Davide Anniballi - A Great Day
Davide Anniballi's experience on the piano is represented with exuberant flamboyance in A Great Day. A heart-touching melody is encompassed under a soothing string section. Anniballi's musical direction explores themes of joy, melancholia, and hope. His selection of notes incorporates certain harmonic overtones that play an integral part in his songwriting. With minimal extravaganza, Davide's music is simplistic yet ethereal. And it all comes down to his experience as a musician and his understanding of songwriting. The artist has carefully woven harmonies in place that accentuate certain elements of his music to give A Great Day it's own distinct touch. His expertise in songwriting and using it as a means of storytelling is undeniable. Davide Anniballi's music incorporates minimal instrumentation with the exception of string sections and occasional horns and brass. An ode to the traditionalists, in western classical, the pianist's songwriting approach can perhaps be defined as a postmodern take on neoclassical piano. Anniballi's previous works, such as "Simplicity" and "Freedom," have showcased his musical talent and style. However, "A Great Day" takes his artistry to new heights. The music is reminiscent of Ludovico Einaudi, the renowned Italian composer, on a rainy day sipping whiskey by his window. The melody is calming, yet melancholic, and brings a sense of hope to the listener.The soundtrack would be worthy accompaniment to noir movies like Mulholland Drive and Taxi Driver. His music has the beauty and emotional essence necessary for this particular genre of filmmaking. In conclusion, Davide Anniballi is an exceptional musician and songwriter who has a deep understanding of his craft. His ability to weave emotion into his compositions is a testament to his musical expertise. With "A Great Day," he has delivered a musical masterpiece that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens to it.
Savoy Ellis - Don't Break My Heart/The One
Savoy Ellis' latest single, "Don't Break My Heart/The One," is a testament to his talent as both a producer and songwriter. The song is crafted with care and intricacy which seamlessly blends genres to create a sound that is both modern and timeless. The track opens with a gentle bassline that sets the tone for the heartfelt lyrics that follow. The song by Savoy Ellis is theoretically adept with layers and layers of complimenting harmonies and intricate sections seamlessly blending into each other. The artist's use of altered and borrowed chords is a clear indication of his jazz background. And this comes through beautifully in this latest soundtrack from his roster. Savoy Ellis is the new generation's answer to experimental jazz Savoy's ability to blend genres is evident in the production, which features a polished R&B sound with a subtle jazz influence. The instrumentation is kept simple. With a focus on atmospheric pads and synths, and a smooth beat that allows the emotion of the song to shine through. This reprised version of the song Don't Break My Heart from his 2021 release, The Love Album, is a welcome addition to the artist's unique discography. The track would be well-suited to a romantic drama or a coming-of-age film. Particularly, one that deals with themes of love and heartbreak. It could also be used in a TV series that explores complex relationships and the journey towards finding oneself. Good examples would be Juno and Call Me by Your Name. In conclusion, "Don't Break My Heart/The One" is a soulful and emotional track that showcases Savoy Ellis' talent as a producer and songwriter. It is a love song you can dance to. With its powerful lyrics and heartfelt melody, the song is sure to resonate with listeners of all ages. Savoy's expertise in music production is felt throughout the track, making it a must-listen for fans of nu-jazz, R&B and soul music.
Harlow's Monkeys - When the World for Humans End
'When the world for humans end' is a revolutionary new indie album composed by San Francisco bay area based band Harlow's Monkeys. The roughly half an hour long album has 7 beautifully composed tracks, and it adds to the band’s rising popularity as the best new indie-folk act in the Bay area. After Harlow’s Monkey released their debut full-length titled Several Lives and Several Deaths in 2019, the band has continued to gain mainstream success thanks to their intricate songwriting and artistic expression. The album explores themes of love and existentialism and acts as a reality check for societal blindness. With a fresh new take on life, Harlow’s Monkeys have managed to create an accurate representation of what it feels like to be an artist in a fast-paced, global post-capitalist structure, filled with misrepresented cultural insignias. What stands out the most in this offering of Folk-Noir from the four-piece band is their mastery of the intricacies of contemporary folk music. From off-beat chordal progressions, and carefully thought-out layers of harmonies, to impeccable and articulate penmanship, ‘When the world for humans end’ does not disappoint throughout its runtime. Harlow's Monkeys are a breath of fresh air Led by singer-songwriter Tommy B Phan, Harlow’s Monkeys has proven once again that they are the answer to experimental folk music in today’s age of auto-tune-laden mediocrity. With an excellent production, their sophomore album is a testament to the lives of every struggling artist who is working tirelessly to make ends meet. In addition to a gorgeous atmospheric soundscape and rich melodies, ‘When the world for humans end’ presents a new perspective to the band’s previously established musical direction. Tracks such as ‘I can’t self help my way out of late stage capitalism’ and ‘I hold my breathe when I should speak’ are particularly impressive. The lyrical craftsmanship paired with the ingenious use of reharmonized voicings creates a vivid sonic spectrum that is worthy of admiration from fans of various genres. The album’s calm, sensitive, yet urgent tonality sets it apart from the rest of this year’s releases from the Bay Area indie music circuit. The album ends with the impressive title track, leaving the listener in awe, and setting the stage for what’s more to come from Tommy’s sonic palette. ‘When the world for humans end’ could prove to be a worthy addition as a backing track for movies or TV shows that explore themes of self-discovery and existential crisis. Films such as A Requiem for a Dream and Trainspotting would fit perfectly well with the narrative and vision of the album. The record is a welcome new addition to the band’s growing discography. In conclusion, Harlow’s Monkeys have managed to consolidate their place as one of the best upcoming indie acts to grace the music industry with their influential presence.
DaeMarcus - Take It Back
The latest album from DaeMarcus, 'Take It Back', is a stunning and immersive work of art that showcases the artist's talent for creating atmospheric and dream-pop music. Drawing influences from post and lo-fi genres, DaeMarcus has crafted a mellow and introspective pop album that explores complex emotions and experiences through its lush instrumentation and ethereal soundscapes. A worthy tribute to Alternative Indie Pop From the very first track, "Moving Out," the listener is transported into Adam Araujo's world, where introspection and self-discovery are the norms. The track starts with a melodic pad that is soon joined by atmospheric VSTi sounds and lush instrumentation. DaeMarcus's vocals are soft and tender, creating a dreamy ambience that is perfect for the album's mood. Throughout the roughly 44 minutes long album, DaeMarcus explores a variety of themes, including love, loss, and personal growth. The pumping rhythm of the track "Bleed" is haunting and iconic at the same time. The instrumentation is sparse, consisting mainly of a simple piano melody and a steady bassline, reinforced by layers of guitar harmonies. The South Coast Massachusetts-based artist's vocals are emotive, conveying the pain and sadness of the lyrics perfectly. "Live or Die" is another standout track that showcases DaeMarcus's talent for crafting memorable melodies and immersive soundscapes. DaeMarcus's vocals are soft and vulnerable throughout most of the album, never really taking the center stage for too long, conveying the complex emotions of his melancholic music. After his 2022 debut Trials & Errors, the new album is a welcome addition to the producer's discography. DaeMarcus presents a promise to take it back The album's title track, "Take It Back," makes creative use of samples. It is a powerful ballad that encourages the listener to take control of their life and embrace change. The instrumentation is articulate and hints at the musician's command over his creative expression. Also featuring a soaring guitar solo and a variety of VSTi sounds including a gorgeous cello, the sound is reminiscent of bands like Death Cab for Cutie and Cigarettes After Sex. DaeMarcus has successfully created a brilliant piece of art that contributes further to the niche indie alt-pop library. The production quality of 'Take It Back' is reminiscent of indie mixes, giving the album a unique charm that sets it apart from other contemporary pop albums. This album would be perfect for fans of TV series like "DARK" which also draws inspiration from the sci-fi fantasy genre and features experimental ambient soundscapes. Additionally, it would fit well into movies like "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," which explores complex themes of love, loss, and personal growth through its dreamy and introspective soundtrack. In conclusion, 'Take It Back' by DaeMarcus is a must-listen for anyone who loves ambient pop music that explores unique sounds and delves into themes of love, loss, and personal growth. From start to finish, this album is a powerful testament to the transformative power of music and a reflection of DaeMarcus's talent as a singer-songwriter.
Luna Keller - The Philosopher
The latest single from Luna Keller, "The Philosopher," is a stunning blend of folk and pop with gorgeous vocal harmonies that leave a lasting impression. The song showcases Keller's masterful songwriting skills and unique ability to blend genres with ease, resulting in a track that is both captivating and thought-provoking. This is indeed a testament to her exposure to different cultures in her childhood. The track's gentle guitar strumming and intricate fingerpicking create a soothing soundscape, which perfectly complements the singer's emotive and vulnerable vocals. The harmonies in the chorus are particularly noteworthy, adding an ethereal quality to the track and further highlighting her stunning vocal range. Lyrically, "The Philosopher" is a poignant and introspective track that explores the complexities of love and human relationships. The chorus, with its thought-provoking lyrics, resonates deeply, leaving the listener questioning their own experiences with love and connection. Luna Keller sings -"How can he love you when nothing is true? How can you see him when he can't see you? You are the answer he can not accept, He is always looking for questions instead." Luna Keller questions the meaning of life The song would fit perfectly in the movie "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," with its introspective and contemplative lyrics exploring the intricacies of human emotions. It would also be a perfect fit for the TV series "This Is Us," as the song's emotional depth and introspective lyrics reflect the show's themes of family, connection, and the human experience. Overall, "The Philosopher" is a beautiful and emotive track that showcases Luna's talent as both a songwriter and vocalist. With its poignant lyrics and stunning harmonies, it is a track that will linger in the listener's mind long after the song has ended. Luna Keller is undoubtedly one of the best upcoming acts in the German indie folk scene.
Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends - Some Angels Never Learn to Fly
Arne Floryd's solo project Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends released their hour-long two-part full-length record titled 17 Birds at the Summer's Gate in 2021. In collaboration with artist David Myhr, Some Angels Never Learn to Fly was one of the standout tracks of the album. The sound, reminiscent of experimental classic rock bands was revolutionary in the Swedish indie music circuit. Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends' "Some Angels Never Learn to Fly" is a stunning track that showcases the Swedish musician's talents for crafting classic rock-inspired songs with a psychedelic twist. The song starts off with a guitar riff over pounding drums and holds a steady rhythm throughout, building on top with layers of gorgeous harmonies and lush instrumentation. One of the standout features of the track is its production which expertly balances the various elements of the song. Especially, the rumbling lows and crisp highs give the track a full and dynamic sound, and each instrument occupies its own space in the mix without overwhelming the others. The result is a beautifully blended masterpiece that will leave listeners entranced. Arne tells a story about some people who are only living half a life Lyrically, "Some Angels Never Learn to Fly" tells a poignant story about people who are born on "lonely islands." People who never learn to connect with others. The chorus is particularly powerful. With its message that some people "live their lives in silence" and never truly learn to soar. The lyrics are expertly paired with the song's instrumentation, which conveys both the sadness and the beauty of the message. Overall, "Some Angels Never Learn to Fly" is an exceptional song that showcases Arne Floryd's talents as a creative musician and experienced songwriter. The track would be a great fit for movies that explore themes of isolation and connection, such as the indie films "Moonlight" and "Lost in Translation." Its emotive sound and thoughtful lyrics would complement these films' introspective tones and add an extra layer of depth to their messages. In conclusion, Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends' "Some Angels Never Learn to Fly" is a must-listen track for fans of classic rock and psychedelic music. The act is sure to make waves in the coming years in Sweden and beyond.
Romain Gutsy - Lany
The new indie-rock track called "Lany" by Romain Gutsy is a beautifully crafted song that is reminiscent of western tunes. The song explores themes of love and apology, and it's clear that Gutsy has put a lot of effort into crafting a truly memorable track. From the moment the song begins, listeners are treated to a fantastic mix with a wide dynamic range. The backing vocals are beautifully mixed, adding a layer of depth and richness to the track. The song has been carefully crafted with an artistic vision that is awe-inspiring and has an amazing production quality to complement it. Co-performed by Marc Bentel, who is also the producer of the track, "Lany" is a standout addition to Gutsy's growing discography. The instrumentation is expertly crafted, with a variety of instruments weaving in and out of the song. From the twang of the guitar to the gentle beats of the drum, every element of the song works together seamlessly, weaving an enchanting soundscape that is a testament to Romain's skills as a songwriter. A song with a western twist from Romain Gutsy As the song progresses, listeners are treated to a beautiful exploration of love and apology. Gutsy's lyrics are poetic and emotive, exploring the complexities of relationships and the power of forgiveness. It's clear that Gutsy has poured his heart and soul into this song, and it shows in every note and every word. The baritone texture of the vocals fit perfectly with the tonality of the song as the lyrics read, "Lany oh Lany, yes now you got me. And I know I'm dumb!" Overall, "Lany" is a fantastic track that showcases Gutsy's talents as both a songwriter and a musician. The mix is excellent, the instrumentation is expertly crafted, and the lyrics are deeply moving. It's a song that would fit perfectly into the soundtrack of movies like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" or "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly," capturing the spirit of the Wild West with a modern twist. In conclusion, "Lany" is a must-listen for fans of indie-rock and western-inspired music. Gutsy's talent shines through in every aspect of the song, making it a standout addition to his growing discography. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Frenchman's music, "Lany" is a track that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Parjam Parsi - Empty Spaces
The 2016 album titled "Empty Spaces" by Parjam Parsi is a mesmerizing musical journey that is primarily composed on a piano. The album has a dark and enchanting tonality that immerses the listener in a world of melancholy and introspection. Throughout the compositions, Parsi uses a lot of harmonic minor and melodic minor structures, creating a sense of tension and release that adds to the emotional depth of the music. The album consists of twelve tracks, each of which is slow and soothing and perfectly complements the artistic vision of Parjam Parsi. The pieces are expertly crafted and showcase Parsi's exceptional talent as a composer and producer. The album is beautifully mixed with subtle compression, giving life to the dynamic range of his pieces. The songs do not have any lyrics, allowing the listener to focus solely on the melodies and emotions conveyed by the music. Parjam Parsi takes us on a journey in Empty Spaces One of the most notable tracks on the album is "June Elegy." The piece begins with a haunting melody played on the piano, which soon picks up the pace. The piece then builds on the lonely piano melody to a powerful climax while settling back into the introspective mood of the opening. Another standout track is "Fractured," which features a delicate piano melody accompanied by sparse atmospheric pads and a gentle string section. The piece has a dreamlike quality that transports the listener to another world. "The Grey Melodies I and II" are two pieces that are like two sides of the same coin, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The pieces feature intricate piano melodies that remind you of rain-soaked petrichor on lush green grass. The emotional depth of these pieces is palpable, and they are among the highlights of the album as they truly bring out the genius that is Parjam Parsi. "The Dreams We Chase" is a beautiful piece that showcases Parsi's exceptional talent as a pianist. The melody is simple yet powerful, conveying a sense of longing and yearning. It is one of the 'happier' tracks from the album that gives the record some respite from its dark and gloomy atmosphere. Finally, "Nothing to Be Said" is the closing track which is a carefully crafted melancholic piece that features a catchy piano melody accompanied by a complementing harmony line underneath. The piece has a poignant quality that leaves a lasting impression on the listener. A lot more than what meets the eye Overall, "Empty Spaces" by Parjam Parsi is a stunning album that showcases the musician's exceptional talent as a composer and producer. The album is a must-listen for fans of piano-based music and those who appreciate music that conveys deep emotions and introspection. The album would fit well in movies that deal with complex and nuanced emotional themes, such as the 1971 film "A Clockwork Orange" or the 1981 film "My Dinner with Andre." The album's dark and enchanting tonality would complement the moody and ghastly themes of these films, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience. In conclusion, Parjam Parsi's "Empty Spaces" is a must-listen for fans of instrumental music and those who appreciate music that hints at the depths of one's emotions. The album is a stunning showcase of Parsi's exceptional talent as a contemporary composer who uses more traditional influences. In addition, its dark and enchanting tonality immerses the listener in a world of melancholy and reminds them of the importance of appreciating the little things in life. Parjam Parsi has released more work after "Empty Spaces" which includes SEASON OF AMNESIA (2018), THE SECRET OF DESPAIR(2020), and the experimental collection of a film OST, DECOMPOSITION (2021).
Ariahindream- InFear
Ariahindream summons every element of nature to give us InFear and we knew, she is Orpheus reincarnated, the minute we heard her voice. If you were at sea, you would have no chance against her siren-like voice, you would be lured and you wouldn’t even regret it. Everything about this song screams Gothic Classical adding so much imagery and texture into just 3 mins and 51 seconds. The hauntingly immaculate number begins with an ominous synth keyboard and vocal blend that has your ears perked. Ariah slowly creeps in with her slow sultry vocals that's bound to send chills down your spine. She brings so much vulnerability with a selective word structure. It gives us a large space to experience the song entirely. She so eloquently, through her voice, tells us that she lives in fear of herself, the deepest darkest corners of herself that deserves to be hugged instead of being chased further in. The number exudes imagery, with its Gothic, Classical and Noiresque qualities. There are two stories that particularly come to mind when In Fear plays and that is the play Hadestown and Wednesday. Hadestown with its incredible modern-day retelling of Persephone, Hades, Orpheus and Eurydice’s stories. And Wednesday, the new series which is an adaptation and re-telling of the OG Cartoon network series- The Adams Family. Both these stories share the itch for a retelling by most modern-day writers. What sets Ariahindream and InFear apart is that she sings about loving oneself in its most deepest sense. She speaks of not being able to let love in because she can’t do it herself. Almost as if she wants to abandon herself before anyone else can. She is clearly leaving a lasting impression as she is gaining listeners by the day!
Picnic Lightning - Simulacra
The 2023 release by Texan band Picnic Lightning, "Simulacra," is a brooding and introspective exploration of the complexities of existence. The band's trademark wall of sound is on full display, with haunting guitar riffs and driving floor toms creating a sense of urgency that propels the song forward. The track's title references the concept of simulacra, which suggests that our perception of reality is often shaped by artificial or constructed representations of the world. This theme is reflected in the song's lyrics, which touch on the idea of living in a world that feels increasingly divorced from the tangible and the real. Despite the heavy subject matter, "Simulacra" is a remarkably well-composed track. The mix incorporates elements of ambient post-rock music, with swirling textures and subtle melodies adding depth and complexity to the song's sonic landscape. In addition, the impeccable vocal harmonies create an ethereal and dark tonality that compliments the band's artistic vision. A haunting tale from Picnic Lightning It's easy to imagine "Simulacra" as the soundtrack to a moody, atmospheric film, like David Lynch's "Mulholland Drive" or Stanley Kubrick's "Eyes Wide Shut." The song's brooding intensity and dark narrative would perfectly suit the eerie, dreamlike atmosphere of these films, drawing the listener deep into their unsettling worlds. At the same time, "Simulacra" has a timeless quality that speaks to the enduring appeal of rock music. The band's influences are clear in the song's sound, with nods to classic acts like Velvet Underground and The Beatles, as well as more contemporary bands like Arcade Fire and Courtney Barnett. Picnic Lightning's ability to weave these disparate influences into a cohesive whole is a testament to their skill as musicians and their dedication to their craft. Ultimately, "Simulacra" is a powerful and thought-provoking track that showcases the best of what Picnic Lightning has to offer. Its dark, post-everything sound is a perfect match for the band's raw and experimentative style, while its themes of reality and representation make it a timely and relevant addition to their oeuvre. Fans of the band and newcomers alike will find much to appreciate in this haunting and powerful track.
Red Bird Rising - My Revolution
The greatest writing comes from urgent need, and it is just such a palatable sense of urgency that motivated musician, songwriter and producer Diedrich Donald Weiss, known by his musical alias RED BIRD RISING, to write "My Revolution". "My Revolution" is at once a profound love song and an immense anti-war statement. A tremendous undertaking and community effort, "My Revolution" features a wide range of instrumentation and musical collaborators, including Ukrainian husband and wife Taras Kuznetsov on lead vocals and Ana Pshokina on bass. My Revolution is the first RED BIRD RISING release, featuring Taras Kuznetsov on lead vocals and co-directing the video about his experience living in Odessa, Ukraine, during the Russian invasion. The production of My Revolution was done under the constant threat of missile and bomb strikes, which added a sense of urgency to the project. Mariano Cukierman, a producer in Buenos Aires, recorded Fernando Moreno on drums and tracked electric guitar and keys using Diedrich's guitar riffs and backing vocals. Taras had to walk over an hour to his studio to track lead vocals while worrying about missile and bomb strikes After Ana Pshokina tracked bass in Odessa, Megan Gould tracked violins and violas in New York with session cellist Eleanor Norton. Diedrich, Taras, and Mariano collaborated on mixing the audio of My Revolution, incorporating audio from the Ukrainian protests during the Orange Revolution of 2014. The intro features guitar feedback harmonics echoing through history. The consequences of global conflict and the inhumanity of war The video production for My Revolution took place in Odessa, where shots were taken during the day and at night, including chilling sirens heard from Taras's apartment. Diedrich edited the video, using footage shot by Taras and others from sites like Dattalion and Ukraiine Today on Telegram. To convey the inner struggle, Diedrich used dance scenes shot by Flor Giardino in Buenos Aires featuring choreographer and dancer Melina Ascune. Despite the bombings from Russian missiles that damaged Odessa's energy infrastructure after the explosion on the Crimea Bridge, Diedrich and Taras (along with his wife) completed the project. My Revolution showcases the personal stories of artists from different parts of the world coming together to create something meaningful, despite the challenging circumstances. The project is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in the face of adversity. The lyrics of the song are sure to move one's soul. Red Bird Rising states, "There are times you know we all need a rest, Can’t lose my mind, checking the headlines, Play my piano instead, Good good, they haven’t yet bombed my home..." The song would be a perfect companion to movies that explore themes of historical wars with a focus on human emotions in the narrative. Revolutionary works of cinema like The Pianist, Schindler's List, and Saving Private Ryan come to mind.
Luke Frees- Strings
Luke Frees has made a devastatingly beautiful number- Strings and it’s sure to transport you to a sepia tinted world. The captivatingly dynamic single draws influence from classics like Jeff Buckley and Nina Simone. It clearly shows as well but Frees went, “Let's add a little bit of spice” and mixed in a little bit of Bowie as well.” The song is eager to welcome you in as we immediately jump into the guitar riffs that’s bound to hold your attention. While Luke’s voice shines immaculately against the lush instrumentals, what took the cake was the excellent Saxophone playing. Frees’ songwriting is top notch, with poignant lyrics that speak to his personal struggles and creative breakthrough. Luke Frees experienced all this while writing this number. “Some cheap entertainment, for the price of honesty” the lyrics clearly speaks of a relationship that ended bitterly. But he is speaking from a new found perspective where he realises that it was in fact a toxic relationship and they no longer mourn it. While she has already taken inspiration from Twin Peaks, I also believe that this number would fit perfectly well in Ratchet as well. It would especially sit well within the relationship between nurse Ratchet and her little brother. The song fits in between most leading characters. Overall, "Strings" is an impressive rock single that showcases Frees' talent as both a songwriter and performer. With its catchy melody, intricate instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics, it's a must-listen for fans of classic rock and modern indie music alike.