This is a fine example of vocal and songwriting depth that effortlessly captivates, creating a fresh space for contemplation and wonder, and utilising just a few humble traits from the likes of folk and gospel music to really light up that approach.
Music
Complex artistic sculpting akin to the days when each single was a creative ode to a story and sense of intention. Jared Hara builds up the presence and depth of The Chase brilliantly, evolving from these dreamy trip hop beginnings of quietly whispered vocal melodies, to the full-throttle pace and weight of pop punk and new metal at its peak.
Souvenir is a dark and dystopian kind of hard-hitting dance track, but there’s also a softness and mystique to the vocal stylings and the underlying warmth of the mix. It’s a style of his own, in essence, and with the additional twists of flair brought through with the Ormus Remix, we’re reminded of the freedom of creative originality, and the true escapism of thoughtfully crafted electronic music.
Ari Fraser masters both the conceptual and production sides of the spectrum, incorporating world music tones and riffs as per his extensive and creative repertoire, but as ever carves out a whole new journey for music fans across genres to appreciate.
Swedish songwriter and artist Trolleberg sets the mood with strong rock riffs and a soulfully mellow pace. Anyone But You lets the blissful appeal of the music reach out at volume thanks to great production, and as the leading voice weaves in a kind of nostalgic, reverb-soaked echo of the sixties, the melody and story proceed to further strengthen that initial attraction.
Chas Leman first hit the radar with the evocative and poignant yet anthemic single The Last Boys To Be Picked at Football. The artist introduced a great sense of melodic-riff building, energy, and topical nostalgia that was quick to appeal.
Now we get to hear the true versatility of that approach, this old-school Brit Pop and Rock aura that’s rooted in stories and a broad range of influences.
The music is finely-produced so as to wholly embrace the listener in this repeating energy and pattern, but then the voice emerges like an old-school phone call or message left on a retro device. The lyrics feel relentless and fast-paced though gentle, almost like a stream of consciousness, uninhibited and unable to find a sense of calm or connection throughout the wires.
Promising a dreamy to euphoric depth of guitar sound, as per the master himself and the artwork implications, Jameel Farruk delivers the songs and sentiments to match the evocative playing and melodies of his style, throughout the beautifully enjoyable album Middle Names.
Funky soul-rock with a catchy rise and fall melody and energised vocals at the forefront – Gitarsong recaptures the simple fun of live music and songwriting, with the upbeat and likeable You Hit The Mark.
Dreamy trap production lays a strong foundation for the personal storytelling and emotively tired vocal stylings of DonJulioo. GONE features a versatile flow from one section to the next, and maintains a groove that suits the introspective nature of the performance.
Rhythm first, ambiance second, soulful vocal unexpectedly next – Gokhan Aydogmus seamlessly unites the intoxicating qualities of House and EDM’s sub-genres, with the immersive escapism and evocative presence of Lost.
Established composer and multi-instrumentalist Marco Palmieri continues his creative expansion as a contemporary artist. Noting years of performance experience and backed by two studio albums in the jazz realm, Palmieri’s devotion to composition now sees his music effectively create a uniquely immersive and distinct realm of escapism for modern and classic fans alike.