Richard Schroder’s latest release feels like far more of a pop hit than anything purely country – not that either direction is preferable, there’s just a notably accessible and quickly engaging, memorable aura to this song, making it an easy one to relate to and enjoy.
Singles
Inanna brings back a decidedly retro electro-pop sound with this latest and debut single. Initially channeling elements of Bjork and Madonna alike, Nefertiti XXI soon goes on to become something of its own entirely.
An awesomely intentional, hard-hitting and brilliantly authentic rock track, from a band who we should all be grateful are making their way back on to the world’s music scenes.
Utilizing creative freedom yet again, offering an alternative pop-rock anthem with a quiet verse vocal that intrigues from the offset, Reigning Nonsense is as multi-layered and colourful as it is conceptually intentional.
Sunday Morning kicks up with a simple Americana set-up, organic and fairly minimalist to begin with, then you get the leading voice for the verse – the first moment at which the personality and unique appeal of the band starts to stand out.
Whatever it is that makes for a beautifully warming and poetic pop-rock ballad, Something Beautiful Won’t Come Out has undoubtedly found it.
The Stifftones have chosen a quiet and genuine setting for this because the song itself is one that deals with personal, reflective ideas – a sense of being far away, isolated or alone.
Microcosms stylishly tumble through the speakers for this single, showcasing chaotic indie rock riffs and a grunge-like leading voice that sees the track slowly but surely gather strength and momentum as it fills the room.
Fusing a clear skill and passion for production with a quickly energizing and entrancing style of songwriting, The End Of The World emerges as a partly organic gathering of influences and moments, rising up slowly but surely towards an engaging and easily memorable hook.
Derek Lai takes a clear level of care when crafting original songs, this latest release being a fine example of that. Skillfully balancing professionalism with genuine emotion, Blankets is a softly seductive pop song with a partly organic backdrop and a quickly uplifting rhythm.
Fresh from the album Texas Cactus, Ranzel X Kendrick’s Crazy Love emerges as an acoustic and warm country pop ballad that softly works its magic thanks to Kendrick’s gently expressive vocal and a perfectly supportive, organic soundscape.
Thamatic have crafted this one with careful attention to detail, and this shows on multiple levels throughout the release. Retro elements fuse with those that feel decidedly fresh and uplifting to offer a memorable and quite striking audio journey.