DC's Sub-Radio Will Cure Your ‘Holiday Hangover’ With Festive and Danceable EP

There’s a ridiculously fun sound resonating out of Washington DC courtesy of Sub-Radio, a high energy band who make smart, danceable pop rock that's bound to have you smiling. Just in time for the holidays the sextet are taking their undeniable signature sound and making their mark with a festive EP entitled ‘Holiday Hangover.’ Featuring an original track, “Holiday Hangover,” that can be enjoyed by all and covers of Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” and Fall Out Boy’s “Yule Shoot Your Eye Out.”

When asked about the inspiration behind the project the band shared, “Holiday Hangover is the Sub-Radio version of the holiday season: a little introspection, a little more synth than sleigh bells, and a reminder that things can be fun and pure even in 2017. The inspiration for ‘Holiday Hangover’ [the song] was that feeling we've all had of waking up on New Year's Day, maybe a little worse for wear, and realizing that just because it's a new year doesn't mean anything's changed -- about the world or ourselves. But of course we can't do a holiday album without having a little fun, so we had to cover the New Queen of Christmas Our Lord and Savior Ariana Grande, with our own twist. We're less sexy and more goofy than her. The Fall Out Boy song... look, we've just been dreaming of releasing a Fall Out Boy song since we were all 12.”

Stream/Download "Holiday Hangover" on Spotify

Connect with Sub-Radio: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Exclusive Premiere: "Burn Up Alive" by HiRSH

DCWS is unleashing Los Angeles-based alt-pop artist HiRSH's new music video for the anthemic “Burn Up Alive” as an exclusive premiere today.  The track explores the angst that comes along with artistic creation and quiet desperation of desire - the need to break through and be truly seen and heard, as well as the fear of disappearing and the pain of being invisible. 

HiRSH says of “Burn Up Alive”: 

Henry David Thoreau said, “Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and die with their song still inside them.” This song explores just that. The need to create and express, and the fear that it will never be heard. That it will get stuck inside or lost along the way. Its intense but totally real, just like the struggle. 

Enjoy the "Burn Up Alive" visuals (directed by Cameron Uranick) and be sure to follow HiRSH on his social media streams below.

About HiRSH: 

HiRSH grew up in Northern California, where he devoured his father’s large record collection. His musical tastes run the gamut, from classic rock to Bay Area hip-hop to indie rock and electro pop, and once he started making his own, he couldn’t stop. 

HiRSH started his solo project in early 2016, when he realized he had music pouring out of him and felt the need to pursue it. Always looking for the perfect melody, lyric, and sound to draw out pure feeling in his listeners, his sound is ever evolving. That being said, HiRSH has already established a signature sound, penning songs centered around themes of freedom, expression and the constant pursuit of both.

Connect with HiRSH: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Brooklyn Duo Gracie and Rachel are Celebrated in NPR Music's Year End Lists and Announce 2018 Tour Dates with Ani DiFranco and San Fermin

Brooklyn duo Gracie and Rachel wrap up their breakout year with more nods from NPR Music; their song “Only A Child” is featured as one of The 100 Best Songs of 2017 and Bob Boilen included them in his Top 10 Albums of 2017. The highlight follows their Tiny Desk Concert and other accolades for their self-titled debut, released in June.

In addition, Gracie and Rachel have landed the coveted spot to open for Ani DiFranco, kicking off in February 2018. In October they joined DiFranco at Babefest, a festival of music, community and activism in Provincetown, MA. Dates are below and at www.gracieandrachel.com. 

Gracie and Rachel are a study in duality: light and dark, classical training with a pop sensibility, Californians in New York.  On their debut album, Gracie and Rachel pit anxiety and tension against an almost serene self-assurance. Like their stylized color palette of black and white, the duo’s instrumentation appears simple and spare at first glance, but there’s a powerful prism effect at work in their music that brings us back to the concept of duality:  their songs are intimate and expansive, questioning and confident. The creative pair met in high school in Berkeley, California and reunited in Brooklyn, New York, building out a loft to be their home and studio where they crafted this debut. Having shared stages with powerhouses Julien Baker, Lucy Dacus, and Joseph, among others, to experience the band live displays an almost tangible quality to their deeply rooted bond. 

Gracie and Rachel on tour:

+ supporting San Fermin

^ supporting Ani DiFranco

1.11.18  // Brooklyn, NY  // Brooklyn Bowl +

2.20.18 // Kansas City, MO // Madrid Theatre ^

2.21.18 // Iowa City, IA // The Englert Theatre ^

2.23.18 // Minneapolis, MN // First Avenue ^

 2.24.18 // Chicago, IL // Park West ^

2.25.18 // Madison, WI // Capitol Theater ^

2.27.18 // Grand Rapids, MI // 20 Monroe Live ^

2.28.18 // Bloomington, IN // Buskirk-Chumley Theater ^

3.2.18 // Nashville, TN // Marathon Music Works ^

3.23.18 // Sellersville, PA // Sellersville Theater +

Connect with Gracie and Rachel: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Bandcamp

Interview: Philly Based Band Cologne Discusses Their New EP "New World"

Cologne is a Philly based band whose music combines the sounds of pop, indie and arena rock to create an amalgam that is undeniably their own. The band recently released their five-song EP "New World", so it's only right that we connect with the guys to find out more about the project, how they decided on their name, their goals for 2018 and much more.

After reading our exclusive interview with the band, be sure to follow them on their social media streams to stay up to date on all things "Cologne" and most definitely stream/download "New World" ASAP. 

Tell us about the name of the band "Cologne". Why did you guys select it and what does it signify?

When it came time for us to choose a name we decided to have fun with it so we set up a bracket where each of us came up with four names which resulted in 16 potential names. Those names were matched up and voted until one was left. We know when people hear the name Cologne, they probably think of the men’s fragrance, but the name has a much deeper meaning to us. The name comes from the beautiful German city of Cologne, which was destroyed in World War II, but rebuilt to have a diverse and unique cityscape. The name was originally our guitarist’s Sean’s idea and once he told us the beautiful metaphor behind the name, it was a no-brainer to us that was it. 

Congratulations on the recent release of your debut EP, “New World"; we really enjoyed it. How long did it take to write and record overall? 

Thank you. Before our singer Staph joined in March of 2017, we were working on several songs that ended up blossoming into “New World” and “One Last Time”. After trying out several singers, Staph joined and added vocals to those songs, and also took part in writing the rest of the songs on the EP. So all in all, it took about 8 months from when we started to releasing the EP. The DIY approach allowed us to take our time and hone in on our sound while making the EP. 

Were there any songs that you recorded during the "New World" sessions that you decided not to include on the EP? If so, why?

We are constantly writing and working on new song ideas so during the “New World” sessions, we wrote four additional songs, which we play live. We chose the songs for the EP because we thought they showcased the different sides of the band.  We have plans to release some of the other songs as singles in 2018.  

Describe a typical Cologne concert? Do you guys have a favorite cover song to perform?

A typical Cologne show is highly energetic and about having a fun time. We have a blast playing live and seeing everyone singing and dancing along. We feed off the energy of the crowd, so seeing everyone having a good time together is a great feeling. Our ultimate goal is to make sure for the duration of our set that people can let all their worries go and just have fun. We recently added Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks” to our set and gave it a Cologne makeover.

With 2017 winding down, what do you guys look forward to the most musically in 2018?

2017 was an amazing first year as a band. Our goals in 2018 are to release a few singles, with the first coming in January. We want to keep growing as a band and make sure we’re delivering the best possible live show we can. We’re super pumped to see what 2018 brings!

Stream/Download "New World" EP

Connect with Cologne: Website | Twitter | YouTube

EVA Releases Debut EP "Evergreen"

New York City's EVA has just dropped her debut EP "Evergreen". After years of touring as part of the backing band for acts such as Solange, Blood Orange, Charli XCX and Lykke Li, EVA's solo effort is a vibrant, playful collection of pop songs that narrate on the many facets of modern love. "Evergreen" came together over the last year while on tour with Blood Orange, written and produced in collaboration with Eric Cross.

About EVA:

Eva Tolkin is a singer-songwriter from Toronto, Canada. She resides in New York City where her reputation as a highly sought after vocalist begets her burgeoning career as a solo pop artist. 

Eva's music career got a jump start following a serendipitous encounter with the alternative fashion and pop music icon, Solange Knowles. Solange noticed Eva when her managers held background vocal auditions at a Brooklyn photo studio, where Eva worked for the acclaimed Canadian fashion filmmaker, Gordon Von Steiner.  

Following a successful audition, Eva has committed herself to music. She has toured South America, Australia, Europe, Asia and North America with acclaimed artists such as Solange, Blood Orange, Charli XCX and Lykke Li, performing alongside Beyonce, Carly Rae Jepsen, Nelly Furtado, Marc Ronson, Rostam Batmanglij (of Vampire Weekend), Sky Ferreira, Connan Mockasin, and Empress Of.

She has worked on recordings with Devonte Hynes (of Blood Orange), How To Dress Well, Autre Ne Veut and Dubbel Dutch. Her vocals were recorded on the Blood Orange single, "Sandra's Smile," featured as Pitchfork's "Best New Track." Eva's first solo effort will be released December 1, 2017. Influenced by contemporary pop and dance music, her sound is vibrant, playful, energetic and approachable in nature.

When she isn't performing or recording, Eva employes her acumen for style to music supervise fashion campaigns and editorials. Her clients include Vogue Magazine, Vogue Italia, Zara, Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren, Derek Lam, Moschino and Tommy Hilfiger.

Stream/Download "Evergreen" on Spotify 

Connect with EVA: Twitter | Instagram

Baltimore's DRMCTHR Release Debut Album "Hold Your Love"

Baltimore alternative pop band DRMCTHR are thrilled to release their debut full-length album, Hold Your Love, via Darkshore Music Group.  The album contains 11-infectiously catchy tracks that were recorded at Valencia Recording and produced by DRMCTHR & Paul Leavitt. The band's dynamic sound recently caught the attention of HuffPost who teamed up with the band to premiere the official music video for the album's latest single, "Blacked Out," which was shot and directed by Joe Perri. The band also caught the attention of idobi Radio who exclusively streamed the album in full on their site yesterday as a treat to fans who have been anxiously waiting for the album's release. On Hold Your Love Chelsea Tyler states:

"Hold Your Love means everything to us and we couldn't be more grateful to work with a group of people who have embraced this record and put everything they could into it. It was a difficult record to make and we are elated to finally share it with you!" - Chelsea Tyler

DRMCTHR has been turning heads with an atmospheric sound that falters the line between indie rock and pop with light-hearted shoegaze instrumentals that create a dreamy ambience. Consisting of Chelsea Tyler (vocals), Bryan Czap (guitar), Craig Perkins (bass), and Billy Wahler (drums), the band made their debut in December 2013 with the release of their first EP, Wonderlust. Produced at Mystery Ton Studios & Valencia Recording by Kenny Eaton, Paul Leavitt, & DRMCTHR, Wonderlust has garnered over 70,000 plays on Spotify. The band soon went on to play a variety of shows, sharing the stage with bands such as Spitalfield, Post Modern, Geoff Rickly, Aaron West & The Roaring Twenties, Rookie of the Year, Modern Chemistry, Owel, and more.

Having faced several challenges since the release of Wonderlust, including member changes and at one point the near end of the band, DRMCTHR is back with a newfound confidence. A change in spelling of the band's name marks a new era for DRMCTHR as it represents the loss they have experienced, but also a bolder, stronger representation of who they have become. The band has returned with a refined style and sound as they prepare to debut their full-length LP, Hold Your Love. On the record, vocalist Chelsea Tyler states:

"We've spent every second of time, every dollar, everything on this record for the past 4 years. We struggled with keeping the band together, wrote with different musicians, went through different versions of the mixes, re-tracked some of the record - basically, everything that could go wrong while making a record did. There were days where we didn't know if the band would make it, if the record would come out, or if we'd even finish the record. Every step forward would be followed with a road block, and then a few steps back. Every song has a story about the creation of this album. During the creation of this record we lost friendships, bandmates, were in a van accident - again, everything went wrong. But, we persevered and created something that we are so proud of." 

DRMCTHR emerges from the turmoil strong with the new LP, Hold Your Love, and thrilled to share their art with their fans new and old. 

Stream/Download "Hold Your Love" on iTunes

Connect with DRMCTHR: Facebook | Website | Twitter

David Mark Bulley Announces The Confessions Tour 2018

British singer-songwriter David Mark Bulley has announced the full list of dates for his 2018 The Confessions Tour. 

Spread across January to April, the eight-date tour will begin in Łódź, Poland on January 13. David will also visit Katowice, Poznań, Liverpool, London, Paris and Warsaw, before finishing off in New York on April 7.

Speaking about the tour, David said: “This tour will be my chance to share my songs with those who really want to listen. It’s always about the music.”

David Mark Bulley Tour Dates

13 January 2018 - Klub New York - Łódź, Poland
21 January 2018 - Panorama - Katowice, Poland
4 February 2018 - Klub Mustang Sally - Poznań, Poland
17 February 2018 - The Buyers Club - Liverpool, UK
18 February 2018 - Surya - London, UK
3 March 2018 - Little Temple Bar - Paris, France [SOLD OUT]
3 April 2018 - Bardzo - Warsaw, Poland
7 April 2018 - The Loft - New York, USA

The Paris date is already sold out, however, tickets for all other dates go on sale on Monday November 20 at 6pm Local Time. They will be available from David’s official webstore.

General tickets, which include a meet and greet, are available for £10 / $15 / 35 PLN. A special ‘Interrogation’ package, which includes the concert ticket, meet and greet, professional photo with David, an exclusive soundcheck, Q&A session and VIP laminate, will be available for £25 / $40 / 75 PLN. Those who already have tickets for Paris can purchase an ‘Interrogation’ package upgrade for €15.

To coincide with the tour, David has also unveiled a special merchandise range which is available to pre-order from his webstore now. These include a series of Guilty and Innocent t-shirts and hoodies, in addition to a Love tee. 

2018 looks set to be a stellar year for David. Alongside The Confessions Tour, he will be filming a Vevo documentary focusing on his forthcoming second album and the stories behind the tracks. In addition to a personal interview, he will be sharing footage which will be filmed during the tour.

About David Mark Bulley

David Mark Bulley is a London based singer-songwriter who is ready to take on the world with his powerful, emotive music. Not only does he have a beautiful musicality, but he has an excellent creative eye and strives for perfection.

During Summer 2017, David released his album Prologue, a 12-track offering which was carefully woven together to tell his personal story. The album features ‘Where Do We Go From Here’, the video of which has amassed over 150,000 views on YouTube. His previous EP, A Thousand Bonfires, was released in 2014 and reached the top 20 in the iTunes singer-songwriter charts. He is currently working towards his second album, due for release in Spring 2018.

Whilst David is a UK based artist, he has also accumulated a strong following in Poland, as well as interest in other countries such as France, and Japan. He has already performed headline and supporting shows in Poland, and also performed at Torwar Arena as part of the 2016 Young Stars Festival. Additionally, he has recorded a special duet of his song ‘Sunlight’ with Polish artist Sylwia Przybysz. It features on her album Tylko Raz, which ranked at number 15 in the Polish pop charts.

David recently supported Sylwia Przybysz on her Tylko Raz Tour and is currently supporting Jeremi and Artur Sikorski on their Odetchnij Tour across Poland.

Following the release of the ‘Where Do We Go From Here’ music video, David also received support from a number of music blogs from across the world, including America, Australia and Germany. In fact, David received his very first Australian and UK radio airplay earlier this year!

David Mark Bulley has been honing his craft for a number of years, but now is the time for him to show the world what he’s made of. This singer-songwriter is soon to be the name on everyone’s lips.

Connect with David Mark Bulley: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

Interview: Bülow Discusses Her New Single "Not A Love Song" and EP "Damaged, Vol. 1"

Bülow is a 17 year old singer from The Netherlands who just released a very DOPE three song EP called "Damaged, Vol. 1". The first single from the EP, "Not A Love Song", is one we featured on DCWS last week, along with several other leading music websites such as Noisey and Pigeons and Planes. It's clear that Bülow is an emerging musical talent on the rise. We connected with Bülow for an exclusive interview and asked her about the new EP, whether we'll see a visual for a song from the EP, her experience in The Netherlands, and much more.

After reading our Q&A with Bülow, be sure to follow her on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date on all things "Bülow" and most importantly, stream/download "Damaged, Vol. 1" ASAP. 

Congratulations on the release of your new EP "Damaged Vol. 1" and the first single "Not A Love Song". Did you expect the amount of accolades you have received from so many publications and music blogs like ours and Pigeons and Planes, and Noisey, thus far? 

Thank you so much! I never expected this kind of reaction or attention. I’m honestly so blown away by the response, and don’t have words to describe my week.  

How did you and Mike Wise connect to develop the first single "Not A Love Song"?

I met Mike Wise through some friends in Toronto. He’s crazy talented, I really enjoyed creating this track with him. 

Tell us about the title of the EP -- Damaged Vol. 1. What is the significance behind the title and does it mean that we can expect a Vol. 2? 

It’ll be clear when Vol. 2 comes out. You’ll just have to wait and see ;) 

Do you plan to shoot an official video for one or each of the songs on the EP?

Yes, it’s funny because I never really thought that far ahead. I didn’t think this many people would have already heard it. I’ve got some ideas, and will be making a video soon.   

Most people think that you are Dutch; but you are not. How did you end up in The Netherlands and how has your experience there helped you grow as an artist?

Yeah! It’s funny how that caught on. I ended up in the Netherlands because of my Dad’s job. Through living in the Netherlands, I have definitely become more independent, and know exactly what I want, which is a future in music.  

Tell us about your creative process when it comes to songwriting. Do you prefer to be in a quiet place with your pen and pad (or iPhone)? Also, what do you look for in the instrumentals that you write to?

When I’m writing I need a quiet place, and I usually write on guitar. I’ve been starting to learn how to play the piano as well which is new and strange for me. It’s fun to learn a new instrument, it often leads me to completely different ideas. 

With the new EP out and your name on so many people's lips right now, what's next for you?

I will be graduating from high school in 2018 and moving out to Toronto, which will give me so much more time to devote to music. I plan on spending the new year travelling and creating music that I love.

Stream/Download "Damaged, Vol. 1"

Connect with Bülow: Twitter | Facebook

French Indie-Pop Sensation Raph Parpex Drops "Pink Inside" EP

French Indie sensation, Raph Parpex, just dropped his debut EP, "Pink Inside".  Raph likes to have a good time and he paired his breezy dance vibes with a ballin' music video released last month.

His love for music emerged as a child and flourished while studying the piano at a young age. This led to studies in sound engineering and a time working in post-production which opened doors to a career in music composition.  Raph has worked on several projects for brands like Mercedes, Christian Dior and Van Cleef.  Furthermore, he’s collaborated with magazines such as i-D, W Magazine and Vogue.

Stream/Download "Pink Inside" on Spotify

Connect with Raph Parpex: Instagram | Soundcloud | Twitter

Review: Curxes's "Gilded Cage" Album

Straight out of the town of Ryde on the Isle of Wight, Curxes, helmed by songstress Roberta Fidora, blesses us with her latest album “Gilded Cage.”  “Gilded Cage” with its unpredictable production, rangy and versatile vocal styling, and its overall creativity, make this album fantastic. It’s comparable to being on a high powered hallucinogen in a house of mirrors. 

On the song “Youth Ascension” Ms. Fidora offers subdued, melancholy vocals that erupt to full on roars.  With lyrics like” You bring the doubt and I’ll bring the day” the artist sounds like their begging to be validated in a world that discounts, diminishes, and debases its inhabitance.  The drums on “Youth Ascension” sound like heartbeats on a monitor in an intensive care unit; accompanied with a subtle baseline and highlighted with teasing bells.  “Hallows” greets us with a high pitched, shrilling keyboards over a “Reznor” like drum line.  The singer starts with dismal brooding vocals that switch to muffled screams.  The lyrics of “All the way up there/All the way down here” are like synthesized chants from a Navajo Medicine Man.

Synthy bells and an industrial baseline signal the start of “Let Me Down.”  Ms. Fidora gives us a feeling of exhausted disappointment as she sings ”I can never make you understand it/but know your sympathy is second hand/it’s all B.S.” The rhythmic owl like tones that fold into shrieking dial up modem sounds at the end are a great touch.  It’s the mixture of well-placed simulated sounds and lyrics like “dead pets and absent friends” that make this song great, and are the hallmarks of this project.  The upbeat, smooth and dare I say dance inducing production of “Caricature” is contrasted by the songstress’s whimsical toned, but serious lyrics “Don’t fight me/I’m a caricature/you want to pick a fight with someone your own size.”   

“In Your Neighborhood” is an achievement! From the angelic, harmonizing, inhales and exhales at the beginning, the wonderful background wails that showcase the singers range, and the layers of production that increase ever so slightly to the end.  It’s great. “Functional” starts off with raindrop keyboards and 808’s that are complimented with the singer delivering echoing vocals that melt like margarine all over the track.  I loved “Uniseum” with its haunting organ, and painful ascending and descending wails. It’s too short. 

“The Stars like Dust” is another one.  The captivating vocals sound like hallucinogenic incantations from a high priestess.  The background sounds like music for a burial procession of a unicorn. In a great way.  If I ever heard anything like this before it has been a long time.  “Silent Runnings” is great with its predatory production, indistinguishable scary voices and Ms. Fidora relaxed, but alarming voice bringing it all together. 

“Misery Mass” offers 808’s hand clap snares and rhythmic bells.  The singer graces us with lyrics like “Will you ask me more? /Will you hear me less? / It’s anyone’s guess.”  The chorus is great. The organ rich “Beast Moves” is great, but just like “Uniseum” it’s like serving me hors d’oeuvres at Thanksgiving. Its tastes great. I know somebody spent time on it, and gave it their very best. But I still want more. “Cassie” has a very solemn organ with depressing vocals. All I can say is when it’s said and done I hope “Cassie” is alright. 

There is a difference between a good artist, and an exceptional artist.  The good artist gives you effort.  The production and lyrics are good. There is a sense of knowledge of and history of the genre that shines in the music.  The exceptional artists gives you an experience.  That’s what “Gilded Cage” is. An experience like no other. Outstanding!       

Stream/Download "Gilded Cage" by Curxes on iTunes

Lauv Ditches Album Format With New Spotify Playlist & Announces First AUS Tour

2017s ‘I Like Me Better’ breakout star LAUV has turned the album format on its head, launching an innovative “dynamic playlist” called "I met you when I was 18" alongside his first Australian tour.

The list will change over the coming months as LAUV pieces together the project, changing the order, adding new tracks and evolving the playlist as he himself evolves as a creator. The concept takes full advantage of the flexibility and creativity that a streaming playlist can bring and opens a window into the mind of the artist. 

“This has all been part of the same story. a chapter of my life,” explains LAUV. “Moving to New York City when I was 18 for school and not knowing who I was or who I wanted to be. Falling in love for the first time and being in a 4-year relationship that taught me everything about myself, the world, and how to love. Discovering and defining who I really was and struggling to have the confidence to truly be that person. Learning to trust myself, even when it was the scariest thing in the world.” 

“I did the only thing I knew how to do and turn my feelings into songs and share them. But the songs have been out of order. I didn’t realize it then, and the truth is I’m still figuring it out, but there’s a thread and all I know is I want to share it with you guys the same way I’ve been piecing it together myself."

“So starting today, I’ve put all of these songs in order as a playlist. It’s called I met you when I was 18.  The puzzle is incomplete, and I’m going to be releasing A LOT of new music that fills in the gaps until this chapter of my life is fully told, starting with a new song on November 17. I’ve never been so excited and scared to share myself fully with the world, and the truth is you guys have inspired and empowered me to be so vulnerable.” 
 
“Thank you. I love you more than you could ever know."
 
Lauv releasing his music in the form of a playlist instead of a traditional album is symbolic of how his music has been consumed since first releasing his debut single, “The Other,” which has amassed over 100 million streams on Spotify. The artwork for the collection was created by well-known Los Angeles based artist ThankYouX in his studio. Also featured on the playlist is Lauv’s current Australian platinumselling hit single “I Like Me Better,” which hassurpassed 200 million streams and continues to climb the charts worldwide.  
 
Most recently, Lauv released his new track and music video for “Easy Love,” and appeared as the featured vocalist on DJ Snake’s new single “A Different Way.”  His most current songwriting credits include “Boys” by Charli XCX (named a “Best New Track” by Pitchfork) and on the US Top 5 hit single “No Promises” by Cheat Codes and Demi Lovato. 

LAUV AUSTRALIAN TOUR
Presented by Chugg Entertainment

BRISBANE Tuesday 13th March – The Triffid (18+)

SYDNEY Tuesday 15th March – Metro Theatre (All Ages)

MELBOURNE Friday 16th March – Corner Hotel (18+)

AUCKLAND Monday 19th March – Powerstation (All Ages)

Connect with Lauv: Twitter

Experimental Avant Pop Artist Curxes Releases Her New Album "Gilded Cage"

Recorded in a room full of collected junk on a hillside in the Isle Of Wight and the modern facilities of the University of Brighton, ‘Gilded Cage’, is the second album from Curxes. Co-produced by Curxes with Mike James (Horseflies) and P.J.E Davy (Deluxe Flamingos), the album marks a new chapter for lead singer and songwriter Roberta Fidora. It is an album that is very much the product of its environments and her experience of moving location and reimagining her music with new collaborators.

Sculpted from precise rhythm programs and dance influenced drum beats, the album is embellished with a host of sounds that echo the past; acid house handclaps, ambient washes and techno dynamics, augmented and updated by new approaches and unexpected and thrilling context. Necessity played a large part in its construction; whilst not knowingly conceived as a DIY production, the move to that hill in the Isle Of Wight restricted studio time in Brighton and created a need for inventiveness over convention. The result of this approach to recording is an album that sounds studio pristine but retains a warmth and humanity far beyond any thoughts of ‘machine music’.

Within the house on the hillside, surrounded by the kind of stuff that have become exemplars of some lost imagined golden age, Curxes began recording in 2016 with the concepts of nostalgia and identity both present within the room and within the country. The idea transcended national boundaries as it took shape, recalling wider issues of being a modern person in a world scared by modernity, a woman in a world still full of glass ceilings, pay gaps and everyday sexism and, seemingly, increasingly keen to look backwards rather than forwards. The result utilises modern technology and advances in home recording to be, by turns, tender and terrifying, shocking and soothing, provocative and populist. 

At times ‘Gilded Cage’ recalls the visual worlds of dystopias, the clinical electronics of the music laying a dark sheen below those direct to disc vocals. The propulsion of ‘Silent Running’ becomes the imagined soundtrack to a life or death chase through a barren post nuclear wasteland, ‘Misery Mass’ is shot through with static bursts akin to solar radiation penetrating the atmosphere. If that sounds like too much darkness, skip to ‘In Your Neighbourhood’, a bubbling pop moment of striking simplicity whose chorus sweeps majestically into your brain and refuses to leave.

As befits a musician who has another life as an illustrator, ‘Gilded Cage’ represents more than just an album of music. The initial video for the album release introduces the ‘Confidence Man’, a silent, threatening figure of unknown menace whose narrative will be developed throughout the films for selected album tracks. The idea of this menacing but unknown presence owes a debt to the likes of Lynch’s ‘Twin Peaks’ and the Coen Brothers ‘Fargo’ in blending the surreal with the everyday which Curxes is happy to highlight but puts those American concepts through a UK filter that echoes the likes of the domestic ‘Tales Of The Unexpected’.

To some, Curxes will already be a known entity. Their debut album, ‘Verxes’ saw positive responses from the likes of 6 Music, The Line Of Best Fit, The 405 and a remix commission from Chrvches alongside a clutch of single releases and live dates. For the rest of us ‘Gilded Cage’ offers an introduction to a world by turns both shot through with light and darkness, a place not quite in reality but close by, teeming with potential and pitfalls in equal measure.

Stream/Download "Gilded Cage" on Spotify

Connect with Curxes: Website | Twitter | Bandcamp | Soundcloud | Facebook

Interview: Los Angeles Based RnB/Pop Singer-Songwriter Aeriel

We recently connected with LA-based RnB/Pop singer-songwriter Aeriel to talk about her new music video "Be Down", her upcoming EP "Sad Girls Club", her musical influences and how she stands apart, and much more.

After reading our exclusive interview with Aeriel, be sure to follow her on Twitter, FB, and Instagram and stay tuned for her soon to be released "Sad Girls Club" EP. 

We really dig your new music video "Be Down". You and your backup dancers killed the choreography. How long did it take to get the moves down and who choreographed the dance routine?

Thank you, glad you all enjoyed it! It was choreographed by Lia Dominique. She’s an amazing upcoming choreographer and dancer and she was able take the song and create something that perfectly matched the emotions. I started learned the choreo a couple of weeks before the shoot and after a couple of practice sessions we were good to go.

What can you tell us about your upcoming EP "Sad Girls Club"? Do you have a definitive release date and how many songs will be included? Also, what subject matter will you be covering on it?

The EP has 5 songs that were all written by myself and produced by Corey Michael and Godflow. The songs in this EP have chronicled the relationships I’ve had over the past year, both romantically and platonically, so there’s a range of emotions. I tried to play with different lyrical styles and sounds, while still making a cohesive body of work. As a new artist, you never really know what will resonate with people, as well as what will move a live audience. So I’m excited to see people’s reactions and take it all in for the next project. No official release date has been set yet, but be expecting it before the end of the year.

Your biography mentions that you were shy and quiet when you were younger. What motivated you to start being more public about your musical talent?

I’ve always been a very introverted person and that still hasn’t changed. In fact, if you catch me when I’m not performing I probably wouldn’t come off as an artist. But at some point you have to decide if you’re going to let your fears be greater than your dreams, and I just couldn’t let that happen. So I started playing more shows, and performing originals live to find myself as an artist.

Who are some artists who have influenced you throughout the years and what sets you apart from them as an artist? 

I have a lot of influences both old school and new. I’d say my biggest influences as a songwriter are Smokey Robinson, Stevie Nicks, and Stevie Wonder, but I’m also so inspired by all the great female R&B artists producing such great content right now. What sets me apart from the artists I grew up on and admire is my ability to use the same songwriting techniques, but shed a light current issues happening in our society through my own experiences. The world is changing and in this day in age people are searching for transparency and vulnerability, and that's something I’m definitely willing to do.

What do you enjoy the most about being an artist or a creative person in general? Conversely, what do you enjoy the least?

It’s really cool to see a song grow from its inception to release. Every song has a life and a journey, so thats definitely my favorite part of the process. I would say my least favorite part of being an artist is the are certain aspects of the business side. As an independent artist you have to wear many hats to make sure you’re heard and that business hustle/grind is equally as important to your music. But sometimes you want to be able to just create.

Connect with Aeriel: Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud | Facebook

Interview: Los Angeles Based Rock/Pop Singer-Songwriter Brookelyn Rose

Brookelyn Rose is an Los Angeles based Rock/Pop singer-songwriter, originally from Philadelphia, who just released the second single/visual, "Promises", off her upcoming EP "Does She Know". We connected with Brookelyn for this exclusive interview to find out what led her away from the comforts of Philly, to the unknowns of the west coast, why she selected "Promises" as her latest single, and much more. 

After reading our Q&A with Brookelyn, be sure to follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, to stay up to date on all things "Brookelyn Rose" and for updates related to the "Does She Know" EP. 

You are originally from Philly but are now based in Los Angeles. What led you to the west coast and how long have you been living there?

I decided move to LA two and a half years ago because it was so far from my comfort zone. I think it’s important for artists to shake things up and do what scares them. I had lived in New York City and was originally planning to move back there after college, but a friend of mine persuaded me to jump into something new and give LA a shot. The idea of moving 3,000 miles away from everyone and everything that I knew scared me, so I knew I had to do it.

Congrats to you on the visual for your second single "Promises". Of the songs on your upcoming EP "Does She Know", why did you select "Promises" to release?

Thank you! I chose to release “Promises” as the follow-up single to “Does She Know” because I wrote them almost a week apart from each other; They show two different sides to the same story. These songs focus on the questions of, “What are the ways people move on after a relationship has ended and how can you feel empowered at your lowest?” It made sense to release “Promises” next because it answers questions presented in “Does She Know”.

What can you tell us about the "Does She Know" EP? When do you plan on releasing it and who were the producers on it?

This EP is not just about one breakup or one relationship; It’s also about family, love, loss, and empowerment! These songs are fun and honest and I hope people can relate to them. We’re planning on releasing the entire EP by the end of the year along with more music videos. I worked with Wes Kos from Kairos Music Group to produce this EP.

You live in a city where there are so many landmarks, beaches and other activities to partake it. What do you enjoy doing for fun when you are not writing or in the studio recording?

I love exploring new places so any time I’m free, I get some friends together and go on mini road-trips. Even if it’s only like 3 hours away, it’s still an adventure and being outside and just laughing with my friends recharges me.

If you were not an artist, what would you be doing for a living?

Hmmm, I’d either be a psychologist or a chef (such opposite ends of the spectrum haha!). But I’ve always been fascinated with human behavior and I enjoy talking to people and helping others. I also cooking because I love to eat….and it’s exciting to try new flavors and see what works well together and what doesn’t!

Connect with Brookelyn Rose: Twitter | Instagram

Space4Lease Celebrate EP Release of 'Drifting'; Upcoming Fall Tour

Indie-pop blended psychedelic rock group Space4Lease released their EP Drifting today. Featuring five uniquely gorgeous and emotive singles, the release takes you on a tumultuous emotional journey, focused on love, relationships and every step in between. Built up in an enticing blend of layered harmonic melodies and lyrically intense vocals will sweep you off your feet and into another world of love, loss, heartbreak and acceptance.

True to form, the band revealed brand-new artwork for the EP cover, to concisely pull each single together. The cover, as well as each single's individual artwork, were designed by Joxen out of Tulsa, OH. Featuring a montage collection of scanned items and bright colors, the abstract art opens your mind - ready for the band's indie pop melodies to wash over you.

Vocalist Grayson Hamm provided his insight on the project's release, "To sum up Drifting simply is that I'm speaking on the uncertainties and frustrations we experience with the ones we love. The ups, the downs, and all the other stops along the way are constantly shaping who we are as people and how we perceive the world that we abide too. Searching internally and externally to find resolution, clarity, and acceptance of who we are regardless of the outcome and just continue along the journey. As a songwriter I feel this collection of songs is just a chapter of my life and a door I have closed. I’m just trying to do better and improve from here. You can catch these songs live over the next couple months while we are on tour - hitting some of our favorite cities in the Midwest!"

Today, the band revealed the official tour poster for their upcoming dates; which will take them throughout the Southeast and Midwest U.S. A number of new dates were added since the tour's initial announcement; see all dates below and catch the band live!

The band's EP Drifting is now available for sale on Bandcamp, iTunes, and all major digital retailers. Physical copies will be availble on CD in the coming weeks, from the band's Bandcamp, website or live at shows.

SPACE4LEASE TOUR DATES

10/06 – Fort Smith, AR – Hero’s
10/07 – Oklahoma City, OK – Speakeasy 10 Yr Party
10/08 – Oklahoma City, OK – 89th Street Collective
10/19 – Houston, TX – Avant Garden
10/20 – Austin, TX – Oskar Blues Brewery
10/21 – San Marcos – Kiva
10/22 – Denton, TX – Backyard on Bell
10/26 – Wichita, KS – Barleycorn’s
10/28 – Lincoln, NE – 1867 Bar
10/29 – Lawrence, KS – Replay Lounge
11/02 – Memphis, TN – The Growler
11/03 – Nashville, TN – The Crying Wolf
11/08 – Springfield, MO – Outland Ballroom
11/09 – St. Louis, MO – Way Out Club
11/10 – Tulsa, OK – Festivus for the Best of Us at Fassler’s Hall
11/11 – Choctaw, OK – Me Oh My Release Festival
11/17 – Norman, OK – Opolis
11/18 – Tulsa, OK – The Vanguard
12/03 – Oklahoma City, OK – Blue Note
*more TBA

Connect with Space4Lease: Website | Twitter | Instagram

Review: Get Along's "Let My People Go" EP

Nick and Cara are the Colorado based Soultronic Anti-Pop married duo Get Along who have just released their EP Let My People Go (2017), a unique and captivating collection of five tracks that incorporate a wide variety of musical stylings and genres. If you happen to find yourself in Denver on September 22, the couple will be kicking off the release of the new project with a “Golden Calf Party” release show at Syntax Physic Opera with Turvy Organ and Ghostpulse. 

"Death Of A Death Metal Band" is track number one on the EP and immediately catches your attention with a deep electronic styled monologue that carries a seemingly ambiguous message. The feel of the song changes completely 46 seconds in with Nick's vocals, half singing and half talking over an almost hip-hop type beat. The track changes for a third time with Cara's powerful vocals over a rock and roll riff, portraying jazz instrumentals and heavy drums. The song continues to change and switch up throughout the four minutes and eighteen seconds in various patterns of the above styles, proving for a very interesting and diverse introduction track. 

The second track on Get Along EP proves to be much softer and alternative, opening with Cara's sweet and melodic vocals. Though it does become a little heavier and harder towards the chorus, this track is generally easy- listening and flows perfectly. 

"Let My People Go I" and "Let My People Go II" are the third and fourth tracks on the EP. Both songs start out with a more acoustic feel, only to build and layer as they carry on. Cara's voice really stands out in these two tracks, and the listener can properly get a feel for how strong and diverse her vocal range actually is. She uses both raspy and ambient vocal tones, creating a very unique dynamic and allowing a wide array of styles- which is both impressive and brilliant.

The 5th and final song on the project is titled "Exodus", and uses a warm piano chord progression to compliment Cara's melancholy yet smooth vocals. This was definitely picked wisely by Nick and Cara to close out the EP due to the track's exiting and "finale" vibe. It is for sure the most chiller song on Let My People Go and can be played if the listener is feeling more on the sentimental side. 

We definitely recommend you give Get Along's newest masterpiece a listen. It's clear the duo understands music to an impressive extent, and even though the EP only has five songs, the diversity and portrayal of multiple styles and genres is just ridiculous- in the best way possible.

Stream/Download "Let My People Go" by Get Along on iTunes