The Sincerity Behind Esme Emerson’s EP
PHOTO: Nick Ilott (@concrete_state) CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lydia Cooper The Sincerity Behind Esme Emerson’s EP Big Leap, No Faith, Small Chancer 5 September 2024 Esme Emerson are an up-and-coming indie folk brother-sister duo consisting of Esme Lee-Scott (she/her) and Emerson Lee-Scott (he/they) who hail from Suffolk. They have been performing in various cities across the UK this past year with artists like Keane and The Japanese House. I sat down with the ever-charismatic siblings to talk about their inspirations, sincerity, and their new EP Big Leap, No Faith, Small Chancer. Words by Joyce Lian https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-39q5MiLeY Even in the way the pair introduced themselves their synergy is felt. They seamlessly alternate in their introduction, with Esme starting: “We’re Esme Emerson, siblings from–” “–Suffolk. We’re in a band together. We make broadly indie pop music but we draw inspiration from folk and–” “–hyperpop; all the good stuff. We love country… yeehaw.” Before they became the artist duo Esme Emerson, they were two kids making music during term-break music camps. Esme describes these camps: “for the week you write these songs together and then on Thursday they’d let you take the song in their studio to record it, put it on SoundCloud, and then on the Friday perform it to the parents.” And while she acknowledges that her songs were often about “ice cream and zombies,” this experience was not only their first foray into music making, but it also showed them that “‘oh, you don’t have to be an adult to do this like I can just write songs.’” Emerson, being four years older than Esme, had a very different experience, but an equally meaningful one: “I didn’t want to be in a band with my sister but we were like writing adjacent to each other. I think we just have been lovers of music since then and then we started writing together in 2020.” While Emerson’s band of older children would headline for the parent performances, Esme was likely his first and biggest fan; she is now what she calls a “successful youngest sibling,” finally able to join her brother’s band. As a sibling myself, what really struck me was their compatibility with each other. Not only are they able to be close friends, but the way they, as Emerson puts it, seem to “share a brain” contributes to their ability to make music together the way they do. Esme compares the two of them to the fictional siblings Charlie and Lola; when they were younger and the age gap felt more significant, they got along but weren’t the closest. Now, however, she describes themselves as best friends, with the “same tastes” and “same thoughts.” But as far as music goes, their teamwork is nearly supernatural. In an almost telepathic fashion, they can read each other’s minds when it comes to their creative direction. Esme started to realize how in-tune she was with her brother when working with other people: “you explaining something a little bit, or like just knowing what you want, and them being like ‘I don’t understand what you’re saying.’ I was like ‘oh wow, we really share a brain.’” Emerson also attributes their ability to fill in the other’s gaps and to lean on each other’s strengths as a large part of their co-working success. He credits Esme with leading the lyrical writing, which he claims is the “weakest part of [his] musical brain”, while Esme points out that Emerson has “a way with just sounds and textures and music” that she doesn’t. When discussing their musical inspirations, they immediately jump to shoutout Hovvdy. Along with Hovvdy, Emerson named artists Dreamer Boy, Frost Children, and Roji Sakamoto (Emerson was a Film Composition major in university), while Esme included Dijon and Adrien Lenker. Esme, who is in charge of the more visual aspects of their artistry and paints all of their album art, says that things she watches or reads also inspire her. In general, they appreciate artists whose authenticity shines through in their music, and they try to do the same. Esme Emerson feels the best about their music when they channel their sincerity into their music. Esme says that when she looks back at their music she wants to: “see something really honest of what I was at the time… I don’t want to see something that, like, I made to impress people … I want to see this, like, real art.” And while she derives much of her inspiration from her own life, the duo are able to express their authenticity together because of the joint experiences from their shared childhood. The siblings’ ability to relate to each other’s life experiences plays a large role in the larger motifs of belonging and nostalgia in their music. Adjacent to sincerity, Emerson reveals that “nostalgia is really important, and I think it comes from being siblings, you know, like looking back on our lives together.” Being a diaspora Chinese person myself, I really admire Esme Emerson’s integration of Chinese aesthetics into their artistry. As seen in the photocards they pass out at shows and across their Spotify page, the siblings are photographed standing in their aunt’s house with floral patterned wallpaper and traditional Chinese decor hanging from the walls, evoking retro Chinese aesthetics. Tying back into the theme of sincerity and nostalgia, they felt that their Asian heritage is essential in understanding them as people and artists. As Emerson puts it: “cultural and biracial identity is so core to who we are and our experiences that it wasn’t even really, like, a considered thing like ‘oh, we have to market ourselves like this’… it just was like ‘this makes the most sense for us.’” Overall, their relationship with their cultural identity is complex. Esme shares that while growing up in the very white Suffolk, school “was not a fun time.” This particularly feeds into why it feels “pretty badass to really own it visually and, like, push it to the forefront… it feels good, just like satisfying,
Gig Review: Jaz Beeson and Cora Rebel @ Servant Jazz Quarters (18/07/24)
Gig Review: Jaz Beeson and Cora Rebel @ Servant Jazz Quarters (18/07/24) 06.08.24 Words by Charles Buttle Nestled in the heart of North London is the Servant Jazz Quarters, an intimate and welcoming events venue that has hosted many talented musicians throughout its history. On Thursday, July 18th, it was the setting to an unforgettable spectacle as Jaz Beeson, 24, took to the stage to deliver her captivating headline performance, ‘The Petrol Receipts Show’, complemented by special guest Cora Rebel, 26. As the audience eagerly awaited the evening’s performance, Cora kicked things off with an enchanting opening act. She took the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions through her original music, including ‘Room For Wonder,’ ‘Break Of Dawn,’ and her latest single, ‘20 Forever’. However, her debut performance of her original song ‘Again’ was a standout. Cora held complete control of the room as the audience hung on her every word during the powerful and emotive track. The further she sang, the louder the roars of applause got, setting the bar incredibly high for Jaz’s upcoming performance. Throughout the interval, audience members spoke incredibly highly of Cora’s opening act. One guest, Andy Gardener, commented: “Cora has come incredibly far throughout her career, and this performance marks a new era for her as a musician.” Another, Benedict Williams, added: “Cora being invited as the special guest was an outstanding choice; while she and Jaz take different approaches towards their sound, combined, they’re a force to be reckoned with.” As more people streamed into the venue, anticipation for Jaz’s entrance grew amongst the audience as the band took their place. The lights dimmed, and a static transmission filled the air, introducing the premise of the show while teasing several hit songs yet to come. Then, as the band began the introduction to ‘Peugeot 205’, Jaz surprised the audience with her sudden appearance from the wings, ready to deliver a captivating performance. Throughout the show, Jaz delighted the audience with her latest hits, including ‘False Ceiling’, ‘People Pleaser’, and ‘Villain’, eliciting adoring cheers and applause. But, while each of her original songs was a crowd-pleaser, her rendition of Fountains of Wayne’s ‘Stacy’s Mom’ electrified the audience, establishing itself as a memorable highlight of the show. As Jaz wrapped up her final song, the crowd pleaded for just “one more song”, and with the resourcefulness of her trusted band, she pleased the audience with a thrilling rendition of One Direction’s ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ to conclude the evening. Towards the end of the show, John Harris commented: “Jaz is unlike any performer I’ve ever seen; even though her talents as a singer and songwriter can’t be understated, her ability to connect with the audience is what makes her a highly respected figure in London’s music scene.” Furthermore, Matt Gray commented: “We travelled all the way from Grimsby to watch Jaz perform because that’s truly how much we believe in her; every time she’s on stage, it’s magic.” Taking a “personal touch” towards the performance, ‘The Petrol Receipts Show’ was filled with small yet powerful elements that made the evening unforgettable. From handcrafted merchandise to the decorated stage, no detail was left untouched by both Jaz and her team. However, a standout element of the show was the prevailing sense of love and community throughout the venue, connecting guests and performers alike. During both Cora’s and Jaz’s performances, each artist openly expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the incredible turnout while also praising one another’s acts. It was evident that both artists understood the significance of being part of a greater whole, as at every opportunity, they showered their team, band members, and the audience with nothing but glowing praise. Jaz said: “I couldn’t be happier with how the evening went. From the love and support of the audience to the hard work and dedication of my team, it was truly an evening to remember.” Cora added: “I’ve loved being a part of the show as Jaz is an incredible artist and a joy to work alongside. It was interesting to see our audiences overlap for the evening and watch everyone have an amazing time.” “I’m just thrilled to be back doing what I love,” Jaz will perform at ‘Humber Street Sesh’, Hull, on Saturday, August 3rd. Furthermore, Cora plans to record her entire set from ‘The Petrol Receipts Show’ and make it available on her YouTube channel in the coming months. Cora will also perform at The Hope and Anchor, Islington, on Wednesday, August 21st. What do you think?
⊹⊱• Interview •⊰⊹ Ella More
⊹⊱• Interview •⊰⊹ Ella More Ella More’s latest single, ‘Hate You For Good,’ blends playful lyrics and dynamic vocals with a generous splash of indie guitar. Featuring a sizzling hook and a feel-good chorus, this sun-drenched, ‘Back on 74’ inspired track is the perfect addition to your summer playlist. 06.08.24 Words by Gabi Machen Though relatively new to the scene, Ella’s dedication to honing her artistry is evident from the outset, with each release offering deeper insight into her musical style. Having already made a mark through several singles and notable support slots, we caught up with the singer-songwriter to delve into her influences, aspirations, and journey so far—from dancing to Destiny’s Child around her room to performing alongside Jorja Smith. Can you tell us a bit about how you got started in music? I’ve always loved music and the way it makes me feel. I used to dance around my room blasting Destiny’s Child, dreaming of being Beyoncé, but it wasn’t until after I finished university that I decided to pursue it as a career. I’ve always loved writing and singing, but honestly, I only started songwriting in the last four years, so I still feel pretty new to it. Around covid, I was lucky enough to connect with some musicians in Birmingham who pretty much taught me everything I know, and I fell in love with it. I’ve still got so far to go until I’m the artist I want to be, but I’m loving the process of learning and hopefully getting better every day at something I love. What are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound? There are loads! Old and new. I grew up listening to an eclectic mix of soul, R&B, funk, reggae, classical, folk etc., and you can hear these influences across the tracks I’ve released so far. It’s probably why when I first started writing music I found it difficult to define my sound because I love a bit of everything. There are a lot of artists I’ve discovered more recently that are currently in rotation, including Saya Gray, who I think is a genius, Sasha Keable, Fana Hues, Natanya, Katus Myles, Destin Conrad, and so many more. I always find listening to new artists and music I haven’t heard before ahead of a session helps to inspire me. Hearing new melodies and lyrical ideas sparks creativity and shows me new ways of doing things. There’s so much music out there, and so many artists I’m yet to discover who I’m sure will have huge influences on my music in the future. It’s exciting to think about! You released your first single at the beginning of 2023. How has life changed since then? Life has been busy! I feel like in this industry you’re always playing catch up, I’m always on guard, ready for that spanner that throws everything off track. You have to be super adaptable, but I hate sitting still, so I’m loving it. I’m still pinching myself over so many of the things we’ve done so far, and honestly, I didn’t think I’d be doing any of this so soon into my career. What has been your highlight so far? There are so many highlights, but I think one of the top would have to be supporting Jorja Smith at the O2 Academy back in Birmingham. The first gig I ever went to was there, so it was a very special, full-circle moment! Your new single showcases a funkier, more upbeat sound. What inspired ‘Hate You For Good’? It’s time to dance! This one was inspired by Jungle’s track ‘Back on 74’. It’s such a great song, and I saw so many videos of people dancing to it that I thought, I want to make something that makes me want to do that. I worked with my good friend and musical genius Logan Aspin on it, and it all came together in pretty much one afternoon. The process was super easy like it was waiting, ready for us to bring it to life. It feels so good to have it out now for everyone to listen to and hopefully love it like I do. How do you approach creating music that resonates with people? I think this changes a lot depending on the song, and there are so many layers to it, but I’ve always felt most importantly that I want to make music that makes people feel something. Music has such a unique power in that way. At times, it can feel that a song is truly resonating with exactly how I’m feeling, and I think that’s so special. To be able to create that space for people to turn to in any mood or stage of life is magic. We were fortunate to catch your set at Cross The Tracks in May. How has performing your songs live been for you? Still dreaming about that day! Not only to perform at Cross the Tracks, which has been a goal of mine but also it was the first time we did full band. It’s so much fun being able to incorporate more elements into the set, and each member brings their own unique energy to the songs and takes them somewhere else. It feels incredibly special! You’re supporting Jungle in your hometown of Birmingham next month, which is very exciting! What do you have coming up in the future? I can’t believe this is happening! Jungle have inspired me so much and not only on the latest single, so I honestly can’t wait. Performing at home is the cherry on top. Coming up is more of the same. I’m hoping to get some more performances in and hopefully host my own headline show. Other than that, I’m working towards releasing a small project. I feel like I’m ready to take the next step and excited to show everyone what I’ve been working on!
٩(- ̮̮̃-̃)۶ INTERVIEW ٩(̾●̮̮̃̾•̃̾)۶ Tina Sandwich
٩(- ̮̮̃-̃)۶ INTERVIEW ٩(̾●̮̮̃̾•̃̾)۶ Tina Sandwich New EP release date, launch parties, tour announcements, a new single, and music video. Tina has been very busy lately. Words by Jamie Shovelin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EjGQGoHiTY If you are unfamiliar with Tina Sandwich, where have you been? Tina Sandwich is a local artist from Glasgow and has been making some big moves lately in her career. Just recently she played a sold-out show at St Lukes with Declan Welsh & The Decadent West and the help of United Hospitalities in aid of the charity Islamic Help. “We started planning that back in October last year, Straight away hit the ground running. We needed to do something for the people of Palestine. “It did take a lot of planning, but we managed to get a really good deal with St. Lukes. We got an amazing raft of artists and also artists and T-shirt makers to donate.” The goal of the show was to unite everyone and show their solidarity with the people of Palestine. They encouraged people to change their spending habits and acknowledge the impact that can have on things like the ongoing conflict. The sold-out show was able to make enough money to be able to send two surgeons for a full term to Gaza. After such a momentous show there was no stopping for Tina as shortly after she released her latest single “I Want” on the 27th of June. Her latest single was named Tack of the Week by BBC Introducing Scotland, where the BBC themselves said the song was an “anti-capitalist call to arms.” Tina herself said the single is about the “notion of escapism actually being kind of dangerous.” The song discusses the downside to the return of recession pop and that mindset of wasting your money every night. Shortly after the release of the single Tina announced her debut EP “For the World,” set to release on the 8th of August. Tina best explains the sound of the album herself: “It straddles the two musical worlds that I’ve put out before, it’s got your Joni type of stuff and then it’s also got heavier stuff as well.” The premise of the album is to show the two worlds’ artists like Tina’s face. Tina Sandwich is just her stage name it’s not who she really is, this album explores those two sides. “I’m most interested in people to listen to the album tracks! Because a lot of the time you’re like ‘Oh we need to do a single.’ So, it’s nice to have the opportunity to put something out that’s a bit smaller or stranger.” Not even ten days after the announcement of her EP she was releasing the music video for her previous single ‘Joni.’ The music video, which features some familiar faces (Tom from SOAPBOX) is set in an office karaoke party that takes a sombre turn, just in time with the lyrics. And if that wasn’t enough news for you, she recently announced she will be supporting LEAP on their European tour for seven dates! With so much going on surely, she would be stressed out right? Wrong. Tina is managing it all perfectly. “It’s been a really busy time; this isn’t even my main job. So, I feel like I work like 300 hours a week.” But despite it all Tina loves what she does. “I’m really passionate about my music, anti-imperialism and being pro-Palestine. I think if one of those things felt soul-destroying and I was only doing it for the money, I would feel terrible.” “But I’m getting by knowing that these are things that are really close to my heart, and I will fight for them to happen. It feels good that.” ‘For the World’ comes out on the 8th of August on all streaming platforms and tickets for Leap’s European tour are out now! View this post on Instagram A post shared by T (@tina__sandwich)
⋆⭒ New Track ˚.⋆ Hope Tala ‘Bad Love God’
⋆⭒ New Track ˚.⋆ Hope Tala ‘Bad Love God’ Hope Tala releases ‘Bad Love God’, one day before supporting SZA at BST Hyde Park alongside Sampha and Snoh Alegra. Words by Teguan Harris 4 July 2024 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmHQ5wo9zYM West Londoner Hope Tala is back to bless the ears of music fans with her brand new single ‘Bad Love God’. This is her second single of the year, following ‘I Can’t Even Cry’, which was released back in April. ‘Bad Love God’ marks her return to the music scene after her writing period in Los Angeles, and is available to stream via PMR Records. ‘Bad Love God’ is inspired by the grip of “having a new romantic obsession”. Speaking on the new single, Hope says, “Sometimes when writing a song I’m attempting to convey a personal experience in an authentic, sometimes brutal way that attempts to get as close to the bone of truth as possible. On other occasions, something I feel becomes the inspiration for a story that then takes on its own life.” ‘Bad Love God’ fuses neo-soul with R&B sounds and upbeat arrangements, with her angelic and soft vocals interweaving within the track alongside her spoken word. This effortlessly encapsulates her versatility and innovation. ‘Bad Love God’ shows that she has effectively studied her influences, as the sounds and inspirations from the likes of Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Joni Mitchell can be heard in the track. Her literary background also displays her innovative lyricism and her natural flair for storytelling. Hope is a rising sound in the industry, as critics such as Clash, BRICKS and Wonderland consider her to be a force to be reckoned with. Tala is known for blending neo-soul with R&B, creating innovative sounds with the support of her poetic storytelling and her celestial vocals, supported by guitar arrangements. Her previous work, notably her EPs ‘Girl Eats Sun’ and ‘Sensitive Soul’ earned her the reputation of a poetic lyricist with delicate vocal arrangements that is hard to replicate. Hope Tala is in her own distinct world, who’s creativity is a blessing to the music industry. ‘Bad Love God’ shows that she has effectively studied her influences, as the sounds and inspirations from the likes of Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Joni Mitchell can be heard in the track. Her literary background also displays her innovative lyricism and her natural flair for storytelling. Hope is a rising sound in the industry, as critics such as Clash, BRICKS and Wonderland consider her to be a force to be reckoned with. Tala is known for blending neo-soul with R&B, creating innovative sounds with the support of her poetic storytelling and her celestial vocals, supported by guitar arrangements. Her previous work, notably her EPs ‘Girl Eats Sun’ and ‘Sensitive Soul’ earned her the reputation of a poetic lyricist with delicate vocal arrangements that is hard to replicate. Hope Tala is in her own distinct world, who’s creativity is a blessing to the music industry. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hope 🌠 (@hopetala) You Might Also Like
･✧ New Track ✧* Liang Lawrence – ‘Use Me’
CREDIT: Mila Austin ･ﾟ✧ New Track ✧*: Liang Lawrence – ‘Use Me’ London-based, alternative pop singer and songwriter – Liang Lawrence, has dropped a new single ‘Use Me’ this month. 03.06.24 Words by Natasha Judge https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2Vfu3swf0E Musically, the song has a groovy intro which grows with guitar riffs, and ultimately makes for a catchy, easy listen which could be replayed again and again. The lyrics of the track embody the upheaval of emotions – and navigating love, relationships, and finding your sense of self. It conveys the notion of putting other people before yourself, and as the lyrics – “playing pretend” suggest – changing yourself to fit in. It demonstrates the reflection of recognising that at times you need to to take your own advice, before allowing yourself to be used, and interchangeable for others. When discussing the track, Liang expressed how the tune felt empowering to create, and allowed her to convey complex feelings through song. She said: “I was going through a period of sleeping with people I knew weren’t good for me, drinking too much and was essentially getting myself hurt but I think I almost found it empowering in some ways. “I don’t think I felt like I was doing anything else ‘right’ at the time, so the sentiment of it was ‘at least you can use me for sex’ and we can both feel better about things. I struggle a lot with feeling sexy as a woman and I think it largely comes down to the fact that I’ve never really resonated with the things that are traditionally feminine and seen as ‘for sexy women’. “It’s still something I’m trying to navigate and understand but I think writing this song was really empowering in knowing that there is power in exploring and not knowing exactly what you’re doing or how you feel about something just yet.” The release of this single follows on from the track -‘Eulogy’, which received support from BBC Introducing, Radio 1, and Radio X. Liang taught herself to play guitar, and wrote songs from her bedroom – which has led to the creation of refreshing songs that honestly depict the raw emotions of everyday life. Liang Lawrence is definitely one to watch, and their debut EP – ‘letters to myself’, released in August 2023, received over 1 million streams in mere weeks. The singer-songwriter would be well suited to fans of The Japanese House, boygenius, Lizzie McAlpine, and beabadoobe. Recently, they have shared stages with Alfie Templeman, Alfie Dukes, and Siobhan Winifred – and they are planning to perform further gigs this year. Lawrence is set to release a highly anticipated EP later in the year – and further details are to be announced in the near future. You Might Also Like
₊˚ New Track ˖° Abbie Ozard ft Pixey ‘miss american dream’
₊˚ New Track ˖° Abbie Ozard ft Pixey ‘miss american dream’ Abbie Ozard sings an ode about best friend crushes in her brand new single ‘miss american dream’ featuring Pixey. 01.06.24 Words by Teguan Harris https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOSCKOu72Sc Manchester-born indie and alternative artist Abbie Ozard is back with another dreamy single titled ‘miss american dream’ featuring musician and producer Pixey. This is her second single release of this year after ‘anything for you,’ and her fourth single release from her upcoming album ‘everything still worries me’ via House Anxiety Records. This is her first collaboration, as she collaborates with Liverpool-born Pixey with this new single. This is also Pixey’s first time producing for another artist, and she is also due to release her anticipated debut album Million Dollar Baby, on August 2nd via Chess Club Records. Ozard’s new single ‘miss american dream’ is as celestial as her 2023 singles ‘i don’t know happiness without you’ and ‘days like these’. However, this single is more anthemic. Working with Pixey, this song celebrates female friendships, girlhood and romances between women, and having constant support from strong women, which is something both Ozard and Pixey cherish. Ozard has always looked up to girls and women her whole life and is constantly in awe of how strong women are, which is evident in her 2023 single ‘i don’t know happiness without you,’ an ode to friendships and letting people know how much they meant to her. Since Ozard’s debut, BBC Radio 1 hosts Jack Saunders and Huw Stephens have continuously championed Ozard, featuring her on BBC Introducing as Track of the Week. BBC 6 Music presenters Abbie McCarthy and Chris Hawkins have been fans of Ozard’s music since her debut. But the praise never stopped there. Ozard has been rewarding fans with her music as she headlined tours through 2022 and 2023, performed at Glastonbury, and supported Briston Maroney on his European tour. BBC Radio 1 has also supported Pixey, as Radio 1 presenters Saunders, Clara Amfo and Mollie King praised her for her talents. Spotify has also spotlighted the artist. Ozard’s debut album will be released July 25th, though she has been teasing her debut album since September of last year after releasing ‘i don’t know happiness without you’. More of her empyrean singles will be included in the album, as ‘days like these,’ ‘anything for you,’ and ‘miss american dream’ appear in the tracklist. Fans know Ozard for creating seraphic harmonies and enchanting arrangements as she celebrates friendships and girlhood. However, she often juxtaposes her celestial music arrangements with dark themes. Her 2023 single ‘days like these’ challenges the use and darkness of social media while being coated with dainty chords, and ‘’anything for you’ embodies desperation and yearning to have their love reciprocated. Ozard’s debut album celebrates friendships, family and relationships, but also presents an underlying sense of uncertainty. Ozard juxtaposes celebrating small wins and joys with the way it can quickly turn sour, which reflects the unease of navigating life in your twenties. This summer, Ozard will paint an “upside-down world” for her fans. Ozard’s debut album will be released July 25th, though she has been teasing her debut album since September of last year after releasing ‘i don’t know happiness without you’. More of her empyrean singles will be included in the album, as ‘days like these,’ ‘anything for you,’ and ‘miss american dream’ appear in the tracklist. Fans know Ozard for creating seraphic harmonies and enchanting arrangements as she celebrates friendships and girlhood. However, she often juxtaposes her celestial music arrangements with dark themes. Her 2023 single ‘days like these’ challenges the use and darkness of social media while being coated with dainty chords, and ‘’anything for you’ embodies desperation and yearning to have their love reciprocated. Ozard’s debut album celebrates friendships, family and relationships, but also presents an underlying sense of uncertainty. Ozard juxtaposes celebrating small wins and joys with the way it can quickly turn sour, which reflects the unease of navigating life in your twenties. This summer, Ozard will paint an “upside-down world” for her fans. View this post on Instagram A post shared by abbie ozard (@abbieozard) You Might Also Like
⊹⊱••• New Single Release •••⊰⊹ Chloe Hawes ‘Bookends’
⊹⊱••• New Single Release •••⊰⊹ Chloe Hawes ‘Bookends’ Chloe Hawes breaks gender norms and celebrates chosen family in their new song. 14.05.24 Words by Mylo Castagnaro https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiwWxpNnYfE Chloe Hawes is an Essex-born and Manchester-based singer and songwriter. They released their first album back in 2017. They have since performed all over the UK, selling out shows and performing at Manchester Pride. Chloe possesses a unique sound combining ‘modern British folk with the cinematic sentimentality of classic Americana and a punk rock outlook’. The artist’s focus on love through their queer experience provides a fresh and deeper understanding of relationships in their new single ‘Bookends’. Chloe’s song lyrics discuss themes of identity, acceptance and the complexities of relationships. The opening lines of ‘Bookends’ instantly showcase the artist’s defiance of societal gender norms by refusing to conform to others’ expectations. Their point of view is clear: how they live their life does not impact anyone else’s. This sentiment is exemplified by the lines ‘you can get on with yours [your life] without taking down mine’. While addressing the difficulties of existing as a queer person, the song grows into something more positive. As queer people, we find our community, a chosen family that accepts and celebrates us for who we are. Chloe focuses on this beautiful and hopeful aspect of the queer experience. Their friendships do not fit ‘in the space between your binary bookends’ and that is exactly what makes them worthwhile. As for the music, Chloe’s love for the punk rock genre is evident. This song in particular captures the classic rock sound with strong instrumentals that are accompanied by Chloe’s smoky voice and raw emotions. ‘Bookends’ explores how our society others queerness, positioning it as different from the cisgender heteronormative default, but it also shines a light on queer perseverance and the importance of chosen family. Chloe creates a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever felt excluded or marginalised for who they are, celebrating the freedom from society’s binary limitations within queer friendships. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chloe Hawes (@chloehawes01) You Might Also Like
* . °•★•°∵ New Single Release ∵°•☆•° . * Luce Rushton “How It Works”
* . °•★•°∵ New Single Release ∵°•☆•° . * Luce Rushton “How It Works” Eight months since the last release, Luce’s latest single is choc full of desire and expression through this lyrical tale of fate. 07.05.24 Words by Holly Eve https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QerrP9gt9ds Starting as a drummer in the post punk band DeepTan, it’s fair to say Luce Rushtons’s latest EP ‘How it Works’ is a step in a new direction for the London native, evolving from a minimalistic guitarist to a blossoming and dynamic vocalist in her personal work. The debut single sharing the same name bears striking parallels to the soft and twinkling soundscape of Adrianne Lenker with an eclectic British whimsy about it. Fading into the track, it is apparent that the rich and clean tone of the guitar instantly glides into a state of tranquillity in the opening. Rushton’s expressive yet velvet vocals slip over the top revealing the etchings of an unrequited love, still present in her mind and traces of their scent still hanging around, building up into a sense of disappointment around the slower measure of the acoustic, pacing around the starkness of the first sighting. Easing into an interesting instrumental hook on the xylophone, reminiscent of the indie sleaze era, hinting at youth, naivety and dragging through life through bright yet malaise percussion. ‘I was the place, now I’m alone’. Rushton’s writing creates a room of emotions to step into, whether it be sentimentality, wry bitterness or joyous repentance over the experience, we have all visited it at some point in our lives. Showing that there can be a silver lining to living through melancholy. Continuing to the chorus, Luce elevates the mood into anger, upping the use of electronic instruments over acoustic. The Percussive areas of the tune grow and twist around the lyrics ‘I must be the home’ coming to her conclusions around the troubling time. Pushing through the sadness with anger managed by a wall of brash layered guitars and a bitter taste in her mouth. Listening to the track makes me almost proud as if I was taking back the narrative into my own hands and shaping the future for the better. In turn, unifying many listeners through emotional turmoil and providing a sanctuary to reflect. The track soon fades into a beautiful mix of all the instruments combined in a rather expressive yet refined explosion of indie bedroom pop with a hint of alternative rock, giving it one final push before simmering into cluttered notes on the piano. Although only 3 minutes long, this new single proves Rushton’s songwriting talents are manifesting and reaching into every emotion felt along the tumultuous journey of yearning and its consequences. This is an artist that should be watched very closely this coming year, as she continues to raise the bar for the southeast indie scene. As for the up-and-coming material, time will only tell. But to keep yourself occupied in the meantime, Luce Rushton’s live performance of ‘Night Drive Through’ is available on Youtube and The New Age Magazine site now. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luce Rushton (@lucerushtonnn) You Might Also Like
࣪ ⭒⋆. New Single Release ˚˖✮⋆: Chloe Slater “Nothing Shines On This Island”
࣪ ⭒⋆. New Single Release ˚˖✮⋆ Chloe Slater “Nothing Shines On This Island” Fresh off the back of her viral single “24 hours” and taken from her forthcoming debut EP, You Can’t Put A Price On Fun, Manchester-based Chloe Slater returns with another cutting and contemporary critique. 19.04.24 Words by Rowan Driver https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9YZLPxhkGU The song is centred around Slater’s discontent with modern British politics and the class system which continues to pervade the British social landscape. Her punchy lyrics touch on issues which have been at the forefront of the political discourse in recent years, including Brexit, climate change and the cost of living crisis, as well as notions of privilege and material wealth – the title itself is a reflection of the bleak atmosphere which Slater perceives to loom over the country in an era of post-pandemic uncertainty. Her DIY indie rock style demonstrates anarchistic qualities, with a volatility that only serves to mirror the frustration and desperation she articulates in her lyrics. Gritty and empowering, she delivers these matter-of-factly, listing all the broken cogs in an inherently flawed system. “I wonder what they taught you in your PPE degree”: Slater also goads political frontrunners, a large proportion of which are renowned for having studied the coveted course. “Do you get guilty?” she asks, bluntly attributing a level of blame. Slater has previously drawn on ideas surrounding socio-economic disparities and privilege in “24 hours”, which discusses the prevalence of modern influencer culture in society. It seems 20-year-old Slater is not quite finished when it comes to making her mark with her fervently politicised takes on young adulthood, cultivating a likeminded community who share her sentiments. Like her previous single, Slater’s latest drop has been co-written and produced by Jack Shuter, with mixing and mastering by Nathan Boddy and Kevin Tuffy respectively. The full EP is currently slated for release on 23 May, but until then, “Nothing Shines On This Island” is available to stream across all platforms. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chloe Slater (@chloeslater333) You Might Also Like