AG Club's Jody Fontaine and Baby Boy Drop "BRODIE WORLD" Mixtape
The duo of Jody Fontaine and Baby Boy of hip-hop collective AG Club have released their latest mixtape "BRODIE WORLD". Alongside the ten-track project, they share the official music video for the song “ROWDYRUFFBOYZ” off of the tape.
The duo of Jody Fontaine and Baby Boy of hip-hop collective AG Club have released their latest mixtape “BRODIE WORLD”. Alongside the ten-track project, they share the official music video for the song “ROWDYRUFFBOYZ” off of the tape.
Fusing playful imagination with an innate sense of aesthetic, BRODIE WORLD is whimsical, masterful, and electric—a glimmering constellation of sharp technique and raw impulse. It plays out as an immersive, free-wheeling adventure, at once quintessential AG Club yet a confident evolution and statement from Jody Fontaine and Baby Boy. Full of high energy bars, mesmerizing melodies and shapeshifting sonics, the mixtape is powered by previously shared songs and music videos like “eva” and “Barry.” BRODIE WORLD includes guest contributions from Mike Dimes, Igwe Aka and Mercury, as well as production contributions from Hippie Sabotage on one song.
The just-premiered video for “ROWDYRUFFBOYZ” places the viewer in a familiar corner of AG Club’s world: an otherwise tranquil scene that AG Club discovers is actually the perfect site for some organized chaos. Still, the duo is committed to its range, and doesn’t shy away from experimenting with pace and tempo. As the album winds down, on tracks like “Iron Giant” and “Sabine,” they present more moderately as they explore themes of vulnerability.
The group has steadily built its audience with a multitude of releases since 2019, leading to appearances at global festivals such as Coachella by last year. AG Club has been crowned the “next big music collective,” by Nylon, “genuine, pure, and unlike anything you’ve experienced before” by Billboard and “The Bay Area music collective you wish you could join” by i-D. Baby Boy and Fontaine’s commitment to cohesion and culture has helped them develop a cult-like following that continues to grow with them, from 2020’s Halfway Off The Porch to 2022’s Imposter Syndrome.
It isn’t just a journey that AG Club has been on, it’s a world that they’ve been building. This is your official invite. BRODIE WORLD is now available.
South Korean Music Project Orey Eyed Shares the Brand New EP "The Last Flight to You"
Orey Eyed, a music project of 18-year-old South Korean producer and singer-songwriter Jaehyun Kim, has just dropped the three track EP “The Last Flight to You”, which combines sound palettes from alternative/indie scenes as well as electronic elements.
Brand new to DCWS is Orey Eyed, a music project of 18-year-old producer and singer-songwriter Jaehyun Kim, who is currently based in Yongin-si, South Korea. Influenced by artists such as Chairlift, The 1975, Perfume Genius, and more, fuzzy synths and mellow vocals characterize his sound.
With Orey Eyed, Jaehyun aims to capture the beauty of various eerie and ethereal soundscapes, conveying emotions through the medium of music. Also invested in exploring different perspectives of romantic relationships and emotional struggles, his lyrics often assume a fictional point of view, providing a fresh and entertaining encounter to listeners.
He has just unveiled his debut three track EP, “The Last Flight to You”, which combines sound palettes from alternative/indie scenes as well as electronic elements. The tracks on this EP are airy and emotional, yet danceable.
With a overarching theme dealing with departure and arrival in relationships, longing for intimacy and tortures of romantic devotion, this EP provides a peek into broader projects that Jaehyun is working on as an artist.
Check out the new “The Last Flight to You” EP right now, connect with Jaehyun on social media, and be on the lookout for our interview with him coming soon!
Berlin Based Artist Nadine Finsterbusch Releases Her Debut Solo Album "My Space"
Berlin based artist Nadine Finsterbusch has just unveiled her first solo album entitled “My Space”, produced by Ramin Bijan.
Berlin based artist Nadine Finsterbusch does not look back, and she is not interested in expectations for women her age.
With her newly released album "My Space", she wants to make room and take space. For an impetuous feeling of youth, uninhibited fandom and big feelings.
The 44-year-old artist concludes with experiences that have shaped her adulthood. Early menopause, breaches of trust or failed friendships. It is time for something new. With a certain mood for optimism that we probably experienced in our youth for the last time, she makes it clear that it´s about the here and now.
There is this kind of youthful despite in her voice of these 10 electropop songs on her first solo album “My Space”. And opens a door to what most grown ups have buried somewhere between shopping lists and work-life-balance: her revived teenage self, brave, unironically emotional and without any bitterness.
In her first single "You Make me Forget", Nadine makes it clear who is in control of her life: herself. "Don't tell me what to do now" she proclaims in the album opener. Framed by steady beats of an electronic snare and accompanied by a prancing electric guitar, Finsterbusch's voice makes its way through the increasingly dense thicket of synths - "No, I don't look back" - until at the end she lets herself be taken in by a booming and glowing soundscape. Sound backdrop.
She repeats "I've been around" like a calming mantra, as if she is now focusing her strength before launching fully into the album. Nadine's vehement and innocent-sounding vocals are not accidentally reminiscent of Björk. The singer was Nadine's earliest and most formative inspiration: "I secretly watched MTV when I was 13. When I saw Björk for the first time, I knew: that's what I wanted to do that," she says.
Most recently, Nadine had lived out her love of electronic avant-garde pop in the band project Phinsterbush. "Magnets", the project's first and last album, was released in 2017. Now it's time for Nadine to do her own thing. And it's poppier, more playful, more honest. "As a solo artist, I can express myself differently than in a band context," says Nadine. This is how her songs for the album emerged from her gut.
"What comes out, is right," thought Nadine during the creative process. The songs are snapshots, created impulsively. "I only understood the meaning of some of the songs in retrospect." Disappointments and hurt feelings have flowed into the songs, but also the dealing with the early onset of the menopause, the accompanying mood swings and the finality of childlessness. She found the right musical framework for this together with producer Ramin Bijan, with whom she has already realized several projects and who, among other things, worked with the band "Die Türen" or Robert Forster.
Nadine greatly appreciates working with Ramin Bijan because he gives her the space to trust and express herself. But perhaps the most important influence on Nadine's current creative work is K-Pop. "Without the band BTS, the album probably wouldn't exist," says Nadine. Discovered during seemingly endless corona lockdowns, the guys from BTS dug themselves deeper and deeper into Nadine's heart. The fact that she would feel so much fan love again in her early 40s surprised herself.
So much so that she lists all the BTS band members in the song "Make Some Time". "That was actually a spontaneous improvisation that we then left in the song," she says. So there it is again, the unspent joy of experimentation that characterizes Nadine’s "My Space". And speaking of "My Space": the association with THE musical social network of the noughties is unintentional but fits in well with the youthful just-do-it vibe. The album is intended to make it much clearer: This is my space, my feel-good place. And that Nadine would also like to create for others.
Nadine doesn't need advice from supposedly serious music experts. On the contrary: "Why so serious?" she asks in the song of the same name. "My Space" is an invitation to indulge in all feelings without irony. Just like we did as teenagers.
Toronto's Trash Pop Trio Mad Ones Unveil Their New LP “What it Takes”
Toronto's leading purveyors of Trash Pop and Garage Rock, Mad Ones, have just dropped their highly anticipated new vinyl LP "What it Takes" on Fortune Stellar Records.
Toronto's leading purveyors of Trash Pop and Garage Rock, Mad Ones, have just dropped their highly anticipated new vinyl LP "What it Takes" on Fortune Stellar Records. This marks Mad Ones' fifth studio album, through a joint effort between Fortune Stellar Records, The Orchard, and F.A.B. Distribution.
The album boasts 10 infectious, high-energy tracks, brimming with catchy hooks and straight-to-the-chorus melodies. Recorded with the band performing and singing live in the studio, often with no separation, "What it Takes" captures the raw essence of Mad Ones' electrifying performances. Listeners can expect a unique yet familiar blend of influences, likened to a fusion of Ramones meets Hendrix, CCR meets Nirvana, or The Replacements colliding with The Kinks.
Often drawing comparisons to The Replacements and a grittier Big Star, Mad Ones hails from the heart of Toronto's Rock 'n' Roll scene, delivering tight song structures infused with the untamed energy of their dynamic live shows. Exclaim! Magazine called the trio "Crunchy, garage-tinged rock'n'roll done right," noting their refreshing departure from the overly earnest indie rock scene. Mad Ones has garnered significant support from Canada's esteemed media outlets, including The Verge, Indie88, CBC3, Stingray, and Earshot campus charts. With their latest album, Mad Ones are poised to further captivate their expanding fanbase and connect with an even broader audience.
In reflecting on the journey of the band thus far, Andrew DeVillers, the singer, guitarist, and bandleader of Mad Ones, remarked, "We have experienced all the usual dumb stuff an underrated powerhouse of our stature should…slippery steel staircases that go all the way to the top… being told we should have listed “no cats” on our rider…et cetera, but we’ve had the chance to tour with some of our favourite artists, had a lot of fun making records, and feel pretty lucky we still get to do this at all”.
The band has enjoyed some unique tour moments, electrifying performances at a rave in Serbia, a roller derby in Alberta, the odd roof top and so many more. Andrew, who also co-manages Fortune Stellar Records with his wife, Shiloh Harrison of HotKid, has overseen the release and/or distribution of albums by acclaimed artists including By Divine Right, Ace of Wands, HotKid, Rusty, The Mark Inside, The Mercy Now, and others. Notably, much of the material for the new Mad Ones album was crafted in Toronto, within the confines of an alley space off Queen St. West, once home to the legendary Shadowy Men On A Shadowy Planet (known for their iconic Kids in the Hall theme). However, it's worth noting that two tracks, "Drone" and "Mess," emerged from a transformative weekend at The Tragically Hip's renowned Bathouse Studio near Kingston.
Listen to the incredible new album by Mad Ones right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with the band on their social media.
Oakland’s Fog Lamp Drop Haunting Synthpunk LP with Single/Video “You Prove Yourself Wrong”
Oakland, California’s premiere synth-punks Fog Lamp have released their sophomore LP “Anxious Stargazing” on The Bucket Records with their latest video-single “You Prove Yourself Wrong.”
Oakland, California’s premiere synth-punks Fog Lamp have released their sophomore LP “Anxious Stargazing” on The Bucket Records with their latest video-single “You Prove Yourself Wrong.” With their refusal to conform to traditional norms, exemplified by their choice to incorporate a drum machine instead of a drummer, Fog Lamp continues to push boundaries and challenge expectations.
Their music has garnered praise from both seasoned goth enthusiasts and newcomers alike. In 2022, Willow House Records introduced Fog Lamp to the world with their debut album, Conversation?, showcasing the band's penchant for discordant arrangements and introspective lyrics. Following this successful debut, The Bucket Records have unleashed their sophomore effort, Anxious Stargazing, further solidifying Fog Lamp's presence in the Bay Area punk scene. "We played some great shows in 2023," says vocalist Aaron. "I like to pick up things in DIY spaces and dance with them. We played at a vintage clothing store and danced with a woman’s boot covering my hand. We used it to twirl around the Valentine’s Day flowers that were hanging from the ceiling. We also opened for some great bands including Combo, Warp, and Sick Thoughts."
Fog Lamp's latest music video, "You Prove Yourself Wrong," is a haunting synthpunk creation that defies genre boundaries. Drawing inspiration from cyberpunk, darkwave, and goth influences, this visually-stunning production promises to captivate viewers with its surreal imagery and 80's VHS quality aesthetic. Directed by cinematographers Paul Abueg-Igaz and Niki Selken, the video transports audiences into a realm where reality and fantasy intertwine. Live footage of Fog Lamp's electrifying performance sets the stage, capturing the raw energy and intensity of their music. Against a backdrop of pulsating beats and ethereal melodies, scenes unfold featuring technicolor skeletons, their fluorescent hues casting an eerie glow in the darkness, blurring the lines between the organic and the synthetic.
"You Prove Yourself Wrong" invites viewers on a journey through the depths of imagination, challenging perceptions and defying expectations at every turn. Whether you're a die-hard fan of synthpunk or simply intrigued by the allure of the unknown, Fog Lamp's music video promises an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary.
San Francisco's REPTIEL Release Their Fifth Album "Down Below World"
“Down Below World” is San Francisco based rock band REPTIEL’s fifth album and third in their SciFi/Fantasy, Psychedelic Prog Rock series that began with 2015’s “Hobbitozz … A Land That Never Was”, and proceeded with 2018’s “The Planet of Progkp”.
San Francisco based REPTIEL was formed in 2009 by members of Bay Area underground indie rock bands The Cubby Creatures, Thee More Shallows and The Druggles.
The REPTIELians claim to practice “ritual musick” in order to summon their stories and sounds, and only rarely do they perform live due to the various members’ agoraphobia, superstitiousness and excessive stage fright.
The band has just released their fifth album “Down Below World” and third in their SciFi/Fantasy, Psychedelic Prog Rock series that began with 2015’s “Hobbitozz … A Land That Never Was”, and proceeded with 2018’s “The Planet of Progkp”. “Down Below World,” resumes the story of protagonist Sine and his transgalactic guide the Spirit Usher. This time they have found themselves *inside* the planet of Progkp as they confront Progkp’s deity, Thos, after a journey to the planet’s core.
Fans of Pink Floyd, Radiohead, and The Borschlatts will be blown away by this “Down Below World” album, so listen to it below, delve into the story of the album HERE, connect with REPTIEL on FB, and be on the lookout for our exclusive review and interview, both coming soon.
Stream and Share “Down Below World” on Bandcamp
Connect with REPTIEL: Facebook
SoCal Alt Rock Band The Disassociates Drop Their Debut Album “No Reason This Can't Be Fun”
The Disassociates are an electrifying alternative rock band emerging from Southern California who have just unveiled their debut album “No Reason This Can’t Be Fun”.
SoCal's The Disassociates have just released their debut album “No Reason This Can't Be Fun”.
Vocalist Brie Marie says, “No Reason This Can’t Be Fun is a fun, wild, and completely open & honest look into coping with life and all the struggles that come with it. Whether you want to laugh, cry, or rage, No Reason This Can’t Be Fun has a song for you.”
The Disassociates are an electrifying alternative rock band emerging from Southern California, fusing elements of alternative rock, power-punk, and catchy melodies with relatable, authentic, and at times hilarious lyrics. Debuting in 2023 with their singles "I Don't Wanna" and "30mg", this enigmatic band is comprised of longtime friends vocalist Brie Marie, guitarist Jordan Sutton, drummer Michael Bonanno, and bassist Justin Pittman, each bringing a unique musical perspective to the table.
Known for their thought-provoking lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, The Disassociates navigate the realms of introspection and rebellion through their music with influences ranging from from pop punk to classic rock to metal. The band creates a sonic tapestry that is both familiar and groundbreaking.
The Disassociates' debut album, “No Reason This Can't Be Fun”, showcases the band's ability to push boundaries both lyrically and musically. If the clever yet true-to-life lyrics don't grab you, the melodies will be stuck in your head for at least 3-5 business days.
Listen to the new album below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with the band on their social media.
Autogramm Release Their New LP, "Music That Humans Can Play", and Accompanying "Born Losers" Clip
Autogramm, synth-driven power-poppers from Seattle, Chicago and Vancouver, have just released their latest LP “Music That Humans Can Play”. Their first album in over two years was released on vinyl and digital formats world-wide last November on Stomp Records (and Beluga Records EU). Accompanying this official release is the video for the track “Born Losers”.
Autogramm, synth-driven power-poppers from Seattle, Chicago and Vancouver, have just released their latest LP “Music That Humans Can Play”. Their first album in over two years was released on vinyl and digital formats world-wide last November on Stomp Records (and Beluga Records EU).
Accompanying this official release is the video for the track “Born Losers”. Keeping with Autogramm’s tongue in cheek brand of video making, “Born Losers” was shot and directed by Tyler McLeod on location at Sasquatch Mountain Resort in British Columbia. The video features a sasquatch, an epic backflip on skis, Kokanee beer and a banana on a shrimp platter. “Born Losers” is a song about being an outsider and finding your place in the world. The encouraging refrain of the song tells the listener, “We're all born losers until someone lets us win, we're all just outsiders until somebody lets us in.” The music video reinforces this narrative by portraying a story of acceptance among friends in a hilariously silly plot.
With their new album Music That Humans Can Play the band dedicated themselves to bringing in sounds from influences like The Fixx, David Bowie, Cheap Trick, The Boys, The Dickies, Jay Reatard, and Prince. The result is a decisively cohesive album that will fit in easily to the 80s section of your record collection, with songs so well-crafted they probably deserve to be on the soundtrack of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Music That Humans Can Play explores a myriad of lyrical themes ranging from hilarious to tragic. Most notable are songs like “Love is for Fools” examining the topic of love during the time of Covid, “Born Losers” embracing failure, feeling left out and being okay with it, “WannaBe” encouraging loving one another in whatever physical forms we take, and “Why do we Dance?” promoting Autogramm’s MO: Dance like nobody's watching! CC Voltage described the background to the third track on the album, “The song Hey Allie materialized at the end of a long, depressing winter. I was digging through old demos trying to find something worth using for the new album, when my partner encouraged me to write something for our unborn daughter. This gave me the inspiration to make something new instead of rehashing old ideas. It was a tough year for our family in a number of ways, and writing this tune was me offering a ray of sunshine for when we find ourselves in those gloomy periods of our lives.”
The new album, “Music That Humans Can Play”, was written while Autogramm ultimately reconsidered their future as a band in the time of the global pandemic. Despite the many factors which lead to being separated between their respective cities, sharing ideas remotely became the fodder that would ultimately become “Music That Humans Can Play”. In fact, drummer The Silo was finishing writing songs for the album on his flight from Chicago the day before hitting the studio. Part of the spark that reignited the band's fire was asking their friend Lars Von Seattle to join the band.
The legendary guitarist of Sub Pop’s late 90s and early 00s teenage heartthrobs, The Catheters had this to say, “Joining Autogramm was kind of a no-brainer since I was a big fan of the music, as well as genuinely enjoying their gracious company over the years– a rare combination, indeed. Planning the recording remotely was a new, and at times, challenging process but I think the record is more interesting and unconventional (dare I say eclectic?!) as a result. When we finally convened in Vancouver, long hours were spent diligently rehearsing and recording, but we also made plenty of time for extracurricular and memorable hot summer hangs– which I think can be heard on the record. It’s a total honor and a new pleasure to be inducted into such a dynamic, fun-loving, and multi-talented band of plastique punques.”
Listen to “Music That Humans Can Play” below, stream it on your preferred music service, and connect with Autogramm on their social media.
Stream "BEATZ ON THE RUN", the Newly Released EP by Elovet
Los Angeles based artist Elovet has just delivered his brand new EP entitled “BEATZ ON THE RUN”, featuring six tracks, including the very dope single “LABRYNTH”.
Los Angeles based artist Elovet has just delivered his brand new EP entitled “BEATZ ON THE RUN”, featuring six tracks, including the very dope single “LABRYNTH”.
Elovet was on quite a run in the final quarter of 2023 releasing two EPs and a handful of visuals since mid October like “RUNN!”, and we expect this incredible music output trend to continue into 2024 and beyond.
Vibe out to “BEATZ ON THE RUN” EP right now, also listen to it on Apple Music and connect with Elovet on his social media!
Rising Manchester UK Rap Artist Meduulla Unveils Her Debut EP "Oblongata"
With retro-fitted samples and warm, jazzy undertones, Meduulla’s “Oblongata” EP offers a passionate overview into the ethereal mindset of the Zimbabwean heritage artist, laced with sharp lyricism that paints vivid expressions of love, ambition, development and belonging when seeking solace in your creative journey.
With retro-fitted samples and warm, jazzy undertones, Meduulla’s “Oblongata” EP offers a passionate overview into the ethereal mindset of the Zimbabwean heritage artist, laced with sharp lyricism that paints vivid expressions of love, ambition, development and belonging when seeking solace in your creative journey. Delivering genuinely authentic hip hop that feels as nostalgic as it does contemporary, Meduulla’s spellbinding debut EP will mark her as one of the UK rap’s next breakout stars in the making.
Setting a vibrant tone from the offset, “Road To Damascus” opens with emotive pianos bursting with melodic intimacy. Quickly shifting into the infectious cut “Money Manifesta”, UK cult rapper Lunar C joins the fold and delivers high-octane bars that depict a vigorous lifestyle flourishing the fruits of his success. Before the heavy-set backing breaks down into a choppy, sample-driven space - the perfect setting for Meduulla to flex her potent storytelling with typical finesse.
Further notables include “Limbo” and “Life’s Like A Box Of Chocolates”, where we see Meduulla at her most effortless. Smooth, glossy production from UK favourites The Mouse Outfit are on full display, as the electric collaboration elevates Meduulla’s conscious raps to blazing new heights. She explores the wonders of our existence with deep-rooted influence and visionary conviction as clear markers of a growing talent.
Continuing to develop her free-form musically shining with purpose and authenticity, Meduulla released her infamous record “Mish Muulla”, earning serious support from BBC 1XTRA and landed her an incendiary performance at Reading & Leeds Festival last year. With attention spreading across the UK, the 24-year-old talent unleashed her breakout single “Life’s Like A Box Of Chocolates” ft. The Mouse Outfit (200K streams independently), all building towards key support slots alongside veterans AZ and Souls Of Mischief. Now with critical acclaim across the likes of WONDERLAND, GRM DAILY and GUAP MAGAZINE, the young star announces herself as a significant new voice fast on the rise.
Listen to “Oblongata” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Meduulla on her social media.
Connect with Meduulla: Instagram
Watch "Legends of the Underside", the Newly Released Visual Project from Ultra_eko
Hip-Hop artists Ultra_eko and DaRealMrLee have just unveiled a unique and completely original, award winning musical feature using hip-hop to tell a story through the visual medium. “Legends of the Underside” is truly quite unlike anything else.
Hip-Hop artists Ultra_eko and DaRealMrLee have just unveiled a unique and completely original, award winning musical feature using hip-hop to tell a story through the visual medium. “Legends of the Underside” is truly quite unlike anything else.
With this new album, Ultra_eko and DaRealMrLee tell an absurd metaphysical story, in which a supernatural penguin, aided by a senile pensioner, battles a demonic materialist, the Outsider Artist, in a more subtle realm of reality known as the Underside.
The visuals for “Legends of the Underside” are insane, and that’s how you should truly absorb the album, but you can also listen to it on Spotify. Do so below, connect with Ultra_eko and DaRealMrLee on their social media, and be on the lookout for our in-depth review of the album.
Listen to “Legends of the Underside” on Spotify
Connect with Ultra_eko: Instagram | X
Connect with DaRealMrLee: Instagram
merci, mercy Releases Her 3rd EP "Like An Orchid", Plus New Single "If You Had Any Friends"
Sydney alt-pop star merci, mercy has just released her anticipated new EP Like A Orchid. Featuring new single "If You Had Any Friends", out now via Liberation Records.
Alt-pop artist merci, mercy shares her third EP, “Like An Orchid”, out now via Liberation Records; part of Mushroom Music which is home to beloved alternative acts including DMA'S, Gengahr and Demob Happy. With this new body of work she delivers sparkling alt-pop anthems with heart, including recent releases ‘Shovel’, ‘Lonely & Horny’ and ‘Silver Lining’, along with unreleased cuts ‘If You Had Any Friends’ and ‘Mouldy’.
The songs bounce around merci’s thoughts on big topics including the ups and downs of relationships, struggles with addiction and anxiety, and everything in between. With support from BBC Radio 1 on Jack Saunders' Future Artists show and Mollie King’s Future Pop show, on all of her material to date, merci, mercy has never been afraid of exploring emotional vulnerabilities. Navigating mental health issues and overcoming personal hurdles surrounding anxiety and growing up in relationships, she has poured newly gained insights and perspective into “Like An Orchid”.
"My new EP Like An Orchid is the roller coaster of emotions you have during your first relationship and how extreme they can feel especially when you are someone who has anxiety. This EP will take you on a journey of my inner demons while also showing you into my heart a little bit. The songs in Like an Orchid are a family in terms of the lyrics but distant relatives in terms of the way they sound. Each story has its own sound."
“Like An Orchid” saw merci, mercy once again work with her longtime collaborator and friend, producer Chris Collins (‘Lonely & Horny’ and ‘Mouldy’) along with fellow Sydney-based songwriter and producer Robby De Sa (‘Silver Lining’ and ‘If You Had Any Friends’) and the one and only Matthew ‘Murph’ Murphy of The Wombats (‘Shovel’).
With over 24 million streams to her name thanks to the success of her first two EP releases: no thank you, no thanks (2020) and is it me, or is it you? (2022), the demand for new music from merci, mercy has grown in a consistent and organic way.
Widespread support via renowned outlets including triple j, Beats 1 and Zane Lowe, BBC Radio 1, Paper Magazine, NME, Clash Magazine, Flaunt and more, has positioned merci, mercy as part of a new vanguard of fresh Australian pop artists who have the potential to establish themselves as a long-standing presence internationally.
Extensive radio support throughout the UK and Europe, as well as continued global editorial playlist support across DSPs (she was one of the first global ambassadors of Spotify’s RADAR series and recently featured on the cover of Apple Music’s Superbloom playlist), has ensured merci, mercy’s front-of-mind status on the radars of industry and a fast-growing fanbase alike.
Perfecting her live show through support slots for international acts Valley and Lights, merci’s headline shows at Melbourne’s The Wesley Anne and Sydney’s The Vanguard are selling fast, and will see her perform songs from the new EP along with fan favourites. For those who cannot wait until January, merci will appear at Melbourne's SoundBox tomorrow, followed by Mushroom Group’s huge Mushroom 50 Celebration on Sunday and also at Changing Tides Festival beside acts like Spacey Jane, PNAU and The Temper Trap in December.
“Like An Orchid” is the next chapter in what has become one of Australian pop music’s most exciting and intriguing stories. Her dynamism was present from the jump but here, merci, mercy holds her space with a rejuvenated sense of self-awareness and ultimate happiness. A moment of blooming we can all wish to experience.
Listen to “Like An Orchid” now and connect with merci, mercy on her social media.
Vancouver Synthpunks Phuture Memoriez Release Their New Album "Play Cobra"
Phuture Memoriez is a dark synth-pop-punk band from Vancouver BC composed of Marc Blaquiere and Jessica Blaquiere. The duo have just released their latest full length LP “Play Cobra”, out now on Nerve Wracking Collections with accompanying single/video “Ear Blue”.
Phuture Memoriez have just released their latest full length LP Play Cobra out now on Nerve Wracking Collections with accompanying video-single for “Ear Blue”. Phuture Memoriez is a dark synth-pop-punk band from Vancouver BC and is composed of Marc Blaquiere and Jessica Blaquiere. Their third release, Play Cobra, is a concept record dedicated to the musical improv game Cobra. Created by jazz legend John Zorn, Cobra utilizes a series of hand jesters, cue cards, drawings, etc. and a conductor leading a group of improv artists creating noise, chaos, and beauty. Phuture Memoriez used each of the 10 chapters in the Cobra manual as inspiration, pulling all of the lyrics and song titles for each of the 10 songs on their new album Play Cobra, creating song titles like Mouth Yellow, and Ear Blue.
Aiming to create a hypnotic listening experience, all 10 songs are the same tempo of 138 BPM. All songs were written, recorded, and mixed by Jessica Blaquiere (Synth/Pedals/Sampler) and Marc Blaquiere (Vocals/Bass Guitar/Sampler/Production) and mastered by Doug Fury at Fortissimo Sound in London, Ontario. The band describes the album as “our best record to date, the cobra’s bite is intoxicating!” After Play Cobra was completed, Tylor David joined Phuture Memoriez on guitar. Tylor’s guitar compositions offer an enhanced live version of the Play Cobra songs, providing rich texture, tone, and harmonics.
The songs on the LP are short, fast, visceral blasts that are rooted in early punk and hardcore and have elements of Krautrock and foundational industrial music. Each track is an explosion, an expression of internal turmoil and angst against discordant hooks and symphonic feedback. Phuture Memoriez’ sound transitions constantly - not surprising because of their desire to test new sounds, tools, and techniques, which range in quality from lo-fi to professional level. They use tools like the Akai MPC Live, a cohort of digital/analog synths, pedals, noisemakers, electric bass guitar, among others, and vocals affected by other-worldly tones and textures. Their sound has been described by some to encompass “twisted tones and haunting synth vocals, pulling the listener down into a shadowy soundscape”. In other instances, some say Phuture Memoriez is “grungy with a metallic edge”.
Listen to “Play Cobra” right now, and connect with the band on their social media!
Review: "Human Nature" EP by Mikebøi
Experimental electronic producer Mikebøi confounds all expectations on the emotionally charged “Human Nature” EP. In a hybrid series of styles, there are an endless number of angles that are pursued. Pop, dubstep, noise, hip-hop, broken beats, and brittle textures reign supreme.
Experimental electronic producer Mikebøi confounds all expectations on the emotionally charged “Human Nature” EP. In a hybrid series of styles, there are an endless number of angles that are pursued. Pop, dubstep, noise, hip-hop, broken beats, and brittle textures reign supreme.
The EP’s six tracks explore the idea of near collapse. Beats have flexibility, with elastic grooves stretched far beyond any reasonable comfort zone. Change is the only constant, as Mikebøi makes sure to tear apart their arrangements, rearranging them in confounding, complex, and startlingly unique ways. Even at their most experimental, Mikebøi maintains a degree of vulnerability that can be found in the melodies to the nimble, ballet-like rhythms.
Nods to the latest wave of avant-garde meets the club emerge throughout the duration of the collection. Arca’s maddening twists and turns prove to be one touchstone of the overall aesthetic. On the heavier side of things, the glitch cacophonies that reassemble repeatedly draw upon early Oval, as there is that same level of dissonance mixed with beauty giving it that sweetness. The physicality of the pieces, the fragile and the frantic, incorporate lessons learned from Four Tet. Among all these different aspects one thing remains true – that Mikebøi manages to sculpt a sound very much rooted in the here and now.
Stuttering electronics fall apart with the fantastic opener and title track “Human Nature.” A longing aspect comes into focus, as the beats briefly flirt with EDM. Lumbering bass runs through “Never Stay”, featuring SRU with the inclusion of vocals adding a fine touch to the emotional tenor. One of the catchier pieces, the longing of the work has an intrinsic bliss, with the chopped-up vocals for the finale a fine touch to an already visceral piece. Industrial aesthetics on “Elevate” goes for the unhinged. “I Know a Ghost” has a beat-down expressiveness, allowing for chords to ring up to the sky. Gleeful abandon rushes through as “Dimension” clips samples down to mere milliseconds. Strangely hopeful “Φ૱Φ૱Φ૱” has an origami-like aspect, bringing things to a grandiose close.
“Human Nature” has an endearing, lovely sound as Mikebøi offers a stream of consciousness that is equal parts atmospheric as well as emotionally moving.
Stream and Share “Human Nature”
Experimental Electronic Producer Mikebøi Drops His New EP "Human Nature"
Mikebøi is a 22 year old experimental electronic producer based in Mexico, who began producing at 12 years old. His new EP, ‘Human Nature’, is a futuristic mix of experimental electronic, trap, hyper pop and PC music.
Mikebøi is a 22 year old experimental electronic producer based in Mexico, who began producing at 12 years old. His new EP, ‘Human Nature’, is a futuristic mix of experimental electronic, trap, hyper pop and PC music.
Mikebøi looks to bring his culture from Mexico to the future of electronic/PC music as there is little current representation for futuristic music within this community. He has reached some major musical milestones in his young career, including his most popular track, ‘Missed’ which has reached a total of +60 million plays on all platforms. This, along with his other releases, has enabled Mikebøi to appear on several different labels such as Trap Nation, Trap City, Actuation, Tribal Trap, Future House Records, Trap Town Records and many more.
This particular project, ‘Human Nature’, is inspired by Mikebøi’s belief that human nature is very different to what we humans are today, as we commonly do not adapt to the place where we live, but we fill it with comforts that destroy or completely change the natural habitat that nature gives us.
Through these tracks, Mikebøi asks the question of do we really belong to this planet or come from the outside. Trying to capture everything he feels about this philosophy in his project, Mikebøi tries to convey that we have a certain connection with nature that makes us enter into a balance where there is destruction, connection and ultimately, renewal.
Listen to “Human Nature” below, stream it on your preferred music service, connect with Mikebøi on IG and be on the lookout for our in-depth EP review and interview, both coming soon!
Stream and Share “Human Nature”
Connect with Mikebøi: Instagram
Pop Singer-Songwriter Anna Vrahliotis Releases Her Latest EP "A Little Thing Called Love"
Pop singer-songwriter Anna Vrahliotis returns to the music scene with her new EP, “A Little Thing Called Love.” Like her other records, Anna is the sole writer, for which songwriting she takes the most pride in. Written in two months, this EP is abundant in vivid imagery for which Anna is known.
With bright vocals and brutally honest lyrics, Anna Vrahliotis proudly calls herself a pop singer-songwriter. At 19 years old, she has released three solo-written EPs, has performed at the notorious Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, TN, and has had several articles written about her music.
Anna returns to the music scene with her new EP, “A Little Thing Called Love.” Like her other records, Anna is the sole writer, for which songwriting she takes the most pride in. Written in two months, this EP is abundant in vivid imagery for which Anna is known. The tracklisting is purposeful, creating a story of unrequited love.
Beginning with a playful synthpop song, “This Is” describes a teenage love story pursued by naive remarks and youthful imagery. This theme continues in track two, “Call You Mine,” where we realize the love story has ended. The opening line makes this apparent with the lyric, “How am I supposed to handle this right now? The fact you’re leaving me and won’t come back around.”
Track three, “Faker,” is where her youthful infatuation morphs into something a bit more profound. Reminiscing this lost lover, Anna uses her skill of vivid imagery to bring this scene to life, describing moments of singing in garages and being afraid to speak her truth. Still grasping the remains of youthful lust that began this EP, we move onto track four: “Friends.” One particular lyric in this song encapsulates the essence of the entire EP: “And I know you weren’t trying to trip me up, but I fell head over heels.” This is where Anna pushes aside her callow puppy love and hones in on the raw emotions following unrequited love.
“A Little Thing Called Love,” the title track of this EP, holds the number five spot in the tracklist. Released as a single on June 30th, this song is where her perspective on love changes from naive ideations to remorseful revelations. This is where we focus on her journey through heartbreak rather than what the relationship was. The sixth and final track on the “A Little Thing Called Love” EP is “Feel Love,” a song about recognizing your worth. As her youth presence slowly returns in this song, Anna describes how she deserves a love that is truly something, not just the idea of something. With the bridge that ends the EP, “To feel love and be loved by someone, I have to love myself,” she realizes that love is not wondrous and wild until you have a strong sense of self.
Listen to “A Little Thing Called Love” below and connect with Anna on her website and social media.
Stream and Share “A Little Thing Called Love”
Connect with Anna Vrahliotis: Website | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube