Memory of Xinjiang is a sensational original composition, and draws focus to the modernization of Chinese music in recent years, and the embracing of technology alongside traditional instrumental formats, to create wholly compelling, incomparable new soundscapes.
Singles
Poetic songwriting is key, finding a new way of framing a somewhat familiar sentiment or introspection, and then building a story and song around that central idea. The Architect encapsulates the value of that approach, quite literally in fact, and while the style is nothing ground-breaking, it doesn’t need to be.
Spellbinding acoustic folk, a familiar style with divinely intimate vocals, reflecting on a subject matter with poignant vulnerability. Wren Arkose unite poetic short lines with a deeply introspective account of a life lived amidst the struggle of anorexia, for the powerful and gripping single Bones.
Noting a clear similarity to the early years of Arctic Monkeys, Black Lounge access a current gap in the modern music scene, with great vocals, clever lyrics, fresh melodies and smart guitar play. Their musicianship is second to none, their unity as a band undeniable, and the pace and presence of this track, the sheer tempo and their faultless delivery of it, quickly overcomes any nostalgic comparisons.
Crisp acoustic guitar and boldly distinct, deep vocals, blending spoken and sung performance, throughout a heartfelt song that proudly celebrates the life-changing moment you meet your first child. Australian artist Simon Orton captures a sound both unique and classic, with The Next Me.
Norwegian three-piece GISKE capture an organic folk-pop sound loaded with warmth in both imagery and musicality. Light Upon The Water is every bit as hopeful and uplifting as its title and artwork imply, and the music grows all the more beautiful as things progress.
Slick riffs and a cool creative fusion of all things jazz, funk, psycehldic and rock – Nighthawks is the low-key quirky and catchy new single from a distinct Sea Breeze, and its organic make-up and lyrical simplicity make for a colourful, lovable vibe.
Initially extending its reach as a timeless electronic house track, JUST SAY appeals at first for this simple surrounding beat and panned hi-hats, the rising melody and bass-line; the nostalgia. Soon enough though, as the keys build anticipation, the disco-esque vibrancy of the track’s peak leans into view, and suddenly we enter a much more other-worldly experimental realm.
Introducing a beautifully unmistakable, instrumental love song – a clear melodic gem from his catalogue, and a fine ode to both the skill of the player and the emotional intentions of his work – guitarist and composer Joe Hodgson releases the highly-anticipated, guitar-led single You I Think Of.
Confidently intertwining the inescapable catchiness of a simple pop earworm, with the higher-octane euphoria of timeless happy-hardcore and EDM, Oktavvia celebrates the warmth of the party season, with the aptly-titled, boldly infectious dance-pop anthem Summer Heat.
Introducing a huge summer jam, a big-bank funk-rock release, capturing aspects of disco and pop-rock across an uplifting sentiment and style. Dominick Keath brings catchy positivity and organic musicianship back to the forefront, with the infectious good vibes of an aptly-titled Rise And Shine.
Chinese composer, producer and artist CDA REVE, intertwines the softness of ambient piano, with the modern lo-fi escapism of a trap-style beat, and divinely gentle vocals, for the enchanting calm and embrace of 22:22.