That’s it, folks – The first six months of 2024 are officially behind us, and apparently summer is here?! Stunning music continues to seek out fresh ears. Don’t keep listening to the same old songs – ‘One Hour Wonder’ brings you the very best of the independent realm from all genres. The best songwriting, the … Continued
Rebecca Cullen
Our protagonist sings with emotional strain about loneliness and the struggle to adapt to the fast-pace of life, but meanwhile this ethereal back and forth of the chords and these light drums, the reverb-kissed guitar pouring through like waves of optimism, creates an unassuming safe space – within which these thoughts can really connect.
Backed by another fireside set of visuals, juxtaposition is a crucial aspect of the artistry of Björn Donath. The music presents an ambient to heavy metal arrangement but at a surprisingly mellow, cinematic tempo, the scene feels arena-ready and boldly passionate, yet the setting is calm, collected, ready to relax. The whole thing utilises polar opposites to captivate its audience, and the result is a rather perfectly timed three-plus minutes of expressive and modestly evolving emotion.
Following another immense six months of his unprecedented rise through the indie realm, Matthew Phillips stopped by to talk everything that’s been happening in recent months. Not least of all, we talk about the band putting on a phenomenal headline show at the iconic Belly Up venue. The official video for his single Time Fades … Continued
Ambient acoustic grooves and stylish bass meet whispered, breathy layers of voice, as the elusive artist you wouldn’t know him, presents the poetic and contemplative depths of his album test of time.
The opener Call Me, from the four-track EP For You, depicts a mildly gritty shoegaze tone, and presents an array of voices and melodies that draw inspiration from the likes of Redbone as much so as Hip Hop and RnB crossovers from way back when.
Crafted during a time of profound personal turmoil, the single speaks out on behalf of self-worth and not seeking validation from external sources. It’s an incredibly relevant topic given the rise of image-based influencers, and SABINA has approached it in a broadly accessible, musically timeless fashion, effectively presenting a classic power-ballad with a stylish twist of modern contemplation.
Presenting an increasingly enchanting, uplifting and memorable arrangement, You gathers momentum consistently and impressively, finding its groove amidst the brightness and embrace of Country and Americana, with an impassioned vocal delivery and chorus that naturally lingers in the mind.
What grabbed me the most about this track was Amanda’s decision to write from the perspective of the cult leader. It’s interesting, original, and strangely intoxicating. If ever there was a relevant artistic representation of the allure and appeal that cult leaders manage to enchant their followers with, Cigarettes and Crucifixes is the one.
Perhaps perfectly titled for the sheer grip and escapism of its make up, Distorsión in tiene veins has the impact and power of a classic Pendulum track, but also the humanity and roar of a timeless heavy metal performance. The two styles could prove chaotic and incompatible in the wrong hands, but something about CiDiaH’s clear passion and appreciation for both allows this release to feel like a match made in heaven.
For the hard rock fans with a passion for the gritty and melodic uniting under a purposeful songwriting blanket of expression – Kansas artist and musician Luke Fitzgerald has captured a sublime sound and style, with the evocative and addictive pace and presence of Lost My Mind.
Back from his break and the wonderfully impactful extension of his family, and already embracing a fresh style – Zachary Campos presents an eighties-inspired new-wave pop rock arrangement and song, which celebrates taking the time to appreciate the beauty and wonder of life.