Stage’ is the latest single to come from Japanese solo project Farnature. Written about the intersection of nature and city life, ‘Stage’ gives the spotlight to the sounds of the natural world, and contrasts this with the bustle of daytime in the city. ‘Farnature’ is a solo project from Japan who co-writes with a UK based writer and collaborates with guest vocalists from around the world. Farnature’s songs are characterised by their 6/8 time signatures and emphasis on the 3rd and 6th beats of the bar.
‘Stage’ is a vibrant and rich hybrid of electronic and world music that creates quite the intense and full sound.The song is meticulously crafted to create layers of rich and unique soundscapes as Farnature experiments with quirky instrumentation to create a sound wholly their own. With flamenco rhythms bustling behind light guitar refrains and swirling synths the track whirls with progressing intensity allowing the rhythms imitate the hectic pace of the city while a sweet melody builds as the track reaches its epic crescendo. With the rooted bass grooves weaving between the songs ethereal electronics and powerful vocals ‘Stage’ is quite the unique and intriguing track.
Relaunching for 2020, PureGrand (part time popstar and photographer Luke Faulkner) releases his new single ‘Timeline’.The song was written and produced by Faulkner and is the first single from PureGrand’s debut album which marks a shift in his sound from the synthpop influence of his previous work towards a pop sound with a broader palette of flavours. It is being released alongside a new body of visual work photographed by Faulkner that will tie in with the album campaign as singles are released along with music videos.
‘Timeline’ is a 90’s hued pop number swirling in dark soundscapes and repetitive hooks as PureGrand uses a rich tapestry of electronics and earnest songwriting to create a chilled and haunting track. A blanket of synths cover the backdrop in dark airy tones while the skittish beats and breathy backing vocals fill in the tracks gaps amplifying the unease in the verse. With R&B elements which drift between hip hop rhythms and smooth vocals the track has a clean and polished shell. The lyrics shed light on the frustrations felt by many young millenials about being stuck at a point in your life beyond your control and the pressures and conflict between different generations that come with that. There are elements reminiscent of Pet Shop Boys within the track but PureGrand adds a modern pop shimmer to their sound as he weaves ominous tones and fluctuant, coiling textures through pop melodies and crisp production to create an engaging and passionate number.
1000 Beasts has released his debut EP ‘On A Different Page’.1000 Beasts is an electronic producer & musician from Cork City. Starting off producing electronic pop songs in 2017 he has already achieved great critical success, with spins on BBC R1, heavy radio support in Ireland (TodayFL, 2FM…) and some of the biggest editorial playlists on Spotify (Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds: Pop, New Music Friday UK, The Pop List, A breath of Fresh Eire…), Apple Music, and Deezer.
‘On A Different Page’ reveals 1000 Beasts impeccable ability to create rich layers of brooding electronics filled with R&B, pop and lo-fi elements as he provides a collaborative EP ready to tantalize the senses. The laid back night-time vibes envelope tracks like ‘Is This Love?’ in ethereal atmospheres of swirling synths while the sticky slapping beats provide a danceable groove.
The use of different vocalists on the EP gives each track its own character and persona. 1000 Beasts pulls in mesmerising vocals from Shiv, Kayleigh Noble, Lenii and Alex Tierney to surge soul, warmth and R&B sass into the EP. However it is through the subtle intricacies and layering that 1000 Beasts excels. If it’s the soft jazz guitar in ‘Le Marais’ and funk elements in ‘It’s Cool’ to the tropical rhythm and bubbling electronics in ‘Tokyo’ the soundscapes within each track are meticulously crafted for a satisfying listening experience.
The tone of the EP is quite dark at times and this dark theme continues in ‘Waistcoat’ which boasts sweet vocal coos over skittish trap beats and a smooth noir pop melody. There is something eerie about the track as it ventures down a sound that could fit on Billie Eilish’s debut ‘When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’
The tender ‘5 Points’ brings an end to the EP – a euphoric track with a building background full of suspense-filled synths and breathtaking pulsing beats.
‘On A Different Page’ is an engaging musical experience with laid back lo-fi pop elements sweetening the more weighty electronic and groove rich moments. 1000 Beasts presents himself as a musician to get excited about as he creates a sound laced in depth and dexterity with masterful musicianship at its core.
KOU, the new musical revolution by former The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus drummer Jon Wilkes has released his new single ‘Better’ with the amazing EDM artist Cōfresi. KOU brings an alternative dynamic and anthemic progression to the track with a melody that seeps and flows fluidly into the massive chorus with a lamenting tone.
‘Better’ is rugged and delicate all at once.The duo create a blazing chorus and scorching crescendo filled with rich intricate sonics and textures while strong basslines and the nuanced timing of percussion swirl the track into a whirlwind of heavy EDM and dubstep elements.
The synths create elements of blinding scintillation as the track roller coasters between gigantic drops and tense buildups that lead into sudden bass reverberations and fantastic passionate vocal exclaims from Wilkes.
‘Better’ is a song about how the world needs love and we need each other more than ever. KOU and Cōfresi present this through adrenaline-pumping, ethereal musicianship and deft production. ‘Better’ is quite the invigorating, hair raising anthem and a joy to listen to.
Omar Addis has released his new single ‘Easy’. Addis is a 21-year-old artist from Cardiff, Wales, who has been making music for almost 10 years and has collaborated with artists such as Julian Lamadrid and Heavy Pulse. Addis produces, mixes and masters his tracks so he has complete creative control. He has released two singles and one EP since 2018 as a solo artist, with plans to release more in the near future.
‘Easy’ is a melding of psychedelic and electronic indie as Omar Addis presents his lush intricate and refined musicianship through a thrilling labyrinth of weaving soundscapes. The track has an instant easy listening vibe exuding an effervescent psych hued backdrop as the jaunty guitar line interjects between swirling electronic melodies and gloopy electronic beats. Addis finds a wonderful medium between the harsh and supple elements of his song. With velvety vocals and a radiant atmosphere this lo fi bubbling gem is well crafted and set for repeat listens on a lazy sunny day.
Jack Rua, the ambitiously bold and innovative Irish Glam-pop artist, is set to release his debut eight-track mini-album, ‘Narcissus’ on June 26th. ‘Narcissus’ sees Jack Rua team up with producers Porridge, LOGUOS, Mattu, Tenderhook. and Rouleaux. Following the internationally-praised releases of ‘Scarlet A’, ‘Ego’, ‘Rise’, ‘Curious’, and the albums fifth and final single ‘Reflection’ released earlier this month the album charts the singer-songwriter’s journey after he graduated from college, moved away from home to New York City and broke up from a long-term relationship.
‘Narcissus’ wraps, contorts and dazzles as Jack Rua brings a vivid array of influences from glam rock, house and pop to create a full bodied, shimmering and utterly infectious collection of tracks. There is much vibrancy within as Rua entices the listener right into the album’s dark epicentre while keeping the danceable infectiousness alive throughout with wild dance explosions and slick glam rock swagger. It’s quite the enjoyable power pop gem.
‘Narcissus’ sets the Jack Rua experience in motion. He doesn’t do anything in half measures and his debut album is a sublime example of how Rua has mastered his craft through meticulous attention to detail and layering. Luring dark and eerie, Rua entices with flashing beat pulses before erupting into an implosive, tense EDM soundscape. ‘Narcissus’ is an intriguing start to the album and a fine display of Rua’s musicianship. He superbly teases and builds tension in his tracks, fermenting thrilling electronics to create bubbling coiling soundscapes of fragmented synths and dramatic electronic progressions. The talented Darce joins Rua for the sultry ‘Rise’.Well placed risqué lyrics are cooled by Rua’s soft vocals while the sticky electronics smother the backdrop in a humid haze. Darce’s raps punch through the sensual electronics as the track simmers and smoulders in a bubbling pop vapour.
Lyrically ‘Narcissus’ is a coming-of-age album which juxtaposes the joys of self-discovery with the personal and global anxieties you feel when you get a bit older.‘Curious’ playfully challenges binary thinking in terms of sexuality, beckoning you to “stop paying so much attention to your labels” and embrace “a new world” while ‘Ego (with LOGUOS)’ expresses a newfound appreciation that the artist began to feel for himself. The theatrical finger clicking and sultry ‘Scarlet A’ marks a turning point in the tracklist where Rua dives beneath his ego and explores the deeper and darker parts of himself. All this is set to an invigorating backdrop of dubstep elements, punchy rhythms and intoxicating electronics.
LOGUOS and Rua are quite the musical dream team, creating a shimmering summer pop anthem with crisp, infectious production and the passionate, euphoric musicianship of ‘Ego’ is quite the radio ready summer bop.
The artist’s scramble to be remembered in ‘Forget Me Not’ is deftly expressed through gripping, intense, intricate layering embellished only by the incomparable musical flair of Jack Rua. Each song exudes vibrancy and expressive musicianship to create the ultimate dance pop album ready to tantalize the listeners ears.
The album takes a turn with the melodious ‘Reckless Abandon’, however rather than brooding through a moody ballad Rua whacks out a dance infused 80’s anthemic number with lamenting guitar strides and power pop gusto. The harsher guitar elements slice through the pop mirages as the song spirals into a disco hued swirl of confusion. There is still composure within the track which is impressive. It’s a song about the despair that can occur in a situation wherein one can suddenly lose complete control. Rua displays passion through the coiling entwinement of this music. His vocals remain emotive yet composed.
The beautiful ‘Reflection’ brings the album to an end. Rua cools the tone for his finale ruminating on who he is and whether or not he likes what he sees in the mirror. With wispy electronics and a heavy thumping beat he closes the album after a whirlwind of acceptance, experimentation and self doubt to almost start it all again. Rua’s vocal delivery is simple with as little fuss as possible allowing the lyrics and his soft tone drift over the ethereal backdrop. It’s a powerful thought-provoking song to close a frantic and colourful album.
‘Narcissus’ is a fabulously fun and deeply personal album. Jack Rua announces his debut album with musical flair, prowess and compelling dance pop. This talented artist is fearless. He is not afraid to express his vulnerability and that is a quality to be admired. He is certainly an artist to keep an eye on. His tunes are a rebellious, catchy and wholly satisfying listening experience. I’ve witnessed Jack Rua blossom as an artist. Each track he has released to date has grown and built his rich, bold and intriguing sound to create a moving and unique collection of tracks that is polished and refined. He has become quite the dance pop connoisseur.
‘Narcissus’ will be released on June 26th until then you can stream Jack Rua’s recent single ‘Curious’ below
Seba Safe has returned with his third Single ‘Drip’. Seba Safe is the brainchild of Galway songwriter Michael D’Alton. Finishing up 2019 with second release ‘Wired’ and a string of sold out Irish support slots with Columbia Mills and Malaki as well as securing the Spotify editorial playlist A Breath Of Fresh Eire. December saw Seba Safe join the crowds and revelers at Other Voices in Dingle, where he made his debut playing the Dingle Gin Music Trail.
Encased in lush soundscapes that blend smooth R&B with dreamy pop and sparkling indie elements, ‘Drip’ showcases Seba Safe’s rich, diverse and wholly consuming musicianship. The dreamy melody drifts sweetly over a dark sticky beat while light twinkles on guitar illuminate the track as the song blossoms into its vivid chorus. With the warm guitar rays playfully weaving between the flourishing electronics, echoed backing vocals and chiming pop surges Seba Safe has developed a tight and engaging sound. His soft velvety vocals melt upon the honeyed melody creating a pacifying and soothing quality within the track while the backdrop draws you into its luxurious pool of intricacies and prismatic elements of folk, dance and indie pop. ‘Drip’ is a sublime and satisfying new single from Seba Safe.
Experimental artist Jacob Hagedorn has released his new album ‘Untitled’. This untitled album is the eighth to come from the young artist, who releases solely on Bandcamp. Having studied music at Berklee College of Music, he utilises his skill in Ableton to connect with people through his music
Creating a labyrinth of electronic swirls and prismatic psychedelic soundscapes Jacob Hagedorn blends Horror movie eeriness with soft tranquilizing elements to build a unique and encapsulating collection of tracks. With delicate strings mangled beneath haunting, screeching and ethereal soundscapes, this album is a distinctive blend of progressive ambience that calms and gives you chills all at once. The album is an untitled collection of seven songs. Written from short bursts of imagination with most songs falling under the minute mark. The album presents an otherworldly soundscape, composed of sullen instruments and stark tones. Almost a fairground of sounds, the ambient and experimental sound of Jacob Hagedorn mystifies and intrigues. There is sense of something quite horrifying within each track as if a creepy clown is lurking within the tunes smoky atmosphere. The distracting sense of peace coupled with ominous goosebump inducing fairground twinkles and fuzzy distortion is creepy and bizarre yet unique and thrilling as well. Jacob Hagedorn’s latest release would make a great horror movie score
Josaucy 8 has released his debut single ‘Toby’.The creative result of the first week of quarantine self-reflection, ‘Toby’ is the first single in the run up to his album, due for release later this year.
‘Toby’ layers abstract sounds, intricate electronics and sweet twinkling melodies to create the unique and experimental sound that is Josaucy 8. There are light tropical elements blended into the track while rich rhythmic bounces adorn the backdrop. The lyrics contrast the radiant dazzling soundscapes with outbursts of frustration through auto tuned vocals while the catchy melody soothes the songs irritable nature. ‘Toby’ is a playful debut from Josaucy 8 and a unique expression of complex ideas.
Electric Skyline have released their new single ‘Hit Play’ which is part of their two track EP entitled ‘A Side / B Side’.Electric Skyline started putting out songs on their own in Spring of 2020. Long-time friends, Robby Walton and Blake Brock -both indie artists from the same town- joined forces with Nashville guitar player Jesse Walpole to form a band that knew what they were going for. The band’s process is a self-sustainable machine. Everything you see and hear was created by the band; no label or management. They’ve written, recorded and produced all of the material that’s been put out in 2020 as well as all of the business details that come with releasing music as an artist.It’s a very communicative process and with the members living in different cities, (Robby and Jesse in Nashville and Blake in Birmingham).All of the band’s songs could be considered, “recently released,” the most so being their fourth publication and first EP, “A Side / B Side,” that is a two-song, modern day representation of a cassette tape with a single song on each side. “Hit Play” was a song that Blake had half- written and “No Phones,” the same of one of Robby’s. Both songs were eventually co-written and feature both of the vocalists in the tracks.
‘Hit Play’ is a dreamy electro-pop number as Electric Skyline entwine laid back melodies with luscious production and synths to create a mellow sweet gem. The gentle lilt of the vocals warmly hugs the soft synth-pop melodies while the track grooves through the backdrop with danceable rich rhythms and infectious diso hued grooves. There is a cool vibe drifting over the song as the delicate key twinkles float wistfully through the buoyant beats and infectious funk peppering provided by the guitars.With a nostalgic tone of longing, rippling undercurrents and laid back persona, the electro pop sound Electric Skyline embrace is magnetic. The trio’s sound reminds me of Troye Sivan’s debut ‘Blue Neighbourhood’ however their disco elements, funk zest and rich composition puts Electric Skyline’s stamp and unique twist on the electronic pop genre. Their tunes are enthralling, satisfying and sweet as honey to the ears.
Stream ‘Hit Play’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
