Colourful indie pop with a clean vocal and a quirky balancing between RnB and Pop songwriting, even with a twist of something rap-like on occasion – Kibs unites the relatable and unorthodox, with the catchy fluidity and relationship longing of Find A Way Back.
USA
The intimate piano format and cleanly-mixed vocals seem incredibly rare these days. Even the biggest pop ballads of recent years have had some kind of huge moment where drums crash and a choir joins the process. Rafael Montecruz keeps things refreshingly genuine though, and the song is so well written and performed, that really, nothing else is needed to communicate its intentions.
Poignant lyrics and piercing sound-design carefully intertwines delicacy and depth – St.Serpentis carves out a gritty and contemplative new lane, with the fascinating and consuming single Razorblade Laced Lullaby.
Organic vibes and distinct vocal leadership guides with humility and calm, through an intriguingly arranged yet infectious new release, from singer, rapper and artist Yeno LND.
In an industry loaded with flashy images and intentions, with showboating and volume and the constant pressures dictating that we all aspire to own Lamborghinis – above purely being better individuals – artists who truly adore the wonders of the real world, and who make music and create things purely out of a love for doing so, are increasingly the ones worth listening to.
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.
Retro electronic production introduces a boldly descending riff that instantly works its way into your headspace. AZ131 is quick to redirect expectations though, with the upfront rap vocals and characterful evolution of Keep It Authentic.
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.
Inspired by rock and blues from across the ages, but leading with a notably ambient production, Arayansh Thapar effectively carves out a lane of his own, with the beautifully consuming EP Emotions.
Guitar funk and a riding bassline elevate the yesteryear energy and catchy yet humble vocal thread of K-Syran’s latest single Turning My Head.
An ever-elusive OWBY delivers an intoxicating ocean of harmonies and ambient escapism, with the uniquely genre-blending tones and togetherness of Closer.
Guitarist and songwriter Joakim Johansson crafts a live-band pop-rock soundscape around a heartfelt and notably vulnerable single – Shattered Heart reflects with poetry and personal honesty, on the pain of separation and a broken heart.