Well, happy – or sad depending on your standpoint – independence day! (Defo sad, ain’t it?). As we leave the European Union in a confused and bewildered state, new music is perhaps the final refuge for the UK. Drown out the arguments that are probably happening right now at your dinner table with some of the good stuff.
Track of the Week: Lissy Taylor – Mayday
An addictive concoction of dreamy vocals and a bad ass sound; one of those songs you listen to as you’re driving down the motorway as the sun is going down. It gets increasingly intense, but you’re probably too dazed while listening to her voice to even notice.
Austra – Risk It
What an ethereal return from Austra. After nearly 3 years of no music, her return pierced its way right in to your life; pitched vocals and brass instruments giving you a sweet taste of escapism. Giving it is a spin worth taking, and we’re honestly here to say Austra please don’t disappear for another 3 years!
Brooke Bentham – Control
Some sort of Control, that’s what Brooke Bentham is begging for. It is a song that finds its strength not only in its open-hearted lyrics about anxiety and self-hatred, but also in the delectable guitars it uses to loop us in a hypnotising circle. Control throws a punch with a velvet glove on, and ultimately it feels wonderful.
Genghar – Icarus
An opening fit for Stranger Things, Gengahr really turn their sound upside down. God, it felt like a glimpse back to A Dream Outside, and paints a picture just as colourful with its head-bopping riffs. Icarus may have flew too close to the Sun, but Gengahr shines brighter than the star ever could.
Honey Harper – Something Relative
First things first, we love a man in a cowboy hat. That said, this sentimental ode will make you just want to hug your loved ones closer. The blend of beauty and bittersweet hits you right in the chest, and god, is it just the perfect song when you reminisce
Ilira – Royalty
Someone grab a crown because Ilira is here to be treated like a Queen! I never knew how much I needed the No Scrubs attitude of the 00s to return, but thankfully, its emblazened in Ilira’s catchy chorus and soon to be on everyone’s lips.
Jane Hership – Best Friends
Best Friends is just the epitome of cozy. Hership’s just voice coos you through your headphones, and honestly, if you don’t close your eyes and have a bit of a sway, are you even listening properly? I might be scared of Spiders, but I am in adoration of Jane Herships.
Julia Bardo – I Wanna Feel Love
Bardo carries a retro aesthetic; not just chic, but sixties-chic. ‘I Wanna Feel Love’ is a breezy listen and I look forward to the release of the rest of the album Phase. Julia Bardo is definitely one to watch in the future, and in the meantime check out her video right now. You’ll be googling ‘retro landline’ within the hour.
Kahlla – Sense of Self
A European edge to alt-pop is always pleasing on the ears. Although her voice is as smooth as honey, her lyrics add a sharpness to the track, making you truly want to break free from society and become more at one with your sense of self.
Oscar Lang – Flowers
A bloomin’ good track, bringing the twinkle of Spring to January. The simplicity of the small melodies makes a huge impact, making you want to cancel your day job and just spend the day in the park with your mates.
SKIA – Anyone
A snap snap here, and a click click there; it’s a catchy track full of minimal, skipping instrumentals which allow Skia’s gorgeous vocals to take centre stage. Who said you need a constant groove for a song to be good? This quirky little number certainly doesn’t.
