Conceptually deep and provocative by nature, there’s more to love about Abstract with each re-listen. The production and melody create a shoulder-swaying groove that’s a pleasure to let play, but then on closer inspection, the lyrics prompt you to become inescapably aware of the fragility of life and the inevitable passing of time.
USA
This is one of those songs that can’t be done any real justice in writing. Rich Strater creates a space within which listeners can reflect and ponder the world and the past in their own unique way.
bert. balances scorn and even cursing with clear optimism and poetic colour, and the result is a strangely intoxicating, simple yet striking song, which again proves a memorable highlight from this uniquely compelling album.
If ever the word original should feel completely at ease alongside an independent artist, bert. deserves that title, and the songwriting is wonderful to match.
Created in direct response to the consistent rise of conflict and hate in the USA, Big Bus Dream releases the evocative protest single AMERICAN – an organic soft-rock arrangement and song reflecting on times past and the subsequent downward spiral of division and violence.
Ultra Feminist isn’t purely a call out to all feminists, but a personal ode to an artist’s own liberation from a tumultuous and isolating past. It’s a heavy topic, but the song has a certain lightness and positivity to it, which works well to juxtapose the issues within. In other words – If you like the title; you’ll love the song.
Impressively interconnected with its own conceptual implications, A Passing Memory breathes life into the room for only a few moments – a passing memory encapsulated in the delicacy, the vintage crackle, the unfinished nature of the phrase.
Unplugged folk warmth from a handful of stringed instruments leads us into the vocal quickness and character of Tague Wilkins – a songwriting storyteller with a unique tone of voice.
Raising the pace distinctly since her last few solo releases, the ever-recognisable vocalist and pop powerhouse Veronica Largiu delivers an anthemic EDM single – one that fuses elements of disco and modern dance with her iconic and mighty vocal style.
Big vibes from world music creative act KOMASI. Masupian is an infectious organic track with a funky set-up and pace. The vocals inject a passionate call and response hook, following gritty, expressive verses from an all-encompassing performance that’s as captivating as it is addictive to listen to.
Timeless musicianship and a catchy tune light up the space with comfort and colour, before Colin Cleary’s uniquely raspy, accessible and enjoyable voice guides listeners on a journey through simple gratitude and love.
Chilled rhythms, nostalgic keys and retro production back up the distinct vocal sound and unorthodox stories of Shiny Glide’s EP Thank You Forever.
Introducing a revitalizing dance anthem of pristinely crafted synths, keys, vocals, bass and beats, the iconic indie songwriter Gary Louca (Deltiimo) joins forces with Veronica Largiu, for the compelling story and sensational floor-filler Hypersonic.