Anna Porto - Never The One
Anna Porto knows exactly how to find the pulse of the room and her listeners; her latest release, Never The One, is a number that will have your heart racing.
Bill Barlow - Out of Obscurity
- English (US)
A long day at work and a bike ride. You ran to places today. The chaos at the office had you ready to jump the gun. Files and fuss. Some days that leave you breathless, gasping for air. After work, you make your way back home. You are cooking, and a call comes through. “Do you want to go out for a bike ride?” “Yes.” You grab your earphones and your jacket and play your comfort album: Out of Obscurity by Bill Barlow.
Small Island Big Song-Our Island
Small Island Big Song is one of the most important music collectives you’ve never heard of. It was founded by Taiwanese producer BaoBao Chen and Australian music producer and filmmaker Tim Cole in 2015.The two have been recording and filming with over a hundred musicians in nature across 16 island nations of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Extending their scope beyond music, they’ve made a feature film, and a live concert series. Traveling globally, thinking universally. Small Island Big Song is the result of cultural integration with humanity as a scale. The scope? The globe. Our Island is the name of the album. Singing in their tongue, these native musicians create music with their vernacular instruments. Marasudj is the opening track in their album. What can truly be described as world music, the language seems to be the only disconnect. The sentiment is of unity, peace and togetherness. Themes we speak too much of, but do too little about. The backdrop unites the listener with the musician in a sense, while the harmony stands out. So many artists and one united theme creates a fascinating mosaic of brimming positivity. Understanding via energy Listwar Zanset is a bopping dance style number. The beat stands out as a solid entity, as collaborating artists add highlights. Almost a melodic praise for the gifts of the world, the song is as emotional as it is catchy. The harmonics do a great deal in uniting these artists’ unique vocal approaches. Ta’u Tama has been popular amongst listeners. It’s reggae sound creates a relaxing pool of sound that you gaze into the lush verdant of the jungle on. Purpose unknown, we still struggle to come to equal terms with nature. SIBS repurposes their energy into making art, that serves a greater purpose than them. Without witnessing Small Island Big Song in action, I can feel an energy that is uncommon. It is of the collective good, something beyond self-preservation. Reaching the depths of nature’s sound to sing her songs. Listening to what music she has given us and displaying gratitude. No visual, but the magnetic force of honest music that is beyond the artist and us. Pinasanga has the appeal and approach of a slow burn visual, slowly building like the nature of waves. The slow beats add to the tempo, but the rhythm is already established with the melody section. Which is what makes this natural approach to making music so much more interesting. It is more to do with tuning into the Earth’s frequency, not creating your own. The radio of the Earth Festival of The Living Ocean is what pure dreams are made of. With a fascinating tempo section aided by scintillating vocals, it has the capacity and purpose to make you move. Moreover, the sound of the ocean keeps you in sync with the rhythm the waves produce. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) is a whole other spectrum of sound. Using simple stringed instruments, it makes for a Western sound, yet rooted in the fever of nature. Madjadjumak is a enchanting tale, with visuals being created with verses and instruments. Each of these tracks tell a tale much larger than that you would picture with this rat race mindset we live in. Here the tracks are about freedom from all things that bind. This is where emotional tracks like Hiro’a make waves. The language is indecipherable, but the progression is complex enough to imbibe a strong sense of responsibility. Sarbon uses harmonics and the power of sand to create a funky rhythm. Each collaboration gives birth to an unexpected source of music, with a spectrum that can only be felt and is way more complex to understand. Aoka goes the other way from the previous track. Having a steady beat, it also shows us the instrumental proficiency of musicians we wouldn’t expect to visualize when we talk about a musician. Bridging the sound Ata Renga Koe has a spine of the vernacular sound, but uses Western instruments. The slow blending in creates a symbiotic understanding of sorts, a rich complex web of sound. The album ends with the emotional track Lament For A Dying Ocean. It really puts things to perspective, the album as a whole. Something that has been so much within our control but we have let spiral. There is no other planet, so alternatives belong here, with and from us. This collaboration means so much more than we could put together. These are islanders and musicians of different cultures coming together for a cause greater than them. There is nothing I could endorse more than a hopeful future and creations that acknowledge what the Earth has done for us. I'd love to see this song being used in one of the Madagascar animated movie series as it perfectly fits the vibe of some of the scenes of the movie series in my opinion. Check out the Movie review here - https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/madagascar
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.
Red and the Revelers-Shattered Lives
Blues rock galore with Red and the Revelers. Just the plain approach would have been acceptable, but they have that certain spice. Like that addiction to cinnamon in your coffee. Their music brings as much joy and life to the party as any pill. There’s no post party guilt after this. This is their latest single, Shattered Lives. This song has become incredibly popular, in quite a short period of time. With a blues riff that sounds familiar but has that bright spot-we are underway. The brass comes in with a stylish attack that you wouldn’t expect, bringing forward joy and plenty of merriment. If the vocals aren’t something to covet and award, I don’t know what to tell a music fan like you. The riff rings out in the background, the chorus having a powerful wave. The harmonics and calculated brass flourishes bring in quite a lot of that spicy flavour you would be addicted to. The breakdown is a catchy, funky and groovy section-feeding a bridge which the sax dominates. If you aren’t singing the chorus the second time around, you need therapy. Red and the Revelers have pitch perfect execution. This truly is serene swamp soul from the South. A Spotify bio never lies, only builds up the artist exactly like they’d want. Don’t cover yourself up with this track just yet. With their 2019 album The Wizard and the Witch, Red and the Revelers show that they dominate this kind of sound. Get on Up (2014) featured a great performance by the late great Chadwick Boseman. This song would be the soul and life of the movie, without a doubt. Listen to their single and follow them for more like this!
Zinni the Queen- Four a Season
Four a Season by Zinni the Queen is an album that swings gracefully between intimate, soulful jazz and spoken word. This album takes us on a journey through the highs and lows of love. The album is short of an hour by 2 seconds, but my god is every minute worth the listen. She writes and sings about love through the lens of the changing seasons. Zinni covers everything under the sun when it comes to love, from silly little infatuations that give us the two-second dopamine hits to heartaches that can only come with true love. 123 Okay and Elementary She prepares for us for what's to come with a 36 seconds prelude- 123 Okay, right at the top. She has you wrapped around her finger immediately. This is followed by Elementary, in which she speaks about crushes and it is as sweet and as silly as fleeting little crushes are. The song is saccharine in nature and the only accompany she has are basic piano instrumental and drum beat that leads the song. But what makes the song sweet is the magnificent harmonising. The songs are upbeat until we get to Dance which takes a turn into the jazz lane. Its lush with sounds from its techno beats to the drums, you can feel the disco ball drop down in the room. Her smooth vocals gives off an upbeat too cool-for-school air that is infectious. She then goes on to give us gutt wrenching numbers like What Happened To My Sunshine? Words of Affirmation from and for Zinni the Queen How can I write this review without mentioning Words of Affirmation. A beautiful compilation of voice recording she collected from and for herself and from a few people near and dear to her. This is testament to yes art is subjective but when art comes from experience and a place that only you know, it touches souls like no other. It is sure to have you in tears by the end of it. You must send this to a loved one who’s having a particularly tough time and it will only bring you closer. A series that ruffled a few feathers was The Haunting of Bly Manor. A lot of the fans felt that this one didn’t live up to the horror of Haunting of Hill House and I supremely disagree. The writing is beautiful because it revolves around the little deaths that every successful relationship sees. You say goodbye to a version of your loved one and fall in love with the updates version and every version that follows, good and bad. Four Seasons would be the perfect addition to such a meaningful and brilliantly written series. Zinni must take a bow. How does it feel? To carry so much talent? Must hurt her shoulders. Well it’s Zinni’s world we’re all just extras in it. The way she spreads joy, empowerment and sunshine must be acknowledged. If there is ever a playlist of songs that will make your heart glow, it is Four Seasons by Zinni the Queen.
Mia Christ- Kiss Me With The Light On
Kiss Me With The Light On is the forbidden fruit in Eden and we are all just helplessly addicted to this creation by Mia Christ. The song’s mellow heartbreak leaves you wanting to put Mia back in one piece. With every note, Kiss Me With The Light On oozes with desire, longing and heartbreak at its very core and it is delivered with honey dripping at every corner. Christ’s emotive Voice has your attention hooked and captive. It becomes the very Backbone of the track. The production of this track is top-notch. It has a slow steady beat that compliments the song’s melancholic temperature. I believe the instrumentals is the “no makeup makeup look” of the song because Christ’s voice reverberates in your soul. It stands out wonderfully because the instrumentals play ninja in the background, letting her voice glide gracefully into your chest. The two complement each other impeccably, creating a rich tone that perfectly conveys the pain of heartbreak and longing. Honestly. the song is so versatile, it can elevate any scene revolving around heartbreak. But one film that would make room for the scene to shine as much as the song is Her. The interesting story behind Her is while Spike Jonez made Her after his divorce, Sofia Coppola, his ex made “Lost In Translation”. Each director immortalizing their heartbreak. Kiss Me With The Light On is truly a song that moves you and deserves to see the light od your playlist. You must catch this track by Mia Christ and more.
Kenny Sharp - Nights Like This
The latest release by Kenny Sharp, "Nights Like This," is a captivating pop record that infuses elements of R&B and blues. The track is a prime example of the genre-blending style that Sharp has become known for, fittingly coined as "Brown Liquor Music" after his upcoming debut EP. The mix of the track is incredibly well done, showcasing Sharp's exceptional production skills. The song opens with a stripped-back piano and guitar, allowing his soulful voice to shine through. As the track progresses, the instrumentation builds to a smooth, groovy chorus, complete with catchy melodies and infectious hooks. The balance between the different musical elements is spot-on, making for a cohesive and polished bluesy-pop sound. A dash of sultry lyricism from Kenny Sharp With its emotive lyrics and sultry melody, "Nights Like This" would fit perfectly into a romantic scene in a TV drama, such as Grey's Anatomy, which has previously featured Sharp's music. The song's relatable themes of love and longing would also lend itself well to a show like This Is Us, where emotional storytelling is at the forefront. The artist doesn't shy away from adding a dash of sultry to his lyrical narrative as well. Kenny Sharp's journey as an artist has been a unique one, starting off as a rapper before transitioning to a soulful singer-songwriter and producer. Kenny Sharp's musical journey has been quite an impressive one, having opened for notable artists such as Citizen Cope, Wale, the Chuck Brown Band, and WPGC 95.5 'For Sisters Only.' Recently, he also earned a writing credit on the lead single for Durand Jones & The Indications, showcasing his songwriting prowess across genres. With such a diverse range of experiences and accomplishments, it's no surprise that Kenny's latest release is a masterful display of his musical abilities. Overall, "Nights Like This" is a fantastic addition to Kenny Sharp's growing discography. With its slick production and heartfelt lyrics, the song is a testament to his talent as both a songwriter and a performer. We can only expect to see more exciting things from this emerging indie artist in the future.
Arn- Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends- My Favourite Song
The German band- Arn- Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends recently released My Favourite Song. It feels like the first gulp of cold water on a hot sunny day. The refreshing track is a part of the band’s latest album No Sweets For E. The song has a quality that both, recalls of the disco era which is fresh and unlike any song out there in the current soundscape. If you could keep pure joy sealed in a jar, it would be My favourite Song. The minute you hear the track, it has you reaching for your dancing shoes. The energy in the song is palpable and infectious. It seamlessly blends together rock, retro and pop, giving us the perfect disco number. While the energy of the number is bubbling, the song speaks of having a favourite song while going through the Sysaphian task of going through life. This is because the funky track is mixed and mastered to perfection. Each note plays a vital role at just the right time. The song would be the perfect fit for a film that is filled to the brim with talent and ideas. And that would most definitely be The Devil Wears Prada. My Favourite Song has the quality that puts a skip in your step and you can imagine Anne Hathaway’s character have this song play in the background as she doesn’t let her boss dampen her day. The song is everything neatly wrapped and tied up in a bow, gifted to the world. Arn- Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends packed so much into this number, making it the classic no one asked for but what we most definately deserved! Haven’t heard their music yet? The links are attached below, you can thank us later.
Near Death Experience - Lightning
Hoo Hah!!!! Lightning, the latest offering from London-based band Near Death Experience (NDX), is an infectious and upbeat rock number that showcases the band's musical prowess and ability to seamlessly blend various genres. Drawing influences from soul, rock, alternative, and experimental rock music, the song captivates listeners with its catchy melodies and impressive musicianship. The track opens with a burst of energy, immediately grabbing the listener's attention. The guitar work in Lightning is a standout feature, employing modulation effects reminiscent of 90's psychedelic music, adding a layer of depth and nostalgia to the composition. The band's clear influences from iconic acts like King Crimson and Rush are evident in the track's intricate arrangements and technical proficiency. The mix of Lightning is a testament to the band's attention to detail and sonic craftsmanship. The stereo field is skillfully utilized, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. Each instrument finds its rightful place, creating a dynamic range that allows the song to breathe. The perfectly balanced guitar solos add a touch of virtuosity, serving as a testament to the band's instrumental prowess. Rocking the London indie scene since 2016 NDX's background is rooted in the vibrant London music scene. Since forming in 2016, the band has cultivated a reputation for their powerful and emotive live performances, captivating audiences with their unique brand of "shimmering psyche-tinged rock'n' soul" sound. Their previous releases, such as The Last Summer EP and the album Mouth to Mouth, have garnered critical acclaim, further solidifying their place in the global indie music scene. Lightning possesses a cinematic quality that would seamlessly fit into the soundtracks of movies and TV shows that thrive on combining compelling narratives with evocative music. This track's infectious energy and dynamic arrangements would find a home in productions like the mind-bending series "Legion" and the critically acclaimed film "Baby Driver." Its catchy hooks and spirited instrumentation would complement the visual storytelling, enhancing the overall experience for viewers. In conclusion, with their new song Lightning, Near Death Experience continues to showcase their musical versatility and talent. The band's ability to blend different genres while maintaining a distinct sound is a testament to their artistry. As they gear up for their forthcoming album in 2023, NDX's innovative and captivating approach to music is sure to solidify their place in the global indie music scene.
Blu Jay - At The Party
Get your sad girl hats on because Blu Jay has rendered a heartfelt Soul Pop gem- At The Party this summer. She has the perfect recipe for a hit on this track- a pinch of cool, an assortment of themes and a variety of beats (pun intended). While the song is a mellow one, there is still a warmth that radiates from the melody of the track. This ebb and flow of the beat-structure keeps you engaged amongst a plethora of other reasons. She starts off smooth with a starry synth guitar-drum combo. Blu hits the floor running with her vocals. She puffs her chest full of themes and releases poetic verses of a lost young girl that is trying to fit in. Her velvety vocals does the perfect job of maintaining the tension and angst which is only amplified by the instrumentals. Speaking of, the production work on the track is spot on, they have stitched and polished the song to perfection. With the buoyant melody punctuated by her vocals, this song is out to paint vivid pictures with its imagery. A film that will leave you shocked with the quality of the writing and will most definitely have you holding your breath is Promising Young Woman. This is a film that passes all the tests of strong female writing. You don’t understand how perfect of an addition At The Party would be in this film. Go on, hit the play button and then the repeat button, cause Blu Jay will most definitely have you hooked.
Malena Boccadoro - Dead Sea
Malena Boccadoro takes us on a refreshing dive into a percussion cloud that is Dead Sea. She spills infectious beats and sows a much-needed ethereal melody across the indie music industry. Coming across this track feels like uncovering a hidden treasure. The track has everything that is required for a track to be considered a chart-topper. Right from the start she hits us with the percussion that connects to your heartbeat immediately. The song is titled Dead Sea and she leaves us tasting salt with every word uttered in the track. There is a bitter-sweet quality to the track as she narrates the push-and-pull quality between lovers. She bubbles to life with the instrumentals, before you know it she swoops you away with the drums and the guitar. Malena glides, weaving her way between the melody and carries us along with the tidal wave of emotions. She leaves us with “I’m disconnected like I’m floating in the dead sea. And you're still hiding from what I want. So come and find me.” Jane The Virgin is a show that broke the internet when it ended and it deserved every bit of attention it received. There is a moment when her dead husband comes back to life, telenovela style. She is left confused because he doesn’t remember her. This would be the perfect moment for Dead Sea to take the spotlight with Jane. With the infectious and moving beat Malena Boccadoro will most definitely win hearts and top charts. The production is slick, this only adds to the intensity of the track. If you’ve hit play, I have no doubt that you will hit the links attached below to check out more of her work.