Franklin Gotham Release Their 9th EP, “Good Times Bad Times”
Franklin Gotham, the alt-indie sensation that has been serenading hearts since 2013, is back with their 9th EP titled "Good Times Bad Times." This five-song collection is set to captivate a young, college-age audience with its cool edge and indie vibes…
Franklin Gotham, the alt-indie sensation that has been serenading hearts since 2013, is back with their 9th EP titled "Good Times Bad Times", which follows their last project, “Your The Moon". This five-song collection is set to captivate a young, college-age audience with its cool edge and indie vibes, perfect for those seeking a soundtrack for their most memorable moments.
One of the highlight tracks, "Caroline", is an instant indie-pop classic, weaving haunting melodies with raw emotion. This track delves into the complexity of love, exploring the pain of lost connections and the lingering presence of past relationships. The wistful longing and self-aware reflection in "Caroline" capture the essence of a love that burns brightly but leaves behind unresolved emotions and unfulfilled longing.
With "Life In A Northern Town", Franklin Gotham breathes new life into Dream Academy's 80s hit. With their signature blend of alt-indie and folk-rock, the band delivers a heartfelt and energetic rendition. Full instrumentation and flawless vocal harmonies bring a fresh take on this timeless classic, resonating with both old fans and new listeners alike.
This new EP follows in the footsteps of their previous releases each adding a unique chapter to their evolving sound.
Victoria Canal Drops Her Anticipated Debut Album “Slowly, It Dawns”
Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Victoria Canal has just released her anticipated debut album “Slowly, It Dawns” via Parlophone / Elektra Records.
Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Victoria Canal has just released her anticipated debut album “Slowly, It Dawns” via Parlophone / Elektra Records.
The 12-song collection, co-produced by Canal with Eg White (Adele, Kylie Minogue, Sam Smith) and Kevin Farzad (Clinton Kane), finds the 26-year-old Spanish-American musician embarking on a path that mirrors the unravelling of the human experience. “Life does feel like the sun rising,” she shares of the record’s evocative title. “You come into the world with very little clarity on the way things are – everything's a little hazy and confusing. Then, as you get older, your eyes adjust to what life is; it gets messy and complicated, then spiritual and expansive.”
Written over the course of three years and recorded between London and Los Angeles, the album captures this sentiment as much musically as it does lyrically: Canal’s stunning range is on full display across each of the genre-blurring tracks. The culmination of a lifetime of musical knowledge, experimentation and a fearless approach to her craft, Canal’s debut album marks a new chapter: a moment of newfound clarity about the artist she wants to be.
The focus track today, “Vauxhall,” which premiered on BBC Radio 2 last night, is the final single in the album’s narrative arc. The mid-point of the album, it marks a rebirth of sorts, where “hangxiety breeds resurrection.” The story begins with the flirtatious summer’s day of “June Baby,” turning to night with the sweaty and experimental “California Sober” into the early hours of the next morning with “Cake,” hiding in the excesses of escapism. Coming down from the high, we reach the spacey self-doubt of album highlight track “15%,” and “Vauxhall” follows as the sun rises over a new day, new beginnings and new possibilities.
The official visualiser for “Vauxhall” sees Canal weigh up the often confusing and conflicting paths available to us in life. The song explores a mid-twenties crossroad between following her dreams of career success, despite the struggle this entails, and leaving it all behind to settle down into a quieter, more conventional life. Ultimately, as the song’s climax suggests, there was never any choice for her: music was always her path.
2024 marked a landmark year for Canal, finally sharing music from her debut album, touring worldwide on her headline ‘Just What I Needed’ tour, winning her second Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically, and appearing to sing and play piano on “Paradise” with Coldplay at Glastonbury Festival. She also sang backing vocals on three songs on the band’s 2024 album Moon Music. The release of her debut album sees Canal embark on her Slowly, It Dawns headline tour through February and March, including a night at NYC’s Brooklyn Made on February 20 and LA’s Troubadour on March 18.
Listen to “Slowly, It Dawns” right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Victoria on her social media.
Niambi Releases Her Debut Solo EP “Taboo”
DMV-raised and Puerto Rico-based multidisciplinary artist Niambi just released her debut EP “Taboo” via Easier Said. Alongside the EP, Niambi shares the visuals to the track “No Budget” directed by CEOJAY.
DMV-raised and Puerto Rico-based multidisciplinary artist Niambi just released her debut EP entitled “Taboo”, via Easier Said. Alongside the EP, Niambi shares the visuals to the track “No Budget” directed by CEOJAY, which cinematically portrays the multitudes of Niambi as a mother, spiritual leader, and young woman.
Taboo is ultimately a celebration of freedom, with Niambi letting loose and showcasing her confidence. The project follows Niambi’s move from New York City to Puerto Rico embracing the natural surroundings of Puerto Rico’s environment. Niambi shares about Taboo, “On this project, I’m giving myself permission to say what I need to say and do what I want to do. I’m allowing myself to take up more space. And I love it here.”
As a whole, Taboo explores the various sonic inspirations that have surrounded Niambi her whole life. Those inspirations can be heard on her singles “Ain’t Shit,” which explores R&B, “Soccer Mom,” which has a trap-like beat and was highlighted by Rolling Stone and CLASH Magazine, and “Rocksteady,” which has a Jersey Club air, along with the previously unreleased tracks “No New Friends,” which pulls from Niambi’s rock band days, “RUN IT!,” which echos 90s rap and “No Budget,” which hails inspiration from alternative rap. Additionally, “Soccer Mom” was also followed by a MajorStage live session featuring Portia Rolle on guitar, who is the grandmother of Niambi’s child and has played on records for artists including Elton John, Notorious B.I.G. and Lil Kim.
After establishing herself as one-half of the neo-soul / hip-hop duo OSHUN, Niambi is jumping headfirst into solo waters for the first time with Taboo. During their tenure, OSHUN received acclaim from outlets like Billboard, Rolling Stone, The FADER, NPR, PAPER, and collaborated with artists like Princess Nokia, Jorja Smith & LION BABE. The duo have also performed at Glastonbury, Afropunk and Melt! Festival, and were direct support for Lauryn Hill’s 2020 North American tour. In 2022, OSHUN released their final album, vol. ii.
Listen to “Taboo” below, stream it on your preferred music service and stay tuned for more from Niambi to come very soon.
Scotland Based Techno Artist Mha Iri Shares Her New EP, "Leader Of The Pack"
Scotland’s techno chart-dominating powerhouse Mha Iri unveils her latest project to mark her new signing to [PIAS] Électronique - a series of four EPs themed around the four Elements. First EP, three-tracker "Leader Of The Pack" representing the element of Earth, is out now.
Scotland’s techno chart-dominating powerhouse Mha Iri unveils her latest project to mark her new signing to [PIAS] Électronique - a series of four EPs themed around the four Elements. First EP, three-tracker Leader Of The Pack representing the element of Earth, is out now. The first single/title track already received strong support from Mixmag, Magnetic Mag, DJ Mag and SiriusXM.
The release follows her latest five-date tour in Australia, including Eat The Beat Festival alongside Carl Cox, Chris Liebing, Lilly Palmer. Ahead, she’ll play Gashouder with Awakenings for New Year. Mha Iri’s 2024 releases on Drumcode, FOA and TRICK have made her assertive, hyper-speed brand of techno with melodic elements a key part of the scene in very short time.
The Elements theme: Mha Iri is very aware of her Scottish/Gaelic roots, including a ‘deep love for nature. This series of EPs reflects this connection. The four elements – Earth, Air, Fire and Water - provide endless creative interpretation, allowing me to express various aspects of myself as a person and artist’ she says. ‘I found this beautiful amethyst crystal cave in Scotland for the artwork—it felt perfect.’ The first EP, themed around Earth reflects her own grounded and down-to-earth approach in her personal life and career.
EP focus track "Go Hard" goes well hard with rampageous percussion, distorted morse code stutters, mighty breakdowns using doppler to twist the sonic knife as the drop approaches, and a funky male vocal riff – all of it full of hooks from sudden changes or omissions.
"Give You" ft. Argy (UK) keeps up the punishing pace with arp-y bass, a solid wall of beats, and higher, resonant vocal riffs, with melodic phases competing with ripped metal stabs in the breakdown.
Recent EP single "Leader Of The Pack": hits the ground running with racing techno beats, hoover synth chords, and dark, no-prisoners spoken lyrics, while use of doppler FX and multiple stabs keep the vibe dynamic, urgent, relentless. Big breakdowns with siren-sound builds and deep-plunge drops complete the perfect dance fuel.
An emerging star, first in Australia, and now returned in triumph to her native Scotland, Mha Iri was 2023 Beatport #1 best-selling Hard Techno female artist + #2 in Peak Time/Driving Techno, while her five Drumcode and Filth On Acid releases all made Top 10, with two at #1. Her extensive touring schedule this year included Awakenings, Terminal V, Tomorrowland, and killer sets at this ADE's Gashouder for Drumcode X Awakenings and Dockyard X Mystic Garden Festival.
Check out Mha Ira’s new EP right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with her on social media.
Brooklyn Post-Hardcore Band Common Sage Release Their New Album, "Closer To;"
Legendary independent New York-based rock label Equal Vision Records and Common Sage are excited to announce the release of Closer To;, the Brooklyn, NY-based post-hardcore band’s brand new studio album.
Legendary independent New York-based rock label Equal Vision Records and Common Sage are excited to announce the release of Closer To;, the Brooklyn, NY-based post-hardcore band’s brand new studio album (stream/purchase HERE). Recorded and produced by Brett Romnes (Anxious, Oso Oso, Hot Mulligan, The Movielife) at The Barber Shop Studios in Lake Hopatcong, NJ, Closer To; features the album’s new single, “47.”, a song about self reflection, specifically on some negative aspects that sometimes frontman Julian Rosen finds himself acting on. Watch the music video for “47.”, directed and edited by Rich Weinberger (Gatherers), below.
Additionally, Common Sage will be making numerous west coast appearances supporting Reggie & The Full Effect, kicking off on December 6 in Roseville, CA. A full listing of dates can be found below, and more information on tickets can be found on the band’s site HERE.
Whether it’s acknowledged or not, starting a “post-hardcore” band in this era is not a decision to be taken lightly. The genre, rife with copycats, naysayers, and gatekeepers, can be one of the most critical of its kind. This is why, upon first listen to Common Sage, one should keep an open mind. The Brooklyn, NY based quartet brings to the table not only a serious deference for their groundwork laying predecessors, but they offer something new to the scene altogether—which is much easier said than done.
Common Sage’s sound feels like a modern take on the melodic side of post hardcore with a strong influence from the legendary Long Island emo scene. When these dualistic stylings are partnered with a dissonant, cacophonous riff-storm, they sound something like Quicksand and Title Fight dancing a delicate ballet. This is no doubt a very calculated and deliberate musical high wire act, and it’s not something that can be accomplished by a band that has not done their due diligence.
Herein lies the secret to Common Sage; it’s less of what they choose to put on the canvas as artists, but more of what they choose to hold back that shows the true nature of the band. While something such as a simple three chord breakdown could have served them greatly in the short term—the band opts for much more artful choices, making veteran level structural decisions that you would expect from innovative songsmiths like Modest Mouse or mewithoutYou. It’s easy to see why industry pillars like Geoff Rickly and Steve Pedulla of the band Thursday or Jason Gleason of Further Seems Forever were quick to lend their talents and to the band's new music.
This is why it is so fitting that Sage, a medicinal herb, when burned is used to cleanse the air of all its impurities. One can only hope that Common Sage can accomplish something similar within their genre, clearing out the staid tropes of the past and making way for something new to appear out of thin air.
Common Sage will be making the following U.S. appearances next month. Dates below.
DECEMBER
06 — Roseville, CA — Goldfield Trading Post #
07 — Anaheim, CA — Chain Reaction #
08 — West Hollywood, CA — The Roxy #
10 — Denver, CO — Marquis Theater #
# — supporting Reggie & The Full Effect
Connect with Common Sage: Website | Instagram | X | Facebook
Emzeezy Presents His Newly Released EP, "WHERE I'M AT"
Emzeezy is a talented up and coming rap artist and producer from Bosnia and Herzegovina who recently unveiled his latest EP “WHERE I’M AT”, featuring the three songs, “Frail”, “The Song I Never Wrote (Self Conscious Part 2)”, and the title track.
Emzeezy is a talented up and coming rap artist and producer from Bosnia and Herzegovina who recently unveiled his latest EP “WHERE I’M AT”, featuring the three songs, “Frail”, “The Song I Never Wrote (Self Conscious Part 2)”, and the title track.
“WHERE I’M AT” follows Emzeezy’s last project, “EMPTY”, and includes his production on two of the three tracks, as well as production from BIG SPICE.
Speaking about the release, Emzeezy says that the “lyrical content on this EP is pretty introspective and paints a vivid picture of where my mind was at when I was writing the songs”.
Powerhouse Electronic Music Artist HAYLA Releases Her Debut Album "DUSK"
UK-based HAYLA is a powerhouse vocalist and high-calibur songwriter who just released her debut solo album "DUSK", featuring the singles “Freefall,” “Embers” and “Fall Again.”
London, UK-based HAYLA is a powerhouse vocalist and high-calibur songwriter who is called upon by many prominent electronic music acts–from Kx5 and John Summit to KYGO, Meduza and Sub Focus just to name a few–to write with and perform on their biggest singles. She now celebrates the release of her debut solo album DUSK (Restless Minds Music/Believe UK).
Touted a notable album by NPR Music, each song on DUSK runs deep exploring different themes of love lost and won to anxiety, regained strength and dreams. The ten-track collection recorded over three years, consists of all original songs along multiple styles and genres, penned and performed by HAYLA with production from a variety of producers including Andy Sheldrake, Blanke, Carl Ryder & Nick Henriques and more.
Highlights on HAYLA’s DUSK include the downtempo electronica piece “Unfold” that has a storytelling style of songwriting which she wrote to herself addressing the internal battle of wanting connection but understanding one needs to spend time on their own to be themselves and heal. The infectious “Visions Of You”--which HAYLA labels the happiest track on the album–is for when you’re star struck by infatuation and the thoughts of that one person that gets you through your day. The title song is an experimental track which houses 12 part choral vocal swells and a comforting beat, produced by HAYLA herself and inspired by her favorite time of day.
From John Summit’s mega hits “Where You Are” and “Shiver” to deadmau5 x Kaskade’s Top 40 smash “Escape” from their GRAMMY nominated Kx5 project, HAYLA has been dazzling dance fans across the globe alongside her own singles from DUSK , "Embers," "Fall Again" and "Freefall." HAYLA has over 6.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone with her biggest track–the Platinum certified “Where You Are” reaching over 161 million plays. Her song with KYGO “Without You” appears on his current album and most recently she paired with Meduza on their single “Another World.”
To support the release of DUSK in the U.S., HAYLA will make her first ever major headlining performance December 4 at The Roxy Theatre on the world famous Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. The high-production album release party will have HAYLA performing live many selections from DUSK as well as her popular collaborations such as “Shiver,” “Escape,” “Without You” and “Another World.” A limited number of tickets remain here.
Over the last year HAYLA has performed in front of sold out crowds at iconic venues around North America with her collaborators. The dance music sensation joined John Summit during his closing set of Coachella 2024 to perform their single “Shiver”' for thousands of fans in the festival’s famed Sahara tent and those watching the live stream from home–and then again caused buzz for her guest performance of “Where You Are” and “Shiver”' at his recent Madison Square Garden play. HAYLA also joined deadmau5 as a special guest for his ‘retro5pective’ shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles and New York’s The Brooklyn Mirage and Kygo at his Palm Tree Festival events in Hawaii and the Hamptons. Look for HAYLA to join Kygo again for select European dates of his World Tour before the end of 2024.
Check out the incredible DUSK album below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with HAYLA on her social media.
Orey Eyed Presents His First Album Entitled "Dozing Off While Driving"
Orey Eyed, a music project of the South Korean born singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Jaehyun Kim, has unveiled the first full-length LP, titled “Dozing Off While Driving”.
Orey Eyed, a music project of the South Korean born singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Jaehyun Kim, has unveiled the first full-length LP, titled “Dozing Off While Driving”.
Featuring performances and production from himself as well as a vocal performance from Ohio-based singer-songwriter mimete on the sixth track “Scarlet Noise”, the record encompasses a wide range of genres from dream pop and shoegaze to electronic rock and alternative.
The twelve-track album discusses various topics such as escapism, bisexual identity, apocalyptic future, and unconditional love, too. Easily-identified sounds of dreamy, lush synths, psychedelic guitars, and airy vocals are found all over the album, establishing a solid identity of the project.
Live dates as well as the detailed release dates for the deluxe version of the album will be announced soon. In the meantime, listen to “Dozing Off While Driving” below, stream it on Bandcamp and Apple Music, and connect with Orey Eyed on his social media.
Stream and Share “Dozing Off While Driving”: Apple Music | Bandcamp
Taiwan Based Singer-Songwriter Niki Releases Her Fifth Album "Pride and Prejudice"
Niki is a Taiwan based singer-songwriter who is thrilled and relieved to unveil her fifth album, “Pride and Prejudice”. The album includes a total of 15 tracks, and all made it to the charts from No.1 to 50 on StreetVoice, Taiwan’s local indie streaming platform.
Niki is a Taiwan based singer-songwriter who is thrilled and relieved to unveil her fifth album, “Pride and Prejudice”. The album includes a total of 15 tracks, and all made it to the charts from No.1 to 50 on StreetVoice, Taiwan’s local indie streaming platform. The entire album is inspired by and dedicated to her ex, expressing all the up and mostly down emotions that occurred throughout the 15-month relationship.
The boy, a narcissist, sexist, materialistic and patriarchal, pretended to be a man and ended up creating a heart-break album. It covers topics that often occur in the post-relationship period, and she hoped that her lyrics would strike a chord with her listeners and act as a haven for some. “Pride and Prejudice” is Niki’s side of the story and her farewell and last romantic gesture to the inspiration himself. (It is definitely not a revenge album.)
Unlike the previous albums Niki has released, “Pride and Prejudice” consists of a collection of tracks made and recorded within two weeks using an entry-level USB microphone, as she hoped to document the authenticity and feelings for her break-up. Even though the lyrics themselves are direct, irritating and gut-wrenching, Niki has teamed up with Casper Yang, a famous and talented Taiwanese producer/singer, to add elements to the arrangements to create a variety of genres, including country, RnB, folk, soft rock, and more.
The album evolves around several topics, including how people nowadays often ‘replace broken items instead of fixing them to last,’ how men frequently choose ego and pride over something real to hold onto, how promises are often made just for sex, and how goodnights turned into goodbyes.
Listen to “Pride and Prejudice” below, as well as on your preferred streaming service, and connect with Niki on her social media.
Stream and Share “Pride and Prejudice”: Apple Music | YouTube Music | StreetVoice
Connect with Niki: Instagram
JSDavani Presents His Self-Produced Concept Album, "The Melancholiac II"
“The Melancholiac II" is the incredible newly released, self-produced concept album from multi-instrumentalist and multimedia artist Jacoby Davani aka JSDavani, and comprises 20 tracks, opening with “Heartdrops”, and closing with “A Beginning/Ending :Rinse/Repeat”.
“The Melancholiac II" is the incredible newly released, self-produced concept album from multi-instrumentalist and multimedia artist Jacoby Davani aka JSDavani, and comprises 20 tracks, opening with “Heartdrops”, and closing with “A Beginning/Ending :Rinse/Repeat”. The album’s title is a reference to Jacoby’s favorite Dean Blunt album, “The Narcissist II”.
Along with being a music creator and artist for over 20 years, Jacoby is a behavioral analyst (BCBA) who works with children on the Autism spectrum.
He has released 6 different experimental music projects in the last year, with over 5 hours of music between them; the latest being “RE:sender -> VOL1”.
If you’re a fan of experimentation and next level creativity, then you will love Jacoby’s album, “The Melancholiac II”. Listen to it below, and hang close to DCWS because our exclusive interview with him and review of the project are both coming soon.
Connect with JSDavani: Soundcloud | Spotify
Legendary Hip-Hop Producer Diamond D Releases "The Diam Piece 3: INITIUM”
Diggin’ In The Crates Crew co-founding member Diamond D shares “INITIUM”, the first of three parts to “The Diam Piece 3”, which will serve as the final installment in his production compilation series.
Grammy-winning Hip-Hop legend Diamond D released “The Diam Piece” album in 2014, followed by the project's sequel, “The Diam Piece 2”, in 2019. Now, the Diggin’ In The Crates Crew co-founding member shares “INITIUM”, the first of three parts to “The Diam Piece 3”, which will serve as the final installment in Diamond D's production compilation series.
With star-studded guest features such as Fatman Scoop, Skyzoo, RJ Payne, 38 Spesh, and more, “INITIUM” will be followed by Duo and Tria to complete The Diam Piece 3 over the course of the next 12 months.
"I would never release an album with 28 songs in this age of short attention spans. With that being said, I'll be releasing he 'Diam Piece III' album in three separate parts over a 12 month timespan: 'INITIUM', 'Duo' & 'Tria'. This will give each release a chance to breathe on its own and to be appreciated. The Diam Piece 3 album will complete the trinity for my production series. It was an honor to work with all the talented spitters on the new album. If you're familiar with both Diam Piece parts 1 and 2 then you already know what to expect: hard hitting tracks and dope lyricism. I stand on that." - Diamond D
“The Diam Piece 3: INITIUM” arrives on all major digital streaming platforms via Dymond Mine Records/EMPIRE just a month short of the 32nd anniversary of Diamond D's 1992 classic debut “Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop”.
Stream/Share “The Diam Piece 3: INITIUM”
“The Diam Piece 3: INITIUM” can be purchased on vinyl via Fatbeats here.
Lupe Fiasco Releases His Latest Album "Samurai" and New Music Video for "No.1 Headband"
Lupe Fiasco unveils his latest album “Samurai”, a smooth, yet cerebral, 8-track album brimming with ideas, that radiates his pure love for the art of emceeing and committing himself as a servant of the rap game.
With over two decades of tenure in the rap game, Lupe Fiasco is a savvy veteran of hip-hop, but that doesn't mean he doesn't take the time to hone and perfect his craft at every turn. Now, the Chicago MC unveils his latest album “Samurai”, a smooth, yet cerebral, 8-track album brimming with ideas, that radiates Lupe's pure love for the art of emceeing and committing himself as a servant of the rap game.
'The word 'samurai' means to serve,' Lupe says on the album's title. 'My relationship to that word has always meant that you need to be at the service of other people, either in the overall community, or in this instance, the rap community at large that I’ve been a part of for years.'
“Samurai”, Lupe's ninth studio album, is produced in full by Soundtrakk, making it their second full album collaboration following 2022's DRILL MUSIC IN ZION, and the first album that Lupe and Soundtrakk worked on with their longtime manager, and 1st & 15th co-CEO Charles 'Chill' Patton, since 2007's “The Cool”. Patton also serves as executive producer on the album. It's home to recent singles such as the title track, 'Samurai,' praised by Rolling Stone, HYPEBEAST, Clash and Complex plus the lyrical beatdown, 'Cake,' which shows off Lupe's supreme ability to attack the beat with poetic and energetic bars.
Lupe's ninth full-length to date opens with aforementioned title track, 'Samurai' and is a loose and soulful record that gently lopes along with a prominent drumbeat and a lilting soprano sax lick, as Lupe dons his battle rap persona, attempting to draw a crowd with his poetic devices. While the chorus imitates a busker or carnival barker's call for attention, the verses dig deeper. The first verse analyzes the awkward relationship between hip-hop culture and high culture. The second verse tells the story of a struggling artist, contrasting her glamorous dreams with her gritty reality, but brimming with her unbroken spirit.
Lupe takes the listener on an introspective journey but also utilizes different eras of hip hop to tell the stories that lay within each individual track. From experimental melodies infused within hip hop beats that carry '90s twang like 'Mumble Rap', or paired down, sentimental percussions and keys as found in 'Palaces,' and the orchestral, street freestyle-esque 'No. 1 Headband,' Lupe weaves the many faces of hip hop, along with the many lives he has lived within the industry, into the narrative of his project.
On “Samurai”, Lupe retreats inward to deliver fans one of his most personal albums to date. 'I sometimes get tagged by my fans as not doing personal records,' Lupe says, 'but I always tell people there's me in there if you listen closely enough. This album is one of my more personal records to date. It's not a full biography, but my personal experiences are tied up in all of my music. A lot of the records are me. Some are from the POV of a character. and some are me. The album weaves things from my life as an artist, touching on things other artists go through.'
“Samurai” is Lupe's first new album since 2022's DRILL MUSIC IN ZION, which earned critical acclaim from NPR, Complex, The FADER, and many others, including Vinyl Me Please, who wrote 'At their best, Lupe's bars are as visually and phonetically pleasing as popped bubble wrap.' The product of a burst of thoughtful spontaneity, Lupe created DRILL MUSIC IN ZION over a short period, diving into a folder of beats sent by Soundtrakk and emerging with a fully-realized album in just three days.
In 2023, Lupe kept busy by releasing tracks like 'Wild Child (Remix),' a new version of his 2017 track created in collaboration with Chicago house luminary Vince Lawrence, and 'Out There,' an archival track from the 1st & 15th vault.
The iconic Chicago native also settled into his position as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he teaches 'Rap Theory and Practice.' Beyond music, Lupe continues to focus on the community organizations he founded, including We Are M.U.R.A.L, The Neighborhood Start-Up Fund, Society of Spoken Art, and his cross-cultural content venture, Studio SV.
Listen to the DOPE “Samurai” album below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Lupe on his social media.
Manchester, UK Singer-Songwriter Odd One Out Releases Her New EP "Alone"
Dynamic Manchester, UK based singer-songwriter Odd One Out has just dropped her third EP entitled “Alone”, featuring five tracks. Listen to this great new release now.
Courtney Pilling aka Odd One Out is a dynamic singer-songwriter based in Manchester, UK who brings a unique voice to the indie music scene. Inspired by the band Twenty One Pilots, she began her musical journey with a modest ukulele, a gift from her mum.
Since then, Odd One Out has been expressing her thoughts and feelings through songs, initially recorded in single takes using the microphone on her earphones. Now, at 23 years old, she creates music with a more professional setup.
The name 'Odd One Out' reflects Courtney's experiences of often feeling out of place. Through music, however, she discovered a sense of belonging.
Odd One Out’s music, characterised by its hauntingly beautiful melodies and introspective lyrics, has been described as "Spectral Pop" by many people, including radio host Graham Duff.
She’s just released her third EP entitled “Alone”, which is composed of five tracks. Speaking about the project, Odd One Out says, “This EP titled 'Alone' is about the perspectives of different people who are alone. Alone in the way they think, alone physically, alone because nobody seems to want them, but the ending song repeats "I am not alone." This conclusion to the EP emphasises that nobody is ever truly alone.”
Listen to “Alone” right now, connect with Odd One Out on social media, and be on the lookout for our exclusive interview with her coming soon.
Alt Punk-Rap Duo Joey Valence and Brae Release Their Sophomore Album "NO HANDS"
Fast-rising, viral alt punk-rap duo Joey Valence & Brae have released their highly anticipated sophomore album, “NO HANDS”. The boys have also announced a massive, US/EU fall tour in support of the album that kicks off September 9 in Dallas.
Fast-rising, viral alt punk-rap duo Joey Valence & Brae have released their highly anticipated sophomore album, “NO HANDS”. The self-written, self-produced, self-mixed and mastered collection takes the propulsive energy of their critically acclaimed debut, PUNK TACTICS, and goes harder, but also offers more range; housing their most impressive work to date and featuring guest appearances by Danny Brown, Terror Reid and Z-Trip, signifying a huge progression as they skillfully traverse a smash and grab collision of 90s hip-hop, drum ‘n’ bass and decades-spanning pop culture references while remaining undeniably themselves throughout.
The boys have also announced a massive, US/EU fall tour in support of the album that kicks off September 9 in Dallas. They’ll bring their insane live show to major cities around the world including Austin, Chicago, Washington DC, Boston, New York City, Toronto, Los Angeles, Stockholm, Milan, Paris, Berlin, London and more. Playing live is where Joey Valence & Brae truly excel, and their performances are a high-octane blur of pinwheeling arms and legs and adrenaline-fueled chaos with maximum crowd participation. Pre-sales begin with JVB’s artist pre-sale on Tuesday, June 11 ahead of the general on-sale beginning Friday, June 14 at 10 a.m. local time. Please visit www.jvbsucks.com for more info.
“NO HANDS” is classic JVB: raw, wily, full of braggadocio and peppered with their eclectic blend of interests — Star Wars, Super Mario, Putt Putt Golf, Olivia Rodrigo, Top Golf, Shirley Temples, Smucker’s Uncrustables, legendary UK chicken shop chain Nando’s and so much more. Opening track “BUSSIT,” with its distorted, bassy-synth, in-your-face, brain-rattling beats, and an unexpected jungle break, absolutely sets the tone. While lead single “THE BADDEST,” a body-quaking Miami bass banger, part Fatman Scoop, part LMFAO, is destined to be a riot-inducing live favorite. Elsewhere, early singles “JOHN CENA” and “WHERE U FROM” are full of swaggy braggadocio, simultaneously poking fun at those who think they’re all that. The latter is a mash-up of house synths and loose-limbed beats while tipping a cap to Brockhampton.
The record also includes stand out collaborations with Terror Reid on “DOUGHBOY,” and the just-released Danny Brown collab “PACKAPUNCH” (JVB slid into his DMs only to find out the Detroit rapper was already a fan). With its jazzy hook and scratching from pioneering DJ Z-Trip, the LP’s title track is also key.
“‘NO HANDS’ is driving home the point that we do this on our own, and that we're confident about it,” said Joey. “Like, ‘Look Ma, no hands.’ It also doubles for having no hands working on this project other than us in terms of the creative. This album is us doubling down: we bet on ourselves and it worked. [and] we're still having the best time of our lives.”
The album closes with “OMNITRIX,” a triumphant cut featuring sampled strings and soul vocals, the title a nod to the cartoon Ben 10. Joey calls it “a victory lap for the whole album,” and its more measured cadence showcases a new dimension to the brash, punk-rap stylings that have defined the duo since they popped off at the tail end of 2021. Music aside, what has really cemented their success is their humor, energy and attitude: they’re both down to clown, looking to entertain each other, and anyone around them. This spirit is the bedrock of their output as Joey Valence & Brae, and a cornerstone of their appeal.
Check out the “NO HANDS” album right now, and connect with Joey Valence and Brae on their website and social media.
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!