The deciding factor is not always just my enjoyment of the track, sometimes it helps to note the response of others who hear it playing. My three-year-old son is not easy to please musically, but as I turned this one up loud, he ran into the room dancing, and openly declared it ‘his favourite song’. Strangely enough, it quickly became mine, too.
Music
From inspiration amidst Daft Punk to The Chemical Brothers, Jax presents an eclectic and well-versed understanding of the history of electronic music. We get fragments of nineties influence for nostalgia, the 2000s then leaning all the way to the current sound and shape of mainstream dance.
The topic is universally relatable, and is accessed in a refreshingly pure and real manner. Far from the simplicity of flashy cars and fake personas, as is often found in the mainstream music realm of late. The realism and heart found in this and much of ZIGGY BLK’s repertoire offers a sense of possibility and resilience that’s inspiring.
In my opinion, this is categorically the most memorable, musically satisfying, and perhaps emotionally impactful song from the extensive Bad Bubble repertoire to date. It’s a step in the direction of simplicity and realism in both the clarity and boldness of the voices, and in the honesty and relatable authenticity of the lyrics. The opening reference to Occam’s Razor is decidedly fitting; sometimes the simplest answers are the best.
Organic instrumental vibes evolve into a summer-pop production, led by a smooth and catchy vocals – Jaco delivers a bold, memorable single, with the brightness and addictive bounce of Gioconda.
New music from the unmistakable Big Bus Dream brings a clean and clear production, with those expressive and distinct vocals upfront and centre. It’s an emotive and uplifting ballad of sorts, with a twist of joyful pop-rock and playful production, and it marks a welcomed return to the songwriting finesse of the band.
A superb introduction to an artist with a certain humility and effortlessness to her clear talent at the helm.
Fans of the already mentioned Prodigy, of Fat Boy Slim, The Chemical Brothers, Adi Lukovac – Upgrade relights the excitement of classic albums, maintaining that nostalgic minimalism and industrial realism, alongside a sincere and consistent playfulness, which lets each and every track work its magic in unpredictable but satisfying ways. Not to be ignored.
An echoing arena of rising notes and descending bass, something of a mirror-chamber of reflecting ideas and melodies that build and envelope the listener. There’s a certain lightness and humble euphoria to this track, a meeting between the meditative and the energising.
Timelessly soulful RnB and Gospel vibes light up the unity and warmth of this latest ode to oneness and connection in the modern realm. d.Rich tackles the issue of division and uncertainty in the lead up to the US election, with the politically inspired, musically rich and welcoming Speak Up & Stand On It.
Dark and dirty production leads with a rise and fall bass line and snappy vocals, blending rap and melody across a confronting and confident lyrical thread – Music Production House Tune Oven launches a single fit for the spooky season, with the Halloween-ready Bitch To Witch.
Elliot Wren’s return this season brings a heartfelt and intimate pop song, with unique underlying production, and a stylish lyric video to help reinforce the optimism and celebration of the writing.