Japanese legend Shinichi Osawa makes his label debut with his new FCKNJP EP out now via Dirtybird Records.
An ambitious debut from one of Asia’s most eclectic electronic visionaries, FCKNJP is a hyperactive two-track exploration into the spontaneous spirit of Shinichi Osawa’s iconic style. The EP kickstarts with ‘LUVTECHNO’, a percussive-heavy opener that spirals with acidic energy and dizzying progressions over its five minutes. Its companion, ‘FCKNJP’, is equally equipped with erratic and volatile parities as it weaves through tenacious countermelodies and high-powered builds. Attention-grabbing from start to finish, FCKNJP is a sublime experimental offering from Osawa.
Shinichi Osawa is a Japanese musician, composer, DJ, and producer. His current projects include the critically-acclaimed MONDO GROSSO, RHYME SO, and an orchestra project, Thousand Tears Orchestra. As a producer/remixer, Osawa has worked with various artists such as Boys Noize, Benny Benassi, Felix the Housecat, Digitialism, Duck Sauce, and more. Osawa is active in a wide range of fields, from creating music for ads, spatial music, anime and soundtracks to producing an analog record-focused music bar. In 2017, he revived his MONDO GROSSO project with a new album Reborn Again and Always Starting New, the first following a 14-year hiatus. FCKNJP marks Shinichi Osawa’s debut release on Dirtybird and first original EP under his given name in nearly 15 years.
Shinichi Osawa invites the flock on a wild ride with his new FCKNJP EP out now.
Gibson, the iconic instrument brand, has announced the launch of the Gibson Band, which features a revolving collective of Gibson artists. Today, the Gibson Band is launching the first single, “Deconstruction,” which was co-written by Serj Tankian of System of a Down and Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson, and features Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath on guitar. Listen to “Deconstruction,” out now on Gibson Records, HERE.
Gibson Records, Cesar Gueikian, Serj Tankian, and Tony Iommi will donate all proceeds from the sale of the song “Deconstruction,” as well as the funds raised from the auction of Serj Tankian’s painting and a unique Les Paul guitar (details below) via Gibson Gives, and the Corporación America Foundation will match the funds raised from the auction–with all funds going to Armenia Fund’s Artsakh Refugee Initiative. Tankian, Gueikian, and the Eurnekian family are all of Armenian descent, and the Armenia Fund provides humanitarian assistance to the people of Armenia and global Armenian communities through the development of vital infrastructure projects, educational, cultural, healthcare, and disaster relief programs, as well as direct assistance to families and individuals. For more information, visit: https://www.armeniafund.org/.
MËSTIZA, the Spanish duo known for blending dance music and Flamenco in a fashion like never before, release their debut album, QUËRELES. The project, arriving via their own label, Sacro Music, is an exercise in defending global avant-garde and Spanish tradition.
QUËRELES serves as an introduction to MËSTIZA by perfectly representing the creative universe they have inhabited for some time in their SACRO party and performances worldwide. It condenses it into twelve tracks where the pain and sorrow—the feelings of flamenco and Spanish roots—unite with the vigor and hedonism of the most interesting offerings in the world of house and electronic music.
MËSTIZA first’s step onto the scene was their SACRO parties, held monthly with numerous international locations (in 2022, they were in Mykonos, Canada, Paris, Dubai, Tulum, Ibiza, and Miami, among others). This concept combined spirituality, rituals, fashion, art, and, of course, music with a lot of style and personality. With one foot on the dancefloor and the other on a flamenco stage, MËSTIZA took their artistic direction worldwide.
A trailblazer in the electronic music domain, Eli Brown has infused club music with an electrifying energy since his emergence in 2016. Emerging from Bristol’s iconic dance scene, Brown’s productions evoke the raw, atmospheric essence of his roots, juxtaposing dark, immersive soundscapes with high-velocity rhythms. His distinctive style has skyrocketed him to industry prominence, earning accolades from icons like Carl Cox, Adam Beyer, Lilly Palmer, Charlotte De Witte, and many others. Eli’s track ‘Believe’ topped the charts, and his release ‘Escape’ marked the inception of the ‘factory 93‘ label under Insomniac. His remix of LFO‘s “Freak” dominated Beatport charts, and his track “Be the One” went viral at Coachella, amassing over 100 million views. This surge in popularity is a testament to his burgeoning status as a techno powerhouse. Collaborations with Calvin Harris under the Love Regenerator project further cement his place as a sought-after producer in dance music.
Love Bash release “Say What You Mean,” featuring Larry James. This is the fourth in a string of singles culminating in a self-titled, debut EP that serves as an unforgettable introduction to a uniquely simpatico duo in the first flush of what will surely prove a prolific creative life, fairly shimmering with imagination and ambition, promise and excitement. LISTEN HERE.
Utterly modern in its tech but fully organic in its artistry, the collection of songs see the Philadelphia area-based duo of Adi Adessi (she/her) and Brandon Christopher (he/him) reconfiguring contemporary pop with an exuberant, emotionally charged interplay of deeply felt songwriting, collectivist performance, ingenious production techniques, and limitless invention.
Central to Love Bash’s objective was to showcase their songs by platforming a cadre of wholly dissimilar yet remarkably gifted vocal artists, each of whom adds beguiling shades to Adi and Brandon’s already variegated palette. Love Bash opened themselves to the world with a series of singles beginning with the electrifying “Never Know,” almost a mission statement of sound and purpose featuring edgy vocals from rocker Elizabeth Kinslow. “Go My Way” followed, a classic anthem of brave self-acceptance, given majesty and depth via classically trained singer Ruby Dibble’s determined performance. Next came “Lemonade,” perhaps the most playful confection in the Love Bash canon, a lighthearted burst of reflection and clarity with blissful vocals from the project’s “pop princess,” Rachael Green. The explosive “Say What You Mean” completes the introductory wave of singles, featuring soul-powered vocals from veteran musician/sound engineer (and longtime John Legend collaborator) Larry James.
Born out of a love affair with melodies and the magic of storytelling, Aurelance is set to paint the airwaves with a debut that’s as genuine as it gets. Aurelance’s journey into the world of music began with the hum of childhood, where singing was more than a pastime; it was an exploration of emotions. The debut marks the culmination of years spent translating personal experiences into lyrics, creating a musical canvas that reflects life’s highs, lows, and everything in between. From deeply personal moments to universal themes, Aurelance’s lyrics are a glimpse into a world where real stories take center stage.
Genres? Well, Aurelance believes in the beauty of a musical melting pot. So, expect a mix that defies expectations, a debut that refuses to be confined by labels. It’s a musical journey where you’re just as likely to find a soulful ballad as an upbeat groove. Aurelance isn’t just a stage name; it’s a promise of an experience. It’s about passion, strength, vulnerability, truth, sensuality and love—all woven into the fabric of the debut.
Saturday night (1/6), The Art of Elysium, a non-profit organization with a focus on healing and inspiring through art, hosted its 2024 HEAVEN Gala at The Wiltern in Los Angeles. The gala served as a celebration of the organization’s 25th anniversary and honored the following:
- Writer, director, and producer Neil Gaiman with The Visionary Award where he transformed the venue from a music venue to a mystical library for his version of “HEAVEN on Earth” where knowledge is free and refuge is given. Gaiman teamed up with his longtime collaborator, Good Omens production designer Michael Ralph, to bring his vision to life and enlisted playwright Jeremy O. Harris to serve as the evening’s “librarian” emcee.
- Actress Amy Smart and TV Host Carter Oosterhouse with 2024 The Spirit of Elysium Award for their outstanding charitable contributions.
- Actress Cara Santana retrospectively with the 2021 Spirit of Elysium Award, recognizing her tireless efforts in support of The Art of Elysium’s mission during an unprecedented time of global pandemic.
Notable attendees included: Heidi Klum and daughter Leni Klum, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Joe Manganiello, Jon Hamm, Shanola Hampton, Patton Oswalt, Yetide Badaki, Jason Segel, Beck, Malin Akerman, David and Christina Arquette, Patricia Arquette, Christina Hendricks, Ashley and Topher Grace, Aly and AJ Michalka, Kumail Nanjiani, Bella Thorne, Mira Sorvino, Emma Kenney, Shannon Leto, and Zelda Williams, Zuri Marley, among others.
Highlights from the evening:
- Jon Hamm, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jason Segel, Yetide Badaki, Patton Oswalt, Shanola Hampton, Mira Sorvino, Christian Weissmann and Art of Elysium guest Julian Reynoso read passages from some of their favorite books and poems as the ‘9 Muses of Elysium.’
- Jon Hamm selected a passage from the book Good Omens, cracking a joke about how he starred in the show, while Shanola Hampton read a passage from Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss.
- Joseph Gordon-Levitt chose the foreword of Neil Postman’s Amusing Ourselves to Death.
- Patton Oswalt brought laughter to the crowd and read a passage from Tamarisk Row.
- Warpaint’s Theresa Wayman sang “Champion,” while GRAMMY Award-winning singer-songwriter Beck closed out the night with his hit “Loser.”
- GRAMMY Award-winning singer Autumn Rowe performed a beautiful original song that she wrote for the evening in celebration of Neil Gaimain and the second season of his Good Omens.
- Jeremy O. Harris congratulated The Art of Elysium founder, Jennifer Howell, for 25 years of healing through art and the incredible impact she’s made on thousands of lives.
- Guests enjoyed specialty margaritas and palomas courtesy of Casamigos.
- The menu was carefully curated by Michelin Star Chef Juanma Barrientos, bringing a journey of sensory delights to the audience.
- Zuri Marley DJed throughout the night to keep the audience entertained between set changes.
Australian electronic artists Lucille Croft, What So Not, and Tommy Trash come together for their new single ‘Cyanide’ featuring Canadian rapper Lord Gasp, out now via Rezz’s HypnoVizion.
A genre-bending collaboration that skews the eclectic corners of bass music, ‘Cyanide’ taps into the edgy aesthetics of the Australian creative trio. Seamlessly fortified with elements of midtempo and trap styles, ‘Cyanide’ unravels with distorted basslines and industrial kicks, building a brooding backdrop for Croft and Lord Gasp’s vocal tradeoff. Spiraling with a haunting yet seductive energy, ‘Cyanide’ paints a destitute romantic tale with Croft’s gritty lyricism that assimilates love with the volatility of acid. Enraptured by hypnotic rhythms best suited for dark dancefloors, ‘Cyanide’ is a tantalizing original from Lucille Croft, What So Not, and Tommy Trash.
Producer, songwriter, vocalist, DJ, and creative director are just a few of the caps donned by independent electronic artist Lucille Croft. Hailing from Australia, Croft has hit the festival circuit with force, performing at Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, HARD Summer, Ultra, and more. In 2022, Croft released her conceptual debut Patient X EP, with her follow-up The Valentine Effect EP arriving earlier this year. ‘Cyanide’ marks Croft’s second release on HypnoVizion, following ‘Falling Over You’ with Grabbitz.
Born out of the relentless winter months of the Pacific Northwest — where Christmas sweaters adorn even the animal statues — this holiday record hits different.
The Portland Cello Project, known for their delightful and dedicated performances of modern and classical music (previously taking on the music of Radiohead and having collaborated with the likes of Thao Nguyen, as examples), join forces with Prince’s New Power Generation alum vocal powerhouse Saeeda Wright to bring a complement of uniquely arranged holiday jams.
The new mini album Under the Mistletoe with Saeeda Wright is out now and just in time for the holiday season. Following the uniquely haunting version of “What Child is This” and the upbeat instrumental stylings of “Winter Wonderland,” today Portland Cello Project and Saeeda Wright look to 2024 with the new video and single for “What Are You Doing for New Years Eve?”.
“I have always lived the thought of adding a New Year’s song to a Christmas project,” Wright says. “It’s like putting the last button on the holiday season. A benediction of sorts.”
Check it out the new single on YouTube, and purchase the album here. See below for the remaining west coast tour dates for the Portland Cello Project & Saeeda Wright holiday tour as well.
The record is a showcase of cross-genre collaborative arrangement, coming from a three-way synergistic connection between the group’s longtime drummer and another Prince alum, Tyrone Hendrix (Prince, Stevie Wonder, Allen Stone), the group’s new pianist and multi-instrumentalist, Alex Milsted (Stevie Wonder, Liv Warfield, Mike Phillips), and The Cello Project’s Artistic Director and longtime arranger (with over a thousand string arrangements to his credit for the group), Douglas Jenkins.
In support of his upcoming album Creation Myth, Hot Sugar will release third single I SWEAR IT USED TO BE HERE. A liminal ode to the ephemeral nature of media both analog and digital, Hot Sugar channels the sound of disintegrating electronics, re-enhanced and up-rezzed.
Seattle-based artist, Byland (the project of cinematic indie-rocker Alie Renee Byland), is thrilled to announce that they have been named a recipient of the 2023 Sonic Guild Grant. Sonic Guild supports the creation and performance of extraordinary new music by providing financial and professional support to local musicians. With the release of their latest single, “Postcard,” Byland has also shared the release date for their highly anticipated sophomore album. Heavy For A While will be out on March 29, 2024, on all streaming platforms, as well as on vinyl and CD.
DRAMA, the dynamic electronic R&B duo composed of producer Na’el Shehade and vocalist/songwriter Via Rosa, is spreading holiday cheer with their cover of Mariah Carey’s timeless classic, ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You.’ The rendition of the holiday carol serves as the latest track to DRAMA’s growing Christmas music catalog following the 2021 release of ‘First Christmas’. The duo’s unique production and soulful melodies bring a fresh, modern twist to this classic holiday anthem.
In a year undoubtedly marked by global conflict, DRAMA aims to bring joy and warmth into the hearts of fans through the power of music. Their holiday cover seeks to connect with their audience during the festive season, providing a musical escape and spreading the spirit of the holidays.
The music documentary film YOSHIKI: UNDER THE SKY features the world-renowned rock star and composer leading a global concert featuring today’s top musical artists.
Directed by YOSHIKI – leader of rock bands X Japan and The Last Rockstars – the project was conceived during the recent period when artists could not connect with their fans. YOSHIKI has gathered an unprecedented collection of artists for a deeply emotional journey, including a heartbreaking interaction with the husband of a terminally ill fan and a celebration of voices joined from across international borders.
With powerful live performances by The Chainsmokers (USA), St. Vincent (USA), Sarah Brightman (England), Scorpions (Germany), HYDE (Japan), SUGIZO (Japan), SixTONES (Japan), Jane Zhang (China), Lindsey Stirling (USA), Nicole Scherzinger (USA), and more, YOSHIKI: UNDER THE SKY demonstrates the power of music and YOSHIKI’s message to the world that we can overcome any difficulties together.
New Orleans-based duo sfam release their new single ‘not playin’’, the titular single off their upcoming EP, out now on Rezz’s label HypnoVizion.
A thrilling follow-up to their neutral ground EP, ‘not playin’’ twists and turns with the unpredictable nature that has continuously set sfam apart. Delivering a wide-ranging and impactful lead single, ‘not playin’’ is an amalgamation of heart-racing builds and paralyzing drops driven by a sense of spontaneity and impulsivity. Inline with sfam’s kaleidoscopic approach to trap and bass music, ‘not playin’’ marks the first single off their forthcoming EP of the same title, due out in 2024.
Co-captained by childhood friends Jacob Hoerner and Michael Pearson since 2014, New Orleans-based producer/duo sfam have established themselves with their flair for the experimental. The pair have collaborated with Buku, TVBOO, and Mersiv, and in 2022, they self-released their first album below sea level. This year, sfam made their debut on HypnoVizion with their neutral ground EP and supported Rezz at the first-ever FrostVizion at Stanford’s Frost Amphitheatre.
‘not playin’’ serves as the final HypnoVizion release of 2023, following recent releases by Lucille Croft, EDDIE, and ANTAGONÏZER.
Vocal powerhouse Vince Freeman has released his latest single “Imposter,” the second from his highly-anticipated debut album Scars, Ghosts & Glory, out March 22nd 2024.
Plucked from a rhythmic goldmine comes “Imposter,” where Freeman’s inexhaustible vocal range proves he is anything but, as he provides listeners with a lesson in vulnerability and expressing the importance of staying true to yourself.
On the single, Vince Freeman said: “‘She says sometimes she don’t breathe right…’ It was something my sister said in conversation and it stuck with me. That sentence, that odd comment, was the inspiration for ‘Imposter.’
I realised that so many of us feel lost, alone, not good enough and hide it under our clothes to fit in and get by. ‘Imposter’ is a letter to all the weirdos, geeks, strangers — everyone who has ever felt like they don’t fit in. I guess it’s my way of saying that I think we are all just trying to figure it out one way or another and it’s okay to be you.”
Brooklyn-born luminary Mink has unveiled his own label, Love On Cropsey, encapsulating the sonic heartbeat of decades past and present. Mink has today released the label’s inaugural EP ‘NY/LDN,’ a four track collection of dancefloor ready grooves in collaboration with rising London star Azaad.
Helmed by Mink, a native of Brooklyn immersed in the city’s nightlife from his early teens, Love on Cropsey is a musical expression deeply rooted in the borough’s rich heritage. The imprint’s sonic identity is steeped in hypnotic rhythms, lush melodies, and pocket grooves inspired by the cultural tapestry of the city’s musical legacy.
The label’s name pays homage to Mink’s grandparents who lived on Cropsey Avenue. During the late 90s and early 2000s, Mink’s grandparents would frequently take him a few blocks away to Coney Island. It was there, on the boardwalk, that he was initially introduced to the infectious sounds of Louie Vega, Danny Tenaglia, and Todd Terry, among others. This experience ignited Mink’s passion for house music and became the cornerstone of his musical journey.
Speaking on the label’s first release, Mink said:
“I see this release having something for everyone across the world’s dancefloors, starting with NY & LDN. Happy to have this label’s first release with Azaad & myself. He’s one of my favorite producers on the come up. From our first conversation we shared a mutual respect for the scene and its amazing history. What better way to start Love On Cropsey”
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
