｡✬New Single Review:✴✧: Becky Sikasa “crashing and falling”
｡✬New Single Review:✴✧: Becky Sikasa “crashing and falling” “I’ve gone through phases of being absolutely terrified of making mistakes, of doing things wrong,” Becky says following the release of her raw new single ‘crashing and falling’. 09.02.24 Words by Teguan Harris https://youtu.be/0coG7hU_qH0 Scottish soul singer Becky Sikasa releases her new single, ‘crashing and falling,’ her first release of the new year. ‘Crashing and falling’ follows her 2023 dreamy and philharmonic singles ‘Wait Up’, ‘Work of Love’ and ‘hard to love.’ Her vulnerable and poignant new single expresses Becky’’s fear of “making mistakes” and “doing things wrong.” Despite her apprehension of making mistakes, she embraces love and affection to pull her out of that fear. Her fans and listeners can resonate with this beautiful message that love can rescue you from your fears. Becky Sikasa’s explorative discography has elements of soul, R&B and indie, and her latest single, ‘crashing and falling,’ is no different. Like her stunning album ‘Twelve Wooden Boxes’ and singles such as ‘Wait Up’ and ‘hard to love,’ Becky’s angelic harmonies weave through the vibrant and soulful sounds of talented and established producers, creating how we should define soul, R&B and indie. Branding herself as “the writing and the pieces and the song,” Becky has a beautiful way of expressing herself through her music and delivering touching odes that her listeners can resonate with. Her new single ‘crashing and falling’ received accolades following its release, which is nothing less than what Becky deserved with an overwhelming talent like hers. BBC Radio 1Xtra’s CassKidd named Becky Sikasa the artist to watch in 2024. Becky has been no stranger to the stage this month as she performed live at BBC Radio Scotland and Signature Brew Haggerston in London. Special guests accompanied her in Glasgow at St Luke’s & The Winged Ox. Becky Sikasa’s success in music is only rising. She is the next neo-soul superstar to grace the ears of many listeners and big stages. With a beautiful and heavenly single to introduce herself as an artist in 2024, Becky is on a trajectory to be the next big thing in neo-soul. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Becky Sikasa (@beckysikasa) You Might Also Like
｡✾New Single Review:✧✼: ĠENN “Calypso (Goya Remix)”
｡✾New Single Review:✧✼: ĠENN “Calypso (Goya Remix)” The Anglo-Maltese Brighton-based sisterhood of the psychedelic quartet GENN, (now that’s a tongue twister) is gearing up for their upcoming UK tour by releasing three tracks reimagined by different producers. 08.02.24 Words by Matilda Stokes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ism4d2sOGQ First up on the list is “Calypso,” remixed by Delhi-based producer Abhishek Sekhri, who goes by the artistic moniker Goya. Goya’s thoughtful and tentative production approach seamlessly aligns with the genre-bending, mind-melting music of GENN. Stripped back and punky with evident Mediterranean folk influences, this track resonates like a love letter to Malta, where three out of the four members hail from. Leona Farugia’s soft, spoken vocals infuse deep meaning into every word, creating a profound resonance throughout the track against its overall reverberant feel. The dreamy, trance-like instrumentals contribute to an oxymoronic sense of comfort and tension. Around the 1-minute mark, saxophone lines emerge, alleviating and uplifting the overall feel of the track. The layers in this reimagined track intertwine to create a deeply reflective and imperceptible sonic tapestry. Janelle Borg, the band’s guitarist, shares her appreciation for folk music from around the world, citing influences like Altin Gun, Crimi, and Etnika, who bring Mediterranean sounds to the forefront. The band, with a clear, developed political and societal understanding, seamlessly translates this into the fabric of “Calypso.” The remix is infused with a poignant perception, exploring the depth and clarity the track conveys. As they embark on their upcoming tour from late February, make sure to catch GENN live in your city! View this post on Instagram A post shared by ĠENN (@genntheband) You Might Also Like
｡☆New Single Review:★✼: The Menstrual Cramps “Abortion”
｡☆New Single Review:★✼: The Menstrual Cramps “Abortion” The Menstruation Cramps’ political anger is exactly what the punk rock genre needs. 07.02.24 Words by Mylo Castagnaro https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwl5Rb9SBFQ The Menstruation Cramps are a Bristol-born band who describe themselves as ‘DIY, loud, queer, anti-fascist, anti-racist, pro-choice, intersectional and feminist’. Their fusion of punk and hard rock is embodied not only in their sound but also in their lyrical content. Politics and injustice continue to be at the forefront of their work, tackling many feminist issues, such as periods, consent and rape culture, female body hair, and gentrification. Their latest single ‘Abortion’ demands the right to safe abortions for all. ‘Abortion’ is full of justified, political anger, confronting the patriarchy and anti-abortion laws with its provocative lyrics. The Menstruation Cramps perfectly encapsulate the raw emotions people with wombs feel towards the government’s continuous violation of our rights. This song does not waste time introducing its title, with the lyrics approaching the issue head-on, screaming ‘I have had an abortion’, followed by the powerful statement ‘My body my choice’. The lyrics leave no room for debate and instead, shamelessly attack the cis men making these decisions over women, non-binary and trans people’s bodies Notably, one of the best lines of the entire song uses satirical comedy to make a serious point, questioning if ‘you have trouble committing to me, how are you going to commit to a baby?’. While abortion is no laughing matter, I could not help but chuckle at this brilliantly written line. Smashing the patriarchy one song at a time, ‘Abortion’ forces you to face the reality of our world, where abortion rights are being restricted as a form of control over marginalised people’s bodies. The Menstruation Cramps’ anger and screams over this injustice are reflected in their sound and use of the drums, not giving you a moment of peace. This song is a feminist anthem, inviting all people impacted by this issue to scream from the top of their lungs, utilising rage as a political tool to spread awareness on this important matter. If you are based in the UK, make sure to check out their upcoming tour dates for a night of political punk rock fun. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Menstrual Cramps (@themenstrualcramps) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: BODUR “DON’T BEAT THE SWEET OUT OF MY BOY (Florentino Remix)
New Single Release: BODUR “DON’T BEAT THE SWEET OUT OF MY BOY (Florentino Remix) All DJs should take note because this is the only song we need to be hearing in the club, and preferably on repeat. 06.02.24 Words by Layla Wheatley https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFO4afzk2AA Don’t beat the sweet out of my boy’ brings the listener into a trancelike state with an effortlessly cool atmosphere to it. The pulsing electronic baseline with pleasingly frequent bass drops adds to this hypnotic and energising vibe. The song almost takes on a dark quality with Bodur’s expert manipulation of voice and tone, accompanied by her meaningful lyrics. This track is a cohesive collaboration with gothic rapper Denzel himself, but it has also been remixed by Florentino. Don’t beat the sweet out of my boy’ brings the listener into a trancelike state with an effortlessly cool atmosphere to it. The pulsing electronic baseline with pleasingly frequent bass drops adds to this hypnotic and energising vibe. The song almost takes on a dark quality with Bodur’s expert manipulation of voice and tone, accompanied by her meaningful lyrics. This track is a cohesive collaboration with gothic rapper Denzel himself, but it has also been remixed by Florentino. She originally turned to music and creative writing as an emotional outlet from internal struggles and to express her opinion of societal issues, which she has since continued to do, establishing an authentic image. This is epitomised in her album title, ‘oz’ meaning ‘self’ in Turkish, where this song features along with two others entitled ‘Gorgeous’ and ‘Mummy’ For example, ‘Don’t beat the sweet out of my boy’ is a comment on toxic masculinity and how, in the effort to pursue manhood, some men leave behind or restrict their softer qualities. Specifically, this song was first a poem penned by Bodur pleading that her younger brother would not lose his innocence and sweetness in his transition to manhood. If you love listening to this artist, make sure to see her play live at the Great Escape Festival in Brighton on May 16th, where she is part of a brilliant line-up. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BODUR (@bodurbodurbodurbodur) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: Kirsty Grant “Outerbody”
New Single Release: Kirsty Grant “Outerbody” Kirsty Grant has delivered pop-perfection with her latest single ‘Outerbody’. It achieves what pop does at its best: transporting the listener to a happier, carefree place where all that matters is the tunes. 05.02.24 Words by Olivia Rix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAMRnc4TrlM It’s the perfect dose of escapism to defeat January blues, and take you to that feeling of being in the club, dancing, surrounded by your best friends, or dancing in a world of your own. It’s a song for getting ready, and equally for the taxi back home. I for one want to hear this banger at the gay clubs in 2024, but I will also be playing it loud and dancing like nobody’s watching in my bedroom. This feeling of euphoric solipsism is in her lyrics: ‘In the crowd Might as well be alone Cause nothing else feels like home.’ Her personal lyrics are paired wonderfully with a catchy hook and chorus. This is definitely a sing-along anthem, it’s hard not to find yourself belting ‘cause it feels so good!’ Before this track, Grant released her cover of ‘Disturbia’ which was her production debut. She reinvigorated the classic with interpolated vocals, piano, and her dreamy, sweet-sounding voice. Her ‘Disturbia’ cover feels exciting, and ‘Outerbody’ is the perfect follow up from this to showcase her lyricism and fresh sounding pop sound. Sharing her feelings about the song, Grant said “I would love the listener to actually experience the song, and be taken out of whatever stresses they are dealing with, and get lost in it. I love that the lyrics describe how you can be on your own, or surrounded by people in a club, but when your favourite song comes on, you can just be taken out of everything and be in a world of your own.” She has certainly achieved that vibe with this song, and if you give it a listen you can let yourself get lost in it. Grant has started 2024 off on a high, and the rest of the year still awaits! View this post on Instagram A post shared by kirsty (@kirstygrant) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: Millie Turner “Venus”
New Single Release: Millie Turner “Venus” Returning gracefully with her first single release since 2021, Millie Turner pays homage to her own femininity in a refreshing track which appreciates the natural beauty of womanhood. 05.02.24 Words by Katie Ahearn https://youtu.be/0rNrOEJ69qk A ‘bang’ would be too violent address singer-songwriter Millie Turner’s return to the music industry. Her new single, ‘Venus’ is more of a sparkle: a shimmering star that plays like the lovechild of Lorde and FKA Twigs. A letter of adoration to the mythological goddess Venus, a glittering melody and gentle drums harmonize with mellow, pitchy vocals, evoking both the softness and strength of femininity. The imagery of the ocean has the same effect, a thought echoed in the underwater visual of the single’s cover art. A submerged, softly focused Turner seems to be immersed in the quiet power of her own womanhood as she gazes at the camera. At first, the track’s ethereal soundscape appears threatened by the pre-chorus “sharpen the claws, bending the verse, digging the way to space for Venus”. But that’s not without good reason, Turner explains in an Instagram post: “I pictured a group of scientists with their notebooks and sampling backs on an expedition to mine Venus for her soil,” “But beauty is always more mysterious and complex, and we cannot use rationality to play its games.” It serves to highlight Turner’s message that subtle beauty may be unexpected, but once noticed, it cannot be ignored. The track is the sonic twin of the building of a gentle wave, rising into a chorus before softly falling back into surrounding verse. Drums and cello dance hand in hand with Turner’s vocals. And with the lyrics “I took to the sky/and saw the rocket breathing residue/they saw that I saw you first”, it is emphasised that a woman’s own beauty is appreciated by herself in a way that cannot be perceived by others. It’s clear Turner is an aesthete, turning a blind eye to Venus’ other, less-visual qualities of prosperity and victory. But with lilting vocals akin to a siren’s, it’s hard not to be convinced by her sentiment. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Millie Turner (@millieturner) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: Olympia Vitalis “Mardy”
New Single Release: Olympia Vitalis “Mardy” South London Soul singer, Olympia Vitalis, releases new single inspired by Notting Hill Carnival encounter. 02.02.24 Words by Holly Turton https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygSGfB3Rtb8 Drawing inspiration from a range of influences including the legendary Amy Winehouse, to the complexities of race, and politics; South London based neo soul singer Olympia Vitalis pours her heart and soul into her lyrics and captivating jazz melodies. Reflecting on her mixed-race heritage, Olympia sparks thought-provoking discussions throughout her songs, often shedding light on the societal struggles that she experiences as a woman living in London. Her lyrics often explore a profound expression of self-love and how she challenges the stereotypes placed upon her. Her latest single “Mardy” addresses a disgraceful incident she experienced at Notting Hill Carnival, where she faced unwanted advances from a man. Instead of allowing this experience ruin her day, Olympia has channelled all emotion into a defiant response of empowerment. Enters “Mardy” the newest definition of revenge. The song kicks off with a bass-centric melody, setting the stage for Olympia’s smooth intro into her confrontation with the man in question. Joined by quirky ad libs and a gradual crescendo into the chorus, Olympia maintains her captivating presence, resilience and musical prowess until the end. We see Olympia Vitalis transcend genre conventions, and inspire listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and empowerment. Most definitely one to watch. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @olympiavitalis You Might Also Like
New Single Release: Kat Eaton “Addicted”
New Single Release: Kat Eaton “Addicted” The weight of relationships, wrapped in a feelgood jazzy tune: Kat Eaton’s ‘Addicted’ showcases the emotional rise and fall of love in her most recent masterpiece. 31.01.24 Words by Melissa Milsom https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfcuoaeoKHM The Welsh-born, London-living singer has a well-established jazzy sound, combining the perfect mix of soul and R&B. ‘Addicted’ is a Showcase of talent, technical skill, and raw naked emotions. This new rich vocal delivery, sexy brass section and an assortment of genre-bending drums, give us an insight into that bittersweet struggle between what the heart wants and what it needs. Accompanied by the memorable chorus and lyrics “You say you’re no good for me but what can I do” the hit gives us a dynamic listener experience, which is perpetuated by the undeniable range and tonal excellence of Eaton’s voice. Aside from the technical strength and control of her voice, Kat’s delivery is what makes you feel every ounce of emotion in her words, Engraining the internal struggles onto all of us for us all to feel. Key to any good jazzy, soul-R&B-inspired sound. One to watch this year if she isn’t already. And without sounding too on the nose, I’m ‘addicted’ and almost giddy with anticipation to see what her new album ‘Honestly’ gives us in March. View this post on Instagram A post shared by K A T E A T O N (@kateatonmusic) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: charlieeeee & piri “EASY”
New Single Release: charlieeeee & piri “EASY” A dive into charlieeeee’s debut single ‘Easy’ (ft. piri) and their work with the Trans Creative Collective. 31.01.24 Words by Kyle Roczniak https://youtu.be/_3leLdN0rrY Award-winning producer, engineer and creative director charlieeeee (they/them) has released their debut single, ‘Easy’ featuring TNAM favourite piri. While their name may not be familiar to you, charlieeeee is known for their collaboration work with some of the UK’s biggest artists – Fred again.., RAYE, MNEK, venbee, and Piri & Tommy, and now it’s their time to invite us into their own magnificent universe. Enter charlieeeee’s world… Their music is a fusion of EDM and jungle with a raw indie feel, and explores hyperpop too, making for a playful sound that captivates audiences and brings high energy. This is exemplified perfectly by their debut ‘Easy’ which opens with an undeniably indie-rock inspired bassline that wouldn’t be out of place on a record by The Strokes. Any sense of genre is transcended by the swift entry of a jungle backbeat and sweet poppy vocals. Speaking on the track, charlieeeee explains that the track is a love song that doesn’t draw lines at romance or platonic relationships – “It’s about the simplicity of love, when you are having a great time with your friends or partners and how easy life feels.” charlieeeee’s World is encapsulated by the accompanying music video, an intergalactic commentary on queer life in a hetero-centric society. As a non-binary artist, charlieeeee strives to change the narrative when it comes to misrepresented communities in music and the creative arts, which is where their work with the Trans Creative Collective comes in. The TCC is a production company co-founded in 2022 by charlieeeee that is described as “a safe space for trans+ creators and allies in the arts, music & film.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by charlieeeee (@charlieeeeesworld) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: DellaXOZ “come again”
New Single Release: DellaXOZ “come again” DellaXOZ, Manchester born, alt-pop renegade graces our speakers with the energetic & fiery ‘come again.’ 31.01.24 Words by Zofia Elliot https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYaxyYg73Hs Switching between bedroom pop, alt pop and 2000s tinged rock; Lubasu’s growing range of musical styles has led to an increasing number of passionatefans and recognition. From her upcoming EP “DELLAIRIUM”, come again is already a fan favourite. Instantly captured by the classic sound of a buzzing guitar and crashing rhythm section, I felt instant Avril Lavigne-esque nostalgia. DellaXOZ fuses the undeniable inspiration of Y2K pop rock with her unique approach to production and meddling of genre. It’s increasingly difficult to pigeon hole 20 year old Danielle Labusa and that’s what makes her a special addition to the ever growing UK alt-pop scene. Angsty and relatable, her distorted, melodic voice details a confusing relationship, the cyclical feeling like they are forever chasing each other. Sonically soaring up and down as effortlessly as her voice sounds, this song is perfect for the slightly heartbroken and forever ruminating adolescent; picture jumping up and down on your bed after some serious, pillow-screaming drama. Danielle Labusa has become a powerhouse in blurring the lines. In ‘come again’ she takes grungy guitars, a simmering bassline and distorted vocals to create something fresh and uniquely ‘DellaXOZ.’ Recently added to Abbie McCarthy’s ‘Ones to Watch’ gig lineup she is starting 2024 off with exciting live shows, also opening up for Isabel Larosa at The Lower Third this week DellaXOZ’s six track EP comes out 22nd March, with come again being the opening track, the remaining five should be a thrilling musical ride. View this post on Instagram A post shared by daniella🇨🇩 (@dellaxoz) You Might Also Like