Bringing back the bare essentials of alluring and dynamic indie rock, New Zealand three-piece NAPOLEAN BABY! kick off a brand new year with an indie anthem that begs for you to let yourself escape entirely into its energy.
Music
RIIIVER JORDAN crafts an audio experience of purpose and presence, with the vastly contemplative and musically enchanting album Departing The Moon.
From the leading riffs to the gentle vocal front and the easy hi-hat and clap groove consistently guiding the way, Your Nightclub Needs You modestly reflects upon the incomparable euphoria of nightclub escapism, and essentially rebuilds that embrace by way of a surprisingly original, genre-blending composition.
Introducing a deserving creative duo, an acoustic to full-rock ensemble undeniably guided by intention and feeling above all else. Crown Mountain drive with talent and passion at the forefront, and despite the versatility of their catalogue, that quality rings loud every step of the way.
Something initially a little dreamy, calm yet fully-loaded with subtle detail – synths, light rhythms, keys, breathy vocals. Later on we’re confronted by a boldly energising peak. Montana duo BLVDS blend poetic pop songwriting with the rising energy and escapism of electronic dance and pop-punk, for their gentle to anthemic single Two Sides.
Currently suffering from long-term autoimmune lung disease, Kristi’s courage and drive as a creative is incredible, and the tone and emotional depth of this release, the skill and celebration at its core, all resounds in a way that appears to completely deny any kind of health struggle at the helm.
Heavy bass, fast bars, a sharp flow and wordplay that’s equally smart – Kofi Santana brings through a fresh trap anthem with masses of character and a clean tone, for Pissed Me Off(TxnaTalk2).
Gorgeous vocals and simple country-pop warmth light up the metaphorical nostalgia of Callie Young’s latest evocative single.
Focused on the simplicity of eras past, the song and its accompanying artwork remind us of childhood days and learning to ride a bike – with the help of Training Wheels. The release goes on to poetically reflect on the complexities and unknowns of life and growing older.
Montreal-born singer, songwriter and performer June6xteen blends the power of an instant earworm with the strength of a finely crafted soundscape and faultless vocal delivery.
Retro-electronic sound-play follows colourful keys that rise and fall, as we’re welcomed by the implied security of a hopeful production. Love the Magician focuses on unity and possibility, by way of scornful and robotic lyrical outpourings, which openly reflect upon the clear gaps and obstacles in societal connection.
Professionalism and passion as ever guide the greatest songs and productions into the light. Enter artist and producer Jatzu, with an engaging and rather seamless blend of Latin and Reggaetón vibes, presented by way of a handful of gorgeously performed and faultlessly written original tracks.
As Love Forever rains into view, we’re instantly reminded of the hypnotic multi-coloured chaos of Isaiah’s unique production, and the distant and equally recognisable tone of that leading voice.