Southern California duo The New Ritual is a psychedelic to ambient indie-pop outfit with a uniquely distinct approach to modern music. Formed by brothers David and Salomon Gomez, the project seems like a judgement-free creative space for expressing inner dreams and desires, underpinned by an often mellow but colourful array of sounds.
Electro Pop
Soaring electro-pop and dark-wave dance instrumentals back up impassioned vocal hooks and heartfelt to imaginative sentiments – Joel Christian returns this season with a six-track EP of synth-pop gems.
In my opinion, this is categorically the most memorable, musically satisfying, and perhaps emotionally impactful song from the extensive Bad Bubble repertoire to date. It’s a step in the direction of simplicity and realism in both the clarity and boldness of the voices, and in the honesty and relatable authenticity of the lyrics. The opening reference to Occam’s Razor is decidedly fitting; sometimes the simplest answers are the best.
Great vibes and a consistent celebration of immersive production and catchy songwriting – the long-awaited EP from Anonymous17 hits the airwaves, with six original tracks that boldly celebrate the optimism and anthemic brightness of the style.
Despite its impossible to pigeon-hole style and diversity, Kingdom is one of the most well-crafted collections of original pop songs to hit the scene this year. It’s intriguing for its originality and style, but it connects for its realism, its clear talent, and its humble yet effective catchy hooks and riffs. Z.M.A have outdone themselves with this project.
The minimalism of Slide It lets the programmed qualities of the voice feel a little more exposed, striking up interest in the real thing – the live performance possibilities. There’s a mysterious AI tone to much of the project, but only time will tell. Alli Cazaam is definitely memorable in both name and style.
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.
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.
Four great tracks in total make up the EP You Deserve To Fly High, some taking influence from the likes of pop punk and rock, others noting hints of inspiration amidst classic pop and even electro. It’s a diverse but grounded collection, with a leading voice and rush of euphoria to the design that rings loud as AJ The Messenger.
As the elusive new pop world continues to tighten its grip, an aptly-named Elektra Skye delivers a bright and electrified single that feels like both an AI list and ballad effectively built around a simple four-chord pattern and a mellow beat.
That producer and performer combination is rare to find at such a distinguished and still humble, honest level, and this duo have it mastered. Their music is consistently a pleasure to escape into, always thoughtful, heartfelt and intricate, and the ethereal waves of synth and the sheer gratitude of the lyrics throughout Separate all exemplifies that truth in a beautiful way.
Ambient warmth and retro-electronic exploration meet with confronting yet delicate vocals. Artist and composer GAMA MAJOR blends soulful expression and contemporary mystique, for the bold and beautiful Shadow Man.