It’s an inspiring concept, to not let the struggles of the past weigh us down as we attempt to move forward in life, and it’s one that effectively connects on simply a human level – unconfined by genre or age or background. That sense of possibility shines well in the natural optimism and glow of both the music and performance.
Music
Introducing a dreamy Trip Hop and Neo Soul combination that beautifully captivates – an eclectic and colourful approach, intoxicating and uplifting regardless of language or topic – Cathy Lay & the Suspenders deliver an immersive realm of quiet contemplation, for the the wonderful single Trop Tard.
Driven by a lifelong desire to connect and bring people together, singer and songwriter Charles Troxler has evolved from his early inspirations in impersonating Michael Jackson on the stage, to releasing a full-length album of original songs.
As always, Eddie Wang refuses to adhere to expectation, and instead remains a songwriter exploring the darker depths and nuances of the human experience. Here we note the emptiness that ensues when love is lost, when even though we’re better off without the hurt, the sense of life and electricity from that experience seems irreplaceable.
Marco Palmieri manages to be all at once creatively eccentric and defiantly aware of what audiences appreciate. Here we can get lost in the music with ease – the experience is about us, the listener, rather than purely about the performer. That’s a rare quality in modern jazz, and as such, this music feels original at the same time as really letting and even nudging your imagination to wander freely.
Creating art out of trauma is a painful but ultimately therapeutic process, and if that art or music can in turn provide the same kind of solace and understanding for other victims of abuse, then its all the more rewarding. Johnny Bottos tells his story in a unique and empowering way, with the pure poetry, sheer weight, and musical precision of Crown Of Thorns.
Striking artwork and a unique fusion of contemporary emo and classic pop punk – Free Mace captures his own artistic identity, with the proudly atmospheric and revealing new album Better Off Bitter.
Great vibes, great structure – an album reminiscent of those crafted with purpose and story, designed to entertain and impress all at once. romethegreat sets the scene with ease, as I Am Coming opens up the mighty ten-track album Godlike 2.
Dreamy jazz-kissed pop and rock with a refreshing twist of artistic delicacy at the helm – Miami creatives Nuclear Monkey capture a likable set of grooves and reflections, with their softly uplifting new album Hello Again.
New music from Canadian songwriter Alex Runions brings the soulful intimacy of acoustic folk-pop and a boldly poetic story that instantly captivates. On An Island intertwines the deeply personal with the broadly accessible and imagery-loaded, for a sense of rising passion and power that consistently tightens its grip.
Scottish pop singer Jake Sowerby brings back a nostalgic style, with the rap-like verses, acoustic guitar groove and catchy hook of All Night Long.
Catchy mainstream Hip Hop with an intense earworm of a hook – Mugg Man and Jon Glenn carve out an acoustic-rap and pop gem, with the unforgettable single My Town.