｡✰✯ New Single Release ✯✰ : Charla Green “Stainless”
｡✰✯ New Single Release ✯✰ : Charla Green “Stainless” Sheffield-based Drum and Bass/Jungle DJ, artist, and producer Charla Green’s latest release embarks on a tentative exploration, mirroring her deep connection with the city. 05.03.24 Words by Matilda Stokes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sof15y8xvVQ The North’s contribution to UK electronic dance music often feels footnoted, despite being the birthplace of iconic labels like WARP Records, which have fostered talents such as Aphex Twin, Flying Lotus, and Squarepusher. Green’s newest track—a fizzling, whirring, bassy, and crunchy 5-minute auditory experience—solidifies Sheffield’s status as an unsung pioneer in UK rave culture. Situated on the fringes of the Peak District, Sheffield embodies a striking amalgamation of natural landscapes and industrial heritage. Charla effortlessly fuses together elements of the natural world (utilizing vocal samples that are spliced and spacey, with lots of Echo, reminiscent of the vastness of the Peak District) with industrial sounds (the fading low pass filter on the heavy thud of the kick, the sharp crash of the snare, and the hi-hats). In a discussion with Charla Green about her track, she likened the production process to painting, with multiple overlapping layers and textures. Upon the first listen, one is immersed in a fluid, ever-changing sonic landscape where the layers seem to meld and detach from one another seamlessly. Green rightfully earns the title ‘Queen of Jungle’ and solidifies her position as one of Sheffield’s rising stars in the realm of DJs and artists. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wub Club (@wubclub_official) You Might Also Like
｡❃ New Single Release ❃ : Izzy S.O “Refuse”
｡❃ New Single Release ❃ : Izzy S.O “Refuse” Izzy S.O.’s new song ‘Refuse’ is an iconic anthem with major main character energy. 05.03.24 Words by Layla Wheatley https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsI-wxSTBaI It has only been a few months since her last album release, ‘Silly Me’, a five-tracked journey of self-discovery and catchy guitar riffs, but Izzy has already given us more of what we wanted, releasing another new single, entitled ‘Refuse’. Izzy’s creative style explores the genres of pop rock, soft punk, and indie, completely encapsulated in this song, with a heavy guitar and drums in the chorus and angsty lyrics inciting lots of energy throughout. This song is about a tumultuous relationship in which Izzy expresses what she could do next to preserve a relationship without breaking the rules of a casual relationship. Interestingly, this is written from a future perspective, attempting to navigate and make sense of her emotions to ultimately feel a stronger sense of self. Refuse embodies a distinct teenage angsty nostalgia, exploring the journey of heartbreak and inner strength with the underlining message of ‘you are stronger than you think you are.’ Izzy is a true creative, expressing herself freely within the lyrics and visuals of her songs. Most of her songs are conceptualised through poems based on off-the-cuff thoughts based on her life experiences. This really lets her authenticity and eloquent lyricism shine through in her music. Frequently compared to the likes of Alanis Morissette and Avril Lavigne, she also takes influence from artists such as Damien Rice and Mazzy Star to achieve a nostalgic pop rock sound with a modern and innovative twist. Izzy left school at sixteen to pursue a career in the arts, but the start of the pandemic really brought a start to Izzy’s career in music as she had more time to write new music. Writing is one of her favourite parts of being a musician, but she also loves to let things get chaotic and fun on stage, so make sure you look out for her amazing vibes at the Low Lying Sun, London, on March 21st. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Izzy S.O (@izzysomusic) You Might Also Like
｡✯ New Single Release ✯ : Griff “Miss Me Too”
｡✯ New Single Release ✯ : Griff “Miss Me Too” Griff’s latest single is Pop perfection: ‘Miss Me Too’ is a confessional anthem of self love that leaves us pining for our past selves. 04.03.24 Words by Olivia Bloore https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0FrsjtmK4k I had the pleasure to attend Griff’s fan only launch of her latest single ‘Miss Me Too’ last week at Hoxton Hall. She played us the tracks from the upcoming Vertigo Vol.2 and treated us to an intimate acoustic performance of songs from Vol.1, including ‘Astronaut’ and, of course, ‘Miss Me Too’. Sarah Griffiths, known as Griff, has absolutely perfected the Pop formula. Griff brings a fresh sound to the British Pop world; having taught herself to produce from the age of 8, her signature looped vocal riffs and DIY bedroom Pop production styles all contribute to the unique Griff discography. From the release of her debut Mirror Talk EP under Warner records in 2019, she has released countless popular anthems, and earned herself a Brit award in the process. Since then she has toured around the world with Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran and Coldplay – Chris Martin even helped compose the piano line in ‘Astronaut’. Griff said at the event that she wrote more about ‘heartache’ than ‘heartbreak’; her heartfelt lyrics create a unanimous yearning and are always relatable yet intimate. ‘Miss Me Too’ is an existential Pop banger, with a ‘heartache’ for past selves – on Instagram the singer described the track as ‘sad yet hopeful’. ‘Miss Me Too’ is an embodiment of Griff’s golden traits; the melody is gracious, with runs that show the virtuosity of her voice, and the lyrics create the irresistible blueprint of an upbeat song with heart wrenching lyrics. An electronic pulse drives the track from the outset, with the synth bass supporting the verse lyrics, as Griff laments nostalgically on a ‘rosy tint’ of a lucid dream. Her voice is unique in its tone and quality, effortlessly hitting high notes and saturating every lyric with emotion and honesty. The textural variety in the track also contributes to its pacing – the chorus is a gift that keeps on giving. Initially, the percussion drops out for a spacey texture on the refrain it broke my heart in a million ways/ I fell apart in a foreign place. The beat drops on the title hook I miss me too, before catapulting into a four on the floor disco dance chorus. It then levels up a further gear for a repeat of the chorus melody, as Griff lists all the things she misses, starting with I miss talking to the bathroom floor. There is a recurring theme of nostalgia, of pining for innocent childhood selves. The final chorus builds to euphoric heights, as the mix becomes fuller with soaring panned vocals again showcasing the talent and breadth of the singer’s range. Griff sings of missing past versions of herself – the lyric ‘those empty lanes I would chase for miles’ resonate with other young women finding their footing after growing up in a rural village outside of a big city. Not only is Griff a DIY fashion icon, but her talents have expanded to dance; the single also came with a stunning music video, where Griff dances expressively in a warehouse to the high energy track. Directed by Colin Solal Cardo (known for his work with Charlie XCX and Kylie Minouge), Griff is fulfilling her Pop superstar status like never before. ‘Miss Me Too’ makes us want to dance, sing and chase our dreams and past selves ‘for miles’. We look forward to what Vertigo Vol.2 will bring for Griff. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Griff (@wiffygriffy) You Might Also Like
｡✺ New Single Release ✺ : Isabelle Mettle “Jupiter and Mars”
｡✺ ✴New Single Release ✺ : Isabelle Mettle “Jupiter and Mars” ‘Jealousy’ is the latest and first single from Birmingham-born artist RUBII since the release of her ‘Olive Green’ EP last year. 04.03.24 Words by Gabi Machen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALTlKgwjB3w This new song offers a laid-back yet vibrant beat overlayed with delicate keys and relaxed vocals, blending old-school hip-hop, jazz and R&B influences to create her signature sound. Rubii’s music creates a perfectly chilled vibe you can tap into no matter your mood, its mellow rhythms and smooth vocals provide a soothing soundtrack to daily life. Showcasing her conversational lyricism with an air of unbothered, Rubii lays out her experience of career jealousy interfering with a romantic connection. Though wise to the competitiveness coming from other musicians, she recites ‘I’ve been told differences but I think that it’s jealousy’. This single gives insight into the themes that her upcoming EP will explore, with a strong focus on self-empowerment you can expect to hear more honesty from Rubii. Alongside an EP in the works, Rubii recently supported the Wasia Project on their UK tour and is embarking on her first headline tour in April. Rubii’s success to date has paved the way for her to increasingly bring her creative vision to light, demonstrate her artistry and affirm her imprint in the alternative R&B space. If you are a fan of ENNY and JGrrey, you will want to keep RUBII firmly on your radar! View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕽𝖚𝖇𝖎𝖎 (@aka.rubii) You Might Also Like
｡❁ New Single Release ❁ : RUBII “Jealousy”
｡❁ New Single Release ❁ : RUBII “Jealousy” ‘Jealousy’ is the latest and first single from Birmingham-born artist RUBII since the release of her ‘Olive Green’ EP last year. 04.03.24 Words by Gabi Machen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALTlKgwjB3w This new song offers a laid-back yet vibrant beat overlayed with delicate keys and relaxed vocals, blending old-school hip-hop, jazz and R&B influences to create her signature sound. Rubii’s music creates a perfectly chilled vibe you can tap into no matter your mood, its mellow rhythms and smooth vocals provide a soothing soundtrack to daily life. Showcasing her conversational lyricism with an air of unbothered, Rubii lays out her experience of career jealousy interfering with a romantic connection. Though wise to the competitiveness coming from other musicians, she recites ‘I’ve been told differences but I think that it’s jealousy’. This single gives insight into the themes that her upcoming EP will explore, with a strong focus on self-empowerment you can expect to hear more honesty from Rubii. Alongside an EP in the works, Rubii recently supported the Wasia Project on their UK tour and is embarking on her first headline tour in April. Rubii’s success to date has paved the way for her to increasingly bring her creative vision to light, demonstrate her artistry and affirm her imprint in the alternative R&B space. If you are a fan of ENNY and JGrrey, you will want to keep RUBII firmly on your radar! View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕽𝖚𝖇𝖎𝖎 (@aka.rubii) You Might Also Like
｡✧✧ Artist Interview ✧✧ : Grace Parry
｡✧✧ Artist Interview ✧✧ : Grace Parry Grace Parry – an introduction to one of Liverpool’s most exciting female folk artists. 01.03.24 Words by Kyle Roczniak Liverpool is an undeniable catalyst in the melting pot of British music, and it’s overlooked that much of its illustrious talent first spawned from the grassroots venues and projects of the city. Grace Parry is a folk-inspired singer-songwriter from Huyton, and is fresh off the back of releasing her self-titled debut project, three tracks of pure comfort and authenticity. Her self-proclaimed ‘teeny tiny EP’ is anything but that in its personality, with the warm acoustic textures that the likes of Laura Marling, Joni Mitchell, or Adrianne Lenker would be proud of. My must hear track is ‘Try Again’, which was first released in 2021, but with the addition of a band and more challenging production, has been transformed into a beautifully crafted, and delicate folky love song. I caught up with Grace to discuss her experiences as a musician: What was the process of creating your debut EP like, from initial conception of the tracks to being in the studio and actually getting to put them together? The first song I wrote from the EP was ‘Try Again’ in 2021. I released it as a single and was very happy with it as I felt that I had started to find my own style as an artist. I wrote ‘Brand New’ and ‘Tired’ in 2023 and thought that the three would sound good as a little collection of songs, so I booked myself and my band (Sam Jones – drums, Paul Sanderson – lead guitar, Tom Hickey – bass) into Kempston Street studios with Alex Quinn to record them Who are the musical influences that inspired your own songwriting on the EP? When writing and recording the EP I was very inspired by female folk artists such as Joni Mitchell, First Aid Kit and Laura Marling. A huge influence was First Aid Kit’s album ‘Palomino’, which I think can be heard throughout the EP with the synth sounds that we used. What do you feel should be done to break down the barriers that restrict women and marginalised genders in the music industry? I personally feel very lucky to be a part of the Liverpool music scene as I have never felt restricted because of my gender. This is because of many lovely promoters and organisations such as ‘where are the girl bands?’ and ‘BITCH Palace’ who provide fantastic opportunities and a safe space for marginalised groups to thrive as creatives. We love to shine a light on different programmes available for people in the music industry? What is Capeesh and how is the project using music to help young people in Liverpool? Capeesh CIC is a community youth project that I have been working for since May 2022. We provide free music tuition to young people aged 11-17. Lessons are taught by our team of young musicians aged 18-25, however as the young people progress they have the chance to share their knowledge with other young people as volunteers. We regularly put on gigs and share celebrations, both inside and outside of Harthill youth centre, allowing young people to perform in a safe and supportive environment.
｡✬ Gig Review ✬ : Etta Marcus at The Wardrobe, Leeds
｡✬ Gig Review ✬ : Etta Marcus at The Wardrobe, Leeds On Saturday 3rd February, the intimate venue of The Wardrobe in Leeds opened its doors to welcome the beautiful Etta Marcus, with her closing show of the ‘Death of Summer’ tour. 01.03.24 Words by Cameron Perry For people who have never heard of Etta Marcus, you better get to know, as she is one of the newest writers and musicians leading the way within the soft indie genre. Her sweet and seemingly shy persona, along with her voice and songwriting style admirably nods to artists such as Lana Del Ray, Phoebe Bridgers and Ethal Cain. At only 22 years old, the South Londoner’s success with her collection of EPs prompted the creation of her debut album, ‘The Death of Summer and Other Promises’ which I was lucky enough to witness. The venue of The Wardrobe was a fabulous choice for closing the show, as it offered people the chance to have personal interactions with Etta and her band in between performances, and for her to really see the crowd interacting and getting lost in the lyricism of her songs Opening with ‘Snowflake Suzie’, one of her newer songs from the album, this was the introduction to her cutting and emotive songwriting style, which set the tone for her entire performance. Followed by songs such as ‘Theatre’, ‘Hide & Seek’ and her standout EP ‘Salt Lake City’, the crowd were in awe with the purity and clarity of her voice, paired with the skilled musicality of her bandmates. Throughout songs such as ‘Little Wing’, ‘Crown’ and her well-known single ‘Girls That Play’, Marcus’s audience were giving as much as they were getting, as people danced along and sang their hearts out with great enthusiasm. However, the show took a dramatic turn when the band exited the stage, leaving Marcus stood alone. Here she referred to a time when she didn’t have her band and had to perform alone, and how certain songs just resonated with that time and the loneliness she felt. It was here that she then sang ‘Fruit Flies’ pays homage to the song ‘Strange Fruit’ by the legendary Jeff Buckley, where she played it in a very similar style. In that moment, it felt like the world stood still, as Marcus beautifully relayed the lyrics in her own personal way, making the song completely her own whilst accompanying the lyrics with her guitar. A key moment for me was the final few lines of the song, which she played completely acapella. This drew an intense focus onto her voice which was beautifully raw and heartbreaking, with her reciting the words “how beautiful to see, I’m where I want to be’ This wasn’t her only time referencing her idols, as she announced to the crowd that there would be a few ‘special surprises’, which included her ending the song ‘Skin Parade’ with her cover of ‘Fade into You’ by Mazzy Star, an artist who she credits her songwriting ability to. Her quirky and funny comments in between each song just made you fall in love with the artist that she is and upon leaving the venue, I felt like I’d really experienced something magical. Closing the show, she thanked the Leeds crowd for showing up and expressed her love for the city, having previously played at Hyde Park Book Club in 2023. I hope to see Etta Marcus grow her following as she deserves and excitedly anticipate her return to Leeds, hopefully playing a bigger venue. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Etta Marcus (@ettaamarcus) You Might Also Like
｡✧❃ New Single Review ❃✧ : Lusaint “Sweet Tooth”
｡✧❃ New Single Review ❃✧ : Lusaint “Sweet Tooth” This Manchester-based singer and songwriter released her fourth single in early February which already has more than 100 000 plays on Spotify. 01.03.24 Words by Azu Mugnier https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdEpptfFxwc With lyrics like: “I hate it ‘cos I love you. Addicted to the taste. You satisfy my sweet tooth. But that don’t stop the pain” and “When you’re around, I’m lost. Lost in a candy shop. And I tell myself, it’s gonna last. When I know it’s not” “Sweet Tooth” talks about the obsession one experiences for someone else. The singer said: “It is something that we all go through”. “Growing up there is always somebody that you fantasise about, especially in your teens and they usually are quite a bit older, and you know that nothing will ever happen.” The artist, Lusaint, admitted that when writing this song with Cameron Warren, she was experiencing a sweet tooth due to anxious feelings, which gave birth to the title of this song. Played by Elton John’s music show Rocket Hour, this single is not the only novelty this singer is bringing this year. Another new single called Sober will be released around the month of May/June. Lusaint said: “I wrote that song when I was going through a bad time”. “I was in a hotel in London, and I was trying to figure out who I wanted to be as an artist”. “A year or two ago I did a lot of ballads, but the songs lacked the influences of the music that I listen to every day.” With jazz and blues influences, “Sweet Tooth” and “Sober” will be part of Lusaint’s new EP which is expected to be released later this year. The EP will also include the single “Fool For You” which is still going strong in both France and Italy. View this post on Instagram A post shared by LUSAINT (@lusaintmusic) You Might Also Like
｡ ❤New Single Review❤ : Qendresa “2 Much”
｡ ❤New Single Review❤ : Qendresa “2 Much” Qendresa’s new single 2 Much brings the nostalgic sound of 90s R’n’B to the 21st Century in a slow, funky jam. 29.02.24 Words by Isabel Jackson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yV6786cwS-s The latest release from London-based singer-songwriter, Qendresa, offers her signature sound; silky vocals and a soul feel, perfect for that late night drive vibe. 2 Much is a hazy, slow record exploring a tumultuous romance over a deep bass, that feels like an intimate insight into the artists internal monologue and relationship. The single almost feels as though the artist gets lost in her thoughts herself, and sets the audience up for a listening experience, you can’t help but sit back and immerse yourself into the song and get lost yourself in her vocals. Known for hit singles including Don’t Stop and Real Luv, it feels that Qendresa is really developing her signature musical style, inspired by soul, funk and the female-led era of R’n’B from the 90’s that she grew up listening to. It’s effortless and smooth, and infuses nostalgia into a modern sound. Born to Kosovan parents in London, Qendresa’s heritage is important to her, and the messages she conveys in her music is central to her creative process. Qendresa gets involved in the everything from the production to the music video, placing value on the meaning of the music rather than huge production, and this resonates with fans. Qendresa is absolutely one to watch, as she herself claims she’s ‘only just getting started’ as she makes a name for herself in the music industry. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ❃𝕼𝖊𝖓𝖉𝖗𝖊𝖘𝖆❃ (@whereisqendresa) You Might Also Like
｡✬✰New Single Review✰✬ : Lambrini Girl “God’s Country”
｡✬✰New Single Review✰✬ : Lambrini Girl “God’s Country” The latest release from Lambrini Girls slaps you in the face with its anarchistic mantra: “Great Britain – are you sure?”. 29.02.24 Words by Beth Gulliver https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muoddHKZthg ‘God’s Country’ grabs your attention immediately, and proceeds to mock the far-right in a rant which reads like a punky ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’, with added gumption and stunning punchy vocals. The Brighton punk duo sees Phoebe Lunny’s passionate rally cry set over Lily Macieira’s bassline. Lambrini Girls met as regulars on the Brighton music circuit and formed the band in 2020, taking inspiration from Courtney Love and Stevie Nicks. They have since been heralded by Iggy Pop as his “favourite new band” and it’s easy to see why. Lunny and Macieira’s debut EP ‘You’re Welcome’ showcased thunderous singles ‘Help Me I’m Gay’, ‘White Van’ and ‘Lads Lads Lads’; their latest release proves the duo just keep getting better. ‘God’s Country’ has jagged guitar riffs, clanging drums and attitude-filled lyrics – the result is an angsty track that will be electric live, set against the band’s immersive gig experience. Lunny often submerges herself in the crowd and the pair have been known to douse fans in beer and Lambrini. Stand out lines include: Bankers pay no tax / Grandma can’t afford heating / Strong and stable you’re joking / Pizza Express in Woking / We can’t afford to eat there / But a paedophile can? / All hail / God’s Country / Sorry bestie / But it’s giving austerity. The song is two minutes of perfect punk, challenging authority and questioning the double standard that is often present in British politics. Lunny previously discussed how the genre is about “inciting positive change” with NME and Lambrini Girls aim to create a safe space in the industry. Fearless and influential, look out for the band’s debut album in early 2025. If you can’t wait that long, Phoebe and Lily will take to the stage at London’s Scala venue on June 13th. Grab tickets for what will be an incredible show now. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ellie Bleach (@ellie_bleach) You Might Also Like