NEW SINGLE RELEASE – ARIÁDNE ‘Oceans Apart’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – ARIÁDNE ‘Oceans Apart’ 27.11.23 Words by Ritwik Punjwani Ariádne makes her debut with “Oceans Apart,” a soaring song that showcases her husky, powerful vocals amid wonderfully produced accompaniment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7yONJZTKAE This Greek-Cypriot singer-songwriter based in the UK is inspired by vocal virtuosos such as Adele and Whitney Houston, fusing their soulful sensibilities with her own scorching style reminiscent of Madison Ryann Ward. The lyrics are inspired by genuine sadness, exposing the terrible breakdown of a relationship. However, “Oceans Apart” eventually comes to a close, soaring into meditations about going forward. Sam Robinson’s offbeat basslines highlight this emotional trajectory, wonderfully accompanying Ariádne’s vocals as they rise and collapse. Marco Viscito and Aneirin Jian’s production binds everything together flawlessly, opening up spaces for Ariádne’s genuine, emotional voice. Rich acoustic guitar and synth textures, rhythmic swells from drummer Tom Lloyd, and ambient backup vocals round out this beautiful atmosphere. The song crescendos into a soaring key modulation near the end, highlighting Ariádne’s instrument’s goosebump-inducing power. She now presents this treasured song as proof of her dedication to honest musical storytelling, after being led into an extended writer’s block trying to reproduce “Oceans Apart’s” delicate artistry. Using her “Box of Regrets,” Ariádne hopes to make music that will astound listeners with its emotional depth. If “Oceans Apart” is any indication of what’s to come, she’ll have a career full of heartbreaking songcraft. Let Ariádne’s debut carry you along its tide of pain towards calm redemption for the time being. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Vanity Fairy ‘Love of My Life’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Vanity Fairy ‘Love of My Life’ 27.11.23 Words by Caitlin Taylor On the 13th of November, Vanity Fairy released “Love of My Life” and it’s probably the grooviest new release you’ve heard this year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAx7nxBev1w&t=4s ‘Love of My Life’, released with Moshi Moshi Records, follows her debut EP from 2021 ‘Love from Above’ and her sound feels much more mature and focused 3 years on. The song is pulled from her imagination, part of the 70s/80s inspired disco superstar Vanity Fairy character created by Capri. She’s previously told DMY about her love for the era “In many ways I wish I’d lived through those years. I feel like I would have fitted in better then; I enjoy imagining an alternate life where I live in those decades”. Starting with the sound of a VHS tape entering a player and then transitioning into a dreamy disco beat, she cherishes an easy love with someone who makes her feel at peace: ‘there’s no drama with you, everythings just so easy and right’ she sings in the second chorus. Retro media formats are incorporated again nearer the end as she includes a phone call with her lover on an old rotophone which brings us to a beautiful Studio 54 worthy interlude. Speaking on the release Capri said: “this one is a little day dream of a song in which I imagine what it would mean to have found my partner in crime, my numero uno, the apple of my eye… the love of my life. There’s no better feeling I think. I wanted to try and capture all the lightness and sweetness of finding someone you just want to spend all your time with. I kept it quite direct and simple lyrically, to mirror the way the world feels when you find that new love. Everything falls into place, everything makes sense. It’s a bit unfashionable and maybe even a bit fanciful I think to still believe in that kind of love; a passionate love that lasts…a love for life. But I don’t mind that. It’s a sweet thing to think about. It’s a love letter to love.” Capri’s vocals are breathy, reminiscent of a softer Kate Bush. She’s keeping the memory of disco icons like Cher, Donna Summers or Diana Ross alive with both her music thats impossible not to dance to and her collection of extravagant and glitzy dresses showcased in her album art and on her Instagram. The track is also accompanied by an incredibly camp music video that features Boney M levels of glamour with a bejewelled headpiece and cutesy poses. She debuted the song at the Windmill in Brixton last week but will be back performing in London soon as she’s supporting Oliver Mason at The Victoria Dalston on December 12th. Hopefully more releases in a similar vein are on the way soon. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Eva Gadd ‘The One’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Eva Gadd ‘The One’ 26.11.23 Words by Hannah Fitzhugh In the form of a self love inducing, soulful ballad, Eva Gadd has released her new single ‘The One’, but its been a long-time in the making. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lrv-CbwFWLM Add this one to your Christmas playlist; the song evokes just the right amount of nostalgia and emotion to feel festive without actually being a Christmas song. Released on the 24th of November, ‘The One’, has an enchanting end of year feel and is all about new beginnings, closing old chapters and learning to make peace with putting yourself at the forefront of your life. ‘Cos I know you won’t appear, and the end of the year is nearing, so I’m saying I’m the one.’ Despite being a brand new release, Eva has kept this sentimental track under her belt for some years until the time finally felt right. ’I wrote this song a couple of years ago, and have always felt it needed an understated acoustic recording which I was lucky enough to secure at Woodworm Studios where Stuart Jones worked his magic on the track.’ At only 24 years old, Eva’s music has a timeless energy that is beyond her years. The artist combines contemporary ballad with soul and jazz influences to create her seamless sound with melodies that will give you goosebumps. The lyrics don’t lack in meaningfulness either, with the singer revealing her inspiration behind the words, ‘Reflecting on a past experience when I had waited a long time for a person who I thought would choose me, instead I arrived at the freeing realisation that you can give to yourself anything that you are waiting for someone else to provide.’ Eva takes us on a self realisation journey with this track. At first listen we may think the is a sad song centred around loneliness, but 4 minutes later we arrive at a place of hope and empowerment as the artist learns that the only person who truly is ‘The One’ for her- is herself. ‘I could be my one, the one that I can hold, the one that’ll never let me go.’ The simplicity of the piano keys on the track make for a cosy, tranquil listen but its Eva’s soft vocals which make ‘The One’ so enchanting, with BBC Introducing describing the Oxfordshire singers voice as ‘mesmerising’. Don’t miss out on being one of the first to listen to this new single, out on major streaming platforms today. You Might Also Like
OCTOBER SINGLE RELEASE – Umarells ‘Closer’
OCTOBER SINGLE RELEASE – Umarells ‘Closer’ 26.11.23 Words by Niamh Noeleen Sometimes, all it takes is a trip to Blackpool beach to find yourself awakening an underlying musical dream. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXxalfrij0A At least that was the case when four mancunian friends formed a band that would later become ‘Umarells’. Umarells made their online debut in 2022 and are currently making waves with the release of their second single, ‘Closer’. This latest track follows their first single ‘You’re Not here’, which was released earlier in the year and showcases the band’s fast evolving musical journey. The ethereal and gothic landscapes of ‘Closer’ transports listeners to a dreamlike state. The song has a dark but lulling vibe with relaxed and dreamy vocals. But ‘Closer’ offers levels and changes in tone, never doing a 180 but evolving throughout, the changes in the soundscape imitate that of the changes you’d experience when unconscious and dreaming, which is a lot of fun for listeners to experience. Lyrically the song muses over dreams and paints vivid and beautiful imagery, like the line, ‘if i was a beech tree, my lungs would be green.’ This dreamy composition invites listeners to escape into a realm where sleep becomes a pathway ‘closer to peace’—a perfect soundtrack for the shorter days and longer nights. Curious about the band’s name, ‘Umarells’? The term, originating from Italian, refers to retired men who spend their time observing construction sites or other people’s work. In a musical context, the Umarells are anything but passive observers; instead, they bring a fresh perspective and vibrant energy to the stage, proving that dreams sparked on a visit to Blackpool beach can transcend into a mesmerizing musical reality. ‘Closer’ is not just a song but a journey but an exploration into the dreamy realms crafted by the Umarells. As they continue to unveil their artistry, each release promises a musical adventure that transcends the ordinary, inviting listeners to dream a little deeper. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – E.M Kane ‘Wasted Time’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – E.M Kane ‘Wasted Time’ 23.11.23 Words by Beth Gulliver Glaswegian singer-songwriter Eleanor Kane’s first release under a new moniker – E.M Kane – is a gorgeous fusion of soul and an indie rock ballad. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KR-JDthaDA0 ‘Wasted Time’ spans three and a half minutes of laidback melodies, combined with a poetic lyricism reminiscent of her earlier work featured on The St Vincent Street Sessions. The track is in line with E.M Kane’s self-proclaimed mission to create: “artfully crafted tales of all-gender 2023 romance and adventure.” ‘Wasted Time’ depicts how lust manifests and is supposedly all about how you “wish you could love someone as much as you want them.” The theme is reflected in the artist’s cries of: “What’s such a thing called wasted time? When I’ve got a minute to give you?” Written during lockdown, Kane successfully pens an emotive lyric, beginning with a lilting beat and soft vocals that swell to a stunning belt as the track progresses. From the first line, Kane’s voice pulls you in, delicately unfolding the storyline. The single spans multi-genres, and any sceptics will be convinced of the track’s re-playability (and the artist’s potential) half-way through the song when Kane croons a sensitive bridge. Her vocals are strong, defiant yet vulnerable, that end with a rousing cry to: “Tell me you want me.” The layered bassline and swooping melody, backed by a subtle piano with gentle drums that gradually build, make for satisfying listening. It’s perfect for a cozy Autumnal afternoon beside the fire, or as a soundtrack to slowly dance around the kitchen whilst cooking. ‘Wasted Time’s’ sound is appealing but the defining feature of the song is the singer’s vulnerability throughout, covering themes of love, identity, and the surrounding world. If this first single under the artist’s new moniker is anything to go by, E.M Kane will continue to produce stunning vocals and poetic lyrics – firmly earning her place on any ‘one-to-watch’ lists. E.M Kane is performing her first headline show in London later this year. Hear her perform ‘Wasted Time’ and a selection of new tracks at Morocco Bound Bookshop on Saturday, 2nd December 2023 You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Vaermina ‘Real Panic’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Vaermina ‘Real Panic’ 22.11.23 Words by Holly Eve Vaermina’s new release will leave you angsty, after unveiling their first track ‘Real Panic’ ahead of their album drop ‘Tantrum’ out on the 24th of November. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrL_shq6qPg The London-based band have a lot to shout about in their new single that is defining a genre for alternative listeners, Holly Frape finds out. Experimental doom punk ‘outfit’ Vaermina have released their new single ‘Real Panic’. It comes as a pre-release to their sophomore album ‘Tantrum’. Contrast to their debut ‘Lovebots’, a recollection of glitchcore laced with hardcore percussion and esoteric structure. The band has since departed from this in ‘Real Pain’ honing the sound into the realms of punk. Artfully pushing the boundaries of the genre, through tight performances punchy production and catchy melodies, Vaermina has begun to carve themselves into the experimental escapism of the ‘Doom – punk ‘genre. Immediately, as the track begins, the listener is met with heavy, gritty guitar riffs and drums that accompany it parallel. Having absorbed the opening passage to the composition, you would be forgiven for thinking this may be a run-of-the-mill hardcore punk song. However, having spent any amount of time listening to Vaermina, you know this is not the direction that this is headed. As soon as the jarring vocal enters, the sentiment that this is any constrictive song writing will be dissolved in the vocal concoction of Caitlin Power’s unique talent. The melody which runs contrapuntal to the music, drives the rhythm. The childlike sarcasm in the phrasing imminently marries the destruction of the vocal and rhythm section in sacred unity. Despite this notion, the song already has defined its catchy hook, which will linger in your ears for days to come. Following this, an Avant-garde synth enters, leading us through a short and chaotic instrumental passage of brash and atonal nature. This may not be entirely what is known as standard musical practice, yet nothing would serve the song in its place. The track shifts gear with the intrusion of the deeper vocal which disconcerts the listener, the warbled electronic preaching is authentic in their sound. Following the offbeat song structure, the trio have positively excelled in nailing and honing the art of sonic expression with careful and deliberate songwriting. Which culminates a sensory feast for all who listen. Vaermina is single-handedly moving the alternative scene in a new direction. Caitlin Power, Ozario Argentero, and Gabriel are constantly experimenting with what they will come up with next. If the new single is anything to go by, we will be welcomed with various influences, an ode to many artists from Punk’s past intertwined with electronic chaos. Vaermina’s next release promises to be a project that is born out of anger, descent and offbeat expression. Perhaps in a similar vein to Bikini Kill, Hole, 100 Gecs and Death Grips. Vaermina’s sophomore album ‘Tantrum’ is out on the 24th of November. Image Courtesy of @vaermina.xoxo Instagram. You Might Also Like
OCTOBER SINGLE RELEASE – Ouraa ‘Bedbugz’
OCTOBER SINGLE RELEASE – Ouraa ‘Bedbugz’ 22.11.23 Words by Céline Galletti The bedbugs that are currently invading London are not the only thing that will be taking over the city this fall. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=m8SGYm5yZMg The new single “Bedbugz” by singer and songwriter Ouraa is an uplifting and empowering song that draws inspiration from the recent bug infestation to talk about self-worth and dealing with toxic people. “Don’t let the bedbugz get in the way, You know that they’re after you…”. The ominous lyrics, together with the eery aesthetic of the cover and the music video, create a creepy atmosphere that mirrors the anxiety of the singer, who is surrounded by “bedbugz”. These bugs represent the haters and negative people in her life, who are restless in trying to take her down. However, the message that prevails is one of strength and positivity. The uplifting beat, the background choir and Ouraa’s powerful voice come together to create an interesting musical universe, that works as a hybrid between pop and gospel. And of course, the amazing bass drops will hit you right in the gut and manage to transmit a visceral feeling of strength. By the end of the song, you’ll want to get into a fight with all the “bedbugz” in your life and come out victorious. Ouraa is a true preacher of positive energy, and offers a reassuring but intense lesson of self-acceptance to her audience. Wellbeing is at the centre of most of her discography, and pieces such as “Just Breathe” and “Do It Right” are literal musical pep-talks that acknowledge that life is a struggle but that in the end, everything will be fine. It is thanks to her hardships that the singer can say that: “I’ve learnt to love and I’ve learnt to see”. If you enjoy Afro-Swing, R&B and pop, I can only recommend experiencing the communicative power of Ouraa’s musical universe. She is present on every music platform and gives frequent updates of her projects on her Instagram @ouraaofficial. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Linn Sandin ‘Think About It’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Linn Sandin ‘Think About It’ 21.11.23 Words by Harvey John Pull your head out the sand for this banger. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRTLoivhwGg A voice reminiscent of Royal & The Serpent, a guitar riff that feels like it came straight from a country song and a beat that feels like marching feet – it’s strange to imagine Think About It has yet to find a large audience. Linn Sandin might not be a name that you hear in everyday conversation, but she’s a talent that’s sure to be a future headliner for the music festivals of tomorrow. My discovery of Sandin occurred during one of those every day, bored out of your mind, flicking through TikTok where I wasn’t really listening or watching – procrastination was the game, and I was winning. Thinking wasn’t even on my mind, ironic as that may be. Sandin’s song found me like a wake-up call to get back into the world. ‘Why don’t you think about it’, she sings – her soft voice carries the words with a weight that pulls you in with the twirl of her natural Swedish tongue and the energy of the words. Suddenly I was awake, and I was listening to this song that had me wanting to move, but also made me want to listen. Sandin’s ‘Think About It’ is a catchy piece of alt-rock but it also feels layered. A challenge to a faceless enemy to broaden themselves for a ‘single lane’ way of think. ‘Dare to enter my mind’ she sings, emphasis on each word as each word feels important. The challenge to create a change, to invite new perspective – perhaps this is a personal statement for Lin Sandin. The song certainly feels personal, as though she herself is trying to pull her audience’s head from the sand, ‘Why don’t you think about: All the time you wasted on fights, Never wanted to solve ‘em, Just add to the problem’. Sandins ‘Think About It’ might be personal but we all have a shared experience of knowing someone who is stubbornly ignorant, whom we’ve had to emphasise each word as the sentence itself might wholly be ignored. It’s a powerful, entertaining, catchy song that makes you want to move and expresses all the frustrations of arguing against belligerent ignorance. So, if you’re looking for an alt-rock artist to add to your playlist then consider Linn Sandin your next obsession. Seriously, ‘Think About It’! You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Bel Cobain ‘Unlikely’
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – Bel Cobain ‘Unlikely’ 20.11.23 Words by Isabel Jackson The new EP is highly anticipated amongst Cobain’s fans, expected to take listeners on a journey through her explorative lyrics and enchanting voice. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqlAs04Ci4I Cobain’s latest single, Unlikely, boasts haunting vocals, and powerful lyrics, as she effortlessly blends genres to guide listeners through this moody number, taking influences from jazz, RnB and drum and bass. London-based singer-songwriter, Bel Cobain, known for hit singles such as At the Bay (with The Silhouettes Project), and Leader, is known for enchanting listeners with her powerful voice and poignant songwriting, and her new EP looks to be no exception. Cobain is a master of creating character in every song, and the bass in Unlikely immediately sets the mood of the song. Supposedly inspired by a paranormal experience on a trip to Mexico that Cobain took with friends, the rhythmic bass is a defining feature in creating a spectral feeling and is a key foundation in Unlikely which Cobain uses to build on throughout. Unlikely also takes influence from drum and bass in the powerful drums, which create a sharp contrast to the bass, as well as Cobain’s soft, lingering vocals. The drums serve to build tension that peaks and troughs throughout the song, shaping the listeners experience and complementing Cobain’s striking lyrics. Cobain appears to reference her insight into the experiences of marginalised groups in Mexico during her trip in her lyrics – “feeling sorry for my people who got rigged by the systematic default”, – which becomes a focal point in the song. The lyrics also appear to make reference to Cobain’s struggles with mental health – “I’m starting to realise that my habit seems suicidal” and highlights her ability to deliver poetic and significant lyrics implicitly through her smooth vocals. Pressure to exist was the first single released from Cobain’s new EP, a sharp contrast to the eerie mood of Unlikely; instead offering a mellow and jazzy ballad exploring Cobain’s perspective on life and existence. ‘Radical Forgiveness’, will perhaps take on more of this direction, giving us insight into Cobain as an individual, and as an artist, as she develops her musical style. Consistent to Cobain’s music, however, is her striking vocals, poetic lyrics and ability to blend jazz and RnB, as well as other genres, bringing jazz uniquely into the mainstream and creating her own sound. The new EP is highly anticipated amongst Cobain’s fans, expected to take listeners on a journey through her explorative lyrics and enchanting voice. ‘Radical Forgiveness’ is due to be released in December and is sure to be a breakthrough success in the music scene. You Might Also Like
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – Ladylike ‘Southbound’
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – Ladylike ‘Southbound’ 18.11.23 Words by Abraham Lindohf Brighton’s emerging musical force, ladylike, is unveiling their captivating debut single, ‘Southbound,’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Htobw_glMJg Promising a sonic journey reminiscent of acts such as Fleetwood Mac in their more folk-inspired era or Boygenius with their fuzzy guitars, ladylike, intricately weaves the landscapes of folk, post-rock, and psychedelia together. The quartet has skilfully crafted a mesmerising, slow-burn piece that draws parallels to the delicate reflections found in Big Thief’s work, seamlessly transitioning from contemplative moments to full-blown, powerful psychedelia with dramatic twists and turns. The single employs a unique stream-of-consciousness approach to songwriting, shedding light on the mundane moments that define our existence. I hope to see this continue in the band’s upcoming work as the more conceptual and often evasive lyrics allow for an array of understandings. In a poetic exploration of the awkward nuances of life in one’s twenties, Lead vocalist and guitarist, Georgia Butler, shares that the song serves as an ode to the challenges of finding one’s place in the world during this transformative period. Its narrative unfolds abstractly, incorporating internal musings and anecdotes as the music evolves. As mentioned by Butler, “We weren’t entirely sure of the song’s intent until we’d finished it.” which I believe sets ladylike aside from their contemporaries. Having established themselves in Brighton’s vibrant counter-culture scene since their formation in 2022, ladylike has meticulously honed their sound over 18 months through a series of dynamic live performances. This sets them apart from other groups which aim to rush out a single before having played at a single venue, ladylike know their sound and methodology, and I think this has paid off. Having performed with notable appearances at Triptych and most recently supporting ĠENN on the 13th of October. Impressively, ‘Southbound’ was recorded at Farm Road studios while being produced/mixed by the band’s own Spencer Withey, which I imagine allows them to showcase their distinct musical identity. Having recently featured on Crafting Room Recordings’ Brighton Sound 2023 compilation alongside local favourites like Hutch, Flip Top Head, and, ELLIS-D, ladylike has supported acclaimed acts including Divorce, The Paranoyds, Lorelle Meets The Obsolete, Rosie Alena, and ĠENN. Their presence at the Clunk Magazine stage during this year’s Alternative Escape further solidified their rising status. Comprising Georgia Butler (Guitar, Vocals), Spencer Withey (Guitar, Synth, Backing Vocals), Archie Sagers (Bass), and James Ely (Drums), ladylike is set to self-release ‘Southbound’ on November 17th. The single launch show is scheduled for November 22nd at Brighton’s Green Door Store, followed by a performance at London’s The George Tavern with Dog Race on December 13th. You Might Also Like