Perhaps surprising that this is the first project of this name to cross our path – by all accounts, many of you reading this or experiencing this album are indeed Melophiles yourselves. Abhi Ananda, however, seems to encapsulate that quality with the clear complexity, versatility, skill and unwavering heart of these eight recordings.
Los Angeles--California--USA
An outright dance anthem with a welcomed twist of creative identity, Breathe makes fine use of long-form retro synth melodies and lyrical poetry all at once – a combination gifted all the more poignant humanity thanks to the clearly emotive rasp and devotion of our leading vocalist.
The unrelenting force of fully-loaded electronic rock rains down from the moment you press play, as LA alternatives A Million Little Fires present their latest evocative and euphoric deep-dive.
Armed with a brand new release and an extensive back-catlalogue to lose yourself within, Creature Benny remains one of indie’s most fearlessly unique creatives.
“We Can’t Stop was created from the need to inspire and encourage people to believe in the power of resilience despite any obstacles that come our way. It was written during Covid, a time when so many were alienated and questioned so many things.”
浮世幻想 (Floating World Fantasy) offers up an impressive collection of songs, effectively both familiar and fresh in everything from structure to the subtle character and faultless ability of the soulful, mildly raspy but still comfortingly smooth leading voice.
Not merely a stripped-back exact version of the high-octane pop-punk original, but a fairly re-crafted alternative to it. LA’s rising indie gem BORT delivers an unplugged take on his breakthrough single Can You Hear Me.
Taking things back to the bare essentials of smooth Soul and RnB, LA songwriter and artist G-Nykko delves into romantic longing, with expressive vocals and catchy melodies, for I’m Yours.
Stacked high on a slick beat, heavy bass and smart wordplay – Rolondo Rich brings the swagger and sharp wit back to modern Hip Hop, with the smooth bars and bravado of BAC 2 MY CHANGE.
Unorthodox yet engaging production and design is a key strength from the outset, intriguing rhythms and tones backing up the implications of the title and image. Silent Killer feels tribal yet industrial, natural world sounds and distorted, heavier layers meeting with fragments of melody and provocation.
We’re almost in Creep territory, only the style hits differently, and the personalities weave a whole new web of appeal.
“The song came about after I got a DM from one of my ex’s on Instagram asking to meet up for a coffee and a chat. I decided instead of responding that I’d write a song and that’s how You’ll Hurt More came to life.”