Review: "Walk Alone" Album by Pluto Tideswell

Regensburg, Germany based music producer and sound designer Pluto Tideswell does not confine himself to any one genre on the joyous colorful bursts of his album, “Walk Alone”. Traces of industrial, electro, EDM, pop, and more filter into the fray. A highly unique experience, Pluto constantly confounds with a number of unexpected twists and turns. Quite organic sounding the pieces evolve in their own way. Hooks aplenty there is an eclectic aspect that helps to tie the whole of the journey together. Nods to the psychedelic emerge throughout the entirety of the journey.

This is not any kind of psychedelic; it follows the similar spaced-out quality of the new practitioners of the style. One can hear traces of Tame Impala’s keyboard heavy freakouts. Lots of colorful chords and careful usage of the synthesizers further flesh out the rather all-consuming sound. Beyond this, there is a yearning passionate plea that endures over the course of the album. Lyricism brings to mind some of Kevin Barnes’ Of Montreal output. Similar to that group, Pluto makes sure that the romanticism of the verses is not lost, but rather framed front and center.

Pulses from the synthesizer start things off with the intensity of “Greed”. On “Listening”, a dramatic flair is included for the song comes into bloom quite quickly. An anthemic attitude emerges on the cryptic spirit of “The Walker” with the beats hitting in an uncertain way, as if terrified.

The song “I Hate These Thoughts” has an eeriness to it for vocals work themselves into an absolute panic. By far the highlight of the album is the tender “We Meet At The End Of The Sky”. Here the melodies have a sweetness to them, full of tenderness. Grooves have an almost Warp Records sort of breakdown to them on the uneasy “Indecisive”.

Deliberately paced “Take Me Away” has a woozy, dazed atmosphere to it. Keeping things delicate and fragile “Could Be Heaven” has a kindness about it. Neon hued glows burst on “Flavor” for a nostalgic quality takes hold. Finishing things off strong comes the intense vision of “Black Bile (Runaway) – Cover”.

The “Walk Alone” album shows off Pluto Tideswell’s ability to craft a universe that has a great personal quality to it.

Stream and Share “Walk Alone” on: Bandcamp | Spotify

Los Angeles Alt Rock Band Super OK Release Their Debut Album "Departures"

Brand new to DCWS is the recently released debut album entitled “Departures”, by the Los Angeles based alternative rock band Super OK. The band is composed of Benjamin Buday, Davey Henry, Drew Stutz and Kat Cannon, all of whom are songwriters, multi-instrumentalists and vocalists.

The 13-track “Departures” album features the songs and vocals of both Benjamin and Davey, and was recorded remotely by the band in their homes during the pandemic throughout 2021. It was also remotely mixed and produced by Chris Harvey and mastered by Ross Wilson.

Trust us when we tell you that “Departures” is a great album from start to finish, and you will thoroughly enjoy it, especially if you are a fan of bands like the Foo Fighters, Stone Temple Pilots, Muse and Oasis.

Listen to “Departures” now, stream it on Bandcamp and connect with Super OK on their website and social media. Also, be on the lookout for our exclusive interview and review of the project, coming soon!

Stream and Share “Departures” on Bandcamp

Connect with Super OK: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Interview: French Producer/Composer Thomas Naszalyi Discusses His New Single/Video "Fashionista"

“When I created “Fashionista”, I began by choosing two chords, and a danceable rhythm to make them move musically... then I wrote a melody, with bass and drums. I wanted it to be a bit mysterious...”

— Thomas Naszalyi

What are some things, people or places that have influenced your creativity as a producer and composer?

I often recharge my batteries near the sea. I find a lot of inspiration on the Atlantic french coast.

I also love the world of fashion, for example, the movie The Devil Wears Prada is one of my sources of inspiration, because I find it so funny...

I listen to many electro artists. At first, I discovered Daft Punk, Justice, Bob Sinclar and David Guetta. In Pop-Rock, I love the universe of Coldplay, Muse, and Radiohead...

We're huge fans of your new single/video "Fashionista"; describe for us your creative process for its development and what software/hardware you used to create it.

When I created “Fashionista”, I began by choosing two chords, and a danceable rhythm to make them move musically... then I wrote a melody, with bass and drums. I wanted it to be a bit mysterious...

I worked with the software Sibelius 6, with the master bus settled on -30 dB, a very low sound, in order to avoid distortion, and when the writing process was finished, I made the mastering, and the sound was set at the industry's standards.

Will "Fashionista" be a part of an upcoming EP or album you are releasing? If so, what can you tell us about it?

Actually, the EP “Fashionista” has already been released... But now, I am registering the song “Fashionista” at the US Copyright Office, a new experience for me :)

If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?

I would begin by Passionate, because this is what I feel about music composing, and this is also how my music is...

then, Powerful and Danceable!

With "Fashionista" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?

I think I will continue to discover new things in the musical world, and to write unexpected music...

Stream and Share “Fashionista” on Spotify

Connect with Thomas Naszalyi: Twitter

Interview: Producer/Sound Designer Pluto Tideswell Talks About His New Album "Walk Alone"

“...”Walk Alone” is quite explicit. It represents a part of my life that is now gone. I am now at peace with it and going through this album helped me a lot to put everything outside.”

— Pluto Tideswell

You've mentioned that your influences vary from pop to metal, as well as from techno to classical. Which genre(s) would you say had the most resonance with you as you produced and recorded the ten songs on the album?

That is a tough question.

I tried to keep everything under a certain kind of sound vocabulary but as you can hear the various songs are influenced from many electronic styles (synthwave, dnb…).

I love to borrow time signature changes from prog rock, or harmonic structures from older rock and roll or pop tunes. I think it is fun to challenge myself and the listener, to not fall always under the same loop of chords.

My main goal was to give a pop quality to the album but with a twist.

Tell us about how you got started as a music producer and which instruments you currently play.

I started my music career as a classical trained pianist and I was playing in some emerging bands in Italy. Around 7 years ago I started to get curious about music production.

I am quite an introverted person but I always have the need to express what is inside of me in a way or another. I find it almost therapeutic, like journaling.

Currently, I still play the piano, I've also started to play guitar out of need for a more portable instrument. Of course I don't know how much you consider sound design as playing an instrument but I spend a lot of time on that.

Congratulations on the completion and release of your album "Walk Alone"; how long did it take to complete and what was your creative process along the way?

Thank you so much! I must say it was a long way to get to the final product. I remember having the first idea for one song ('Take me away') maybe in 2016. I was fidgeting with the guitar and the main melody came along. This is not my main job but I love to do it. Because of this I have a limited amount of hours to work on my own music and that makes everything slower. With enough willpower bit by bit things get done.

I didn't want to rush the album but it should have come out earlier, also the covid pandemic hit quite hard and everything got slowed down.

About the process I mostly leave it quite open. I love when inspiration comes from nothing, when you start to sing a melody out of the blue and you say to yourself "Yes, this could work".

I like to work with what your subconscious wants to say. I think this line of work can bring out much more from me.

What does the album's title "Walk Alone" represent, and were there songs that you recorded that did not make your final track list? If so, why not?

Well, "Walk Alone" is quite explicit. It represents a part of my life that is now gone. I am now at peace with it and going through this album helped me a lot to put everything outside. We always go forward and I think it is important to remind yourself who you were and how you changed.

There were some ideas that didn't make the album but I never finished them. I wanted to have an intro track but it got implemented in the song "Greed". I had a different idea for the ending, something more instrumental and grandiose but with time I realized that "Black bile" was the right ending. I think the album now has smoother transitions.

How did you go about deciding the sequence of the ten songs on the album?

The sequence follows my personal experiences. There is a line of thought that has a beginning and an ending and it goes throughout the whole album. But I am not going to reveal that!

With the "Walk Alone" album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?

My year is quite full. I am producing music for theater, dance and video productions.

It is something different and has to be approached in a different way. Somehow it is harder because there are more "rules" to follow due to the nature of collaborating with other artists, but I like the challenge.

For personal production I already have quite an array of songs on the side but I don't know if I will be able to release them this year. They need a lot of cleaning and perfecting.

In the next release I want to explore a darker side of me and a darker kind of music.

Stream and Share “Walk Alone” on: Bandcamp | Spotify

Connect with Pluto Tideswell: Instagram

London Based Duo Dahlia Sleeps Release Their Debut Album “Overflow”

Two years in the making and almost 6 years since their debut single, producer/writer Luke Hester and singer/writer Lucy Hill bring a new weight sonically with their debut album “Overflow”, depicting a new kind of freedom for the duo – from managing and coming to terms with mental health problems to experiencing love in all its forms despite them.

With eclectic influences ranging from electronic acts including MOVEMENT, Autechre and Burial to the lyrically poetic works of Florence + the Machine, Radiohead and The National, Dahlia Sleeps shift seamlessly between genres; from dance to electronic to pop.

Across the album's track listing, Dahlia Sleeps have collaborated with Jacob Oak Welsh (drummer/producer from The Hics), cellist/bassist/guitarist/pianist Mat Roberts, and pianist Edward Cross.

Overflow includes the previously released singles "Divided" – offering a stark examination of relationships, "Too Good To Hide" which dissects how mental ill-health can hold us back and keep us repeating the same painful patterns; and "Close Your Eyes" - a powerful call to arms addressing the ongoing violence toward the LGBTQI+ community, and "White Flag" which addresses singer Lucy's father's battle with depression.

Speaking more on the upcoming album, the band said: "The title Overflow was chosen because this is a record that features a lot of struggle, fight, bravery, will, hope, and ultimately, triumph." Early on in the writing process for the album Lucy battled a severe episode of mental ill-health, which strongly influenced the direction of the record. “What we have now is an album about entering the very depths of despair, those who hold us when we’re there, and climbing back out again”, Lucy said of the record.

To date Dahlia Sleeps have garnered widespread global praise from outlets such as The Fader, Clash Magazine (“Wonderfully engrossing, the band's nuanced electronic-pop operates in a template of its own”), Complex (“If you're yet to hear about Dahlia Sleeps, then you better start taking note”), DIY Magazine (“They shoot for the stars with no second thought”), Pigeons & Planes (“One of those bands that just have the "it" factor”), The Line of Best Fit, NME, Hunger Magazine, Wonderland Magazine, Cool Hunting, Schön! Magazine and more.

Dahlia Sleeps have also achieved notable radio support, with extensive airplay on BBC Radio 1 and being chosen as a BBC Introducing Featured Artist. As a live band, they've played the length of the UK from Glasgow to Brighton, with sold out headline shows at The Lexington and Omeara in London, a full UK support tour with Arctic Lake, as well as a spot on Glastonbury's Emerging Talent shortlist.

Listen to “Overflow” now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Dahlia Sleeps on their social media.

Stream and Share “Overflow”

Connect with Dahlia Sleeps: Instagram | Twitter

Interview: DaeShawn Forrest Discusses His New Single/Short Film "A Moment in Time"

“The number one thing that inspires my art is real life experiences. Whatever I go through in my personal life naturally makes its way into the art I create. It just so happens that these last few years have been absolutely crazy.”

— DaeShawn Forrest

If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you choose?

Transparent, authentic, and relatable are the three words I would use to describe my music.

Congratulations on the release of your new single/video "A Moment in Time"; tell us about your creative process and what motivated you to write the song itself.

This song is based on true events that happened in my personal life. I was engaged and on track to getting married around the start of the Spring in 2021 before things unfortunately ended some months before the wedding.

It left me devastated because, like in the video, I wasn’t the one that decided to end things. Immediately afterwards I found myself in a depression and decided to release all of my heartache into music and “A Moment’s Time” was one of many songs I ended up creating during that time. I knew this one was special the moment I played the chords on my piano.

Was "A Moment in Time" your first experience co-directing a visual, and do you plan to direct again for yourself and/or other artists in the future?

Actually my first time co-directing a visual was for a song off of “Transparent 1” called “Naive”. That one was also storytelling in nature just like “A Moment’s Time”.

I absolutely plan to direct again for myself because it was an experience that I truly loved. Not only am I passionate about music, I’m also passionate about film-making and telling real life stories.

Directing allows me to bring those stories to life to the best of my abilities. I would be open to directing for other artists as well if the opportunity ever presented itself.

"A Moment in Time" will be featured on your upcoming album “Transparent 2"; how would you describe this project, and when can we expect its release?

“Transparent 2” is deep. It’s emotional, inspiring, and very relatable. I made it a point to not hold back on the many different things I was going through in my life at the time from my engagement ending and the heartache from that, to my depression, suicidal thoughts and my anxiety, trust issues, you name it. But, when going through all of those things, if you're serious about finding the light at the end of the dark tunnel, you’ll find it. And after a while I found it.

So, on this album you might cry, and then you might get angry. You might end up feeling inspired and rejuvenated, developing a new appreciation for life like how I did. Or, maybe, you’ll end up being reminded of the importance of letting go of the past.

Perhaps, you’ll end up experiencing all of the above. One thing is for sure, this album is for anybody who has ever gone through a dark time.

You've mentioned that you have released two albums, one EP, and one mixtape in just three years. What are some things/people/places that inspire your creativity as an artist and do you ever get writer's block?

The number one thing that inspires my art is real life experiences. Whatever I go through in my personal life naturally makes its way into the art I create. It just so happens that these last few years have been absolutely crazy.

I’ve gone through a lot of growth as a person and have experienced a lot of hardships. Some of which actually hasn’t made its way into the music. Sometimes the songs get so personal and so deep that I have to shelve a few.

There are moments occasionally where I get a little bit of writer’s block, but I’ve learned over the years how to get myself past it. Usually, for me, it ends up being about how I pace myself. I do my best to make sure that anytime I work on music I come with a fresh mind.

Stream and Share “A Moment in Time”

Connect with DaeShawn Forrest: Instagram

London Based Rapper/Producer Lynx Cane Shares His New Album "The Spirit and Its Fruits"

Lynx Cane, a very talented rapper and producer out of London, returns to DCWS with his brand new album, “The Spirit and Its Fruits”. This 12-track project features Mary Sue, Somewhitekid, and Jay Cinema, and production from himself, as well as Clay Fries, engless, Kiluhmanjaro, Keagz*, Hairymuffinman, Le Drip Beats, Clayhead & Swordbearer, and Bass Windu.

Speaking about the album, Lynx Cane states that, “the album is about me finding love within myself, doing better in showing more love to others in general (let alone my friends and family), and how faith has helped me in my journey of bettering myself and finding myself.

I would say the album is varied in it's sound as it has sample heavy produced songs like, "Blessings" and "Prideful", as well as more alternative hip hop sounding songs such as, "El Roi" and "Kingdom", including spoken word poetry on the outro track, "Grief (Poem)" and even more.”

Our review of the album is on the way, but in the meantime, enjoy it below and on your preferred streaming service, connect with Lynx Cane via his social media, and be on the lookout for our exclusive interview coming soon.

Stream and Share “The Spirit and Its Fruits” on: Apple Music | Bandcamp | Soundcloud

Connect with Lynx Cane: Instagram | Twitter

Review: "Mongo Slade" EP by Rich Writer

Bronx based rap artist Rich Writer possesses a sharp wit on the flawless flows of his debut EP, “Mongo Slade”. With the title referencing Bill Cosby’s character from the movie, Let’s Do It Again, there is a lot to explore here.

The samples themselves add to this richness of the storytelling. Rich Writer lets the grooves decide their own pace. Everything here is about atmosphere, for the rhythms have a leisurely pace to make sure that every single detail is fully celebrated. Over the course of the EP, Rich Writer proves to be exceptionally well-listened with a jazzy noir. Layer upon layer intermingles to craft this distinct level of oddity.

The sampling on here is so stellar that it brings up elements of MF Doom’s meticulous productions. I mean, how many hip-hop albums incorporate a sample from a theremin and make it sound effortless. A degree of a stoned demeanor brings to mind groups like Das Racist’s humor. With the sound gaining a degree of an ancient, rather classic spirit they prove to have a similarity alongside the Flatbush Zombies for the fidelity is that full and that completely realized.

“The Intro” starts things up setting the mood. On “Contradictions”, the track has a fiery presence to it, with references to Rick & Morty adding to the grounded quality. Verses have a hazy demeanor on the cleverness of “All Bad”. “Perspectives” cuts things down to the essentials with a boom-bap percussion adding to its haunted presence. Going for a bit of a change comes the conversational “The interlude”.

By far the highlight, “Drake Emotions”, featuring Sidda, has a honeyed aspect to it. Reminding me a bit of Common’s intimacy, there is a tenderness to these tones. Kaleidoscopic “Who Knew” explores a psychedelic quality to it, with harps intermingling with the taut beats that skitter on above. Nice vibraphone sampling starts “Round And Round” off right, and that additional sample is warped, warbled and twisted in unexpected ways. Bringing it all home “The Outro, featuring Mo Lowery, closes it off.

The “Mongo Slade” EP proves Rich Writer to be an exceptional wordsmith, with narratives that tie in the personal framing them with historical references to give them additional depth.

Stream and Share “Mongo Slade” on Audiomack

Stream "Walk Alone", the Newly Released Album by Music Producer Pluto Tideswell

David Nigro started his musical education as a classical trained pianist with Primo Oliva. Starting his career in an Italian rock progressive band named “New Seed” as keyboard player, he quickly developed an interest in Music Production and Sound design.

Pluto Tideswell is the solo project conceived in 2016 that has been growing since then. From Italian roots and living currently in Regensburg, Germany, Pluto doesn’t constrain itself to one musical genre. His influences vary from pop to metal, as well as from techno to classical for his most commercial works. Always searching for new sounds, Pluto is not afraid of pushing the boundaries of music genres and to explore his own passion in sound designing.

The music production is mostly focused on dance and video, on the premise that music can be integrated in an artwork elevating the work itself.

Pluto’s newly released album "Walk Alone", was recorded at in a home studio, self produced, and mixed and mastered in Italy by Giulio Tozzi, the engeneer head of the studio "Ventena Recording Studio".

Speaking about the “Walk Alone” project, Pluto says, "The album has been a long journey for me. Probably the conception of the first song that is included in this album dates back 4 or 5 years. Also production has been slowed down a lot by covid. It talks about subjects that deeply touched me in the last 10 years.

I tried to put inside influences from various genres but keeping it as close as possible to the sound that I wanted to give to the songs."

Prepare to be blown away by Pluto’s “Walk Alone” album below, connect with him on IG and be on the lookout for our exclusive interview and in-depth review.

Stream and Share “Walk Alone” on Bandcamp

Connect with Pluto Tideswell: Instagram

Interview: Rich Writer Talks About His Debut EP "Mongo Slade"

“I feel no one really checks for Bronx MCs. Brooklyn, Harlem, and Queens got it; no hate, I love New York, but I’m a Bronx dude and I wanna help bring some attention to our borough.”

— Rich Writer

How would you say that your hometown The Bronx has influenced the music that you create?

It influenced me a whole lot; it's the Mecca right? My pops was in a group called Ultimate Force with Diamond D; their first album has some of Fat Joe's earliest recordings.

I'm from 1010, which is considered the true birthplace of hip hop. I feel no one really checks for Bronx MCs. Brooklyn, Harlem, and Queens got it; no hate, I love New York, but I'm a Bronx dude and I wanna help bring some attention to our borough. We full of untapped power and creativity.

Congratulations on the completion and release of your debut EP "Mongo Slade"; tell us about your creative process for the project and where the title originates.

First, thank you! My creative process for this project was introducing myself as an MC as a person, and putting some of it out there in the beginning. No one knows me now but they will, and in my head it would always start as who is Rich Writer so each track i looked at it as a piece of that puzzle.

The title comes from my love of pop culture, in this case, a movie with Sydney Poitier and Bill Cosby. In the movie they were attempting come up of some gangsters in the betting game; Bill Cosby’s character went undercover as Mongo Slade to trick Kansas City Mack and I loved that part him fidgeting with the gun and it felt right.

Were there songs that you recorded that did not make the final tracklist? If so, why didn't they make the cut?

There was one track “Better Days” and it just didn't work for the EP. That track became “I Remember”, that I released earlier this year.

Tell us why you decided to release the "Mongo Slade" EP on your birthday (March 7th).

So I've been working in this EP since I was 20; I kept putting it off because of depression and just finding my footing in the world as a young adult. I felt at one point when I had my second son that I shouldn't be pursuing this dream and just be the best husband and dad I could be. My wife helped me realize that I couldn't if I didn't pursue my dreams and work on my craft.

I was born on the 7th; they say that's God's number and 30 they say symbolizes you dedicating yourself to your "calling".

It just made sense; it was cemented in me. I’ma do this.

With the EP now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

I want to get more music done; another EP maybe. I’m working on the AAVEs first tape with Nivlac Lemaj. It’s gonna be ill.

I want to get some music videos done for “Mongo Slade”; really get it out there, and just work on myself to get better musically.

What can you tell us about The AAVE and your multimedia company, Inner Child Network?

The AAVE is the idea that you’re not alone in your journey to wherever your art takes you, whether you are a dancer, rapper, singer, painter, fashion designer or whatever. You have a network of people that support you.

Inner Child Network is a black owned and operated multimedia company that encourages black creatives to embrace their inner child because it is the basis of your creativity. It's the community that you came from that you want to give back to. It’s where you get your sense of family; it's you turning on the game after a long day at work; it's what helps you connect with your children watching cartoons or playing outside and we have so much in store.

Music, skits, podcasts and video game streaming; definitely check us out. Look up innerchildnetwork on all social media platforms.

Stream and Share “Mongo Slade” on Audiomack

Connect with Rich Writer: Instagram | Twitter

Grimes Reveals Everything About Her "Shinigami Eyes" Music Video With Vevo

Grimes reveals everything there is to know about her “Shinigami Eyes” music video featuring Dorian Electra and BLACKPINK’s Jennie Kim in the latest installment of Vevo Footnotes, out now.

In this release, Grimes talks about using an XR Stage for the first time and seeing special effects rendered in-camera right away, and how bringing technology to uncharted territories with director Bthr didn’t come without challenges. “We had some major technical difficulties and never really got to show off the full choreography… We actually lost most of the footage and had to make the music video out of the last few hours we got,” says Grimes.

The video for “Shinigami Eyes” premiered last January and is the first offering from the acclaimed producer, songwriter, singer, engineer and visual artist’s forthcoming EP Fairies Cum First, a prelude to the forthcoming album Book 1.

0:14 “My friend Nusi Quero constructed this awesome throne out of human bodies. The shot happens so fast I think people miss it but this throne is an underrated masterpiece.” - Grimes

0:32 “Here we meet ‘NO ONE,’ a powerful A.I. super intelligence who has decided to invade pop culture with an AI girl group who can bend the very fabric of space and time.” - Grimes

0:41 “Like Ryuk (a shinigami from Death Note), the A.I. NO ONE enters the human world to have fund and destabilize things.”- Grimes

0:50 “All of the background effects were shot on an XR Stage, meaning there was little to no post production or CGI. All of the special effects rendered in camera. It was very cool!” - Grimes

1:00 “We had some major technical difficulties and never really got to show off the full choreography.” - Grimes

1:08 “We had never used an XR stage before, and it typically isn't used in music videos, so we were doing a lot of things no one on the team had done before.” - Grimes

1:16 “We actually lost most of the footage and had to make the music video out of the last few hours we got. But it ended up turning out great!” - Grimes

1:28 “Here we see Cupid, played by Ryon01. One of the main plot points in the music video is that Cupid tries to shoot the girls with his arrow of love,” - Grimes

1:37 “...but because they are not human and don’t experience traditional love, his attempts fail and in the end they kill him.” - Grimes

1:46 “The moon shots are by far my favorite scenes. The moon was rendered by Nusi. Around here you can see some sneak peaks of one of my favorite artists, Dorian Electra!” - Grimes

1:57 “Obviously this was everybody’s favorite part because we’re all obsessed with Jennie. We’d been hanging out with her in L.A.” - Grimes

2:06 “...and she benevolently offered to be in the video. She was impressive AF - not a single shot of her was unusable.” - Grimes

2:24 “Dorian and I really fought to the death here and I think we kinda hurt each other but it was worth it!” - Grimes

2:34 “NO ONE eats Cupid’s soul. By eating Cupid she is able to finally experience what love feels like and perhaps it makes her more benevolent towards humans. NO ONE is very curious about humanity” - Grimes

2:50 “Curiosity in A.I. is one of the smartest moves we can make to ensure they are curious enough to forge a relationship.” - Grimes

3:01 “I think this shot really shows what the XR stage can do, hoping to with BRTHR again and go farther into the insanity.” - Grimes

Watch the Shinigami Eyes official video - https://youtu.be/pzPElFdxMCM

Connect with Grimes: Twitter | Instagram

Bronx Based Rap Artist Rich Writer Releases His Debut EP "Mongo Slade"

DCWS is excited to share with you the debut EP entitled “Mongo Slade” by Bronx based artist and true Hip-Hop enthusiast Rich Writer. Inspired by his desire to reignite attention to his hometown, “Mongo Slade” delivers raw and relatable content coupled with an authentic New York sound. The 9-track project features Sidda and Mo Lowery and production from Yondo, Marcus, and Epik D'Artizt.

Rich Writer is inspired by well respected New York rappers such as Method Man, Grand Puba, and Fabolous, and he values lyricism in a way that is substantially reflected in his music. With a musical approach that combines classic East Coast influences with innovative and eccentric wordplay, flows, and production, Rich Writer is carving out a unique lane in modern-day hip-hop. His ability to think outside of the box in addition to his extensive knowledge of music and Black culture has given him the platform to inspire other creatives to walk in their purpose.

We’re totally blown away by Rich Writer’s “Mongo Slade” EP and we bet that you will be too, especially if you are a fan of the authentic New York hip-hop sound that is sorely missing right now. Listen to this certified banger below, and be sure to connect with Rich Writer on his social media. Also, hang close to DCWS because our exclusive interview with Rich Writer, as well as our in-depth review of “Mongo Slade” are both coming very soon!

Connect with Rich Writer: Twitter | Instagram

Portland, OR Lo-fi Artist sadeyes Shares His New EP "grim"

Portland, Oregon based artist sadeyes surprises fans with the release of his brand new EP ‘grim’ via Epitaph Records. Only two months out from his debut album ‘monarch,’ sadeyes, AKA Nathan Lewis, is continuously making music and there’s no stopping in sight. Known for a combination of lo-fi, alternative, emo rap and hyperpop, listeners will be pleased to hear a lo-fi vibe taking over on this EP complete with mellow beats and resonant bass.

“Honestly I just write what I’m feeling and I wanted to expand on the lofi sound this go around. grim is executive produced by boyfifty and I’m really stoked on that cause I love him so much. when we work together it feels very easy.” – sadeyes

Since his start in 2017, sadeyes has released a carefully crafted catalog of over two dozen singles, two EPs and an album. As his name might suggest, sadeyes’ lyrics draw deeply from his personal experience with all facets of human emotion—and the trek he’s had that inspires his storytelling. Love, heartbreak, personal loss, and reprieve of mental health are themes common throughout his songs. Over the course of his career, sadeyes amassed over 140M+ streams, 820k+ monthly listeners, and an assiduous fanbase that proliferates with each release.

Listen to the very DOPE “grim” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with sadeyes on his social media and website.

Stream and Share “grim”

Connect with sadeyes: Website | Twitter | Instagram

Stream “Nikao's World”, the Newly Released Album From Richmond, VA Emcee Jazmine Nikao

“Nikao's World” by Richmond, VA bred rap artist Jazmine Nikao is truly an experience unlike anything anyone has ever heard. The album is an audible storytelling masterpiece featuring production by Find Will, narration by Iniki Franklin, and voice acting by Megan McClary, Carl Duperval, Michael Adams and of course Jazmine herself.

Nikao is a conquering superhero fighting against the Godless enemy. Her story is one of a young woman who experienced trauma and abuse at a young age but never properly healed from it. During her daily work, she becomes triggered and paralyzed by fear as the enemy deceptively attacks her. With her back against the wall, Nikao reaches inside to find the warrior within and fight with God by her side.

The musical tracks on this beautiful work of art showcase a variety of song structures and genres as Jazmine raps and sings with such passion and confidence on every one whether its uptempo hip hop, jazzy melodies or a soulful ballad. Everything comes together to form what is just the beginning of Nikao's tale. This album is a must listen that will have you impatiently awaiting the arrival of the next chapter in Nikao's World.

Listen to Jazmine’s very DOPE new project “Nikao’s World”, right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with her on social media.

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Singer-Songwriter and Producer keshi Releases His Debut Album "GABRIEL"

keshi delivers his debut studio album with the release of his magnum opus, GABRIEL. Out now via Island Records, the album, for the first time, finds the 27-year-old singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist as the main character of his sonically articulated world. “GABRIEL is a record that turned out much more personal than I intended from the beginning,” keshi shared. “It ended up being a means for me to process the experience of having transitioned from a much less public life to another I’m having a little more trouble navigating recently. I thought about success, purpose, family, pressure, and failure; how time is my only commodity and how sex is just skin; how little I care for what people have to say and how important it is at the same time. I was reminded how fun making music is supposed to feel, and that it’s just as much listened to as its lyrics are heard. It’s an album that I hope is candid, varied, and one you can come back to again and again.” With over 1.6 billion global streams, keshi’s rising success has been astonishing. He commands a large and loyal fanbase without ever releasing a full-length project prior. The North American and European leg of his upcoming, headlining tour, HELL/HEAVEN, sold out during presale, resulting in the addition of dates and larger rooms. The GABRIEL release, which includes an official music video (directed by Joshua Valle) for the single “ANGOSTURA,” captures the nuances that makes keshi beloved and a household name in the making.

While the title GABRIEL isn’t related to anyone in particular, it is a name that keshi personally likes and he believes naming an album is like naming your firstborn child. Coincidentally, it was nine months ago when keshi began splitting his summer between Houston (where he is from) and Los Angeles to create GABRIEL with Baltimore producer and songwriter Elie Rizk, who co-produced the album with keshi. The result is the familiarity —keshi’s pristine falsettos and guitar— taken to new heights. Whether it’s the adrenaline surging single “GET IT” or tracks like “HELL/HEAVEN” and “ANGEL” that’s powered by emotionally forward songwriting, keshi fuses genres with life experiences and his intuition to create an album that’s intentionally designed and built to evoke a certain feeling. “I started thinking about how being an artist is more than being a songwriter, being a singer, and even more than being a producer,” keshi said. “It’s about understanding the ins and outs of a world that you build for someone to listen to and live inside. That was really important for me to understand my musical journey.”

Monikered as keshi (stylized), a phonetic play on his name, Casey Luong is an artist's artist, whose ways with connectivity have titled him as a force to be reckoned with. With over a 1.6 billion listens worldwide, keshi has gone on to become a streaming force with his acclaimed trilogy of EPs —skeletons (2019), bandaids (2020) and always (2020). Until GABRIEL, keshi has been a self-reliant artist, who wrote, produced, engineered and played all the instrumentation on his projects. His initial success includes making his Billboard debut when skeletons hit #59 on the Top Album Sales chart. Since then, keshi has grown to accumulate nearly 5.5 million monthly Spotify listeners, on top of making his mark on Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings: The Album with his song “War With Heaven,” getting BTS’ co-signs and collaborating with brands like YSL, Fender and Microsoft. A fan-favorite, his “beside you” collaboration with producer Madeon has also become one of keshi’s most popular songs. With the release of GABRIEL and the HELL/HEAVEN tour in the pipeline, there’s no signs of winding down for keshi. But even as his starpower continues to grow, keshi remains present and thankful, knowing that even if GABRIEL withstands the test of time, this debut will forever be a cherished moment in time.

Listen to “GABRIEL” right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with keshi on his social media.

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Connect with keshi: Instagram | TikTok

Bakar Announces Virgil Abloh Limited Edition CD of His Debut Album "Nobody's Home" and Shares "Free" Video

North London artist Bakar announces a limited edition CD version of his debut album “Nobody’s Home”, designed in collaboration with fashion designer, entrepreneur, and creative director, the late Virgil Abloh. Only 500 CDs were produced and will be released on April 8th. All of the proceeds will go towards Virgil Abloh's "POST-MODERN" Scholarship Fund, which supports students of Black, African-American, and African descent and strives to foster equity and inclusion in the fashion industry. Alongside the announcement, Bakar has shared a cinematic new video for the “Nobody’s Home” standout “Free”. As the child of African immigrant parents, the Thibaut Grevet directed video brings the song’s depiction of a “futuristic immigrant” to life with Bakar donning a hyper-modern space suit as he navigates the intricacies of his newfound celebrity.

Bakar and Virgil, both children of African immigrants, shared the experience of being Black creatives who dreamed big and worked hard to pave their own path and establish a distinct style in the process. Throughout “Nobody's Home”, these themes are gradually explored. The release of Virgil Abloh's CD is a reflection of the accomplishments that could be achieved by the next generation of underrepresented creatives. With the proceeds going to the “POST-MODERN” Scholarship Fund, Bakar contributes to Virgil's mission of identifying and uplifting those underrepresented talents.

The release commemorates the cultural impact of Virgil Abloh, along with the friendship and creative bond that Bakar held with Virgil Abloh, whom Bakar describes as “one of the most influential people in my life”. Bakar walked Virgil’s debut and final Louis Vuitton runway shows. Bakar notes that Virgil supported and influenced his ways of creating art. “A lot of the time we don’t output, there’s a fear there of not producing perfection,” admits Bakar. “But that’s not what it’s about really. I think that’s what Virgil showed. That there’s so much more beauty in the imperfection along the way. And to show those imperfections. And people really actually warm to those imperfections.” Virgil’s energy is ever-present in “Nobody’s Home”.

Stream “Nobody’s Home” on your preferred streaming service, connect with Bakar on his website and social media, and pre-order the Virgil Abloh designed “Nobody’s Home” CD HERE.

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Connect with Bakar: Website | Instagram | Twitter