Cross-cultural jazz-fusion with a lush piano pattern at the forefront – TC.KYLIE blends influence from Japanese acid jazz and retro-gamer tones, for the colourful instrumental piece Rebirth.
Singles
Initially appealing for its Tim Minchin-esque vocal lead, The Earthquake’s Daughter soon becomes both an earworm and an alternative indie hit that’s lyrically refreshing. Ghost Rebel Club have a likeable sound, but in this case, it’s their snappy and alluring songwriting that really sets them apart.
Stylistically, Friendship Commanders have their own thing going on entirely here. The songwriting, for me, tips its hat to the likes of Pearl Jam, for its depth and reflection, its meandering melodies – that meeting of the unpredictable and the satisfying. Again though, there’s something clearly their own about these lyrics, and the way they’re performed.
An American songwriter with a certain humility and artistic authenticity about his writing and delivery, Levi Robin connects with realness and hope here, presenting a timeless folk single, with a lightness on first listen, which soon evolves into a vastness of depth and intention that’s profound, and that lingers; long after the music has ended.
An unexpectedly provocative organic ambiance emerged this August, the heavy atmospheric reverberation of guitar tones, not evolving nor gathering momentum, but simply meandering through a space, to recreate the essence or feeling of a setting sun.
The intriguing creativity of LA drummer and composer Arhkota captures a new sense of direction and provocative thought this month, as the electronic rock alternative moves through the industrial rhythms and dreamy contemplations of Plastic Saints.
Self-penned as their happiest beat yet, snow shack’s sunny day is every bit the smooth and uplifting good-vibes post-summer-celebration its title implies. The single features a finger-style folk groove, hip hop rhythms, a catchy hook, and talented bars from both snow shack and the featured Stickman favourite Atryp.
Blissful acoustic softness with a warm, orchestral or church-like ambient backdrop, fronted by a smooth and soulful leading voice – Australian artist and songwriter Dan Cully unites natural imagery and hopeful metaphors, for the timeless and moving Changes.
Sharp production and snappy vocals bring depth of design and classic RnB-pop together, as collaboration feeds into the energy and smooth, smart appeal, of psychicfever’s Just Like Dat.
Cardiff-based creative Daddy Drwg (Richard Proctor) gets the chemistry just right with this one. Following a dreamy acoustic riff through a softly pulsating ambiance, with short, harmonised vocals rising and falling like waves, Wise Guys is simple but distinct; unforgettable but in a calming fashion.
Catchy indie rock with a colourful groove and that old-school production to lightly reinforce asnappy leading voice. Belgian duo Bauman & Kane keep things simple and effective, with the upbeat earworm and quirky celebration Allyfornia.
New music from the mystique of Ry brings a high-octane and immersive but smooth dance-pop alternative. It’s a step in a fresh and euphoric direction, an aptly-dreamy arrangement and reverb-drenched vocals setting an ethereal vibe, for this enchanting Night-Lapse.