Jameson Tabor- In the Glove
Jameson Tabor released his new track In the Glove late last year, evoking the god of pop in his title. The California based singer, songwriter and producer really gave the world a new age techno track to moonwalk to. It’s honestly hard to not give in to the sway of the rhythm. Jameson is bringing back Disco and throwing in some techno pop to the mix. Jameson Tabor has packed a lot into this song and it surprisingly works. He gives us the soulful vocal riffs, the techno keyboard and the enticing drum guitar combo. He showcases his vocal prowess in this track with his high pitched notes and the baritone entry. It begins with a keyboard section and Jameson’s voice follows with a “Come hither” quality to it. The song has such a crackling quality that hooks you in right from the get go. The brief moment of vocal layering when Jameson has his solo adds so much texture to the song. A special shout out to the concept of the song cover art, the glittery hand adds great character to the song even before you hear it. The glitter glove and sections of the song is a tasteful tip of the hat to Micheal Jackson. The song would fit in like the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle in 2011 release- Crazy, Stupid, Love. You can imagine the song in the background to a montage of the characters having their respective experiences of love. This song would add a layer to the biting comedy of the movie allowing the scene to pop even more. Jameson is a self made artist who has worked with some of the industry's finest, a few of whom have even been Grammy winners. You must follow him to stay tuned to his new releases.
Markus Murphy- Watch Me
Markus Murphy is notorious for creating catchy beats. The producer and performer from Montreal- Canada, incorporates a wide range of techniques into his work. His new single Watch me is a collaboration between Markus, Joshua Calder and Mark Conn. Watch Me by Markus Murphy is a dream-funk number. It opens with a banger jazz section and Murphy’s voice makes an entrance. If Murphy’s voice were personified, they wear a leather jacket and speak with a relaxed drawl. His voice only elevates the swankiness of the song. The bass guitar adds an 80’s touch to the song that immediately has you grooving to it. Watch me transports you into a technicoloured world with its incredible instrumental. The saxophone, the trumpet, the bass guitar and the electric guitar evoke a bubbling aesthetic to the single. They clearly understood the assignment with this number. The plot of Someone Great revolves around the protagonist figuring out life after a nine-year-long relationship ended. She happens to be a music journalist, so obviously, the music in this film slaps! Watch Me is a song that can be played anywhere in the film and it will snuggle right in. It can play while they are happy in the relationship or when she figures out how to get over it. The lyrics are “Watch me be Free” so the possibilities are endless. Markus Murphy’s Watch Me is catchy with intricate detailing and you cannot miss the jazz solos that each instrument gets. How much can you pack in 4 and a half minutes you ask? Murphy replies with “A LOT!”. The song is quickly gaining popularity on youtube with over 44k views within 2 days of it being released. Head on over to their page to explore more of their funky work.
Hunter- I've Been Looking
Hunter is a Chicago-based singer, songwriter and producer. Much like most artists, he has been making music in his bedroom and doing a Heckin good job at it might I add. His incredible use of the synth is a quality that goes unnoticed in his songs. We see this in his new single- I’ve Been Looking. The mellow number speaks of a grave sense of turmoil that most of this generation faces, be it romantic or platonic relationships. I’ve Been Looking addresses this exact sense of loneliness right from the start. The song begins with a beat that feels like it is searching with its sparkling quality. We then hear Hunter’s voice saying “One two three four, One two, I am laying on the floor. I don’t want to go to school no more.” these are the lyrics that speak of a crippling coldness. If you get carried away with voice processing and synthesis, you might miss the lyrical genius. Its profoundness comes from its mundanes rather than a lofty word structure. A series that did a good job of encapsulating a mystery for the first few seasons was Pretty Little Liars. All the girls in this series were well-written, going through their high school lives, surviving and trying to thrive. While the series went on to take a lot of questionable steps to prolong the mystery, it did a good job of portraying high school. This number would fit in and give the series what it needs to enhance certain scenes that speak of loneliness. Hunter is an artist that is slowly but steadily building his listener base, so far he has listeners across the US and the UK. Don’t forget to view his Spotify page a browse if you want something to relate to.
Thy Veils- Upstream
Thy Veils is a rotating Romanian musical Ensemble plus Daniel Dobobantu. They released their latest single Upstream. It is an eclectic blend of synth and trumpet that will have you in a state of trance. The band is particular about creating an experience for its listeners and audience at their live shows. The track begins with a siren-like call from the Trumpet that beacons you to lend your ear. The song has a Mediterranean touch, owing to the blend of percussion sprinkled with the chiming from the tambourine. Upstream evokes a canvas full of vivid colours and images. Upstream feels like you are in a boat floating on a Bioluminescent lake, below the stars, in a tranquil state of mind. There is still a touch of turmoil within this song owing to the drum beats, adding a sense of seriousness to it. A film that plays with calmness in moments of sheer chaos and danger is Lucy. For a layman’s eye, it feels as though Johanson is calm, but if you look close enough, she plays with a plethora of emotions. Upstream feels like the camphor the film needs for it to shine brighter. It would do so well in adding to the nuance within a scene, especially at the climax when we are just about to lose Lucy. Thy Veils draws from the elements that surround us to create a tangible listening experience. You can see this in nearly every song. Their sense of spirituality keeps up with modern-day musical sensibilities which is a refreshing concept.
Jetty Grove- Static Motion
Jetty Grove has outdone himself again with the release of his new Album- Static Motions. The order of songs shifts from one kind of mellow to another type of mellow. He plays with minimal instruments to create his soundtracks. These are mainly guitar and drums and the keyboard every now and then. Jetty Grove is a poet of his own making, he plays with an abundance of imagery. The songs have a very earthy quality to them, similar to music in the 90s. You would hear songs of similar nature played as the background soundtrack for trailers of movies about self-discovery. Jetty Groves' Chamomile Skies The songs in Static Motions open the doors to a soothing state of mind. It has a quality that makes you look inward no matter where you are. You feel it the minute you hear the first track- Chamomile Skies. It begins with a simple guitar strumming and Jetty’s voice comes in. A part of the lyrics goes- “It’s kinda funny how you pick apart the thoughts in your head.” it makes you giggle at how this song makes you do exactly that. Feels like someone has a camera on you in that very second and has caught you off guard and in the act. Ricky’s Car Shop however has a nostalgic touch rather than an introspective touch as compared to the rest of the songs. This song takes on a narrative touch, less poetic and more storytelling. “Soft gentle glows, shows the skin and the bones but withholds what's underneath.” He speaks of a photograph shown to him. Sketch Pad and Chain Reaction Another soundtrack from the album is Sketch Pad which has the usual mellowness but with a touch of Hawaiian. This is primarily because of the guitar strumming that sounds so similar to the Ukalele and the drums stand at the forefront. Wonder by Stephen Chbosky has so many facets to it. It is a story of a 10-year-old boy born with facial complications. While the story has Auggie (Augustus) as the lead, he’s worked every character’s story in so beautifully. This album follows a theme, making it easier for any film to have a standard soundtrack style. Chain Reaction can be played when the mother- Isabel realises that she’s been ignoring her daughter because she’s been so caught up with making Auggie’s life comfortable for him. The album is filled with amazing finds that you don’t normally run into. It paints such lush, graceful, sunlight-filled imagery with all the softness from the vocals to the instrumentals. It’s almost as if you lay on the grass and hit pause on life for a brief minute. The only thing that’s moving and zooming is the wind through the leaves. Jetty Grove is a rare gem that creates and lets his art find its audience, he stays true to his art. If you want to stand witness to pure genius, you must check out his work on his socials, linked below.
Moon and Aries- Break The Matrix (Episode Three)
Break the Matrix (Episode Three) is the latest release by Moon and Aries- Jordana Moon and Tom Aries. It is a part of a trilogy of the same title that was released over this year and the last. The songs carry forward the same themes as well while maintaining the vibe of each album. The EP is meticulously crafted, it showcases the duo's unique brand of electronic, soul and R&B influences. Illumination Society By Moon and Aries The opening track- Illumination Society sets the tone for the album. It paints a dreamy picture with Moon’s ethereal vocals drawing you in. She sings of the mentality of the population and the dystopian nature of life- how Love can be the aid we need. She goes from the singing of the population and swoops inwards into her own head in this track. The next number on the EP is Never For Me. It starts off with a fresh soundscape entirely with its percussion. It adds a futuristic Mediterranean feel with this and the echoing of Jordana Moon’s voice. She sings about love in this track and her rejection of it saying “It was never for me.” This is such a mood for most women at this point who seem to be playing between “I want a relationship” and “I’m the only one worth my time!”. From Another Dimension From Another Dimension has a trickling quality that is reminiscent of the early 2000s while also managing to sound futuristic at the same time. The synth in this track reminds me of Rihanna’s “Who’s that chick” but a mellow version of it. Aries/Tom's clean production makes this track what it is with the layering of the instrumentations, the choir and Moon’s voice itself. A film that represents futuristic dystopia with regard to emotions is Equals. The film showcases a future that strives to be productive and complications-free. How it wishes to do this is by controlling human emotions and making a regime that propagates an emotionless existence. This rids the human mind of the erratic nature of mental health and stabilises physical health as well. Our protagonists Nia and Silas break this cycle by confiding and falling in love with one another. Break The Matrix’s entire album can fit into the movies playlist exceedingly well. Moon and Aries vocals and production would help amp up the stakes for each of the characters and their scenes. Break The Matrix (Episode Three) is a stunning piece of work that showcases Moon and Aries chemistry through their talent and creativity. The Album stands as a strong example to the power of collaboration and experimentation. The soul-touching R&B and Electronic pop bumber has you hooked and exploring the other two releases. The decision to release the album as a trilogy must be appreciated. It helps the listeners to savour each album one bite/sitting at a time.
Alex Mather- That Summer
That Summer by Alex Mather is a song that captures the carefree nature of newfound love. The strings make for a smooth entry for the song. The vocals on this track has a gushing quality to it that floods your senses and has you hooked. The entire song is an adorable love story of a high school summer love that fell apart because life eventually took over. The song has a pop-country tone to it, a formula well-received by audiences across the board. Taylor Swift did it, Shania Twain did it and Lil Nas is now doing it. Alex brings those two worlds together seamlessly. The number is an upbeat, fast-paced number that has you on your feet and pulling your partner in for a dance. It invokes such nostalgia. Sweet Home Alabama is a southern love story that exudes rom-com energy right from the start. It does get sexist here and there but hey! It was the early 2000s and Weinstein was still getting invited to parties back then. Our leads go from lovers to haters then back to lovers again. All this I crisply and seamlessly packed into a 01:48mins watch. It’s nostalgic, it’s funny and it’s gripping. Alex’s That Summer is tailor-made just to be added to the film. It can be used in flashbacks or when they begin to fall in love with each other again and it would do its job remarkably well. That Summer’s got an infectious tune that will have you grooving to it in no time. Alex Mather does a seamless job with the production. The pop summer number grabs your attention with either its bubbling beats or the story within the song or both. Either way you won't be able to get away from this welcomed ear-worm.
Kurst- The Oracle
Kurst has always had a great pulse on what resonates with his listeners. With this awareness, he brings The Oracle to us. Kurst speaks to us about everything all at once in this song. You feel as though you are taking a tour of his mind palace except this happens to have a fire-beat structure. Kurst has an acute sense of reality. He has showcased his talent through his lyrics which have truly been crafted to perfection. He says “Gotta take the shot if I want to be the GOAT. Gotta keep on swimming if I want to stay afloat.”. Kurst also spices things up in a surprising manner as he adds references to Bambi and Elsa. I truly appreciate badass rappers having Disney references in their music in an unironic way. His nonchalant delivery of some hard-hitting facts of the world has this song winning its listeners over. A movie that comes to mind as we listen to the song is Freerunner directed by Lawrence Silverstein. The movie is an adrenaline-pumped watch that has a couple of men with bombs around their necks. They then have to go from one end of the city to another within an hour or it blows up. This happens as wealthy international businessmen place bets on who is going to win. It's absurdist and gory and has an incredible playlist of background tracks, The Oracle will fit right in with its swag. Kurst has hit over 11,000 listeners on his singles and has listeners across the US and it is only growing. The Oracle is a banger of a track that is bound to blare in your ear as you work out to give you that last push! Don’t forget to catch his music on the link attached.
Patryk Kania- Pearls
Pearls is a beautiful and immersive composition by Polish writer and singer Patryk Kania. The track features a gentle yet upbeat melancholic melody that floats forward with brilliant sax interventions now and then. Kania swiftly plays with dynamics, which allows for the melody to ebb and flow with a delicate touch. The song has this deceptive quality to it, it feels minimal. If you pay close attention though, you can hear the intricate beats playing as it is highlightes Patryk’s voice. Patryk serenades his love with this number, calling her a pearl. Each note and tune is played with careful intention allowing its listeners to get lost in it carelessly. He says “My girlfriends beautiful like pearls, shiny on the outside and tough on the inside.” Which is an underrated compliment to anyone! The saxophone that comes in at the tail end of the song is truly a chef’s kiss-worthy addition. This song leaves you longing to be wooed in any relationship. Oh to be serenaded by a handsome young man, much like Romeo as he compared Juliets skin to diamonds. Patryk really got us thinking about the everyday mundane compliments that we ought to receive from our partners. Euphoria is series that has done their music right. It’s up there with Sex Education, The Politician and The Umbrella Academy when it comes to quality playlists. Euphoria and Pearls have a starry-eyed feature that feels similar. You can hear Pearls play as Cassie falls in love with Nate and it's a snug fit. Pearls was brought to life by Patryk Kania. It showcases his potential to create modern-day contemporary music that represents the generation in a nutshell. Pearls is power packed rendition in disguise!
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.
6ixth Element- What They Want
What They Want by 6ixth Element is a powerful piece that deeply resonates with the youth. It explores the expectations that society has for you or the lack of them as well. When he speaks his truth, he speaks with verve and fire. The song begins with a mellow echoing tune and is slowly amplified by 6ixth’s voice. The song is supported by strings and percussions as its lead tone setters, apart from his striking verses of course. The lyrics manage to capture the essence of alienation and the need to prove people wrong. He literally knocks and tells you that the haters are going to hate but you need to keep pushing forward. “Look as I shift gears, 'cause life just gets harder. But as I look in the rearview, my haters fall behind farther,” he says, need I say more about this man’s flow? The kind of rap presented to us by 6ixth is the good old old-school rap that perhaps sets the tone at the start of a film. This goes to show us just how good of a storyteller 6ixth Element is! The Other Guys is a buddy cop action film starring Will Farrell and Mark Wahlberg. These two have the need to prove themselves. This is because they are pitted against Samuel L Jackson and Dwayne Johnson. While the film is a hilarious action watch, it has poignant statements to make about the justice system and action movies in general. What They Want would be great in the background as they are on one of their casual drives that turn into a chase and escape scene. The song has your attention gripped right from the start and 6ixth's words breathe life into you. The track is nothing short of brilliant, leaves you wanting more.
Tasty- Another Day Alive
Another Day Alive by Tasty is a fresh single out in the world. The song is soulful reclamation of one's purpose. When thriving isn’t possible, survival must be appreciated. The track gently tugs at your sleeve and tells you that it’s proud of you. It is an eclectic mix of Lofi, Jazz and pop. The song chimes into existence and flourishes. No, literally. It begins with a chime-like instrument and we have Tasy’s voice accompanied by a synthesised percussion and brass section. Another Day Alive is mastered to perfection, the multiple layering of vocals and instrumentals, everything shines through. The echoing quality in the track helps you understand the feeling of loneliness. By the end of it, we don’t know if it was Tasty’s vocals or the synthesised Saxophone section that takes the cake. “The Sky is not the limit, it’s only the beginning.” truly a wordsmith of our time. The track has a soothing quality to it even though it’s packed with so much vocal power by Tasty. A film that encapsulates two sides of the struggle- the struggle of the addict and the struggle of the family around mental health and addiction is Beautiful Boy. The book-turned-film is a subtle cinematic genius. Each mise en scenè has you hooked. This is the sort of detailing that is found in Another Day Alive by Tasty as well. Not to mention both have similar threads around mental health. I can imagine David dedicating this song to his son. While Tasty bends the tune to his will in Another Day Alive, we can ease our tense shoulders and make you feel held for just a moment. To sit back and let the song engulf you until you emerge breathless, seen and validated.