The intimate piano format and cleanly-mixed vocals seem incredibly rare these days. Even the biggest pop ballads of recent years have had some kind of huge moment where drums crash and a choir joins the process. Rafael Montecruz keeps things refreshingly genuine though, and the song is so well written and performed, that really, nothing else is needed to communicate its intentions.
Singles
Organic vibes and distinct vocal leadership guides with humility and calm, through an intriguingly arranged yet infectious new release, from singer, rapper and artist Yeno LND.
In an industry loaded with flashy images and intentions, with showboating and volume and the constant pressures dictating that we all aspire to own Lamborghinis – above purely being better individuals – artists who truly adore the wonders of the real world, and who make music and create things purely out of a love for doing so, are increasingly the ones worth listening to.
Beautifully intoxicating purely on the surface of this dreamy and reverb-drenched arena of contemplation, Dance With Darkness is impossible to ignore, yet it’s also impressively modest and calm in its confrontational realism.
Canadian songwriter and artist Lola Balter masters the acoustic pop space at just seventeen years old. I wish you knew me is a vocally sublime and rhythmically uplifting single, with a quirky groove and long-form lyrics that feel decidedly mature in their storytelling and personal revelations combined.
Switzerland folk and rock outfit Burning Sage continue to bring emotional intensity back to the scene, not least of all with their latest atmospheric, lyrical and melodic gem that is Weapons of My Hometown.
Built around fast yet evocative piano playing from musician Haley Myles, with full orchestral support as things evolve, Concerto for Renaud unites emotional intensity with a distinct and recognisable melodic thread – a haunting but deeply moving progression that’s quickly unmistakable.
Essentially addressing the topic of loving the idea or illusion of someone (or something), Vine Song is a complex lyrical venture that’s melodically alluring and somehow feels like it was written purely for the listener.
The desperation and search for connection is profound and powerful, making this a boldly unique and impactful new single, from an artist whose next step is forever impossible to predict.
Essentially fusing genres with fearless commitment to the artistry of its idea, Drop depicts an electro-pop softness at first, but with a clear sense of rising anticipation. On occasion, the vocal passion rises so high that it seems fit to peak as a pop-punk anthemic explosion.
Big vibes from a retro electronic Odd Cadet – I Should Go is the nostalgic new anthem, and is all at once catchy, evocative, and powerfully immersive.
Retro electronic production introduces a boldly descending riff that instantly works its way into your headspace. AZ131 is quick to redirect expectations though, with the upfront rap vocals and characterful evolution of Keep It Authentic.