Performatively noting influence from jazz and soul-pop legends, the music of Imaginary Problems, and in particular, the lyrical depth and openness, all shines light on a whole different set of inspirations from Indira May.
Alt Pop
Cinematic production brings together neo-classical strings and the higher-intensity of EDM, as we enter a structurally impassioned and powerful original song, from an elusive Celia Frost.
The song gathers momentum increasingly, forever blending metaphor and realism, as we explore the all-too-familiar topic of substance abuse. The set-up utilises contrast perfectly well, between moments of pace and power and those that pour through with the softness of intimate trip hop or exotic adlibs, and this helps reinforce the push-and-pull dynamic of being trapped in addiction.
Featuring those again soulful vocals at the forefront, The Furnace is notably more delicate and thoughtful than the former track, and sets a sultry, contemplative mood, with its evocative electric guitar solo, and deeply poignant lyrics reflecting on war.
Introducing an established, stylish and evocative debut – songwriter and artist Aaron Molyneaux (Aaron M) captivates within moments, for the unique vocal depth, melodic swoon, and lyrical substance of Blue Avenue.
Having first hit our radar back in 2020 with his evocative hit just 4 u, Mitchell Zia takes on a whole new persona and style with the supervillain EP, leading with deep and characterful vocals, through a series of theatrical indie arrangements that tell stories and entertain in a boldly distinct way.
Creatively balancing the soulful and the gritty, this classic yet contemporary fusion of talents, from an ever-elusive The Bandit Semu and producer Kadestrofik, showcases a whole new approach to modern music.
We move on towards an extended crescendo, within which multiple layers of keys, bass, synths and guitars collaborate to reinforce this looping sentiment and hook, which perfectly bridges the gap between the vagueness of a stranger’s tale and the mightier sense of humanity that is the shared sentiment of still believing and maintaining a hopeful stance in a chaotic world. It also resounds with the shared nostalgia of longing for the simplicity of childhood to return.
Beautiful vocals and a euphoric production elevate the pop songwriting of UK artist Daisy Peacock. While It Lasted carefully balances the strum of an acoustic guitar, with the synth-loaded ethereal embrace of a dance-ready soundtrack, and all the while promises a heartfelt and memorable ode to the highs and lows of adolescent relationships.
Piano-led and intimate but mildly theatrical – TheEccentricLad delivers a boldly poetic, metaphorical journey, for the organic and evocative Vapors Of Love.
LA alt-pop duo Royal She deliver an explosive alternative pop track for their latest offering. Employing contrast quite masterfully, Karma pours into the room by way of its quickly catchy, snappy and nineties-esque hook – this looping statement of ‘Bitch, you gon’ get what you deserve’, backed by an acoustic guitar sound and a clap rhythm.
Somewhat free-flowing in its verse-setup and tune, Manic Pixie Nightmare delivers the familiar line ‘Not all who wander are lost, but all who are lost wander’, repeatedly throughout. It’s a resounding moment, but elsewhere the song follows its own unpredictable melody and fragments of reflection on losing a phone and subsequently seeking to break free from societal expectations.