Acclaimed singer, songwriter, and arts advocate MAYA IXTA is set to unveil her debut EP, “DiaryEntries,” on September 16th, 2024. A professionally trained musician, MAYA received a “Music Industry Essentials” Certificate from the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music (NYU’s Tisch School of Arts) and was accepted by the Grammy Museum to their renowned Summer Songwriting Intensive and “Grammy Camp” for Music Business. No stranger to high-stakes performances, she’s performed at The Grammy Museum, Radio City Music Hall, and the House of Blues Dallas. Beyond being an incredible musician, she’s an avid supporter of arts education programs and founded the non-profit scholarship foundation, HeARTS of Maya. Her new EP, “Diary Entries” is a deeply personal collection of songs that draws inspiration from Maya’s own diary entries, offering an intimate glimpse into her emotional tribulations and creative journey.
The EP opens with the hauntingly beautiful intro “First Entry”, an acapella track that sets the stage for the diary-inspired journey. Featuring Maya’s soulful vocals layered with harmonies, the song concludes with the evocative sound of paper tearing from her actual diary—a metaphor for the iterative process of songwriting and self-expression.
The EP’s lead single, “Time,” marks the first bilingual song off the project. This track features a captivating guitar solo by Maya’s mentor and producer, Daniel Jimenez Alfandor, and evolves into a vibrant mix of instrumentation and Spanish-inspired rhythmic intricacies. With it’s poignant message about the importance of carving out time for oneself amid life’s demands, “Time” is both a call to live fully and a reminder to nurture mental well-being.
In “Little Things,” Maya reflects on the rapid pace of modern life, urging listeners to appreciate the simple, often overlooked moments. The song begins with whispered, almost oceanic vocals that slowly wash over warm harmonies. As she croons, “Little things are all I ever notice / and simple things are all I never focus on,” the instrumentation morphs. The distorted and chopped vocals warp and intensify before burning out into a sense of calm, fully embodying the song’s message of focusing on the positive to find a sense of peace in life.
Dedicated to her late grandfather, “Too Soon” explores themes of grief and acceptance. The piano-lead track is a poignant tribute to her Abuelito, who inspired her musical journey. Its somber, melancholy progressions get more ethereal as her emotive voice rises and falls with a sense of hopelessness. It’s the haunting simplicity of the track that truly drives home the painful message that she hopes will grant others solace as they navigate the difficult reality of grief.
Produced by Jimenez-Afanador, “someone is you” is a heartfelt tribute to Maya’s best friend, celebrating the beauty of those special bonds we experience once in a lifetime. The song begins with a tender acoustic sound, building to a powerful bridge with echoing and layered vocals, where she sings to the rafters, “no more searching / no more hurting / on my own.” It’s a stunning ode to those special people in your life who just get it.
The EP closes with the vibrant “Say You’re Mine,” a pop anthem inspired by unique pop and alternative artists like Billie Eilish. The song starts quietly, but as the message of standing in your power and breaking out of society’s mold begins to grow, so does the instrumentation around it. Produced alongside her teacher, Joleen Bell, the track builds to pulsating drums, languid bass, and a prominent refrain of “But you never call me back / so don’t call me up one day and say you’re mine.” Intense and potent in its message alone, this track empowers listeners to stand up against mistreatment and embrace their authentic selves.
MAYA IXTA’s “Diary Entries” is a testament to her growth as an artist and a person, showcasing her ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with innovative sonic soundscapes. The EP promises to resonate deeply with fans old and new, offering both introspection and profound messages of empowerment.
emerging Brighton-based jazz-pop singer-songwriter and musician, Tabi Gervis, releases her highly anticipated new single ‘I’m Not Asking For Much’, captivating audiences yet again with her innovative and unique sound. Having quickly gained recognition this year for her distinct style, Tabi blends whimsical jazz notes with pop influences, creating a melody that guides listeners along a captivating bassline.
‘I’m Not Asking For Much’ has already received the ultimate endorsement from legendary musician Paul McCartney, who recently met with Tabi and gave it his seal of approval.
‘I’m Not Asking For Much’ is available now on your streaming service of choice via APOLLO Distribution.
MERGUI
“On My Mind”
• Mergui releases “On My Mind,” co-written by Mergui, Alvaro Rodriguez, Rafael Ferro, and Roberto Livi, and co-produced by Mergui and K-Kov. Mergui recently shared performance videos of “Happy Now?” and “On My Way Up” filmed live at Vevo Studios in NYC, his track “Cry” landed a sync on Love Island USA, and he will be releasing new music throughout the year.
• “I wrote ‘On My Mind’ about those nights with someone that change your life. It’s about the magic and excitement you feel after meeting someone new. It’s like every time you think about them, your head is filled with fantasies and you become almost addicted to that feeling. You just have to see them any chance you get. If that experience could be captured in a song, ‘On My Mind’ would be it.” — Mergui
Brooklyn-based psych-pop trio Psychic Lines release their layered, expansive fifth studio album SUNSET ON SUNSET out everywhere now. Alongside the full project, the band shares a fun lyric video for “Lies I Tell Myself,” a vulnerable moment of confronting difficult truths. The dynamic LP sees the band expand their sound with bright production, glittering guitar riffs and evocative lyricism. On September 8, the band will celebrate the new album with an official album release show at NYC’s Berlin with support from Richard Papiercuts and Garrett Devoe with tickets on sale now here.
SUNSET ON SUNSET sounds unlike any previous Psychic Lines release. Bandleader Phil Jacob explains, “Lyrically, the album touches on all the delusions we cling to. They may give us hope and spur us on but set us up for disappointment when we inevitably discover that the real world doesn’t quite measure up. Many of these delusions are shaped by our lifelong immersion in social media, film and television.” The LP wrestles with escapism and the stories one tells themselves to make sense of an ever-changing, chaotic world. Jacob continues, “In order to bridge this reality gap, we further deceive ourselves and others, seeking escape in the same stories and mythologies that caused our faulty expectations in the first place.” These self-deceptions and coping mechanisms form a backdrop for this darkly surrealistic, yet wryly humorous collection of tunes.
Jacob recalls trying to imitate Syd Barrett on guitar when the chords for focus track “Lies I Tell Myself” came out. Jacob reveals, “The lyrics came later, as a four-year relationship was falling apart and I realized I had been lying to myself the whole time that I wanted to be with this person. Staying in the relationship as long as I did remains a big regret in my life because I wasn’t being honest with my partner or myself.” Bassist Dann Baker and drummer Tim Simmonds gave this tune a more “Phil Spector kind of feel.”
Brooklyn-based artist Michael Quint enters from the shadows, arriving as George Steel, the Americana-enriched persona with a dash of theater and a heaping cup of truthful passion. Out now is “Not a Cowboy,” the debut single and DIY music video from George Steel’s debut album Desire on the Range, due for release on Friday, October 4, 2024. The track hears Steel show off his smooth, resounding vocals while embracing the confidence of an avant-pop auteur with lyrical absurdities. The track is one of ten from the soon-to-be-released record, which is produced by main collaborator Ernesto Grey and features the work of over 20 musicians from Austin, TX (including members of Font, Lady Dan, and Loveme). The record presents Steel discovering hidden ecstasy in the follies of Americana and an honesty grown from life lessons and travels of identity, sure to be previewed in today’s single.
“’Not a Cowboy’ investigates how we choose to wear certain myths,” says vocalist Michael Quint. “It is also (and primarily) a song to dance to. The chorus came from the voice that became George Steel’s voice, before I really knew who he was, and so it makes sense that lyrically in ‘Not a Cowboy,’ George choses to define himself by what he is not. The song spends most of its time in repetition, because it is good to dance in the negative space of who George is not, leaving room for the possibility of who we can be.”
Ernesto Grey, who produced the track, says “The lyrical content heavily influenced the production style on ‘Not a Cowboy.’ You encounter the absurd on the first downbeat, but by the end of the track we subvert that absurdity, pushing it into repetition and 80’s pastiche. This movement from one point to the other, sits at the core of the song.”
San Francisco-based producers AMPRS&ND and BLK&WHT have joined forces with Dances for their new Out Past 2EP out now via Dirtybird Records.
Out Past 2 is a hypnotic two-track EP, and as charming as it is arousing. Both tracks are equally enticing as AMPRS&ND and BLK&WHT craft sensational backdrops for Dances’ slick vocals. ‘Out Past 2’ boasts big synths and electrifying basslines while ‘Freak Freq’ flaunts bouncy percussion and fizzy builds. Out Past 2 marks hometown acts AMPRS&ND and BLK&WHT’s debuts on Dirtybird. The combination of a nonstop groove and energetic heater, Out Past 2 is set to soundtrack underground dance floors around the globe.
Bay Area native AMPRS&ND has been making waves in the local scene for over a decade. Her tech-meets-bass house style has led to releases on DISPOSABLE, This Ain’t Bristol, House Of Hustle, and Farris Wheel.
Nashville-based artist and producer Jack Vinoy reveals his first full length
body of work ‘RELAY’
Listen to focus single VILLAGE here
RELAY arrives as a dynamic and impressive record free from the confines of genre.
The 15-track record is an enticing culmination of slick r&b beats, warm indie, bouncy melodies and innovative production. From start to finish, RELAY radiates a woozy warmth ready to soundtrack your upcoming core memories.
Released independently, Jack Vinoy’s debut album has been years in the making. The album sees him team up with no less than 28 collaborators and is a testament to the Nashville community that he is proud to be a part of.
The record’s focus track ‘VILLAGE’ pays homage to the power of community and offers a snapshot into the world he has built around him. Gentle melodies and laid back vocals make VILLAGE a delightful moment on this stellar record. Sharing more Jack explained: Lyrically VILLAGE feels like it’s the cornerstone of RELAY, I’m singing all about the community I’m a part of in Nashville. The underground music scene here is incredible and people are really supportive of each other, it’s unlike any other scene I’ve been a part of and I genuinely feel like there’s space for all of us to succeed. See below for the tracklist;
Using his songwriting skill, Stockholm-born NOEL picks apart a past relationship in raw new single ‘Flowers at a Funeral’, out now.
While love can be wonderful, it can also be difficult. Despite still being in his early 20s, Swedish pop musician NOEL conveys this with a maturity that belies his years, admitting his part in something amazing falling to pieces and that the other person deserved better – ‘I wanted you to love me, I wanted you to feel it all… But my heart wasn’t ready for it, and that’s not your fault.’ This rough-around-the-edges indie-pop song swells to an emotional release in its chorus, and it feels like the weight of the world has been lifted by its end thanks to NOEL’s songwriting talents.
NOEL:‘“Flowers at a Funeral” is a really raw and honest song about a relationship that deserved a better ending. On paper everything was great, and in my head it felt right. However, I just couldn’t get my heart to feel what my head wanted it to, and with that came a lot of shame. It felt unfair to the other person, who is such an incredible individual.
I wanted the sound to match the lyrics in a way that both are vulnerable and raw. The title “Flowers at a Funeral” focuses mostly on how easy it is to miss the beauty of things in the moment due to being swept up in a situation coloured by sadness or struggle.’
Before capturing the hearts of millions on TikTok with his captivating bedroom covers, NOEL‘s early years were consumed by his love for football. It wasn’t until a knee injury abruptly ended his football dreams at the age of 17 that music truly took centre stage in his life. Slowly but surely, NOEL started exploring his musical talents by singing in the shower and learning a few piano chords.
Soon he would spend hours each day playing instruments and singing, a routine he still follows with unwavering dedication. NOEL’s journey as a songwriter began unexpectedly when his TikTok covers attracted the interest of industry professionals. At the age of 21, he has already collaborated with seasoned songwriters and producers, channelling his innate talent and passion into his own original compositions. His debut EP Headed North was finally released at the start of 2024.
A rising star born from bedroom covers. His unique voice, combined with honest and revealing lyrics, promises an extraordinary future in the world of music. NOEL’s story has just begun.
KTRL and Malixe have teamed up for a new single ‘Form’, out now via HypnoVizion.
Bonded through fan endorsement, ‘Form’ landed on HypnoVizion after both KTRL and Malixe were tagged on X as artists for Rezz’s radar. ‘Form’ made an undeniable impact with its distorted and textured sound design. Crunchy basslines and sharp percussion fuel heavy builds and treacherous drops, as KTRL and Malixe test the boundaries of bass music. Aligned with the experimental nature forged throughout HypnoVizion’s catalog, ‘Form’ is a fitting debut from KTRL and Malixe.
“I remember talking with Malixe when we started working on this together and we specifically brought up HypnoVizion for a potential label release. To see it end up getting signed to my favorite label, makes this super special. We made this in about 4 or 5 sessions and knew it was a special one from the start. I’m happy to be part of such a unique record. Shoutout Rezz and HypnoVizion!” – KTRL
“KTRL and I knew we wanted to make something very weird and unique, and I’m glad we could make such a heavy, but still dancey bass song like this. We knew we had something special and something no one has heard before. I’m extremely excited that this record is coming out on HypnoVizion! I’m glad we could find the perfect home for this song.” – Malixe
Nigerian prince of Afropop Oxlade returns with a radiant new single “IFA” featuring Congolese superstar Fally Ipupa, out now – listen here. This marks the next phase of his debut album campaign OXLADE FROM AFRICA, which is due to release on September 20.
“IFA” is a romantic serenade in which both artists passionately express their feelings. Blending the rhythmic styles of Coupé-décalé, Congolese Rumba, and Afrobeats, they sing about their deep commitment, assuring that women hold the most important place in their hearts. Through vivid imagery and metaphors, Oxlade and Fally Ipupa create a touching declaration of love and offer an upbeat, melodious hit to brighten up the late summer. Stay tuned for the music video, shot in Kinshasa (the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s vibrant capital city), coming soon.
Oxlade’s upcoming album blends his past, present, and future into an all-encompassing vision, connected by the young star’s impeccable vocals and facility with multiple musical styles. It marks the next step in his rise, showcasing his journey from breakout success to mainstream recognition. Oxlade’s upcoming debut album continues the momentum from his massive global hit “KU LO SA”, and is also home to singles including “INTOXYCATED” ft. Dave, both halves of the double “KATIGORI/PIANO” single, and “ARABAMBI”. The upcoming album spans 16 tracks, adding new songs featuring Popcaan, Wande Coal, Flavour, and many more
Paying homage to some of his musical inspirations, ‘ROMEO’ is a euphoric indie offering, giving nods to the likes of Catfish and the Bottleman, Circa Waves and The Academic.
With the burden of perfectionism weighing heavy on the shoulders of many artists, it can become a vicious and unproductive circle. Pushing back against his inner critique, the release of ROMEO feels like a significant moment in Oliver’s progression. Sharing more, he explained: I’ve realized what matters is putting my heart and soul into the art and letting the beauty of subjectivity decide who enjoys it and appreciates it. It makes me so proud to release my new single ROMEO, an imperfect song about an imperfect relationship, for all of your imperfect brains to enjoy and listen to. here is beauty in imperfection”
Already a fan favorite at his live shows, the release of ROMEO has been hotly anticipated over the last couple of months. Oliver explained; ‘I’d spent a bit of time on tour with a few different bands and all of them had that one song that just lifted the crowd every night without fail. I wanted my own song like that and after writing ROMEO we decided to put it in the set list for the Sea Girls tour.
As soon as the drums came in at the start you could see everyone in the crowd get excited and that was the moment I realized ROMEO was that song.’
Video Burnout is the musical collaboration of long time friends Adam Stegemann and Teddy Stuart (founder of sample label Samples From Mars). Inspired by the disco loft parties of their youth and a love for archaic gear, the two have crafted their own sonic world of cinematic instrumentals, displaced by disco basslines, negative space and chaotic IDM beats. “Adam is an old friend of mine – a brilliant jazz pianist-turned DJ,” says Stuart. “After buying a bunch of old samplers and drum machines, he’d send me videos of some really special grooves he’d composed but didn’t know how to record. So I chose my favorites, and together we recorded and produced our first EP as Video Burnout.”
Video Burnout’s debut release, Shame Spirals is a 5 track EP full of brooding, cross-genre, electronic instrumentals created using archaic samplers and drum machines. Inspired equally by the dollar-store disco records of their youth and the IDM vanguards of the 90s,
With Shame Spirals, Stegemann and Stuart have crafted their own sonic landscape. Merging unlikely ingredients such as melancholic pads, frantic drum programming, disco basslines and negative space, this EP cements the duo’s hard-to-place sound, which is equally at home in the car and on the dance floor.
The metal duo QARINAH is releasing their single “Not For Sale” on August 23rd. The accompanying lyric video will go live the same day. This is their third single after their debut, “Hell or High Water” and “Impermanence” single. QARINAH’s “Not For Sale” is just a statement of what is to come. It will be part the Transcendent EP out September 13 which will also include “Hell or High Water,” “Impermanence,” and “Alchemy.” There is a written full-length album being finalized this year and the band is putting together a live lineup with dates TBA. Made up of Portland-based singer-songwriter and drummer Miss Randall (Rusty Eye) and Germany-based guitarist and composer Waldemar Sorychta, formerly of Grip Inc., Voodoocult, and Enemy of the Sun, the pair envision the collaboration as an intersection between groove metal, classic metal styles, and unheard fresh possibilities.
QARINAH’s Miss Randall mentions: “This song can be interpreted in many ways, the most obvious being what I lived through as a young musician lady in Hollywood, a place where one is surrounded by music industry men who want to mold you to their will. But in general, this song goes out to those who are like me, who don’t quite fit the mold but still, do what they do best without selling out. It brings back my younger Discordian self who wanted to tear everything down, be off the grid, and break up with what society and culture imposed on me.”
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils farewell tour is underway and today, the band has unveiled a dancefloor-ready remix of their hit song “If You Wanna Get To Heaven” in which they tapped fellow Springfield, MO native, Dave Tough.
LISTEN TO “IF YOU WANNA GET TO HEAVEN” (EDM REMIX)
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils are a seminal American rock band renowned for their distinctive fusion of country, rock, and pop music. Formed in the early ‘70s, they are best known for their chart-topping hit singles “If You Wanna Get To Heaven” and “Jackie Blue.” They have toured relentlessly, captivating audiences with their timeless hits and electrifying live performances, earning them a dedicated fanbase worldwide.
With a grateful heart and an undying spirit, the band announces their farewell tour, “When It Shines,” scheduled to take place throughout 2024-2025. The Ozark Mountain Daredevils will retire from touring at the end of 2025.
Henry Taylor is a Kitchener-Waterloo-based singer-songwriter with five studio albums and recent co-writes with award-winning songwriters in Nashville, Tennessee. Over the course of his career, he has played at some of the most iconic music venues in Canada, including the Mod Club, Lee’s Palace, the Rivoli, the Cameron House, the Dakota Tavern, the El Mocambo, and the Legendary Horseshoe Tavern.
Henry’s music is mostly considered Americana – a mix of rock, blues, folk, and country, and for more than a decade, he has been working with song writing partner Monique Montgomery. Now back in his hometown of Kitchener-Waterloo, Henry released his fifth studio album in 2022, ‘Good to See You’, which was picked up on local radio and featured on several podcasts – most notably on Jeff Woods Radio’s Records & Rockstars: Episode 140.
Henry is currently working on his sixth studio album between Kitchener-Waterloo and Nashville Tennessee, where he and songwriting partner Monique Montgomery are writing with renowned Nashville songwriters Cory Lee Barker, Mark Barnowski, and Ri’chard Trest. Album due out in Summer 2024.
Sarina is a rising punk-pop sensation from Tokyo, Japan, blending the raw energy of early 2010s pop-punk with her own unique style. A bilingual artist born in Hawaii to a Lebanese mother and Japanese father, Sarina’s international upbringing in Tokyo has deeply influenced her music, resonating with fans of Avril Lavigne, Olivia Rodrigo, and Paramore.
From a young age, Sarina was absorbed in a world of music and creativity, beginning with classical piano lessons at just two years old. Her journey soon expanded to include guitar and ukulele, instruments she continues to cherish for their versatility. With a profound respect for both the dark and light aspects of life, influenced by her artistically gifted parents, Sarina’s music explores themes of mental health and personal struggle, creating a sound that is both deeply relatable and emotionally powerful.
Sarina’s debut single, “Identity,” released under the Sony RED label, showcased her multi-instrumental talents, as she played drums, guitar, bass, and piano on the track. With Sony Red, she released five more singles, an EP titled Foreword, and six music videos, which she story-boarded and headed with her original concepts and detail-oriented symbolism, before she co-founded and launched the SyrenSong label in May of 2024. Filled with thought-provoking lyrics and catchy melodies, her songs have earned her coveted playlist spots on Ones to Watch’s “Now Watching” and Apple Music’s “New in Rock.”
In addition to her solo work, Sarina lent her voice to the main vocal trio for the video game company Square Enix’s JRPG Triangle Strategy, collaborating with renowned composer Senju Akira. Now, with new singles on the horizon, produced in collaboration with Grammy-winning producer Erik Ron (I Prevail, Staind, Bush) and platinum record producer and Escape the Fate guitarist Kevin Thrasher (Panic! At The Disco, Blink-182, Avril Lavigne), Sarina is ready to take the Western music scene by storm.
Ted Z and the Wranglers is a band hailing from Southern California, known for their unique blend of Americana, rockabilly, and roots rock music. The band was formed by frontman Ted Zakka in 2012. With Ted Z at the helm, the musical collective have cultivated a distinct sound that pays homage to the rich musical traditions of the American West while infusing it with modern energy and flair. As a songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist, Ted Z brings a raw authenticity to the group’s music, drawing inspiration from his own experiences. His gravelly, whisky-drenched vocals and passionate delivery are trademarks of the group’s sound. The Wranglers, consisting of Jackson Leverone (lead guitar, vocals), Marcos de la Cruz (drums, vocals), Henry Clift (bass guitar, vocals), and James Hamilton (guitar, vocals), provide the perfect musical backdrop for Ted Z’s evocative storytelling. With their tight rhythms, explosive guitar solos, and soulful thick vocal harmonies, the band adds depth and texture to Ted Z’s songs, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
Since their formation, Ted Z and the Wranglers have built a loyal following with their electrifying live performances and catchy Americana tunes. Sharing bills with heavy hitters including Lynyrd Skynyrd and Steppenwolf among others, the band brings their relentless energy and passion to every show.
Their first label release Ghost Train was recorded at Yellow Dog Studios in Wimberley, Texas and produced by Monte Byrom (Big House, Eddie Money). The 11 track album received acclaim from the likes of PopMatters and catapulted them into the spotlight. Their 2019 album release Southland was featured in Billboard, with the outlet praising their music as “a foot-stomping honky tonk revival”.
2024 will see the release of the band’s brand new album Kerosene. The album is a continuation of the evolution of their songwriting, incorporating more rock elements while staying true to their sound. Ted Z shares, “I believe that this album is our best work thus far. It offers moments of contemplation but is also a fun and cohesive sonic ride. We want our listeners to be able to spin the entire album and feel a full gamut of emotions. It took a few years to finish this project, but that let us road-test these songs and grow together as a band, and I think you can hear that in the arrangements and performances.” The full length was recorded and mixed by drummer Marcos de la Cruz at Firefly Music Studio in Orange County, California. Leading single “Right That Wrong” is a twist on a classic love story, incorporating a call to action for the lovers to live in the moment and understand the fleeting nature of their existence. “The song ignites the heart’s desire to follow our passion and take a chance on chasing dreams,” proclaims Ted Z.
Then there is “Let Me Be Your Sin”, an irresistible and melodic roots rock single all about wanting to be that “sin” for someone you care about. You will happily do almost anything for them hoping that eventually the “light will come in”.
Ted Z and the Wranglers are planning an extensive US and European tour to support the album release. With their unmistakable sound and undeniable talent, they continue to captivate audiences and earn critical acclaim wherever they go. Whether they’re performing classic favorites or debuting new material, one thing is certain: Ted Z and the Wranglers are here to stay, leaving their mark on the American music scene one unforgettable song at a time.
Detroit, Michigan-based indie singer-songwriter Ronny Tibbs shares the raw, emotionally-charged track and Clue-inspired official video “Imagine My Eyes” out now. Tibbs’ haunting, intricate EP Shorthand, is due out October 29 and available for pre-order now. Found somewhere between a mystery and a memory, the track reflects on an emotionally agonizing, tumultuous time period for the singer.
“Imagine My Eyes,” out today, recalls a difficult moment in Tibbs’ life–one where a close relationship imploded before him. Lyrically, the process took time–Tibbs explains, “I wanted the words to encapsulate the raw pain and nostalgia of seeing a connection between two people destined for happiness. There were a few lines that we reworked quite a few times to help meld the tone of the song.”
Sonically, the instrumentation masterfully transports the listener inside the broken heart of the artist. The song’s melodic and unfolding nature complements the lyrics and resulted from the band’s initial approach of layering many instruments, only to strip away later anything that didn’t power the track forward. The fiddle and steel guitar, two pivotal instruments heard on the tune, play crucial roles in conveying the song’s emotional weight. Their fretless expressiveness enhances the track’s melancholic and nostalgic feel, drawing the listener deeper into the emotional journey of the song.
The track’s accompanying video was inspired by the classic film, Clue, set in a historic 7,000 square-foot mansion in Detroit–only available for use after Tibbs called several realtors in the area looking for a shoot location and connected with a lone elderly lady. Joined by collaborator and friend Nico Poalillo, the pair crafted a story complete with the familiar cast of characters.
New York City-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer allie announces her immersive, evocative self-produced second studio album Every Dog due out September 27 and available for pre-order now. Alongside the announcement, the artist shares of the project–the title track out now and its matching video. The forthcoming meditative LP is a vulnerable exploration of queer love and one’s self, carefully crafted by the artist who wrote, produced and mixed it herself.
Every Dog is a twenty-seven minute-long, highly-focused collection of sonic portraits, with each song offering uniquely immersive, richly-layered meditations on queer love, isolative depression, Western U.S. road trips, and singing through the pages of a personal journal. The album has proven to be a crucial creative and spiritual outlet for the artist, who says, “‘Every Dog’ highlights different growths I’ve experienced as a songwriter, in the efficacy of both more abstract-leaning and literal-leaning types of storytelling.” Equipped with a renewed sense of self and newfound creative freedom, allie continues, “I felt freer to write about my own experiences and wherever else my imagination took me, worrying less about fitting in with other artist peers, and just wanting to make something that felt fair and real and true to my life in this vast and crazy world.”
Seamlessly melding emotionally evocative lyricism with memorable and catchy pop-song formats, songwriter Allie Cuva has returned with Every Dog to showcase the work of an experienced young artist, driven toward songs with urgency, poise, and passion. The seven-song album feels like an easily-accessible portal of the personal. Producing and mixing the record herself, allie tactfully designed the recordings from beginning-to-end. The overall winning quality of this album is achieved through allie’s artistic vulnerability and willingness to share secrets with the audience, understanding that through such door-opening, an invitation for a powerful, cathartic and personal interpretive listening experience is made possible.
London based singer/songwriter Fox Jackson has been enamored by music from as young as he can remember. Inspired by the likes of artists such as Earth Wind and Fire, Kool and the Gang and George Benson, his music blends funk-fuelled melodies, sexy vocals and dance-worthy beats, creating a vibrant and distinct sound which is undeniably his own.
His career in the entertainment industry began at just 11 years old, when he landed the lead role as Billy Elliot, in the hit West End musical, “Billy Elliot the Musical”. His time there solidified his desire to be on stage, while also pushing him to dive deeper into the world of music. Following multiple roles on both stage and TV, Fox soon made an easy transition to his first love and true calling, music. Discovering his own sound and style, Fox has since been crafting music.
“Like That” is the second single to be released from the upcoming EP, So Divine. The track speaks about wanting to be the best version of yourself for your partner and understanding what needs to be done in order to get there. The songwriter shares, “It’s really about wanting to be enough for someone and if you’re not enough then that’s okay, but let me see if I can be. It’s about having the courage and love to try, but sometimes also having the strength to let bygones be bygones.”
“Like That” shimmers with an R&B groove, and lush production reminiscent of Tom Misch. The stripped back chorus allows Fox’s velvet vocals to melt over a sexy guitarline, before picking back up into a funk-driven, move-inducing melody. As he continues to inspire romance, love and communication through his music, Fox Jackson is certain to be London’s very own cupid, with So Divine due 2024.
Respected musician Anthony Anzaldo, announces his new musical project Anthony Family and signs to Pure Noise Records.
Over the years, his band Ceremony have explored in hardcore, post-punk, indie rock, new wave, and beyond. For Anzaldo, in 2024, highly personal, emotionally complex sophisti-pop is the order of the day with the release of his debut single 101 North is a fascinating (re)introduction to Anzaldo as an artist on his own terms.
“Thirty years ago, if you would have told me that I was going to be able to write a song like this, I would have said, ‘I cannot wait to be 30 years older,’” Anzaldo says. “It’s a song that I’ve been wanting to write my whole life — and finally being able to have the ability and mind to pull it off, that’s the success.”
NOANNE, the spellbinding artist from Prague, returns with her electrifying new single “Everything I Hate About You”. The high-octane rock ‘n’ roll explosion tells the darkly humorous and gripping tale of a woman who has taken drastic measures against a deceitful lover. NOANNE ventures into uncharted emotional territory, portraying a dramatic shift from dependence to outright animosity—and beyond.
In “Everything I Hate About You” NOANNE shatters conventional storytelling with a daring blend of dark humor and raw passion. The song’s lyrics cut to the bone, chronicling a tumultuous ride from bitter resentment to an almost absurd reconnection with love. Through her innovative narrative style, NOANNE invites listeners to explore the complexities of their own emotional landscapes, making “Everything I Hate About You” an unforgettable anthem of defiance and self-discovery.
The recording process for “Everything I Hate About You” was an exhilarating and deeply collaborative effort, with NOANNE working alongside musician and producer Gregory Darling and his son Harrison on piano. Inspired by the raucous force of bands like Led Zeppelin and the theatricality of David Bowie, the track evokes a sound that is both powerful and haunting, perfectly capturing the song’s fierce and darkly comedic narrative. NOANNE confides, “I wanted to create a track that not only captured the visceral energy of rock ‘n’ roll but also conveyed a deep, emotional narrative and reflect the intense feelings I was experiencing at the time of writing the single—anger, frustration, and a touch of ironic humor. The result is a track that is raw and dynamic, yet filled with lyrical depth. It’s a sonic journey that mirrors the tumultuous relationship described in the song, taking listeners from the peak of rage to the depths of introspection. This blend of high-energy rock with thoughtful storytelling is something I hope resonates deeply with my audience.”
The accompanying music video, directed by Steen Agro, takes inspiration from classic dark comedies and psychological thrillers. The artist shares, “Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” and the Coen Brothers’ “Fargo” provided rich visual and emotional contexts that permeated the song’s lyrics and overall mood. The intense psychological exploration and masterful building of suspense in these films helped shape the thematic development of “Everything I Hate About You.” This blend of deeply evocative music and psychologically intense cinema created a fertile ground for my creativity, allowing me to craft a song that is both hypnotic and unsettlingly beautiful.”
singer, songwriter, and producer Daniel Arison has unveiled his latest single, “Easier To Hate You.” This emotionally charged track follows the release of “Other People,” which peaked at #1on Spotify’s Viral 50 Playlist in Taiwan, and continues the narrative journey that will culminate in his upcoming album, slated for release later this year. Just like his previous single, “Easier To Hate You” draws from the same deeply personal relationship, but reflects different periods of Daniel’s life. Speaking about the inspiration behind his new single, Daniel shared, “When I wrote ‘Easier To Hate You,’ I felt really angry. I gave my heart and soul to this person and still got a lot of shit back. Although I gave so much love and support, and literally was the last one
standing, I still ended up being cut out of this person’s life.”
He continued, “At that point, I decided that it would just be so much easier to hate this person than to wait around hoping things would get better. When you don’t have
closure, sometimes it’s easier to hate someone and be done with it. It’s an easier way out and to be able to let go.”
Andie Loren is a Toronto based singer/songwriter. Her music is a mix of dream pop and rock. Her lyrics focus on love, loss and the rollercoaster of emotions and questions we have in relationships. Songs are characterized by her desire to understand human nature, and how love can consume us in positive and negative ways. Her rich, warm vocals are heartfelt and her approach to writing is honest, straightforward and open. Her latest EP “Some Special Light” is a concept album. It looks into our desperate need to matter to someone, and the highs and lows that come along with it.
The self-described pop anarchist has been pushing envelopes her whole life and now, on her latest single, “She Wants To Kill Me”, (SWTKM) she’s pushing up daisies.
Inspired by personal circumstances and a calling to end a lifetime of being silenced, the vibey track and it’s companion video tackle the topic of setting boundaries and the dangers that result when those boundaries are crossed. It’s a message of self-empowerment but also serves as the ultimate cautionary tale of what can happen when one sinister force (the enigmatic “she”) takes down the heroine (Queeny) in a modern day take of the classic Snow White. The video is laden with many religious relics reminiscent of Madonna’s “Like A Prayer”.
Though thematically dark, it’s also a bold statement piece that’s sure to spark a conversation. Now available on all streaming platforms, give it a listen and expect new music to follow soon. Her extensive biography is available
Opeongo is the moniker of Keegan Trumpour and an ever-rotating cast of musicians. Keegan is from Midland, Ontario.
Opeongo has released two full length albums (2019’s Miasma and 2021’s we’ll all go with the will-o’-the-wisp); 2024’s “Eventual Mt. Lee” marks their third release, with a fourth underway in the near future.
These latest songs are dedicated to the life and legacy of the late, great Liam Steffler. I name this mountain after him.
LA punk band, SAD PARK release new catchy, hard hitting summer anthem single “GOOD LUCK” today via Pure Noise Records. Completely self produced by the band at the legendary Conway Recording Studios in Hollywood CA, “GOOD LUCK” is Sad Park’s first follow up single to their 2023 LP “NO MORE SOUND”.
legendary nightlife institution CircoLoco has unveiled the lineup for CircoLoco Halloween, held alongside long-standing US partner Teksupport, New York City’s leading underground events collective. CircoLoco’s highly anticipated return to New York will see the iconic Ibiza brand host three nights of parties across two weeks, soundtracked by the world’s brightest house and techno stars.
This year’s marathon CircoLoco Halloween celebrations will feature performances from Keinemusik members &ME vs Rampa, Innervisions co-founders Dixon and Âme, Bronx-born duo The Martinez Brothers, Paradise and Hot Creations boss Jamie Jones, and Golfos, comprised of tech house titans PAWSA and Dennis Cruz.
The lineup continues with Italian techno pioneer Joseph Capriati, IFEEL label head Skream, Detroit legend Seth Troxler, Chilean-Swiss DJ Luciano, Canadian icon Blond:ish, desert house duo Bedouin, and Up The Stuss label head Chris Stussy.
CircoLoco’s tight knit family of artists will of course be in attendance following summer residencies on the white isle including Leeds-based duo Prospa, fresh off their latest CircoLoco Records release ‘If You Want My Loving,’ SMIILE label founder Chloe Caillet, former NBA player turned clubland favorite Rony Seikaly, and New York native Mink the Circoloco Ibiza resident.
For twenty-five years, CircoLoco has melded scenes and sounds from across the globe with its flagship Ibiza season lineups. It’s a place where legends are born, the avantgarde takes centre stage, and the moment’s biggest stars are given the chance to experiment on one of the world’s most revered stages.
Circoloco remains one of underground electronic music’s most important outfits. From its namesake party in Ibiza, spawned in 1999 as a Monday after-hours party, CircoLoco has grown into a global music brand and veritable lifestyle, catalysing cultural exchange with the most brilliant minds across art, fashion and entertainment. Its no-frills approach and forward-thinking lineups have perpetuated the underground spirit of its Balearic roots for 25 years.
Led by founder Rob Toma, Teksupport have spent the last decade shaping the nightlife landscape of NYC through their cutting edge production, unparalleled musical curation, and never-before-used locales. Pushing the boundaries of traditional nightlife, Teksupport have been the driving force behind some of the most important collisions of club culture, high fashion and technology in recent years. The pioneering event visionaries expanded beyond NYC to throw events across the nation, positioning themselves as the premiere partner for stateside takeovers from global institutions.
Individual day lineups to be announced for those who sign up to the presale.
This December – THE SHARON SHANNON BIG BAND – are pleased to present a special tribute to the seminal works of Shane MacGowan.
Featuring A-list special guests including IMELDA MAY, LIAM Ó MAONLAÍ, MUNDY and CAIT O’RIORDAN, together they will be reimagining the timeless songbook of the iconic Pogues frontman.
Airing this new show at just three UK venues, these celebratory occasions will take place at Birmingham O2 Institute, London O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, and Manchester’s O2 Ritz, the week before Christmas.
Dates and details are listed below:
THE SHARON SHANNON BIG BAND
A TRIBUTE TO SHANE MACGOWAN – UK DATES
– DECEMBER –
20 – BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY
21 – LONDON O2 SHEPHERD’S BUSH EMPIRE
22 – MANCHESTER O2 RITZ
Tickets for the event are on sale Friday 30/08/2024 @ 9AM.
The Neighbourhood Watch’s story-driven blend of folk and indie rock clearly touched a nerve when they released their album Community Protected (2017). The album was a kind of anthology: a collection of songs about the dissolution of family, the philosophical angst of turning seventeen, and what it feels like to get a bit too high for your own good. Without any sort of label or industry support, the album racked up 10 million+ streams and became the main soundtrack for the indie film Midnight at the Paradise (2022). The DIY release laid the groundwork for the band’s future success.
They followed this release with the albums Goodbye Childhood (2019) and Lost in Bloom (2021). The records both honed in on the fear that often accompanies growing up—with songs about heartbreak, lost friendships, and the forced solitude of the COVID-19 pandemic. The albums received strong recognition, with features in the Toronto Star, blogTO, Exclaim!, and Indie88 contributing the albums’ 2 million + streams. More recently, the band’s song “20 Year Dream” was featured in a commercial for the international consulting company KPMG.
Now, the band is ready to release their fourth album: a meditation on family, illness, and loving what life gives you nonetheless.
LA based duo Sleek Teeth delivers moody, melodic electronic music with an energy that feels right at home on the dancefloor of a shadowy underground nightclub. Blending elements of darkwave, electro-pop and EBM, the songs explore depths of isolation, dissociation, and the struggle to make sense of the senseless, all without shying away from a good hook. Haunting vocals with a hint of melodrama hover over pulse-pounding beats, delivering a dynamic and cathartic experience.
Sleek Teeth launched onto the LA music scene with their high energy, hook-laden debut single, “Gone”, along with an ambitious cinematic music video featuring a compelling dystopian narrative. Their new single, “Endless”, is a melodic, danceable darkwave offering with an anthemic chorus, accompanied by a music video featuring a mysterious journey into the unknown.
The duo made an impressive live debut at the legendary Das Bunker in Los Angeles in 2024, and are slated to play the LA darkwave music festival Substance in November. Their debut EP is scheduled for release October 4, 2024.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
