NEW SINGLE RELEASE – E.M Kane ‘Wasted Time’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – E.M Kane ‘Wasted Time’ 23.11.23 Words by Beth Gulliver Glaswegian singer-songwriter Eleanor Kane’s first release under a new moniker – E.M Kane – is a gorgeous fusion of soul and an indie rock ballad. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KR-JDthaDA0 ‘Wasted Time’ spans three and a half minutes of laidback melodies, combined with a poetic lyricism reminiscent of her earlier work featured on The St Vincent Street Sessions. The track is in line with E.M Kane’s self-proclaimed mission to create: “artfully crafted tales of all-gender 2023 romance and adventure.” ‘Wasted Time’ depicts how lust manifests and is supposedly all about how you “wish you could love someone as much as you want them.” The theme is reflected in the artist’s cries of: “What’s such a thing called wasted time? When I’ve got a minute to give you?” Written during lockdown, Kane successfully pens an emotive lyric, beginning with a lilting beat and soft vocals that swell to a stunning belt as the track progresses. From the first line, Kane’s voice pulls you in, delicately unfolding the storyline. The single spans multi-genres, and any sceptics will be convinced of the track’s re-playability (and the artist’s potential) half-way through the song when Kane croons a sensitive bridge. Her vocals are strong, defiant yet vulnerable, that end with a rousing cry to: “Tell me you want me.” The layered bassline and swooping melody, backed by a subtle piano with gentle drums that gradually build, make for satisfying listening. It’s perfect for a cozy Autumnal afternoon beside the fire, or as a soundtrack to slowly dance around the kitchen whilst cooking. ‘Wasted Time’s’ sound is appealing but the defining feature of the song is the singer’s vulnerability throughout, covering themes of love, identity, and the surrounding world. If this first single under the artist’s new moniker is anything to go by, E.M Kane will continue to produce stunning vocals and poetic lyrics – firmly earning her place on any ‘one-to-watch’ lists. E.M Kane is performing her first headline show in London later this year. Hear her perform ‘Wasted Time’ and a selection of new tracks at Morocco Bound Bookshop on Saturday, 2nd December 2023 You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Vaermina ‘Real Panic’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Vaermina ‘Real Panic’ 22.11.23 Words by Holly Eve Vaermina’s new release will leave you angsty, after unveiling their first track ‘Real Panic’ ahead of their album drop ‘Tantrum’ out on the 24th of November. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrL_shq6qPg The London-based band have a lot to shout about in their new single that is defining a genre for alternative listeners, Holly Frape finds out. Experimental doom punk ‘outfit’ Vaermina have released their new single ‘Real Panic’. It comes as a pre-release to their sophomore album ‘Tantrum’. Contrast to their debut ‘Lovebots’, a recollection of glitchcore laced with hardcore percussion and esoteric structure. The band has since departed from this in ‘Real Pain’ honing the sound into the realms of punk. Artfully pushing the boundaries of the genre, through tight performances punchy production and catchy melodies, Vaermina has begun to carve themselves into the experimental escapism of the ‘Doom – punk ‘genre. Immediately, as the track begins, the listener is met with heavy, gritty guitar riffs and drums that accompany it parallel. Having absorbed the opening passage to the composition, you would be forgiven for thinking this may be a run-of-the-mill hardcore punk song. However, having spent any amount of time listening to Vaermina, you know this is not the direction that this is headed. As soon as the jarring vocal enters, the sentiment that this is any constrictive song writing will be dissolved in the vocal concoction of Caitlin Power’s unique talent. The melody which runs contrapuntal to the music, drives the rhythm. The childlike sarcasm in the phrasing imminently marries the destruction of the vocal and rhythm section in sacred unity. Despite this notion, the song already has defined its catchy hook, which will linger in your ears for days to come. Following this, an Avant-garde synth enters, leading us through a short and chaotic instrumental passage of brash and atonal nature. This may not be entirely what is known as standard musical practice, yet nothing would serve the song in its place. The track shifts gear with the intrusion of the deeper vocal which disconcerts the listener, the warbled electronic preaching is authentic in their sound. Following the offbeat song structure, the trio have positively excelled in nailing and honing the art of sonic expression with careful and deliberate songwriting. Which culminates a sensory feast for all who listen. Vaermina is single-handedly moving the alternative scene in a new direction. Caitlin Power, Ozario Argentero, and Gabriel are constantly experimenting with what they will come up with next. If the new single is anything to go by, we will be welcomed with various influences, an ode to many artists from Punk’s past intertwined with electronic chaos. Vaermina’s next release promises to be a project that is born out of anger, descent and offbeat expression. Perhaps in a similar vein to Bikini Kill, Hole, 100 Gecs and Death Grips. Vaermina’s sophomore album ‘Tantrum’ is out on the 24th of November. Image Courtesy of @vaermina.xoxo Instagram. You Might Also Like
ALBUM FLASHBACK – Bleach Lab’s Lost In A Rush Of Emptiness is Better Together
ALBUM FLASHBACK – Bleach Lab’s Lost In A Rush Of Emptiness is Better Together 22.11.23 Words by Sophie Abbott The South London four-piece brings their tour to an ethereal end at Scala https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__dXNAYL7vE Two months ago, Bleach Lab (comprised of vocalist Jenna Kyle, guitarist Louis Takooree, bassist Frank Wates, and drummer Sean Courtney), released the 43 minutes of glimmering dream pop otherwise known as Lost In A Rush Of Emptiness. The debut album is sonically nebulous and cinematic, grounded by lyrics and references that make it undeniably human—nods to Bruce Springsteen, Say Anything, and a posthumous Leonard Cohen collection are made without pretension; simple refrains like “Please leave the light on / If you care” and “Life gets better” define its ability to capture the timeless, universal ache of early adulthood. It’s a record you wish you could give to your younger, freshly-heartbroken self, the one with all those overwhelming feelings they can’t quite name. “If only they could remake The Perks of Being a Wallflower with one of our songs playing during the tunnel scene,” the band jokes, “Really, any type of coming of age or self-discovery film would be incredible.” It’s a cold, gray November night in London. Scala, the historic cinema-turned-music venue positioned across from King’s Cross Station, has a capacity of 800 people and houses Bleach Lab’s largest show to date. Tonight is also the final stop on their Lost In A Rush Of Emptiness tour. Openers absolutely anything and Wings of Desire have warmed up the steadily-growing crowd, the stage awash in red fluorescents and anticipation. The band’s signature symbol—a bouquet of wildflowers—has been brought to life, with flowers tied to the mic stand, drum kit, and speakers. The man beside me checks Setlist.fm; a group of girls to my right discuss their first time discovering Bleach Lab. All conversation drops to a hush when the lights go down and the band arrives, launching into Lost In A Rush of Emptiness’ “Indigo,” a track documenting the push-and-pull of unstable romantic relationships backed by sweeping strings and catchy percussion. There’s an immediate ease to the band, with frontperson Jenna Kyle utilizing the mic stand as a dance partner, her movements intentional, vocals tender, not unlike the women of 1970s Laurel Canyon she cites as inspiration. Another fan favorite is the poignant “Saving All Your Kindness,” its gauzy soundscape counterbalanced by lyrics that are especially resonant in the age of situationships, talking stages, and not-quite commitment: “Is there someone you’re holding out for? / Baby, I’ve been lying to myself / Are you saving all your kindness / And your love for someone else?” Bleach Lab wastes no time, only occasionally punctuating their free-flowing set with gratitude for the tour, for our being here, and once to dedicate “Smile For Me” (the album’s lead single, reviewed by The New Age Magazine’s own Isla Mcrobbie) to “anyone who has felt harassed or made uncomfortable at the hands of somebody else.” This is met with enthusiasm, particularly from the younger attendees, who lift lighters—not phone torches, lighters!—and sway along to the next few songs, hands around each other’s waists and arms. The coveted ability to share this space with each other in a post-pandemic world is not lost on Bleach Lab; after all, Lost In A Rush Of Emptiness is the first project the band was able to make in the same room, with their last three EPs constructed remotely due to lockdown. Of their newfound unity, the band says, “It’s completely surreal seeing people sing along to our songs, even the lesser known releases. It’s such an intimate and emotional experience. We always intended to write with our listeners in mind and a lot of the subjects we write about are quite personal. We often have a few chats with people after our shows about how certain songs have impacted them or even helped them in some way. That’s as rewarding as it gets, really.” Lost In A Rush Of Emptiness is a record steeped in isolation, loneliness, and confusion, but it comes to life when performed, and Bleach Lab can finally see the effects of their music: living, breathing, dancing, right before their eyes. The show ends on the visceral, all-consuming “Everything At Once,” to thunderous applause. The band links arms, poses for a picture, and gathers each wildflower bouquet from the stage before throwing them out into the crowd. It’s a gorgeous display of appreciation—Bleach Lab have waited years to receive their roses, but even once they’re earned, the band gives them right back to us. You Might Also Like
OCTOBER SINGLE RELEASE – Ouraa ‘Bedbugz’
OCTOBER SINGLE RELEASE – Ouraa ‘Bedbugz’ 22.11.23 Words by Céline Galletti The bedbugs that are currently invading London are not the only thing that will be taking over the city this fall. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=m8SGYm5yZMg The new single “Bedbugz” by singer and songwriter Ouraa is an uplifting and empowering song that draws inspiration from the recent bug infestation to talk about self-worth and dealing with toxic people. “Don’t let the bedbugz get in the way, You know that they’re after you…”. The ominous lyrics, together with the eery aesthetic of the cover and the music video, create a creepy atmosphere that mirrors the anxiety of the singer, who is surrounded by “bedbugz”. These bugs represent the haters and negative people in her life, who are restless in trying to take her down. However, the message that prevails is one of strength and positivity. The uplifting beat, the background choir and Ouraa’s powerful voice come together to create an interesting musical universe, that works as a hybrid between pop and gospel. And of course, the amazing bass drops will hit you right in the gut and manage to transmit a visceral feeling of strength. By the end of the song, you’ll want to get into a fight with all the “bedbugz” in your life and come out victorious. Ouraa is a true preacher of positive energy, and offers a reassuring but intense lesson of self-acceptance to her audience. Wellbeing is at the centre of most of her discography, and pieces such as “Just Breathe” and “Do It Right” are literal musical pep-talks that acknowledge that life is a struggle but that in the end, everything will be fine. It is thanks to her hardships that the singer can say that: “I’ve learnt to love and I’ve learnt to see”. If you enjoy Afro-Swing, R&B and pop, I can only recommend experiencing the communicative power of Ouraa’s musical universe. She is present on every music platform and gives frequent updates of her projects on her Instagram @ouraaofficial. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Linn Sandin ‘Think About It’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Linn Sandin ‘Think About It’ 21.11.23 Words by Harvey John Pull your head out the sand for this banger. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRTLoivhwGg A voice reminiscent of Royal & The Serpent, a guitar riff that feels like it came straight from a country song and a beat that feels like marching feet – it’s strange to imagine Think About It has yet to find a large audience. Linn Sandin might not be a name that you hear in everyday conversation, but she’s a talent that’s sure to be a future headliner for the music festivals of tomorrow. My discovery of Sandin occurred during one of those every day, bored out of your mind, flicking through TikTok where I wasn’t really listening or watching – procrastination was the game, and I was winning. Thinking wasn’t even on my mind, ironic as that may be. Sandin’s song found me like a wake-up call to get back into the world. ‘Why don’t you think about it’, she sings – her soft voice carries the words with a weight that pulls you in with the twirl of her natural Swedish tongue and the energy of the words. Suddenly I was awake, and I was listening to this song that had me wanting to move, but also made me want to listen. Sandin’s ‘Think About It’ is a catchy piece of alt-rock but it also feels layered. A challenge to a faceless enemy to broaden themselves for a ‘single lane’ way of think. ‘Dare to enter my mind’ she sings, emphasis on each word as each word feels important. The challenge to create a change, to invite new perspective – perhaps this is a personal statement for Lin Sandin. The song certainly feels personal, as though she herself is trying to pull her audience’s head from the sand, ‘Why don’t you think about: All the time you wasted on fights, Never wanted to solve ‘em, Just add to the problem’. Sandins ‘Think About It’ might be personal but we all have a shared experience of knowing someone who is stubbornly ignorant, whom we’ve had to emphasise each word as the sentence itself might wholly be ignored. It’s a powerful, entertaining, catchy song that makes you want to move and expresses all the frustrations of arguing against belligerent ignorance. So, if you’re looking for an alt-rock artist to add to your playlist then consider Linn Sandin your next obsession. Seriously, ‘Think About It’! You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Dea Doyle ‘One For Me’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Dea Doyle ‘One For Me’ 21.11.23 Words by Hannah Fitzhugh ‘This is a song about finishing someones Guinness and having no idea what was about to begin.’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rxZtRfpVlA Dea Doyle tells a story of unexpected love in her new single, ‘One For Me’. The West London singer songwriter uses feminine, up-beat melodies and candid lyricism to create this feel-good track that perfectly captures the spontaneity of falling in love; ‘I never thought I’d be here, when I sat with you and I finished your beer.’ Dea’s strong British accent and dialect emphasises her music style and adds a Lily Allen like charm to the record. ’I can’t help but slate your accent but I wouldn’t change it for one second.’ The artist claims to have also drawn inspiration from Katy Perry’s earlier, ‘One of the Boys’, era, with her direct song writing methods. The simple but effective chorus, ‘Oh I think you might be, the one for me,’ cleverly demonstrates that less can be more whilst conveying the feelings of hope and lightheartedness that make this track so compelling. Growing up in a creative household surrounded by musical influences, the singer has had dreams of becoming an artist ever since she was a little girl. ‘One For Me’ is Dea Doyles fourth official single, however Dea wrote her first song when she was just 9 years old- so it is no coincidence that the emerging artist has got our attention. It seems that those dreams are now becoming a reality and we can’t wait to hear what she does next. The single is out on all major streaming platforms now and you can keep up with Doyles upcoming projects on her Instagram linked here. You Might Also Like
NEW ALBUM RELEASE – Samantha Lindo ‘Ancestry’
NEW ALBUM RELEASE – Samantha Lindo ‘Ancestry’ 20.11.23 Words by Tom Heath 10 tracks of jazz and soul influenced pieces from the Bristol-based artist, funded by Arts Council and MOBO.. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q-U9YFlja0 Ancestry explores dual-heritage identity and the reality of this experience as she delves into her own family history through deeply well-crafted lyricism. We begin with ‘Child in me’, a gentle yet hard-hitting piano piece that sets the scene for the album – the atmosphere continued by the more textured ‘Worthy’. A driven, jazzier piece that builds vocals on vocals until it all comes together in a powerful chorus –underpinned with delicate strings. Patterns intensify with ‘Little Songbird’, where even catchier vocal and bass hooks place the song firmly into your brain for the new week (speaking from personal experience.) All of it coming to head with the best example of a modern sax solo you’ve heard in a long time. The fifth track, ‘Shades of Yellow’ cuts in with a spoken word section that pierces the atmosphere with meticulous poetry – ‘’there’s a vastness in between our pages, and a rage that’s contagious when we speak’’. The depth of their meaning in relation to the themes of identity are clear and ever present. Like the later track ‘Bloodline’, only this is swept up by a funk influenced bassline, washed over with the familiar string section into the final tracks. These are still forged from blisteringly hard-hitting spoken word pieces, namely the final track ‘Legacy’ which becomes a hypnotic fusion of piano and choral poetry. An incredibly infectious jazz/soul album, whose nuanced exploration of social identity elevates it to a whole new level that would be a huge achievement for any artist. ‘’We can do better than what history could find. You told me a story, well now I’m speaking mine.’’ – (Track #5 – Shades of Yellow) You Might Also Like
OCTOBER DEBUT EP RELEASE – Echo Juliet ‘Abandon Reality’
OCTOBER DEBUT EP RELEASE – Echo Juliet ‘Abandon Reality’ 20.11.23 Words by Georgina Shine It may be winter, but Essex artist Echo Juliet is bringing you that summer sun warmth all year round with her newest single release ‘Abandon Reality’. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmF8S1TiWgI&list=OLAK5uy_nzpT58isHmhlecFjngqKCPfZmMU7iKjF8&index=1 Although she started as a classically trained musician, Juliet very quickly fell in love with the electronic sound and found herself falling into the world of DJ’ing but her footing was a little uncertain. But following the support of people around her, she soon found herself in possession of production software and the knowledge of how to craft a whole track and she never looked back. Percussion has become a signature staple within Echo’s electronic sound whilst also combining elements of broken beat, and deep house, and using some of her classical knowledge to bring an extra edge to her tracks. And this is no different in her new album ‘Abandon Reality’ which offers an electronic soundscape crafted with complexity but somehow soothes simplicity in every note and beat throughout drawing in mind, body, and soul. The gentle ups and downs that flow throughout the track to bring range create a dream-like experience of floating away into a different reality. The sounds of what sound to be xylophone and boom whackers bring softness and depth to merge the sound into a 3D experience that allows you to feel the music as well as hear it. Abandon Reality is Echo’s debut EP the dreamy, instrumental electronic backdrop has peaks and troughs to suit any mood. Whether it be the deeper and sombre tones of Eating the Rich, the twinkling and joyful beats of Willow, or the floating and almost hallucinogenic treats of We Move there is a journey of sound and a journey of emotion condensed down into the 7 track release from the outfit. It’s clear that each track was crafted with a vision of Echo’s ever-evolving personal style, ingenious ear for what works, and the ability to create a feeling and a story using sound alone, the future is exciting for the artist and her fans. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Bel Cobain ‘Unlikely’
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – Bel Cobain ‘Unlikely’ 20.11.23 Words by Isabel Jackson The new EP is highly anticipated amongst Cobain’s fans, expected to take listeners on a journey through her explorative lyrics and enchanting voice. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqlAs04Ci4I Cobain’s latest single, Unlikely, boasts haunting vocals, and powerful lyrics, as she effortlessly blends genres to guide listeners through this moody number, taking influences from jazz, RnB and drum and bass. London-based singer-songwriter, Bel Cobain, known for hit singles such as At the Bay (with The Silhouettes Project), and Leader, is known for enchanting listeners with her powerful voice and poignant songwriting, and her new EP looks to be no exception. Cobain is a master of creating character in every song, and the bass in Unlikely immediately sets the mood of the song. Supposedly inspired by a paranormal experience on a trip to Mexico that Cobain took with friends, the rhythmic bass is a defining feature in creating a spectral feeling and is a key foundation in Unlikely which Cobain uses to build on throughout. Unlikely also takes influence from drum and bass in the powerful drums, which create a sharp contrast to the bass, as well as Cobain’s soft, lingering vocals. The drums serve to build tension that peaks and troughs throughout the song, shaping the listeners experience and complementing Cobain’s striking lyrics. Cobain appears to reference her insight into the experiences of marginalised groups in Mexico during her trip in her lyrics – “feeling sorry for my people who got rigged by the systematic default”, – which becomes a focal point in the song. The lyrics also appear to make reference to Cobain’s struggles with mental health – “I’m starting to realise that my habit seems suicidal” and highlights her ability to deliver poetic and significant lyrics implicitly through her smooth vocals. Pressure to exist was the first single released from Cobain’s new EP, a sharp contrast to the eerie mood of Unlikely; instead offering a mellow and jazzy ballad exploring Cobain’s perspective on life and existence. ‘Radical Forgiveness’, will perhaps take on more of this direction, giving us insight into Cobain as an individual, and as an artist, as she develops her musical style. Consistent to Cobain’s music, however, is her striking vocals, poetic lyrics and ability to blend jazz and RnB, as well as other genres, bringing jazz uniquely into the mainstream and creating her own sound. The new EP is highly anticipated amongst Cobain’s fans, expected to take listeners on a journey through her explorative lyrics and enchanting voice. ‘Radical Forgiveness’ is due to be released in December and is sure to be a breakthrough success in the music scene. You Might Also Like
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – Ladylike ‘Southbound’
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – Ladylike ‘Southbound’ 18.11.23 Words by Abraham Lindohf Brighton’s emerging musical force, ladylike, is unveiling their captivating debut single, ‘Southbound,’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Htobw_glMJg Promising a sonic journey reminiscent of acts such as Fleetwood Mac in their more folk-inspired era or Boygenius with their fuzzy guitars, ladylike, intricately weaves the landscapes of folk, post-rock, and psychedelia together. The quartet has skilfully crafted a mesmerising, slow-burn piece that draws parallels to the delicate reflections found in Big Thief’s work, seamlessly transitioning from contemplative moments to full-blown, powerful psychedelia with dramatic twists and turns. The single employs a unique stream-of-consciousness approach to songwriting, shedding light on the mundane moments that define our existence. I hope to see this continue in the band’s upcoming work as the more conceptual and often evasive lyrics allow for an array of understandings. In a poetic exploration of the awkward nuances of life in one’s twenties, Lead vocalist and guitarist, Georgia Butler, shares that the song serves as an ode to the challenges of finding one’s place in the world during this transformative period. Its narrative unfolds abstractly, incorporating internal musings and anecdotes as the music evolves. As mentioned by Butler, “We weren’t entirely sure of the song’s intent until we’d finished it.” which I believe sets ladylike aside from their contemporaries. Having established themselves in Brighton’s vibrant counter-culture scene since their formation in 2022, ladylike has meticulously honed their sound over 18 months through a series of dynamic live performances. This sets them apart from other groups which aim to rush out a single before having played at a single venue, ladylike know their sound and methodology, and I think this has paid off. Having performed with notable appearances at Triptych and most recently supporting ĠENN on the 13th of October. Impressively, ‘Southbound’ was recorded at Farm Road studios while being produced/mixed by the band’s own Spencer Withey, which I imagine allows them to showcase their distinct musical identity. Having recently featured on Crafting Room Recordings’ Brighton Sound 2023 compilation alongside local favourites like Hutch, Flip Top Head, and, ELLIS-D, ladylike has supported acclaimed acts including Divorce, The Paranoyds, Lorelle Meets The Obsolete, Rosie Alena, and ĠENN. Their presence at the Clunk Magazine stage during this year’s Alternative Escape further solidified their rising status. Comprising Georgia Butler (Guitar, Vocals), Spencer Withey (Guitar, Synth, Backing Vocals), Archie Sagers (Bass), and James Ely (Drums), ladylike is set to self-release ‘Southbound’ on November 17th. The single launch show is scheduled for November 22nd at Brighton’s Green Door Store, followed by a performance at London’s The George Tavern with Dog Race on December 13th. You Might Also Like