NEW SINGLE RELEASE – MIMI ‘Copenhagen’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – MIMI ‘Copenhagen’ 18.11.23 Words by Liesl Hammer The beginning of a success story. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj6Q0xfL7YY On 7th November, the 24-year-old new and upcoming singer from south London Mimi Simmons, known as MIMI, released her brand new single “Copenhagen.” She started writing music at a young age and has always been inspired by artists such as Lana Del Ray and Florance and the Machine. With the demanding nature of the university, this was put on a back burner for a while. Luckily for us, she graduated in 2021 which can only mean one thing. More Music! Throughout her four songs, she discusses very heartfelt subjects that I’m sure many people in their 20s can relate to, namely heartbreak, longing, and figuring out how to grow up into an adult in this day and age. As a 20-something delusional romantic myself, MIMI is quickly becoming one of my favourite singer-song-writers and someone I will be sure to follow closely. MIMI released her debut single last August entitled “Oblivion Baby” with her producer and songwriter Jules Konieczny which has a similar soft sound to “Copenhagen” yet her voice is a lot more raw. She has performed at BBC Radio One as well as BBC Radio London and has been interviewed by BBC Introducing’s Jess Iszatt. “Copenhagen” explores her airy voice which captures the dreamy element of this song. It tells the evocative story of an unrequited, friends-to-lovers relationship. This indie vibe also reminded me of the amazing soundtrack from the hit TV show Heartstopper and I am therefore very much hoping for it to appear in its upcoming season three. From my initial listen, I was immediately transported into a romance novel where two friends go on holiday in an attempt to fix their friendship whilst grappling with the fact that they are falling for each other. This style of story-telling is very reminiscent of that of other successful, female singers like Maisie Peters and Taylor Swift, in particular, “In My Head” from her 2018 EP Dressed Too Nice For A Jacket and Taylor Swift’s “You Belong with Me” from her second album, Fearless. MIMI is set to release more music next year and, I for one, am hoping that this is just the beginning of her huge success story. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Frankie Jobling ‘Peace of Mind’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Frankie Jobling ‘Peace of Mind’ 18.11.23 Words by Max Persad Frankie Jobling’s musical career took its first angelic steps a short time ago, but her musical prowess and aura is clear for all to see. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2O2qm2Ssgs She states that ‘I have always absolutely adored music, it has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember, a love of music has been instilled in me’. Clearly evident in her other singles, she takes influence from an incredibly wide range of genres too produce something rarely unique and fresh. From supporting The Pharcyde in March of this year, to three sold out headline shows, the Northeast enigma has outdone herself yet again. Her new single ‘Peace of Mind’ is testament to this. Combining melodic, moody guitar riffs with an upbeat jazz style drum succession and a gritty bass together with her angelic and delicate vocals, creates a distinct masterpiece. The passion and raw emotion put into this single shows the careful and concise arrangement of elements with the meaning subtly situated throughout to support this. It’s a song that puts a smile on your face, that moves your body and soul. You’re enchanted by every factor, her sound in this project is a complete addiction. The introducing guitar grabs you immediately, then accompanied by the incoming drums and vocals, you’re hooked. Lyrics such as ‘the universe oh she flirts with me’, ‘we’re getting all together like we always knew’ sets out the tone of the track. This is a song about all of the things in life that make you happy and having complete and utter tranquillity, leaving behind all your troubles for good. The song has everything a song should have, a story, a gorgeous and charming set of accompaniment and an engaged listener. It’s obvious that Frankie has pushed the boat out with this single. She’s a shining star shooting for the top. Her sound is something this genre has been crying out for. The ‘Geordie Jorja Smith’s’ exciting and prosperous future is on the horizon and we wait patiently for her next release, but right now, I am happy in my own peace of mind. You can catch her at The Grove in Newcastle on the 16th of December! You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE- ‘Fishbowl’ Tragic Sasha
NEW SINGLE RELEASE- ‘Fishbowl’ Tragic Sasha 18.11.23 Words by Hannah Bentley Tragic Sasha, the alias for Sasha Gurney, has released her new single ‘Fishbowl’. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDGv3D_No44 The North London artist broke into the music scene with her first EP The End of The World during the pandemic. Whilst in lockdown, Sasha used this free time to rent a music studio and taught herself music production. The 20-something musician masterfully blends the alternative pop and indie genres, often creating beautiful harmonies that have you in a trance. Since then, her songs have gained traction from various independent music magazines and ‘Fishbowl’ has recently featured on BBC’s Introducing, proving her status as singer songwriter and music producer. Her new single was released this month and is part of an upcoming EP of the same title. Sasha says ‘Fishbowl’ is a ‘relatable track about feeling caged’, with much of her music exploring mid-twenties turmoil and lamenting on the difficulties of navigating adulthood. Her stirring lyrics and delicate voice convey an enchanting sense of vulnerability. The feeling of entrapment is visualized in the music video where the scene is split in two, juxtaposing a mix of urban landscapes and beaches. Sasha walks across the dividing line between the two locations as if stuck in a loop (or fishbowl). Despite the somber topic, she still injects light-hearted lyrics into the single, my favourite being “take all my problems and roll them in glitter”. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody will certainly put a pep in your step. Tragic Sasha is set to headline a show at Servant Jazz Quarters in London on 6th December where she will be promoting her new music. You Might Also Like
INTERVIEW – Izzy S.O Releases EP ‘Silly Me’
Photo By Cara Kealy INTERVIEW – Izzy S.O Releases EP ‘Silly Me’ 17.11.23 Words by Natasha Judge Izzy S.O is back with her sophomore EP ‘Silly Me’, a five-track release with new tunes ‘Growing Pains’ and ‘Do I Make You Feel Alive Yet’, which join the catalogue of reassuring coming of age songs. These tracks join recent singles ‘Would We Make It’, ‘Without You I Don’t Like Sundays’ – as well as title track ‘Silly Me’, which cleverly encapsulate the conflicting emotions of growing up and discovering who you want to be. Speaking about the EP, Izzy expressed that she likes to draw on her emotions during the songwriting process. She said: “I always like to write about how I’m feeling in the moment, and I think that’s been the overriding theme over the past few years is the complex emotions that come with growing up. “The change, the confusion, questioning who you are and what your childhood was really like looking back at it with a different perspective. “When the fear of life kicks in, you notice the things you cling to and then when you let go of the fear, what are the things that you actually want to keep around – who and what actually makes you feel good.” Impressively, Izzy’s creativity has been a constant in her life and she has been writing songs, short stories, and poetry since the age of seven. Izzy, said: “I don’t really think one came before the other, but I did cut music off for a bit as there was a lot of negative emotion around it and so poetry felt like a calmer outlet to process emotions. “But then as soon as I started properly writing songs again it was like I had all these songs stored in me that had been waiting for me to write them – writing is my favourite thing about music.” Newly released track ‘Do I Make You Feel Alive Yet’ has a distinct Avril Lavigne feel to it with a catchy guitar riff, whist taking a more sexuality focused approach lyrically. The song pushes back against judgement which can be often shown against women for promiscuity and instead depicts feelings of owning passionate desire. Photo By Cara Kealy When approaching the writing process, Izzy stated how some tracks start as poems or a voice note on her phone. Izzy, said: “It will just be an idea that pops into my head when I’m doing normal life things and then I’ll take that into a writing session and turn it into a full song. Or, I’ll go into a writing session with nothing, and we’ll play a few things and then I’ll start writing stuff down and see what emotion it sparks.” The ‘Silly Me’ EP certainly has a nostalgic 90s feel with Nirvana and Alantis Morissette as big inspirations for Izzy S.O, as she admires the way they bring humour into lyrics so you’re not entirely sure of their perspective. Izzy, added: “The main thing with the track ‘Silly Me’ itself was leaning into the fun and chaos around a situation. “I think the melodrama of it was important to give me the freedom to say whatever I wanted without having to censor any of the lyrics.” Photo By Cara Kealy The new body of work, which is a mix of alt-rock and indie genres, was created alongside producer Dustin Dooley. The pair are already working on the next EP with hopes of releasing a single in the new year. Izzy recently played the new tracks at her EP launch at Strongroom in London. Accompanied with friends, she found it to be a fun experience and feels the live shows are starting to get a rockier edge. She said: “I think the new tracks bring a whole new energy to my set. “I was so scared to sing ‘Do I Make You Feel Alive Yet’ because it’s quite hard to sing but in a way, I think that fear made me decide to not care and just really go for it. “People were shouting along and dancing, by the end a few people actually screamed at me, it made me realise just how fun a live show could be.” Staying in Strongroom until close, the ‘Silly Me’ celebrations continued with a dance in Sunset Bar and plans are in the works to continue celebrating the release weekend in Edinburgh. Looking forward, Izzy expressed her excitement for the next instalment of songs and figuring out new sounds, as well as more gigs in the pipeline. From navigating love, acceptance and all the feelings in-between and as new track ‘Growing Pains’ portrays the loss of the “safety net” from teenager years to adulthood. Izzy S.O is an artist to watch and the EP makes as a healing soundtrack to validate any feelings of existential fear of growing up or developing as a person. The Silly Me is out now and can be found here: LINK (https://ditto.fm/silly_me). You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – The Last Dinner Party ‘On Your Side’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – The Last Dinner Party ‘On Your Side’ 17.11.23 Words by Hannah Naismith Describing ‘On Your Side’ for the first time in a recent interview, lead singer Abigail Morris says that the song was written immediately after having met someone and lying in bed with them for the first time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rviP4LEjaZo The song is true to this because it is a hypnotic longing, with dreamlike vocals; as if it were a memory that hasn’t happened yet. The steady beating of the drums and the tender playing of the piano draw a ballad of what once was: ‘On Your Side’ speaks to the ‘bliss of mourning’. Fitting for the changing of the seasons, ‘On Your Side’ centres on the vulnerability of change and clinging on to the lost. The ‘found-footage’ of The Last Dinner Party’s music video draws on this vulnerability, as it acts to piece together memory of the self through a cinematic haze. Within this, the intimacy of their lyrics draw out both the band’s wistfulness and the listeners own experiences. When performing this on stage, as in Manchester Academy last month, another memory of ‘On Your Side’ is created, which too will be mourned. Abigail’s rich, siren-like voice accompanied by the mellowness of the guitar, transcends the crowd through their own amassed experience. With now over a million listeners on Spotify, encouraged by the phenomena of live shows they’re performing, the band are reminiscent of Florence and the Machine’s raw emotional energy, who they supported earlier this year. Yet, they could also be likened to Wet Leg or Wolf Alice; with a hint of Frankie Cosmos – although The Last Dinner Party fittingly seems darker, as if recorded later into the night. The Last Dinner Party has an eccentric charm and ethereality that is one to witness live. At their shows, they will cordially invite you to dress up in your best attire and become lost in the nostalgia of their sound. Their debut album Prelude to Ecstasy is available to pre-order now and will be released 2nd February 2024. You Might Also Like
DEBUT EP RELEASE – Liv East ‘LVE1’
DEBUT EP RELEASE – Liv East ‘LVE1’ 17.11.23 Words by Georgina Walker Liv East’s debut EP, ‘LVE1’, released on 10th November, is a collection of tracks that embody an array of emotions, primed for late-night playlists and dancefloors alike. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BTsV96FXE4 Opening track ‘Freak’ is ready to saunter onto the dance floor with a playful, seductive vibe. The subtle house track is infused with funk, tied together neatly with Liv’s sweet vocal teasing lyrics reminiscent of ‘Freak Like Me’ by Adina Howard, and of course notably covered by the Sugababes in 2002. The track is charged with the energy of the iconic song, yet is something new altogether and a perfect selection for the start of the night. Moving to ‘You Got Me’ and the scene has changed, heart-rates are soaring and late-night lustful lyrics intertwine with a neo-soul sound that would be a spectacle to see live. This sophisticated track showcases more of Liv’s vocal and her delicate yet powerful tones that make her voice memorable and distinctive, inviting repeat listening. The groove is very real as the saxophone, keys and bass blend with Liv’s almost impossibly smooth vocal, making it an infectious triumph. In the final track, ‘LVE UNLIMITED’ we see a distinct mood change in comparison to the rest of the EP. The beat opens slightly moodier, as Liv ruminates on the downfall of a romantic situation. As we venture into heartbreak territory, the soft rolling beat is optimistic, and foreshadows the defiance we hear in Liv’s lyrics by the time we reach the first chorus. Liv sings “I won’t be waiting for you to break my heart again” as the music fades, allowing the vocal to shine alone without the music, emphasising the confidence of the artist. The track is mellow, but hopeful, with an uplifting spin on coping with heartbreak and moving on from a situation that no longer serves you. Throughout the EP, Liv assuredly moves between genres and depicts a range of emotions with ease, creating a sound that is distinctly her own. With a voice reminiscent of 90s R&B, and a curiosity to blend multiple genres – that pays off – it’s exciting to await what Liv will release next. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Working Men’s Club ‘Widow’ Gabe Gurnsey Remix
NEW SINGLE RELEASE -Working Men’s Club ‘Widow’ Gabe Gurnsey Remix 16.11.23 Words by Becca Child The latest cracker from West Yorkshire’s band Working Men’s Club is an energetic, virtually pulsating remix of Widow. https://www.google.com/search?q=Working+Men%E2%80%99s+Club+%27Widow%27+Gabe+Gurnsey+Remix&oq=Working+Men%E2%80%99s+Club+%27Widow%27++Gabe+Gurnsey+Remix&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigAdIBBzM3MGowajeoAgCwAgA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#vhid=Xm8-wA46TSgivM&vssid=videos-fdbf4bc9 The lead single is currently the most streamed track off their 2022 album, Fear Fear, described by Heavenly Recordings “made for agitating and dancing, for heart and soul, for here, now and tomorrow”, making the remix of Widow a perfect accompaniment to the record. The remix has been crafted by producer Gabe Gurnsey, “a close friend/collaborator and inspiration since the start of Working Men’s Club” according to the group’s Instagram. Moreover, the remix has been a fan favourite for a while with it featuring on the frontman Syd Minsky-Sargeant’s DJ sets for the past year. Finally, we’ve been treated to receive the remix as an official release. Gabe Gurnsey’s remix presents Widow in a fresh light, giving it a groovy new pulse and leaning into the original track’s dance elements whilst retaining its sentimental and vibrant spirit. Exemplary of the atmosphere created on the record, one that feels both nostalgic and futuristic, restless but still self-assured, Widow explores the existence of contraries within one another as well as experiencing the space left when someone leaves you. These ideas are demonstrated through Widow’s lyrics like “Misery is bliss to me” and “I love you now you’re dead, you see”. The remix’s expertly engineered transitions between tension and release as well as the dreamy and sometimes distorted use of Widow’s lyrics mean this remix is anything but repetitive and make it an exciting new dimension to a much-loved track. Encapsulating the beloved spirit of the UK’s new wave scene blended with techno, the collaboration between Working Men’s Club and Gabe Gurnsey feels effortless and inevitable on this remix. If there was ever a soundtrack to being in a dark room faced with too bright lights and feeling everything a little bit too much it would most certainly be this track. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE -Venus Grrrls ‘Hex’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE -Venus Grrrls ‘Hex’ 16.11.23 Words by James Humphreys-Goodall Heralding from the heart of West Yorkshire, Venus Grrrls are a riot grrrl inspired, altrock band that have set a sky-high standard for bands around the UK. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKYxBqfi3Sw Released on Halloween, their aptly named single: “Hex,” has once again proven that Venus Grrrls are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to consistently producing and releasing quality, thought provoking anthems of empowerment. Having released “Lidocaine” and “Liar Liar” earlier in the year, both of which achieved critical acclaim such as: two Spotify editorial covers; a feature on Amazon Music’s “Breakthrough Rock and Fresh Rock,” and national radio play on BBC Radio 1 from Jack Saunders. It’s a near certainty that “Hex” will accelerate the band’s journey to destined stardom. “‘Hex” is an ode to womenkind, touching on the universal experience of harassment. In the landscape of Hex, there are consequences for such behaviour, and generates a reality where we take the power back for ourselves. We are scared, and we are frustrated with the tale as old as time; we all have a story when we shouldn’t.” – Grace Kelly, Lead Singer The track’s introduction consists of a driving, crunchy bass line which guides the listener to a heavy, dark rock sound. Lyrically, “Hex” follows riot grrrl themes. Throughout the track, GK’s vocals are extremely prominent, to the point where they steal the show. The track’s lead vocals combined with backing vocals lead to an audible experience that can only be described as harmonically perfect throughout the song’s duration. “Hex” proves once again that Venus Grrrls’ ability to maintain their authenticity, as well as their raw sound, accentuates them to be one of the shining stars in the UK’s modern day rock scene. The sheer energy produced by their instrumental prowess and feminine rage highlights each band member’s individual excellence. Hopefully, Venus Grrrls will continue to share their art with us for many years to come. At this moment in time, the world needs more music like theirs. For any further information regarding Venus Grrrls’ future releases and tour dates, click here. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Lime Garden ‘I Want To Be You’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Lime Garden ‘I Want To Be You’ 15.11.23 Words by Kristian Floate Lime Garden’s newest release ‘I Want To Be You’ is a dreamy addition to their upcoming debut album ‘One More Thing’ – set for release in February 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B64g_X1rUpM Playing with themes of jealousy and attachment across minimalistic soundscapes, the Brighton-based quartet still maintain the calm and serenity that has grown to define their discography, while adding layers of experimentalism that are far removed from your average indie-electro outfit. ‘I Want To Be You’ merges hi-hat heavy drum patterns with a tightly locked guitar and vocal fusion – drawing attention towards relatable lyricism that will undoubtedly push crowds to sing-along during their upcoming headline tour in February. Tippi (bass) lays a simple pattern of root-notes, anchoring the low end and acting as a perfect example of how less is more. The unembellished and simple nature of Lime Garden’s newest offering allows delicate harmonies to shine through, complimenting the distorted noise-laden nature of their accompanying single ‘Nepotism (baby)’. Lime Garden’s open-ended flair has attracted the attention of fans from various musical backgrounds – a crowd that has continued to expand and diversify with each release. Lime Garden have grown and perfected their sound, unleashing a new era of musical maturity that has already seen the 4-piece signing with So Young Records, performing internationally and featuring on the cover of DORK magazine back in September. Despite the band gliding effortlessly from strength to strength, ‘I Want To Be You’ is written about attending a Wolf Alice gig at the age of 14 and wanting to be them – a humble reminder that Lime Garden have their inspirations and role models too! ‘I Want To Be You’ and it’s adjoining music video is out now, and the track will feature on the debut album ‘One More Thing’ – out on February 16th 2024 and available to pre-order now! You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Ellie Evans ‘The Friend I Kiss’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Ellie Evans ‘The Friend I Kiss’ 15.11.23 Words by Hannah Fitzhugh Self proclaimed messy uni student, Ellie Evans has us all in our feels with the release of her ever so relatable track, ‘The Friend I Kiss.’ The Bristol based singer songwriter might have just created the ultimate hot girl anthem for 20 something year olds navigating toxic ‘situationships’. https://youtu.be/FirjRb36-rI?list=OLAK5uy_ne0Yqxmw4jipcqOgc_TZokpaWUHTkcWOA Think British Olivia Rodrigo but rougher around the edges; with this release of her fourth official single, the artists sound is becoming more and more recognisable and she’s certainly one to watch out for. Combining indie and pop-rock influences, the single explores a relationship without labels, and the battle of trying to hide your feelings for somebody who will never commit. Packed with cleverly crafted lines made to be screamed along to in the car or cried to in the shower, Ellie belts the chorus, ‘I don’t speak to any of my other friends this way, he says that’s the benefit I guess that’s why I stay.’ When it comes to her lyrics, the artist confesses she simply takes inspiration from ‘her own chaotic life’ and clearly she holds nothing back. ‘Thought I was looking love in the eyes but he’s just a selfish 6 foot lie.’ Witty, satire lines like this one form Ellie’s distinct style by incorporating humour with a painful situation as a coping mechanism- something many of her Gen Z listeners seem to resonate with. Ellie took to TikTok to sum up the target audience for her music perfectly, captioning her video, ‘Calling all the girlies in failing situationships and the friends with benefits stage with boyfriends who aren’t boyfriends but do boyfriend things. ’Watch out for Ellie’s next move on her instagram @ellieeeevans and stream ‘The Friend I Kiss’- out now on all major platforms. You Might Also Like