Boasting over a million plays across nearly two-dozen original singles, LA-based Joseph Rutakangwa has carved out an impressive niche within modern music, the likes of Avani and I Am Meant For you building further upon a naturally distinct and evocative style.
For the new release, Joseph returns to the poetic reflections and optimism of his earliest work, and in the process gifts listeners a feeling of positivity, self-belief, and lasting calm.
We never forget those who impacted our lives, and in never forgetting, and cherishing what they gave and taught us, we keep them alive and a part of our every day lives.
I’m remined of the words Ernest Hemingway famously wrote – “Every man has two deaths, when he is buried in the ground, and the last time someone says his name. In some ways, men can be immortal.”
“I remember when I was 5 years old I liked some of the tunes on TV shows and tried to play them on the piano. I’ve always felt magic in musical instruments.”
Building up from colourful beginnings through soul-pop and electro verses to the ultimate looping of that central phrase, Nice Things gathers momentum like a classic summer anthem, blurring the lines between electro-pop and EDM with grace and intention.
The instantly catchy All I Want brings through a multi-layered array of retro synths and keys, alongside an admittedly Taylor Swift-like vocal tone, and is quick to assert itself with a uniquely meandering melody.
The live and fairly raw sound of authentic indie songwriting captures attention from the outset, as Katie Brown releases her latest poetic outpouring, in the form of the melodically enchanting and imagery-laden Insomnia.
Pure and precise, compelling in an honest and enjoyable way – everything about James Keen’s music feels authentic and engaging. It’s likable, timeless songwriting, with just enough of a distinct sense of character to warrant the rightful expansion of audience currently taking place.
Soulful vocal harmonies and Afrobeat grooves back up the clarity and nostalgia of Hip Hop, as Rod212 kicks off this brand new album with an absolute anthem of exotic and uplifting appeal.
Those memories that won’t leave, the daydream in direct opposition with reality; the elephant in the room. As the beat hits, Kimberly’s own delivery achieves a mild sense of urgency and passion, and the whole arrangement proceeds to tighten its emotional grip on the listener.
Smilee has made waves throughout the UK scene since the release of her debut single Wavelength back in 2020, and continues to build upon that with both precision and passion as a modern artist.
This time of year always brings back the best melodies and memories combined. A fresh twist on the classic dynamic is more than welcome, and Eddie Wang’s version of It’s Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas is a genuine pleasure to let play this season.
Produced by xjaelunax and featuring Simona’s unmistakably beautiful vocals, meandering through these quiet folk-pop verse-lines towards the uplift and colour of the hook, Vacant feels like a classic fusion of indie alternative and radio-ready pop.
