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Blog Showcasing Singer Songwriter Talent

Herman Martinez – Introvertebrae: A New Prog Rock Prism

Immortal Jellyfish by Herman Martinez

Herman Martinez poured the psychedelic soul of the 70s through his new prog rock prism, Introvertebrae, while tuning into melancholy in the same hauntingly evocative vein as Porcupine Tree.

The endearingly humble New Jersey-based multi-instrumentalist may not be able to brag about his talent which allows his tracks to transcend auditory experiences and unravel as emotionally chameleonic shots to the heart, but we have no reservations about revering his sonic journeys of self-discovery that cocoon his fans in musical chrysalises.

Martinez’s voice, echoing the emotional gravity of Chris Cornell and the octave-spanning prowess of Thom Yorke, serves as the navigator through this orchestrally immense soundscape, which uplifts in one breath and aches in the next as experimental indie meets prog rock. Naturally, the brilliance of Introvertebrae lies in its duality. It’s a nod to the prog rock deities – King Crimson, Rush, Emerson, Lake & Palmer – yet it speaks a language that resonates with the contemporary soul. The piano, heavy with emotion, could easily find a place in Father John Misty’s repertoire, while the 70s melodic undertones offer a comforting embrace to the classic rock enthusiast.

Martinez’s skill with the guitar is not just about showcasing an intuitive understanding of the fretboard. Each riff and melody are a chapter in this immersive rich musical novel. With so many elements, styles and layers, under a less deft hand, it would be easy to feel lost in the labyrinth of Introvertebrae, but by lyrically expositing our most intimate fears, Martinez allows the listener to feel seen and found.

Stream and download the latest single from Herman Martinez via Bandcamp.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Lynden. – Change: A Melodic Indie Folk Pop Embrace of Vulnerability and Hope

Evoking resonance by versing on our tendency to chase distraction to outrun negative pervasive thoughts and feelings of loneliness, Lynden.’s latest single, Change, melodically thrives on an emotive confluence of indie, pop, and folk and renders your heartstrings raw through the candour.

The deep emotional themes which traverse the trappings of anxiety and depression go beyond touching on the darkness that finds a way of leaving a shadow over all of our lives. Lynden. used the opportunity to advocate for the vulnerability of honesty and to extend hope to people who need to hear that world views are malleable. In short, If this world is just illusion, choose one that fulfils you.

Starting with simple acoustic guitar chords and evolving into an intimately all-encompassing production which echoes the appeal of Violent Femmes and The Maccabees’ more melancholic work, the Burnley-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist orchestrated a soundscape which sonically visualises the tenderness of the lyrical narrative, while injecting enough rhythmic zeal to give Change an all-too efficacious uplifting energy.

After receiving critical acclaim and over 24k streams for his last single, You, Lynden. is leaving his affectingly intimate mark on the indie landscape; we can’t think of a more worthy breakthrough artist in 2024.

Change was officially released on March 15. Stream the single on all major platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Nick Cave Meets the National in Harry White’s Latest Feat of Melancholic Liberation, A Way to Go

Harry White’s single, A Way to Go, extracted from his seminal LP Elvera, released on February 23rd, is a profound exploration of introspective lyricism and eclectic soundscapes.

The London-based artist embarked on a new musical chapter with his third album. A Way To Go, in particular, stands out as a vivid illustration of White’s artistic evolution. The influence of Nick Cave permeates through the keys and the gravelly drama of the vocal lines, while the introspective and intimate lyrics carry the magnetic flair of Leonard Cohen.

White’s venture into a more eclectic sound palette is evident in the fusion of electronic effects and the inclusion of a scratchily turbulent backbeat, hinting at The National’s influence. This backdrop is more than just a sonic layer; it’s a canvas for White’s philosophy that the world’s end is inevitable, regardless of individual actions. This theme, rather than being oppressive, is presented with a liberating twist, making A Way to Go a paradoxically uplifting anthem of melancholy.

The track is a compelling blend of styles, reminiscent of the transcendent zeal of ELO, yet amplified with a gothic romanticism unique to White. As the singer-songwriter gears up for live performances, A Way to Go solidifies his position as a seminal artist on the London circuit.

Stream A Way to Go on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

The country rock rapture arrived through The Whiskey State’s latest single, Where I Need to Be

In the valleys of Hampshire, The Whiskey State, comprising Tom Stride and Jordan Tate, has distilled a sound that resonates with the soul of country and the riotous heart of rock. Their latest single, “Where I Need to Be,” is a testament to their journey from college companions to creators of exhilaratingly sticky-sweet euphoria.

Imagine extracting the quintessence of The Manic Street Preachers, Bruce Springsteen, and Sam Fender, then blending it into a musical elixir. The result? A flavour profile as affecting as “Where I Need to Be,” a song that pays homage to the sanctity of country surrounds. It’s a track that stirs the soul so profoundly, that you might find yourself questioning if any roots-reverent rock track has ever touched it quite like this before.

The song encapsulates tender homecoming yearning through the guitar chords that wrap you in nirvana and endlessly ensnaring vocal hooks which make it impossible not to want to make The Whiskey State your sonic poison of choice. The songwriting prowess of the duo is as evident as their ability to catapult listeners into the soulful aura of their music.

Few things feel better than returning to whatever constitutes home, but this track comes a close second. With their debut EP “Welcome to…”, The Whiskey State not only showcases their distinctive blend of country and rock influences but also cements their place as one of the most captivating country-influenced rock duos in the Uk and beyond..

Stream the official music video for Where I Need to Be via YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Kneel at the altar of indie rock gospel with True North’s latest release, Love is in Command

Following a leftfield electronica-esque prelude that’s tinged with 90s rave culture, True North’s latest single, Love is in Command reaches its euphorically riotous alt-rock epicentre before grooving into a swathed with soul anthem.

With each new progression comes a lesson in seamlessly transitional experimentalism. The only constant between the switches in style, passion and tone is the infectious energy which pulls you deeper into the uninhibited zeal of the release crafted by the UK-based coven of independent songwriters.

With the shimmering organs and soul-wrapped backing harmonies around the Happy Mondays-reminiscent rhythms, Love is in Command is gospel for any indie kids who never need an excuse to kneel at the altar of 90s nostalgia.

True North, led by Reg Kielty, perceptibly succeeded in their mission of creating an eclectic brimming-with-commercial-potential hit which delivers authentic, honest, and no-frills songwriting. We couldn’t be more obsessed with the aura of this earworm if we tried.

Love is in Command was officially released on March 4th; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Sam Phillips serenaded urban desolation into melody with his seminal pop single, In the City

Sam Phillips, a 21-year-old Nashville-based talent, has struck a resonant chord with his debut LP, ‘Hide ‘n Seek’, particularly with the single ‘In the City‘. This track stands out as a testament to his burgeoning artistry, showcasing a maturity that seems far beyond his years and harmonies so light they defy gravity in the predominantly acoustic number.

It’s a song that cuts to the core of the emotional themes explored while demonstrating that there’s immense power in simplicity when delivered with authenticity and profound understanding.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of moving into the city, a journey from comfort to regret. Phillips taps into a universal sentiment, especially poignant in today’s world of widespread isolation. The bustling metropolis, often seen as a place of connection, is instead portrayed as a landscape of solitude. This theme will undoubtedly resonate with many, echoing the feelings of disconnection prevalent in our times.

Artistically, ‘In the City’ is both sublime and mellow, using its sonic narratives to great effect. The electric guitar solo towards the outro is particularly striking, cutting through the synthetic backdrop which symbolises a turbulent disconnection from sanctity.

For fans of pop looking for a track that combines lyrical depth with melodic beauty, ‘In the City’ is a must-add to your playlist. It’s a song that not only entertains but also invites reflection, making Sam Phillips an artist to watch in the contemporary music scene.

Sam Phillips’ LP, Hide ‘n Seek, was officially released on February 16; stream the album on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Rokeby’s Cover of What is Love is an Arcane Sermon of Mourning, Desperation and Torment

For his debut single, the London-based up-and-coming artist, Rokeby, proved what difference a minor key can make when he melancholically reinvented the 1993 single, What is Love, which was a flood of euphoric momentum under Haddaway’s dance pop duress.

The acoustic rendering of the single completely recontextualised the lyricism; the minor key piano notes and the gospel-esque soulfully profound vocal harmonies allowed the cover to unravel as an arcane sermon of mourning, desperation and torment. The ethereal production which sees his vocal range defy gravity swims in sincerity, inviting you to get lost in the undercurrents of agony inflicted by the absence of affection or the presence of imperfect love.

By taking inspiration from Hozier, Tom Odell, Bon Iver, Freya Ridings and David Kushner for this track and the rest of his forthcoming EP, which was co-written and produced with Tom Fuller, Rokeby is set to become the UK’s biggest evocateur of 2024.

Rokeby’s debut single was officially released on February 21st; stream the single on Spotify, and keep the artist on your radar for the launch of his debut EP, which will follow in 2024.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Molly Warburton is Pop Panache Perfection in ‘Overdrive’

Molly Warburton’s latest single, ‘Overdrive‘, is permission to break free from life’s relentless rhythm and sink into a melody that floods into the soul. The alt-electro-pop manifesto will liberate anyone who knows how it feels to be at the mercy of the frenetic pace of modernity, the crucifixions of insecurity and the trappings of romantic complexity.

It is a bold step in Warburton’s evolving discography through its defiance of pop convention; Overdrive draws inspiration from the likes of HAIM, Dagny, and Self Esteem, allowing Warburton to weave a rich sonic fabric that is both nostalgic and forward-looking. The song is a masterful blend of 80s synthpop and 90s dance-pop, infused with innovative vocal effects and harmonic layering that set a new standard in vocal dynamism.

The track’s production is a testament to Warburton’s inventive approach to piercing through the plastic pop veil. The lyrics and melodies intertwine to create a poignantly exhilarating anthem, serving as a powerful reminder to step back and gain perspective on life’s journey.

Having already made her mark on renowned playlists and festival stages, the UK-based singer-songwriter is on a sure-fire trajectory to the top. Be a part of her ascent and hit play.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Demmy Sober x Blkswn x PMP – Practice: A Vapoursoul Voyage in Alt-RnB

The Belgian-American singer, Demmy Sober’s latest single, ‘Practice’, featuring Blkswn and produced by PMP, is a mesmerising journey through the heart of alternative R&B and vaporsoul.

The track is a lush landscape of moody synths that cohesively contrast with her ethereally celestial vocal lines which harmonically glide over the trap beats and pulsating progressions, creating an atmosphere thick with reverb and emotion.

Following in the footsteps of The Weeknd, Demmy Sober steps out from any shadows to shine in her own right. Her demurely sensual vocal touch and the intimate, relatable lyrics speak of being a work in progress, something that everyone can relate to on some level.

The single is a testament to Demmy Sober’s evolution as an artist and storyteller, as she prepares to release her album, a project teeming with collaborations and rich in the essence of alternative R&B and vaporsoul.

With achievements like securing spots in Beatport’s TOP 50 Worldwide and iTunes Spain’s top 10, Demmy Sober is no stranger to success. Practice is a continuation of this journey and a track that will undoubtedly resonate with fans and critics alike, marking another milestone in her impressive career.

Practice will hit all major streaming platforms on March 7th; stream the single on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Strange Tides chartered a voyage into indie ingenuity with ‘Out of Deep Waters’

Out of Deep Waters by Strange Tides, extracted from their Differentiation EP, is a striking illustration of indie music’s boundless potential. This multifaceted single is a masterful fusion of Grandaddy-esque synth melodies, crunchy grungy guitars, and an air of theatrical piano pop. It embodies the instrumental grandiosity of a rock opera while maintaining the intimacy of a bedroom indie pop track, presenting a revelation in experimentalism.

Kirsten Bale, the principal architect behind Strange Tides, based in Vancouver, BC, demonstrates her expansive musical vision and her folkish poetic eloquence in this sweetly sentimental track. Her role as both a songwriter and a producer, alongside sound engineer Dan Ponich, is evident in the meticulous crafting of this piece.

Bale’s relentless pursuit of new musical territories, experimenting with instruments, chord patterns, and genres, ensures a constantly engaging and fresh listening experience. For fans of Mitski and Lucy Dacus, Out of Deep Waters is an irresistible draw. The track exudes a sense of joy and creative liberation, evident in its playful composition style that knows no bounds. It’s an aural elixir, inviting listeners to savour its unique blend of sounds time after time. As for the lyricism, it could leave any of the great romantics weak at the knees.

Out of Deep Waters was officially released on February 15th; stream and purchase the single on all major platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast