NEW SINGLE RELEASE – MIMI ‘Copenhagen’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – MIMI ‘Copenhagen’ 18.11.23 Words by Liesl Hammer The beginning of a success story. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj6Q0xfL7YY On 7th November, the 24-year-old new and upcoming singer from south London Mimi Simmons, known as MIMI, released her brand new single “Copenhagen.” She started writing music at a young age and has always been inspired by artists such as Lana Del Ray and Florance and the Machine. With the demanding nature of the university, this was put on a back burner for a while. Luckily for us, she graduated in 2021 which can only mean one thing. More Music! Throughout her four songs, she discusses very heartfelt subjects that I’m sure many people in their 20s can relate to, namely heartbreak, longing, and figuring out how to grow up into an adult in this day and age. As a 20-something delusional romantic myself, MIMI is quickly becoming one of my favourite singer-song-writers and someone I will be sure to follow closely. MIMI released her debut single last August entitled “Oblivion Baby” with her producer and songwriter Jules Konieczny which has a similar soft sound to “Copenhagen” yet her voice is a lot more raw. She has performed at BBC Radio One as well as BBC Radio London and has been interviewed by BBC Introducing’s Jess Iszatt. “Copenhagen” explores her airy voice which captures the dreamy element of this song. It tells the evocative story of an unrequited, friends-to-lovers relationship. This indie vibe also reminded me of the amazing soundtrack from the hit TV show Heartstopper and I am therefore very much hoping for it to appear in its upcoming season three. From my initial listen, I was immediately transported into a romance novel where two friends go on holiday in an attempt to fix their friendship whilst grappling with the fact that they are falling for each other. This style of story-telling is very reminiscent of that of other successful, female singers like Maisie Peters and Taylor Swift, in particular, “In My Head” from her 2018 EP Dressed Too Nice For A Jacket and Taylor Swift’s “You Belong with Me” from her second album, Fearless. MIMI is set to release more music next year and, I for one, am hoping that this is just the beginning of her huge success story. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE- ‘Fishbowl’ Tragic Sasha
NEW SINGLE RELEASE- ‘Fishbowl’ Tragic Sasha 18.11.23 Words by Hannah Bentley Tragic Sasha, the alias for Sasha Gurney, has released her new single ‘Fishbowl’. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDGv3D_No44 The North London artist broke into the music scene with her first EP The End of The World during the pandemic. Whilst in lockdown, Sasha used this free time to rent a music studio and taught herself music production. The 20-something musician masterfully blends the alternative pop and indie genres, often creating beautiful harmonies that have you in a trance. Since then, her songs have gained traction from various independent music magazines and ‘Fishbowl’ has recently featured on BBC’s Introducing, proving her status as singer songwriter and music producer. Her new single was released this month and is part of an upcoming EP of the same title. Sasha says ‘Fishbowl’ is a ‘relatable track about feeling caged’, with much of her music exploring mid-twenties turmoil and lamenting on the difficulties of navigating adulthood. Her stirring lyrics and delicate voice convey an enchanting sense of vulnerability. The feeling of entrapment is visualized in the music video where the scene is split in two, juxtaposing a mix of urban landscapes and beaches. Sasha walks across the dividing line between the two locations as if stuck in a loop (or fishbowl). Despite the somber topic, she still injects light-hearted lyrics into the single, my favourite being “take all my problems and roll them in glitter”. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody will certainly put a pep in your step. Tragic Sasha is set to headline a show at Servant Jazz Quarters in London on 6th December where she will be promoting her new music. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – The Last Dinner Party ‘On Your Side’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – The Last Dinner Party ‘On Your Side’ 17.11.23 Words by Hannah Naismith Describing ‘On Your Side’ for the first time in a recent interview, lead singer Abigail Morris says that the song was written immediately after having met someone and lying in bed with them for the first time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rviP4LEjaZo The song is true to this because it is a hypnotic longing, with dreamlike vocals; as if it were a memory that hasn’t happened yet. The steady beating of the drums and the tender playing of the piano draw a ballad of what once was: ‘On Your Side’ speaks to the ‘bliss of mourning’. Fitting for the changing of the seasons, ‘On Your Side’ centres on the vulnerability of change and clinging on to the lost. The ‘found-footage’ of The Last Dinner Party’s music video draws on this vulnerability, as it acts to piece together memory of the self through a cinematic haze. Within this, the intimacy of their lyrics draw out both the band’s wistfulness and the listeners own experiences. When performing this on stage, as in Manchester Academy last month, another memory of ‘On Your Side’ is created, which too will be mourned. Abigail’s rich, siren-like voice accompanied by the mellowness of the guitar, transcends the crowd through their own amassed experience. With now over a million listeners on Spotify, encouraged by the phenomena of live shows they’re performing, the band are reminiscent of Florence and the Machine’s raw emotional energy, who they supported earlier this year. Yet, they could also be likened to Wet Leg or Wolf Alice; with a hint of Frankie Cosmos – although The Last Dinner Party fittingly seems darker, as if recorded later into the night. The Last Dinner Party has an eccentric charm and ethereality that is one to witness live. At their shows, they will cordially invite you to dress up in your best attire and become lost in the nostalgia of their sound. Their debut album Prelude to Ecstasy is available to pre-order now and will be released 2nd February 2024. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Lime Garden ‘I Want To Be You’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Lime Garden ‘I Want To Be You’ 15.11.23 Words by Kristian Floate Lime Garden’s newest release ‘I Want To Be You’ is a dreamy addition to their upcoming debut album ‘One More Thing’ – set for release in February 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B64g_X1rUpM Playing with themes of jealousy and attachment across minimalistic soundscapes, the Brighton-based quartet still maintain the calm and serenity that has grown to define their discography, while adding layers of experimentalism that are far removed from your average indie-electro outfit. ‘I Want To Be You’ merges hi-hat heavy drum patterns with a tightly locked guitar and vocal fusion – drawing attention towards relatable lyricism that will undoubtedly push crowds to sing-along during their upcoming headline tour in February. Tippi (bass) lays a simple pattern of root-notes, anchoring the low end and acting as a perfect example of how less is more. The unembellished and simple nature of Lime Garden’s newest offering allows delicate harmonies to shine through, complimenting the distorted noise-laden nature of their accompanying single ‘Nepotism (baby)’. Lime Garden’s open-ended flair has attracted the attention of fans from various musical backgrounds – a crowd that has continued to expand and diversify with each release. Lime Garden have grown and perfected their sound, unleashing a new era of musical maturity that has already seen the 4-piece signing with So Young Records, performing internationally and featuring on the cover of DORK magazine back in September. Despite the band gliding effortlessly from strength to strength, ‘I Want To Be You’ is written about attending a Wolf Alice gig at the age of 14 and wanting to be them – a humble reminder that Lime Garden have their inspirations and role models too! ‘I Want To Be You’ and it’s adjoining music video is out now, and the track will feature on the debut album ‘One More Thing’ – out on February 16th 2024 and available to pre-order now! You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Ellie Evans ‘The Friend I Kiss’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Ellie Evans ‘The Friend I Kiss’ 15.11.23 Words by Hannah Fitzhugh Self proclaimed messy uni student, Ellie Evans has us all in our feels with the release of her ever so relatable track, ‘The Friend I Kiss.’ The Bristol based singer songwriter might have just created the ultimate hot girl anthem for 20 something year olds navigating toxic ‘situationships’. https://youtu.be/FirjRb36-rI?list=OLAK5uy_ne0Yqxmw4jipcqOgc_TZokpaWUHTkcWOA Think British Olivia Rodrigo but rougher around the edges; with this release of her fourth official single, the artists sound is becoming more and more recognisable and she’s certainly one to watch out for. Combining indie and pop-rock influences, the single explores a relationship without labels, and the battle of trying to hide your feelings for somebody who will never commit. Packed with cleverly crafted lines made to be screamed along to in the car or cried to in the shower, Ellie belts the chorus, ‘I don’t speak to any of my other friends this way, he says that’s the benefit I guess that’s why I stay.’ When it comes to her lyrics, the artist confesses she simply takes inspiration from ‘her own chaotic life’ and clearly she holds nothing back. ‘Thought I was looking love in the eyes but he’s just a selfish 6 foot lie.’ Witty, satire lines like this one form Ellie’s distinct style by incorporating humour with a painful situation as a coping mechanism- something many of her Gen Z listeners seem to resonate with. Ellie took to TikTok to sum up the target audience for her music perfectly, captioning her video, ‘Calling all the girlies in failing situationships and the friends with benefits stage with boyfriends who aren’t boyfriends but do boyfriend things. ’Watch out for Ellie’s next move on her instagram @ellieeeevans and stream ‘The Friend I Kiss’- out now on all major platforms. You Might Also Like
DEBUT EP RELEASE – Bekah Bossard ‘Alone With My Own Thoughts’
DEBUT EP RELEASE – Bekah Bossard ‘Alone With My Own Thoughts’ 14.11.23 Words by Minnie Life Californian-born and adopted South Londoner Bekah Bossard (she/they) has a lot of feelings. And their debut EP ‘Alone With My Own Thoughts’ sees them bare every single one for us. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0tgiLQfvGs From heartbreak, to crushing isolation, to wistful conversations, Bossard takes us on a journey that is worthy of a proper ‘sit down and take it all in’ style listen. Californian-born and adopted South Londoner Bekah Bossard (she/they) has a lot of feelings. And their debut EP ‘Alone With My Thoughts’ sees them bare every single one for us. From heartbreak, to crushing isolation, to wistful conversations, Bossard takes us on a journey that is worthy of a proper ‘sit down and take it all in’ style listen. The five-song EP is hugely listenable, with catchy moments such as on the boppy ‘What You Wanted’. This track touches on their experiences of coming out as queer, particularly the rejection they felt. Their rallying chorus of “I can’t be what you wanted I’m afraid” strikes a chord while feeling oddly empowering to queer listeners like myself. There are nods of Ethel Cain’s ‘American Teenager’ to be found here, and I think it’s one of Bossard’s strongest. ‘Alone With My Own Thoughts’ also strays into the deeply moving. The Phoebe-Bridgers-dusted track ‘Venus’ is a touching ode to their mother, who suffers with multiple sclerosis. They detail conversations they wish they could have with her: “Venus I wish you could tell me, The stories they share of bottles of wine and life in the ‘80s” This is also one of Bossard’s strongest on the album, really showing off their unique voice and cutting lyrical style. It’s no surprise that ‘Venus’ has racked up nearly 60,000 streams on Spotify alone. Elsewhere on Bossard’s debut, there is a lot to like. ‘The One’ delivers a slow yet jazzy heartbreak anthem, and ‘Four Walls’ gives us an upbeat change of pace that still stays true to the EP’s lyrical and musical themes. And the folksy ‘Stranger to Myself’ stands out with its haunting and almost cinematic melody. ‘Alone With My Own Thoughts’ also shares a lot with its fellow contemporary singer-songwriters. I caught grungier hints of Blondshell throughout, as well as the chipper sounds of Beabadoobee. But Bekah still carves out a unique space and sound with this EP. With their debut, they have made themselves an indie darling to watch, and I anticipate that this project will make way for even bigger and better things. You Might Also Like
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – The Freakshow ‘Girlies’
DEBUT SINGLE RELEASE – The Freakshow ‘Girlies’ 11.11.23 Words by Ricky Labrada The Freakshow’s track ‘Girlies’ is a tender song reminiscent of the early 2000’s garage rock scene from the United States back when The White Stripes and Cage the Elephant were new acts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1eexJ09LMU On this song, The Freakshow follow in those footsteps with slow moody guitars, and a steady rhythm focused on the sad atmosphere. The track is the debut single for the group and is one that will not be to everyones taste. Yet, feels like a song that will resonate strongly for those who do likes it vibe and topic. ‘Girlies’ lyrics of wanting to be one of said girlies fit in line with the slow moody sound the track gives. The lyrics are somber in tone with the idea of longing for something you cant have embodying g the first couple of minutes. This idea is the prevailing theme throughout, as the chorus repeats the phrase “I want to be one of the girlies”. Other lyrics such as “Gender envy, I’m suffering from a case” and “I can put on a skirt any day,” show the singer delving into questions of sexuality gender dysmorphia. The somber mood that accompanies the single is one many can relate to, as even though it is a more normalised topic its is not universally accepted. Simultaneously, the track also wants to celebrate the beauty of femininity, a point further exasperated by that desire to be one of the girlies. This vibe being very low and slow isn’t an issue however as it gives an aura of reality for many. These points all beautifully culminate in a fast tempo ending which I view as somewhat happy. The lyrics are a strong point for the track even if they themselves are not relatable to myself. It is a more relatable and acceptable topic in the modern age and I hope that allows for future successes. The song is a good debut although I wonder if the themes will keep them locked into a niche audience or contrarily gain more attention. Overall, it is a great and moody track that reminds me of songs I grew up listening to. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Wings of Desire ‘Chance of a Lifetime / I Will Try My Best’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – Wings of Desire ‘Chance of a Lifetime / I Will Try My Best’ 13.11.23 Words by Nicole Haynes Indie duo, Wings of Desire, describe their music as ‘born out of questions that may never be answered https://youtu.be/6TTgI9qWr5A Their new singles ‘Chance of a Lifetime’ and ‘I Will Try My Best’ draw on these existentialist philosophies by juxtaposing joyful sounds with self-reflective lyrics. Reminiscent of the early 90s, the tracks pair traditional indie guitar riffs with metaphysical lyricism by looking at time and impermanence. The duo, Chloe Little and James Taylor, adopted their name from the Wim Wenders film. The band nod to their cinematic name by embracing the thread between audio and visuals in their music video and website; their site resembles a multimedia mood-board and their music videos frame storytelling as both a visual and audio medium. Using philosophised lyricism ‘Chance of a Lifetime’ considers the uncontrollable nature oflife. The line ‘I’m giving it my best but I’ll always let you down’ describes the frustrating, yet inevitable, experience of trying and failing. Little and Taylor emphasise the importance of taking opportunities as they come, suggesting that ‘time will wait for no one’. Because life is out of their control, the track warns against waiting to take opportunities; a chance of a lifetime is often missed by people who ‘save it for later and go and get a job’. Comparable to the likes of Wolf Alice, ‘Chance of a Lifetime’ has a floaty, almost ephemeral, sound. The soft vocals are paired with a strong drum beat and catchy guitar riff, creating a cinematic listening experience. The second track in the release, ‘I Will Try My Best’ adopts an Ian Curtis-esque performance style by Taylor. Musically the track builds to a joyful crescendo and resembles the coming-of-age media of the early 90s. Taylor’s voice matches the drums and guitars building in volume, supported by Little’s backing vocals. Lyrically, time and impermanence are described as something that are both in reach yet intangible. Lines like ‘I was unstable, now I am on the mend’ suggest that personal instability can be resolved, yet this contrasts with other lyrics like ‘life is what it is, it just keeps going and going and going’. Using metaphysical realities to your advantage is emphasised in this song, demonstrated through lines like ‘success is the best revenge’. Both tracks thematically and musically compliment one another. Wings of Desire areevidently invested in using their music to explore philosophical questions, but this is not atthe expense of their sound. If this recent release is anticipatory of what is to come, I thinkthis band is one to watch. You Might Also Like
NEW ALBUM RELEASE – Maisie Peters ‘Good Witch (Deluxe)’
NEW ALBUM RELEASE – Maisie Peters ‘Good Witch (Deluxe)’ 12.11.23 Words by Eve Herzberg Tracks belonging to deluxe album extensions can be tricky creatures. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIm7y6vW9Es&list=PLhMZfq_yW1TT-Qf0GlOIHLyxsVH00a5Wz It’s hard to know what you’re going to get, and there’s always the worry of getting more of the same, without the excitement and quality of the initial album release. But for Peters’ Good Witch (Gingerbread Man Records), the deluxe version holds some of the most powerful potions and pieces. On October 27th, Maisie Peters released 6 new tracks – the same day as Taylor Swift dropped her long-awaited 1989 (Taylor’s Version) re-recording. A brave move? A strategic move? The true mark of a trickster is pulling off both at once , and in the wake of Halloween no less. As her second full album, Good Witch doesn’t necessarily venture into unknown territory. It’s not a rebrand, second albums rarely are. It’s the more intense younger sister of her album “You Signed Up For This”. It has a clearer message. Maisie’s known for her 90s Teenage Dirtbag-esque sound, with lots of girlish angst shaken in there. Think Veronica from Heathers scribbling curses in her diary while wearing a monocle. Her lyrics are very honest. Not in a raw, heart-wrenching way. In a simple, relatable way. Dedicated to the victims of the 21st century inflated male ego. Good Witch has a distinct take on girlhood. Maisie’s coven is not the ring of dark figures, singing ethereal incantations of anger in the woods that you might expect. The coven is just a crowd of young women. Her songs, pure pop joy. She does not scream into the void, she dances in the revelry of kinship born from bad dating experiences. This album is a celebration of the togetherness that comes from girlish wrath. And we, the listener, are her most beloved little witchlings! “Holy Revival” and “Guy on a Horse” are simply ruthless. As the young princess of scream-talk, Peters gives her exes much needed reality checks, and doesn’t hold back. But neither song is about winning some argument over a particular ex-boyfriend, they’re about chanting with her fans about the lessons they’ve all had to learn. “I bet you’re all wondering who Andrew is, and that is really not important, stay with me, it’s what he represents.” She’s having a world of fun being sneaky, twisted and patronising. Impressing us with her sarcastic quips, she opens “Guy on a Horse” with: “Cause I’ve played Wembley Stadium, like, is that hard?”. It’s all very Elle Woods: “What? Like it’s Hard?”. Anderfjärd’s production weaves a metallic quality in these songs, brightening Peters’ words. With light under her lyrics, Peters becomes a mistress of myth and anecdotes. “Yoko” and “The Last One” are her slower songs. They are caught in the epidemic that is crippling nostalgia at the ripe age of 23. And Maisie’s distinctive silvery timber sweeps over the storytelling ever so sweetly. At times these songs sound like you’re hearing them from a friend across the phone, but the phone is made of a beautiful alien precious metal. If you’re listening in order, these last 6 tunes are sarcastic yet sugary continuation, with a just a little extra grit. Maisie can help you find magic and wizardry even as Halloween has faded. For her, it seems it is not in cauldrons and dark woods, but in unadulterated girliness and cheek. You Might Also Like
NEW ALBUM RELEASE – mlbacard¡ ‘I LOVE TO DO MY OWN STUNTS’
NEW ALBUM RELEASE – mlbacard¡ ‘I LOVE TO DO MY OWN STUNTS’ 11.11.23 Words by Kate Carruthers ‘I LOVE TO DO MY OWN STUNTS’ is a gritty salute to adulting—a must-listen for any 20-something navigating the chaos of being 20-something. Packed with rugged character and an unyielding honesty, reminiscent of a contemporary Amy https://youtu.be/pWHvY8SgHR0 mlbacard¡’s debut EP ‘I LOVE TO DO MY OWN STUNTS’ was released last week, offering an unfiltered memoir of a 22-year-old’s leap into adulthood. The record brims with unapologetic honesty, delivered through a voice soaked in smoky charisma—a trait we’ve glimpsed in her earlier singles. The message is clear: we’re all just doing our own stunts. Adulthood is a messy blend of self-discovery, self-destruction, and self-love. Over seven tracks, she sketches out all her adult worries and laughs them off in the same instant. In ‘KETCHUP,’ she dives into the depths of her own struggles, addressing heavy themes like depression and self-sabotage. The juxtaposition of these weighty subjects against the seemingly light-hearted title reflects mlbacard¡’s signature move: blending childlike simplicity with adult narratives. Lines like “Lose yourself to the music // let your mind get lucid. // Everything’s translucent” merge jolly beats with profound lyrics, creating a sound that’s as heavy as it is buoyant. There’s no wonder she’s been pinned as a contemporary Amy. Beyond her vocal nuances, mlbacard¡ brings a fresh approach to songwriting. An honesty that takes you off guard—something obvious in ‘GUINEA PIG’. Her blunt lyrics peel back the layers of societal numbness, revealing the impact of marketing tactics and social pressures. This, paired with a lively tempo, results in a paradoxical combination—dense content that feels as light as a feather, a classic mlbacard¡ manoeuvre. You’ll find yourself dancing around the room to the sound of “just a slut to consumerism”. This album deserves a coveted spot on the playlist of every twenty-something (along with Dolly Alderton’s words and The Devil Wears Prada). In the grand scheme of life, we’re all just doing our own stunts. We’re all figuring it out, guided by the beats of mlbacard¡. You Might Also Like