*✦⋆ GLASTONBURY 2024 ⋆✦⋆ Interview with Oppidan
Image Credit Instagram: @djoppidan *✦⋆ GLASTONBURY 2024 ⋆✦⋆ Interview with Oppidan We caught up with rising name in the UK Garage scene Oppidan on her upcoming set at Glastonbury Festival 2024. 18.06.24 Words by Jasmine Siefert https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujrDVB2nNQo You have already played at Glastonbury once before in 2023, and your set looked amazing! How has your experience last year shaped how you are feeling about playing the festival this year in 2024? Glastonbury as a festival is such an amazing experience. It was my first time going there as a punter as-well so I really enjoyed it, and also my first b2b with Champion. He was one of my favourite bassline/funky artists growing up so was a massive milestone for me! The stage I’m playing on this year was where I saw my favourite people last year so I’m very gassed. This summer is tipped off to be one of the wettest the UK has seen in a while – have you got a special pair of Glastonbury wellies at the ready, just in case? I’ve got a pair of boots at the ready. Practicality is key for glasto! You have played many festivals over the years all over the world – how does playing at Glastonbury compare to the likes of Project6, Parklife, and Boomtown? Boomtown is always an absolute blast, likewise with project 6 and parklike. Glasto has got more variety as a festival which is great as a punter. Your Glastonbury set comes right in the middle of your summer tour, which has a mix of both festival sets and your own shows – do you prefer playing one over the other, and if so, why? I think festivals are harder when you’re touring, so many factors can come into play. You’ve got the opportunity to clash with other artists, it takes longer to get into, the weather can play up, and you’re pretty much working around the clock instead of just normal club hours. The payoff is so good though, if you get the perfect festival set it can be some of the best moments ever. I love club season too though, something about being in a small dark room immerses the crowd differently! Are there any Glastonbury sets that you have watched in the past that have stuck with you or inspired you in any way? I saw Ivy Lab at nowhere in shangri-la last year and it was one of the best sets I’ve ever seen. Their productions are so so good and so interesting. They tick all the boxes for me. I took my dad to see Flowdan aswell last year and he loved it, that was a great moment. As a gay woman within an extremely hetero-male-dominated industry, what does playing a DJ set at Glastonbury, the biggest festival in the UK, mean to you? It means a lot for anyone. It’s an absolute honour to play Glastonbury and I’m extremely lucky to be doing it two years in a row. I think that within this industry, the music should be what matters, not what you look like, where you come from, what your sexual orirtentaion is. The lack of female/minority representation in the past makes it harder for people to come through, because without seeing someone like yourself up there, it’s hard to believe that that could be you. Hopefully my presence gives the next generation of artists, from all walks of life, some confidence that it’s possible for anyone. You Might Also Like
˚₊‧꒰ა Interview ໒꒱ ‧₊˚: girli
˚₊‧꒰ა Interview ໒꒱ ‧₊˚ girli Matcha and sunshine: Sitting down with girli there is no doubt in my mind that the North-Londoner has reached new peaks with her highly anticipated sophomore album, Matriarchy dropping May 17th. 16.04.24 Production by Isla Mcrobbie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nvFBP6jvPI But if that is too far away, you can catch girli live throughout this week – in her new online game & digital experience, the girliverse aka Matriarchy Mansion which is now live! The record feels like a rebirth for the celebrated, multi-faceted artist, as she further explores her sound and takes the reins with full creative control, truly cementing her place as a cult figure and ambassador for the next gen of LGBTQIA+ music. Beeming with passion girli has always migrated beyond music and she continues to use her platform to ignite conversations around feminism, sexuality, identity and mental health, opening up topics that most have always shied away from. Representation matters more so now than ever, and girli is ready to rewrite the rules, forging a new femininity. Matriarchy a statement of intent, showcasing girli’s evolution, diving further into the pop soundscape. View this post on Instagram A post shared by girli (@girlimusic) You Might Also Like
⋆*｡ New Single Release * Beck Pocket “coloured plastic”
⋆*｡ New Single Release * Beck Pocket “coloured plastic” ‘Coloured plastic’ in a word is ‘ZESTY’, which also happens to be the first word of the song, and the pop-funk floats just on from there. 08.04.24 Words by Hannah Naismith https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx6FxMPOvzQ When you listen, your head bounces along because this is a song you dance to: picture early summer mornings and being in the crowd with colourful shades on, boogying to Beck Pocket’s new single. In fact, Beck Pocket suggests that the song is reminiscent of ‘rose-tinted glasses’, living in the dream of childhood and avoiding facing reality. The combination of layered synths with bubbly beats encourages you to forgot about lost ambition or what will happen to it tomorrow, but to focus on the zest of the present. Beck Pocket are an independent electronic pop duo, with bassist/vocalist Viv Griffin and keyboardist Jasper Clark, hailing from Manchester. However, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact genre of ‘coloured plastic’: the duo describes it as “a dance-pop track with hints of filtered disco, Chicago house and UK garage,”. Whilst all these distinct elements are intrinsic to the song, there is also a 2000s-era nostalgia that takes you back to childhood dreams that we don’t want to wake up from. Despite Beck Pocket feeling most at home creating music in their bedrooms, “making drums out of extractor fans and other things in the near vicinity,”, there’s a lot brewing on the horizon for them. Beck Pocket transforms the world through music into “pixelated video games and 2000’s dial-up chaos,”. Making music since 2022, they have upcoming gigs across Manchester in April so if you want to put on some rose-tinted glasses and dance the night away to ‘coloured-plastic’, take a look at their socials for more details. ‘Coloured plastic’ is the new single from Beck Pocket, released 5th April 2024. This is the second track from their upcoming EP ‘all your dreams’. View this post on Instagram A post shared by beck pocket (@beckpocket.mp3) You Might Also Like
｡･:* New Single Release ⋆｡: Fiyahdred “Bad Trip”
｡･:* New Single Release ⋆｡: Fiyahdred “Bad Trip” Fiyahdred drops ‘Bad Trip’ under SAFFRON on a mission to revive black & queer electronic music: 20.03.24 Words by Aude Flanda https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRLFnReBCz8 Last week, London based producer and DJ, Fiyahdred, dropped their latest single “Bad Trip” in collaboration with SAFFRON, a community supporting women and non-binary artists. This marks the 6th of a steady wave of releases since embarking on their new musical journey, showing no signs of slowing down. Born and raised in South London, Fiyadred’s distinct sound, Afro-diasporic meets UK Garage & Funky, is a direct reflection of their roots drawing inspo from their mum’s r&b, garage and loversrock collection, and brother’s stories of UK funky club nights. Formerly known as Bamz, they garnered a strong fanbase in the Funky and Amapiano scene by releasing under club Djembe. After a 2 year break, and a rebrand, Bamz – now Fiyahdred – set out on a path to create music more unapologetically, kickstarting with their first EP‘Anyway (Do it)’ in 2022. The artist soon gained recognition from major players in dance music and was dubbed ‘one to watch in 2022’ by factmag, and had several DJ mag features. Both sides of their art are equally praised, with radio appearances on NTS, Oroko and Balamii and gig highlights including Boiler Room & Glastonbury alongside other iconic artists like Karen Nyame KG and Ikonika. Now they’ve partnered with SAFFRON’s in-house label to bring you their new single ‘Bad Trip’ as well as an exclusive sample pack. A time capsule back to the early-mid 00s, Bad Trip is nothing short of a dancefloor banger, and complements the ongoing y2k throwback internet craze by blending UK Funky signature sounds – bouncy, percussion and boomy basslines with catchy trance-like synths. When asked what the future holds, Fiyahdred & labelmate Ikonika say it’s about restoring the legacy of electronic and techno music back to its black and queer originators, with an aim to unify the community through merging Afro-diasporic sounds spanning the UK, Africa, and Latin America. As part of this journey, Fiyahdred recently launched their ‘embers’ project on Wildfiyah presents, featuring an extended mix series on the last Wednesday of every month, with hopes to expand the brand to hold a safe space for like minded creatives. https://www.instagram.com/p/C4OQCZ0MMyw/?img_index=1 You Might Also Like
˚‧✶⋆New Single Release ⋆✶ : Chinwe “Down”
˚‧✶⋆New Single Release ⋆✶ : Chinwe “Down” East London’s rising star Chinwe has released her latest musing with the new single ‘Down’. 12.03.24 Words by Molly Gregson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XB25YK3xOmg Chinwe’s new track tells the story of losing yourself to love in this club-ready anthem, filled with retro dance grooves and soulful experimentation. ‘Down’ is Chinwe’s first single of 2024, dropping after the release of her EP Fall at the end of 2023. It marks a musical departure for the artist, away from quieter introspection and towards the hedonistic sounds of euphoric late-night bliss. The track kicks off with the enthralling opening lyric “You’re like a drug to me” and from this daring declaration onwards, listeners are pulled, alongside Chinwe, into this fantasy world of infatuation, lust and desire. Through a carefully curated blend of dance and soul influences, among the many eclectic sounds on the record, Chinwe embarks on this self-aware journey into the thralls of a new relationship. Among the intoxicating dance grooves of ‘Down, Chinwe describes the overwhelmingly compulsion of desire for another in the honeymoon period of blossoming new romance. But in the back of her mind Chinwe wonders if these feelings will still be the same once the high has gone and she has “Come down”. Ultimately, through ‘Down’, Chinwe invites listeners onto the dancefloor for romantic indulgence, rhythmic bliss and reassurance. Chinwe may describe her feelings of infatuation as “like a drug”, but on ‘Down’, her captivating sonic grooves take on that role and act as an alluring elixir for hedonistic lovers everywhere. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chinwe (@sheischinwe) You Might Also Like
｡✧✧ New Single Review ✧✧ : Merry Lamb Lamb, Miso Extra & aimei 媚 “Better”
｡✧✧ New Single Review ✧✧ : Merry Lamb Lamb, Miso Extra & aimei 媚 “Better” ‘Better’, a collaboration between Merry Lamb Lamb, Miso Extra and aimei 媚, is an exciting electronic track, with build and meaning, that proves to be unforgettable. 29.02.24 Words by Ed Lees https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxIpT5Wr4jk With roots in Hong Kong, musician Merry Merry Lamb croons in English, Cantonese and Mandarin; switching between languages effortlessly. Also effortless is the chemistry in between Merry, Miso Extra and aimei 媚. In fact they spoke with East & South East Asian Music about their partnership and excitement at working with other women for the first time. The piece, released just over a week ago, is a scintillating track reminiscent of early Grimes and oozes ingenuity and honesty. The honesty in question comes via the lyrics which laments a relationship and stresses the need for independence in order to figure oneself out. Despite the subject matter, the tune still finds space to feel upbeat and lifting, creating an interesting mix of feelings in the process. The song is about improvement and therefore it is fitting that the tune constantly builds upward, thanks to production from Merry, who lends herself to the field well. The song, as written by the trio, floats from the honest verses to electronic breakdowns with ease and distinction and overall the tune can’t help but keep your attention. The final climatic electronic horn heard towards the end of the song feels euphoric, uplifting and fitting. As the song does end, one can’t help but feel excited at what they’ve experienced and knowing that these three are some of the most promising electronic artists around you can only cross your fingers and hope this is the first of many interesting projects from the trio. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Platoon (@weareplatoon) 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 REMIX – TYSON ‘Promises’ Karen Nyame KG Remix
NEW SINGLE REMIX – TYSON ‘Promises’ Karen Nyame KG Remix Last month, Karen Nyame KG, a luminary in the UK funky house and amapiano scene, dropped her transformative remix of trailblazing TYSON’s “Promises.” 13.12.23 Words by Aude Flanda https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbyRRExHixE The original track underwent a metamorphosis under KG’s deft touch, elevating it into a more catchy club-esque banger that blends elements of modern sounds from lively amapiano drum patterns with the slow, soulful essence of the original. Rising artist, KG, aka the “Goddess of Rhythm” has illuminated the dance music scene for almost a decade now and her career – from early tracks like ‘Feeling Funky’, the iconic Boiler room session at Primavera Sound Festival, to becoming a pioneer in the UK funky movement – is marked by perseverance and overcoming barriers like misogynoir and colorism. Noteworthy is her role as production lead for the ‘Normal Not Novelty workshop series’ (NNN), which holds a judgment-free space for women and non-binary folks to learn technical skills in music. KG’s distinct sound, characterized by electronic, R&B and resonant sub-bass, is a vibrant tapestry deeply rooted in the African diaspora and has embraced collabs with the likes of Mista Silva and Scratch DVA across various genres, from South African amapiano to US Jersey Club. ‘Promises rmx’ lives up to this, infusing TYSON’s track with big energy and eclectic vibes. It offers a bittersweet sonic exploration, drawing from TYSON’s reflection into broken promises while embracing a freedom of expression through bouncy percussive elements which mirror life’s ups and downs. Combined with a dreamy ambiance, featuring echoey vocals, it immerses the listener into a world where self-expression converges on a dancefloor filled with dynamic rhythms and melodies. KG mentions the importance of organic connections and synergy in collaborations, claiming that she feels ‘the magic of such relationships can seep through the art they create’. Exemplary of this is the remix, self released by TYSON through her ‘Ladies music pub’ (LMP) label, which not only showcases KG’s production skills but also shines light on her commitment to creating safe spaces for marginalised artists. Inspired by TYSON’s own challenges with discrimination in music, LMP is a community with a mission parallel to KG’s NNN, as it aims to nurture up and coming talent within the realm of women and non-binary individuals. We’re definitely feeling the connection in this track and can’t wait to see more from the duo! View this post on Instagram A post shared by TYSON (@__tyson) 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
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