Fantastic modern songwriting, as stated, and great production and creative dynamic to hold attention. The music has a joyful kind of synth-led melodic bounce to it, but the lyrics deal with absolute isolation and lostness, and that juxtaposition is mighty.
Singles
Brooklyn besties Josh and Charlie, united for life by their passion for absurdist animation and music, showcase the quirky depths of their artistry, with their second single release as Bagel Boys – the heartfelt, humous ballad Gluten Love.
Songwriter and artist Michelle Bender creates a divinely harmonised story and song, with the heartfelt contemplation and ultimate uplift of her single Never Leave.
Guitarist and songwriter Jay Sprouse brings warm riffs and great lyrics back to the organic pop-rock scene, with the memorable tones and concept of Innocent Harmony.
xidontlie and Luey unite in the darkness and realism of the bars, the sound design already injecting a series of traits unmistakable in the current industry, and the result is a fascinatingly poignant, fearless and authentic look at the concept of Survivors Guilt.
The UK’s own Tim Howarth pierces through the chaos of the industry, with a divinely personal, poetic and poignant ode to authentic artistry.
Introducing a single that simply connected and impressed. French artist TIIBOZ captures the essence of soulful expression and contrast, with the creatively mighty new-metal and emotional melodic dance core of BURN.
It’s an inspiring concept, to not let the struggles of the past weigh us down as we attempt to move forward in life, and it’s one that effectively connects on simply a human level – unconfined by genre or age or background. That sense of possibility shines well in the natural optimism and glow of both the music and performance.
Introducing a dreamy Trip Hop and Neo Soul combination that beautifully captivates – an eclectic and colourful approach, intoxicating and uplifting regardless of language or topic – Cathy Lay & the Suspenders deliver an immersive realm of quiet contemplation, for the the wonderful single Trop Tard.
As always, Eddie Wang refuses to adhere to expectation, and instead remains a songwriter exploring the darker depths and nuances of the human experience. Here we note the emptiness that ensues when love is lost, when even though we’re better off without the hurt, the sense of life and electricity from that experience seems irreplaceable.
Creating art out of trauma is a painful but ultimately therapeutic process, and if that art or music can in turn provide the same kind of solace and understanding for other victims of abuse, then its all the more rewarding. Johnny Bottos tells his story in a unique and empowering way, with the pure poetry, sheer weight, and musical precision of Crown Of Thorns.
New music from Canadian songwriter Alex Runions brings the soulful intimacy of acoustic folk-pop and a boldly poetic story that instantly captivates. On An Island intertwines the deeply personal with the broadly accessible and imagery-loaded, for a sense of rising passion and power that consistently tightens its grip.