sees Southern turning-in a future cult classic of his own.
Showcasing a newfound willingness to be sonically exposed, Thom’s open-hearted writing is placed centre-stage on a single that pares-back the production to illuminate a tender lyrical tale. Touching on what it means to find that someone who feels like your other half, and just what it can mean to lose them, Thom explains:
“I just thought that idea as a lyric was so nice. The idea of meeting someone who completes you is great. It’s a heartache song too about the emotional journey of coming out of a long term relationship and the struggle of learning how to move on but I wanted it to be playful, so it has this uplifting positive feeling at the end where it’s all going to be fine. That’s kind of running through all my songs at the moment – kind of like, ‘That was s**t, but it’s going to be ok. Do yourself a favour and let someone else in.’”
Turning the contrast up on his more melancholic sense of harmony, “Let Someone Else In” is an outright peak with all the heart-stung brilliance of Built To Spill, (Sandy) Alex G, Kurt Vile or Pixies at their most understated. Written with his long-time friend Ben Simon during a spell in which Thom had relocated to England, the pair began writing together, with Simon’s adept skills with an acoustic guitar proving to be the lightbulb moment he had been seeking to inspire the direction of his new album. As Thom remembers of the experience:
“I became so inspired by acoustic music again. I hadn’t felt like that in a while as I’d spent a few years leading up to it totally obsessed with electric guitar and experimenting with pedals. This track really paved the way for everything else I’ll be releasing this year that focuses more round my vocals and an acoustic guitar. It’s funny because it’s very similar to the music I used to make as a teenager, it feels like I’ve done a full creative circle at the moment, it’s a real buzz.”
JIM LOCKEY & THE SOLEMN SUN – return with the invigorating indie-rock cut: “Medicine”.
STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE || WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
The latest track to be lifted from their first album in nearly a decade, ‘Colour’ (out 28 July, via Xtra Mile Recordings), finds the Cheltenham four-piece in the rudest of health. A revitalising dose of what they do best, its blend of heart-racing guitar riffs, captivating chorus hooks and a high-stakes lyrical narrative make “Medicine” an essential new addition to the JL&SS catalogue.
Describing that feeling of watching something you love slipping through your finger-tips, Jim Lockey explains of “Medicine’:
“Medicine’ is an admission of feeling powerless; trying to gain perspective of where things went wrong but also understanding there’s little I can do to stop what’s on the horizon. Sometimes the things you work hardest at are the things you’re most likely to lose. ‘You and I will never know why, we had it all and let it go’”
South London artist and creative Stepz drops high-calibre visuals for his infectious rap cut “Grandpa Track” ft. grime veterans Pete & Bas – via GRM DAILY.
Following the release of his highly anticipated debut EP Step By Stepz and an incendiary sold-out headline performance at O2 Academy Islington2, TikTok’s #1 most-viewed UK artist is fully immersed in another breakthrough year. A clear impulse for addictive soundwaves is effortlessly showcased across “Grandpa Track”. Laced with chest-rattling 808s and mellow-drill textures, Stepz trades sleek bars blooming with the authenticity of an artist at his most comfortable and potent, before UK favourites Pete & Bas bless the record with typical finesse. Alongside an electric video directed by Don Prod (Kwengface, Headie One, Digga D) that captures the essence
of South London, Stepz’s vigorous musical and entrepreneurial reflex will no doubt define his presence as a true UK rap success story in the making.
Part of the exciting UK management stable FlyStr8, Stepz’ motivational, entrepreneurial spirit and lyrical energy recalls the cream of Grime icons like Dizzee Rascal and JME, conveying a hunger for developing infrastructure beyond music. This desire has seen him recently unveil his brand-new school shoe Steppers – a pioneering shoe brand designed and developed in partnership with London Sneaker School. Reconciling with his own experience in school not being able to afford the “on-trend” clothes and shoes, Steppers aim to deliver affordable and stylish school gear for young people throughout the UK.
After releasing his viral hit single “Pacman” ft. Fizzler last year, Stepz became the most viewed UK artist on TikTok for 2022, beating the likes of Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles and Sam Smith. His unique artistry and visionary mind have seen critical attention come swiftly from all corners, from NME and COMPLEX to BBC and THE EVENING STANDARD, highlighted in THE FACE’s 2023 Spring Issue as One To Watch. With well over 10M streams on Spotify alone and co-signs from international superstar Michael Dapaah to UK icons AJ Tracey and Dizzee Rascal (who brought Stepz out at The O2 for the 20th Anniversary of Boy In Da Corner), Stepz is solidifying his position as one of the brightest and most innovative new names in the UK landscape.
A young mogul making educated business moves across the industry, Stepz is already creating an electrifying legacy and shows no sign of slowing down.
Back in Europe with a brand new single to his name – MICKELSON – returns with “Jump Off The Earth” this Summer.
Released on 16th June, the new single arrives ahead of a stretch of new shows across the UK + Ireland (listed below) and swiftly follows his warmly-received collaboration with XTC’s Colin Moulding, “Only Grey Matter Boiling In My Head”, from earlier this year.
STREAM “JUMP OFF THE EARTH” ON YOUTUBE HERE || ALL SERVICES HERE
Taking a leap of faith, “Jump Off The Earth”, is an experimental new single that sees the US alternative folk/rock songwriter reaching into bold creative stratospheres.
A song that comments on the passing of time and the inevitable shadow of our mortality, it is also one that finds the veteran San Francisco artist invigorated by life and all it has to offer. With a message to seize the moment while it’s ours to take, Mickelson explains of it:
“I feel grateful for the life I’ve led as an artist but I’m also aware that the time left to continue is becoming more precious. I’ve gotten to the point where I will not let anyone or anything slow me down or interfere with the momentum I’ve built. In “Jump Off The Earth”, I’m saying there’s no time to waste. We need to let go of the negative things that hold us back and move beyond them. Or try at least – ha!”
Underpinned by Mickelson’s warm and weathered vocal, he unfurls ruminative and cryptic choral hooks like: “Every minute is a minute gone // No time to plan ahead // I can’t tell you if I’m right or wrong I don’t want to leave you // I just need to jump off the Earth”; each lyric landing with the impact of a raindrop on Jupiter.
“I’d been playing around with the chorus riff on the banjo for a couple of years then when I experienced an unpleasant incident in my personal life, I thought to myself that I was wasting time ruminating over it. The lyric “Every minute is a minute gone.” came to mind and the rest of the song fell into place” adds Mickelson.
Alive with hyperreal sonic textures and off-kilter time-signatures, “Jump Off The Earth” conjures a Salvador Dali-esque palette for the ears. Initially written and demoed in Mickelson’s San Francisco Bay Area studio last year, the track was fleshed-out at Earthworm Studios in Swindon, UK with the assistance of studio-owner/keyboardist Jon Buckett and drummer Lee Moulding; both of whom perform in his live band. With percussion that ticks like grains of sand falling through an hourglass, the result song opens-up a vortex of winding banjo thrums, ethereal synthesisers, and gravitational basslines that transport the listener through a labyrinthine world of sound. Finalised and mixed back in the US, “Jump Off The Earth ” was mastered by Bob Weston (Chicago Mastering) in 2023.
Playing an integral role in the progression of UK Drill in its early years, Dimzy, a member of 67, has unleashed the visuals to his latest street heater, ‘Grafter’, set to feature on his forthcoming mixtape ‘Dim The Lights 2’.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: DIMZY – GRAFTER
Reputable for his gritty sound and unapologetic approach, Dimzy has continued with exactly that in this latest track. Encapsulating the feeling and experience of being a young black man growing up in London, ‘Grafter’ explores the fight and will-power that comes with it. Referencing his Mum as a big inspiration behind his determination to succeed, he tells a tale that many will relate to. Underpinned with a skittering beat, his gruff tone and slick flow create an honest and raw account of his life.
Paired alongside a set of dark visuals, we follow Dimzy around a house party alongside his friends and various voluptuous women. Speaking on the release Dimzy commented, “Grafter is about me being a young black man in the UK speaking on what London is like right now. It’s about my determination to win in everything including war, war on being the best version of my myself and to keep driving at full force no matter the barriers I come across. Every day for a young black man is war, so war is war, if you want it that’s that. I’m a hustler and grafter just like my mum; my mum was my biggest motivation when it came to getting money, she always found a way no matter the circumstances that’s why I’m the hustler I am today.”
FAKE A SMILE REVEAL DEBUT EP ‘SHOOT ME TO THE MOON’// LISTEN HERE
WATCH VIDEO FOR ‘APPETITE’ HERE
Having picked up wide support across first releases Prom Dress and Don’t Stop, buzzy Bournemouth based trio Fake A Smile today reveal their stellar debut EP ‘ Shoot Me To The Moon’. Created with Mercury Award winning producer Gianluca Buccellati, the EP arrives with a video for ‘Appetite’ and cements these newcomers as a band to watch over the coming months. Speaking on the release, they state:
This ep is an introduction to Fake a Smile and it’s been the first opportunity we’ve had to solidify our sound. Admiration, nostalgia and relationships are all themes on the ep. It’s an honest representation of where we were at when we wrote these songs. We hope you enjoy it.
Harlem’s R&B princess Journey Montana releases her new anthemic Jersey Club single, “Ain’t Mine,” featuring Philly-based singer Lay Bankz.
Get “Ain’t Mine” HERE via 10K Projects.
“Being a woman in the industry, it is important to know your worth before anyone else can tell you differently. ‘Ain’t Mine’ is a Jersey-drill dance collaboration with my girl Lay Bankz about being single, having options and, ultimately, being aware of your value,” says Journey. “This song is anything but sad girl vibes. It’s about being your most authentic, over-the-top and outspoken self.”
The new track follows her recent single “212,” a R&B love letter to the iconic New York area code Journey calls home featuring her hypnotic, confident croon. As she reflects on the near-universal fears of growing old, bad exes and her drive to succeed, she remains with her feet planted firmly on the concrete. Coupled with a stunning On The Radar freestyle and a live performance for Los Angeles’ TheBasement Series, the stars are aligning for Journey to be a playlist staple for the summer.
“Ain’t Mine” continues her hard-hitting run, after last year’s slew of successful singles, which included tracks such as “Looking For Love” and “Bad Decisions,” the latter of which boasts over a million Spotify streams after going viral on TikTok. With new music on the way, 2023 is expected to be the rising star’s biggest year yet. Bear witness to Journey Montana’s ascent to R&B royalty.
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
