Interview: Los Angeles Based Musician/Filmmaker KS Talks About His New Album "The Dancing Cavaliers"
Dopecausewesaid x NxtNow Music connected with Los Angeles based musician and filmmaker KS for an exclusive interview to discuss his brand new album “The Dancing Cavaliers”, and much more.
“Every album has a concept or a theme in my case. This time I just wanted to put out an album of songs, period. No concept, just songs.”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new album "The Dancing Cavaliers"; what inspired the title and how long did it take to complete?
The title is kind of an inside film joke. In the movie "Singing in the Rain", the main characters are making a movie that is a complete disaster, everything is going wrong and fast, their movie is called "The Fighting Cavaliers", at the very end, out of desperation they decide to change the movie, which is a serious drama, into a musical by just adding a few dance numbers, which is funny, and they call it "The Dancing Cavaliers”. I just thought it would be funny to call my album that.
The inspiration for the record was really just doing something to keep myself busy, to keep creating during a really tough year for a lot of us in the business, plus it had been two years since the previous album so....I had to create:)
Of all the 14 songs on the album, why did you decide to film a music video for "Boludo"?
A friend heard the album and really liked that track, to be honest I was going to use another one (the track "Danse"), but since he's a musician and because I trust his instincts I went for "Boludo".
Were there any songs that you decided not to include on the album? If so, how come they did not make the cut?
Yeah, like I said before, I have around 20 tracks that didn't make it, I just got impatient and didn't work on those, I had to release this album first. Plus those tracks were more guitar oriented, they didn't fit the style of this one. But next album...yeah, hoping to have the new music out mid 2023. To me it is not about money, as there isn't much money in the record business, it is not what it used to be.
To me it is about having fun creating something and putting it out there. I already had my fun making it, I'm fine, if someone else likes it and gets pleasure out of it, then that is all gravy, a plus, to me.
Tell us about your creative process for this new album overall, and how would you say it differs musically from your last project?
Every album has a concept or a theme in my case. This time I just wanted to put out an album of songs, period. No concept, just songs. I really can't sing so I used a computerized voice generator to sing my words and color the songs here and there. Because those voice generators are not perfect and sometimes you can't really understand what he or she are saying, lol, I decided to be bad/naughty, and add a few "provocative" curse words here and there to see if anybody would catch them. Cos, this is my kind of humor.
With the year coming to a close, what are some of your biggest goals as a creative in 2023?
Professionally, I am set to make a couple of films early in the year, I also want this album to reach a wider audience, and I have about 20 songs left over from this current album that didn't make the cut, they were not finished, so I would like to work on them, and release another album midway 2023.
This one will definitely be different, more acoustic, lots of guitars, I think I will get off the electronics for that one.
Stream and Share “The Dancing Cavaliers” on: Spotify | Apple Music | Hear Now | Bandcamp | Soundcloud
Connect with KS: Website
Chicago Bedroom Pop Artist Walker Shares His Debut Album "Phew"
Songwriter and guitar virtuoso Walker Landgraf, who shares music simply as Walker, just self-released his debut album “Phew” independently.
Songwriter and guitar virtuoso Walker Landgraf, who shares music simply as Walker, just self-released his debut album “Phew” independently. He recorded, produced, and even mastered the entire album himself outside of a cello (Jonathan Gardner), trumpet (Noe Mina), and mixing by Daniel Hayn.
Blending literal bedroom pop production and classic R&B, the songs catalog a lot of Walker’s experiences over the past few years, from finally finding his “home” in Chicago after growing up in LA and going to music school in NYC to sorting through the bitter feelings that follow a break-up.
Atwood Magazine summed up Walker’s music well earlier this fall when they wrote, "his songs are catchy and fit into a greater pop frame, but within his music one can expect to hear everything from jazz, to blues, to classic R&B." Crossing over into other genres helped him to get on Spotify’s official playlist Fresh Finds Jazz too.
Citing artists like D'Angelo, Paul McCartney, and Shuggie Otis as inspirations, Walker is set on classic, soulful songwriting with a modern sound through (literal) bedroom pop production while recording and producing everything himself.
Walker said of the title and concept, “the album is called ‘Phew’ because it’s about the first time in my life when I stopped and took a breath. I had just graduated from NYU and moved from New York to Chicago. I slowed things down and took a moment to process my life up until then and take care of myself.”
He continued to describe the process, saying, “I made the album completely by myself in my apartment using my collection of drums, guitars, synths and audio gear The process was a lot about letting go of self criticism and just doing my best. I allowed myself to write about whatever, whenever. And at the peak moment of the recording process I was spending 5-10 hours every day.”
Walker started playing jazz guitar at 16 and then quickly picked up digital production and beat-making. As he studied music in college, he brings his adept skills as a multi-instrumentalist — recording every single instrument on his upcoming album at home — to create intelligent but soulful, pop-based music.
After working with two major labels for some of his previous singles and EPs, Walker proudly self-released his debut album “Phew”.
Listen to Walker’s new album now, stream it on Apple Music and connect with him on social media.
Review: "The Dancing Cavaliers" Album by KS
Los Angeles based artist KS brings the grooves in unexpectedly sly ways on his cinematic new album “The Dancing Cavaliers”. Check out our in-depth review of KS’s project now.
Los Angeles based musician/filmmaker KS brings the grooves in unexpectedly sly ways on his cinematic new album “The Dancing Cavaliers”. Forgoing vocals, there is a classic cool to the way that he stretches the rhythms out. Elements of trip-hop, folk music, electro, pop, and dance all blend together in this rather beautiful way.
The soaring elements have their own charm to them for KS possesses a great ear for melody, and various different details bounce off of each other. Instrumental variety ensures that the listener is kept on their toes for KS switches things up in a gleeful fashion. Layer upon layer is applied with the utmost of care.
Plenty of reference points exist for this rather eclectic mix. For the raw gritty approach, KS brings in elements of Portishead and the Sneaker Pimps into the atmosphere. Like those groups, KS certainly knows how to lay down the beats and bass in a way that feels quite natural. The work out of the dance rock mixture brings to mind a bit of DFA records output, though with perhaps a more surrealist bent. Despite these influences KS embraces a style that is distinctively his own.
Dusty beats and fanfare start the album off in grandiose fashion on “Boludo”. For the title track “The Dancing Cavaliers” KS brings together dance rock and funk in a way that has a fever dream quality to it. Light as a feather, “Nostalgia” has a delicacy to it. On “Dimension Latina”, KS employs quick, sharp edits. “Pop Stupide” has a lustful quality.
Going for something quieter and reflective, “Danse” begins quietly before working itself into a frenzy. Hip-hop aspects filter into the expansive “Gadabout”. Noir vibes with a hint of jazz comes together on “Mon Cul”. Keyboard chords swell on “Esperando” complete with a delirious soundtrack getup to keep it interesting.
Distortion defines the heaviness of “Lamento”. “Funky Church” is aptly named as there is a gospel meets electro aspect to it. Woozy synthesizers lazily weave their way through “Too Cute”. A mediative, reflective stance on “Topo” has an easy-going elegance. Completely spaced-out things come to a lovely conclusion on the finale “Soledad”.
A psychedelic swirl of sound, KS delivers a thing of exquisite beauty with his “The Dancing Cavaliers” album.
Stream and Share “The Dancing Cavaliers” on Spotify
Detroit Based Multi-Instrumentalist/Producer Moment Drops His New Album "In Time"
Detroit-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Moment (Mike Masch) does a deep dive into hip hop/rap music on his hook-filled new album "In Time". Listen to his DOPE new project now.
Detroit-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Moment (Mike Masch) does a deep dive into hip hop/rap music on his hook-filled new album "In Time", out now on streaming platforms. Sonically, listeners can expect 'a hip-hop fusion that integrates heavy undertones of electronica, classical, jazz, big beat, cinematic, and downtempo'. Moment expresses himself through these complimentary genres in order to express diverse emotions and energies while seeking to inspire. Mike Masch's creative ethos is to 'bring truth and excitement in the form of music.'
"The inspiration behind this album was to show a much broader range of not just musical production & ability but myself as a person in this world. So many different emotions, feelings & experiences mixed together to tell many handfuls of stories. I loved how this came together with a variety of my favorite genres, whether that is rap in general but also incorporating R&B, old school, electronic, classical, and jazz. The album is vital to me to tell my experiences and release the various thoughts & experiences in my mind. I believe this will inspire, motivate, and help others. I've always said that people have unique hobbies as a form of therapy and music creation just happens to be mine. It's real, it's authentic, it releases and frees. I know when others listen to it that they will understand this as I do." - Mike Masch
"In Time" finds Masch's extensive life-long study and appreciation of music coming to fruition. He's graduated from music production and audio engineering schools, performed extensively as a DJ, and attended countless concerts and classes of various genres to hone his signature sound.
Listen to “In Time” now, stream it on Bandcamp and connect with Moment on his social media.
Psychedelic Rock Mystics Son Cesano Release Their New Album "Emerge"
Psychedelic rock mystics Son Cesano have released their new album entitled "Emerge" with Monobuster Records. This ambitious instrumental release should appeal to most fans of progressive, psychedelic, stoner and post-rock as well as heavy metal and jazz.
Psychedelic rock mystics Son Cesano have released their new album entitled "Emerge" with Monobuster Records. This ambitious instrumental release should appeal to most fans of progressive, psychedelic, stoner and post-rock as well as heavy metal and jazz. Son Cesano sound bigger than a quartet, each member accenting the rhythmic attack differently. The end result is a boundary-smashing and hypnotic tour-de-force through the Universal Mind.
After a few longer breaks, the four central-Swiss musicians had to find themselves again musically in a new line-up; always looking for the perfect flow. The style was further developed, they experimented diligently and refined structures and rhythms. Not least thanks to the new drummer Dominik Zgraggen, new influences and elements found their way into Son Cesano's repertoire without losing the band's characteristic groove.
Seven songs were created, which were recorded live and mixed by lead guitarist Simon Marty. From spherical and playful, to slightly jazzy, to hard riffs that make you shake your hair, a wide variety of soundscapes have been merged into one album. "Emerge" is psychedelic, heartily seasoned with post-rock and refined with a fine pinch of stoner. The listening experience is crowned by the enchanting album cover designed by Luzia Imhof, which also visually invites you to immerse yourself in the new album.
‘The Mystic Four’ has an immediate and undeniable calming effect. The thoughtfully arranged guitars and meandering percussion evoke a sense of wonder and awe, encouraging listeners to forget their worries and disappear into the soundscape, if only for a few moments. The lead guitar is reminiscent of yesteryear’s prog-rock heroes, yet distinctly modern in its approach. This is instrumental music that speaks directly to the heart.
High Vibe RnB Artist Mayyadda Gets in the Holiday Spirit with Her New EP "Holiday Joint"
It’s official — the holiday season has begun! Minneapolis-based alternative R&B artist Mayyadda is ready to set the tone for the season with the release of her new EP, “Holiday Joint”, out now!
It’s official — the holiday season has begun! Minneapolis-based alternative R&B artist Mayyadda (may-YAH-duh) is ready to set the tone for the season with the release of her new EP, “Holiday Joint”, out now. The five-track project was crafted to encourage listeners to focus more on the spirit of the season rather than the sometimes-stressful commercial aspects that are typically associated with this time of year.
On the EP, the high vibe R&B artist created an original R&B-soaked holiday track, “Holiday Joint,” about resting as nature does in the wintertime, as well as her original soulful takes on the Christmas classics “Jingle Bells”, “Winter Wonderland”, “Sleigh Ride”, and “Silent Night.” With her delicate guitar accompaniment and unique vocal arrangements, the artist seeks to provide listeners with a fresh perspective on the traditional sounds of the season.
As someone who doesn’t tend to subscribe to the tradition of this season, Mayyadda explains her intention and inspiration behind her new holiday EP, saying “I wanted to create a holiday project that my Grinchy self actually enjoyed.”
On Saturday, December 3rd, at the David Rubenstein Atrium, Mayyadda will close out the S3 Underground: Seen, Sound, Scribe series, hosted by Lincoln Center’s first ever Poet-in-Residence Mahogany L. Browne. Mayyadda will take the stage at 7:30pm and perform tracks from her previous album TRY&REMEMBER as well as her new EP, Holiday Joint. The concert is free and open to the public, find more information here.
Interview: Country Pop Artist Jennifer Alvarado Discusses Her New Single "Catfish"
Vale, North Carolina based country pop artist Jennifer Alvarado connected with NxtNow Music x Dopecausewesaid for an exclusive interview to discuss her new single "Catfish", and more.
“I love fishing and I have always been told about the sounds a catfish will make to throw off predators. The same is true with social media and people these days. Anyone can be anyone they want to be.”
Growing up in Vale, North Carolina, what was your first exposure to country pop music and what artists or bands inspired you to start writing and recording your own music?
I grew up listening to country music when at my grandparents’ house. They loved 90’s country and classic country. Artists like Reba McEntire, Deana Carter and Martina McBride were some of my favorites. But then I listened to classic rock and Top40 with my mom…so artists like Richard Marx, Chicago, The Eagles and Tom Petty were huge inspirations.
Congratulations on the release of your new single "Catfish"; tell us about your creative process for its development and whether it was based on a real life experience.
I love fishing and I have always been told about the sounds a catfish will make to throw off predators. The same is true with social media and people these days. Anyone can be anyone they want to be.
I don’t have prior experience being “catfished” by someone thank goodness…however, I have met many people that turn out to not be who they pretend to be.
If you could select any artist to appear on a remix to "Catfish", who would it be, and why?
Hmm…that’s a great question. I really like the idea of mixing genres…so my initial thought is to include a Hip Hop or Rap. Or go bluegrass and have a breakdown banjo and mandolin solo. I think Post Malone could bring a fun twist to things.
"Catfish" will be a featured song on your upcoming EP "Songbird: Part 2"; what can you tell us about the project, and how it will be different from Part 1.
Part One of Songbird outlined a toxic relationship from start to finish. It left the listener with all the questions you are left with once that relationship ends and you are messing parts of yourself.
Part Two is about putting blame where it needs to be and beginning to find your voice again.
Can we expect a music video for "Catfish" or any other songs on the upcoming EP?
At some point, yes. I have a concept in my head for pretty much every song I write…so one of my goals is bringing some of those visuals to life in the coming year.
With "Songbird: Part 2" dropping soon, what are some of your other goals musically heading into 2023?
I am releasing my new holiday single on 11/25. It is the first sneak peak from my Christmas project I am working on for next year.
I have been playing a lot of shows this year, so I want to continue that while also taking part in festivals like SXSW this upcoming year. I also want to expand my touring area to California and Texas.
Connect with Jennifer Alvarado: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Singer-Songwriter AV. Finishes Her EP Duology With the Upcoming Release of “Made Of Stone”
Singer-songwriter AV. announces the release of her second EP titled “Made Of Stone”, which touches upon topics unresolved from her debut EP “Guess I’m A Ghost”. The impending EP finishes the duology that is based around overcoming trauma.
AV. announces the release of her second EP titled “Made Of Stone” which touches upon topics unresolved from her debut EP “Guess I’m A Ghost”. The impending EP finishes the duology that is based around overcoming trauma. Set to be released on January 13th, 2023, this sequel EP is centered around self-growth and indifference, which was a critical part of AV.’s life whilst writing this project. In her final moments of highschool, AV. searches to find her true identity succeeding trauma.
The title track “Made Of Stone” illustrates the perspective of a young adult finding herself after having survived a traumatic experience. As the chorus goes, “Lately I’ve embraced the changes, so I went out and saved me, cause I once was a ghost, but now I’m made of stone” AV. manifests this viewpoint by describing someone who was once considered vulnerable to becoming indestructible.
AV. also touches upon how her trauma has impacted her in relationships. One song in particular, “Maddening Lullabies”, describes this with vivid lyrics like, “Reluctance fills my mind, should I say goodbye, I’ve been hurt before.” However, by the conclusion of the EP in the song “Who I Am”, AV. begins to find herself and sings, “My rusted armor feels brand new, I feel brand new.”
Similar to her recording process for “Guess I’m A Ghost”, AV. collaborated with Josh Preston of Me and The Machine Records in a two-day studio session in Nashville, TN.
Release Timeline:
December 2nd, 2022 - “Ghost Of You” single
January 13th, 2023 - “Made Of Stone” EP
Listen to “Made Of Stone” below, connect with AV. on her IG and be on the lookout for her next single, “Ghost Of You”, due out 12/2, and the “Made Of Stone” EP, coming on January 13th.
Connect with AV.: Instagram
Interview: Atlanta's Kay Soul Talks About Her New EP "Connections"
Major thanks to Atlanta based R&B artist, songwriter, plus model and aspiring actress Kay Soul who connected with Dopecausewesaid x NxtNow Music for an exclusive interview to talk about her newly released EP, “Connections”, and much more.
“Musically, I wanted to fuse genres and create an environment that was soulful, edgy, and lyrical. The stories you hear are a mix of personal experience, life observation, and inner desire.”
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Soulful, Transparent, and Empowering.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your EP "Connections"; tell us about your creative process for the six songs, and how long did it take to write and record overall?
Thank you so much. I always like to demo my songs before I go in to lay down the official vocals. It gives me an opportunity to try different ideas and really sit with the story I'm telling to make sure that my listeners are getting a complete picture.
I started working on the EP in December of 2020 right after I released my last full length album "In My MInd" (Listen HERE). It took me about 6 months to finish recording the songs and complete the lead music video.
What would you say the overall thematic concept of "Connections" is, and would you say that it is based on your personal experiences or your imagination?
It really is all about the vital role that the connections we have with ourselves and others play in relation to our growth and mental wellness. I knew that with this project I wanted to really get deep into the conversation and share stories that people could relate to in parallel to their own life circumstances. Musically, I wanted to fuse genres and create an environment that was soulful, edgy, and lyrical. The stories you hear are a mix of personal experience, life observation, and inner desire.
You're not just a talented artist and songwriter, but a model and actress as well. How do you juggle all of these responsibilities without compromising? I really try to stay focused on my purpose which is to spread love and healing through my music and overall brand. I work to make sure that I maintain my integrity in everything I do. It's important for me to actually live my life as the light that I portray to others.
When someone hears the "Connections" EP for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the listening experience? I want them to feel high vibrations and take away hope and inspiration. I want them to feel more self love and be encouraged to do the work required to heal themselves so that they can go from bad connection to strong connection in every aspect of their lives.
Stream and Share “Connections” on Spotify
Connect with Kay Soul: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Norwegian Band MARBLES Announce Their Upcoming Album "Humour", and Release the Music Video For "One of a Kind"
Norwegian band MARBLES announce their sophomore album “Humour”, which will be released in full on February 10th, 2023. They have also released a music video for their syrupy dream pop track “One of a Kind”.
Norwegian band MARBLES have released a music video for their syrupy dream pop track “One of a Kind”. This track, along with “Heading Out” and last week’s new single “World Inside Me”, will be appearing on the forthcoming sophomore album from the band, which is titled “Humour” and will be released in full on February 10th, 2023.
Hailing from Kolbotn, the black metal capital of Norway, the music of MARBLES sounds about as dramatically different from the stereotypical idea you might have of the music this nordic country tends to produce, with a colorful indie pop sound that bridges the gap between washed out guitar-driven dream pop ala Wild Nothing or Beach Fossils and the chilled out style of artists like Toro Y Moi and Glass Animals.
“Humour” takes their irresistible dream pop sound and refines it, with more focused songwriting and more richly detailed production. With "Heading Out", "One of a Kind", and now "World inside Me" all released this year, stay on the lookout for more new music in the new year before the album released in full on February 10th.
Watch the music video for “One of a Kind” below, stream it on Spotify and connect with MARBLES on their Instagram.
Stream and Share “One of a Kind” on Spotify
Connect with MARBLES: Instagram
LA Based Artist/Producer/Songwriter Caye Announces His First Ever Headlining Tour
LA-based artist/producer/songwriter, Caye (pronounced KAI), is thrilled to announce his FIRST EVER headlining tour. Kicking off in Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 1st at The Moroccan Lounge…
LA-based artist/producer/songwriter, Caye (pronounced KAI), is thrilled to announce his FIRST EVER headlining tour. Kicking off in Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 1st at The Moroccan Lounge, the tour will visit 10 cities across the US including San Diego, CA, Seattle, WA, Washington, DC and New York, NY before wrapping in Philadelphia, PA on Saturday, April 1st at Milkboy.
Tickets for the tour will be going on sale this Friday, November 11th at 10 AM Local time. See below for a full list of dates and visit HERE to buy tickets.
“I wrote these songs while imagining playing each one of them live. It really helped keep me sane over the last 1.5+ years, kept me inspired, gave me goosebumps at times, and made me fall even deeper in love with writing, producing, recording, and of course, playing music,” says Caye. “When others listen, I want them to be transported the same way I was when I was writing them—to a vibrant, exhilarating, sonically beautiful world that's totally immersive. I’ve been working on the live set for months now, and I absolutely cannot wait to share it in 2023.”
Last week, Caye shared his latest single, “SCARS.” Written and produced by Caye himself, “SCARS” reflects on how we are constantly rushing through life, focusing on moving from one thing to the next but never taking time to look around and live in the moment.
“SCARS” follows the previously released tracks – “MILFORD SOUND,” “DOPAMINE,” “SOME LAKES” and “WE LOVE PT. 1” – which will be featured on his upcoming debut album, We Love. For the first time in his career, Caye is leaning into what makes him unique, instead of shying away from it. On both a musical and personal level, We Love reflects Caye’s own experiences as a creative and as a person. With this project, he feels at home singing over wavy didgeridoo lines, sultry piano, and rock inspired production, but it’s the lyrics, themes, and genre-less blend of influences that truly capture who he’s evolved into as an artist today.
Based in Santa Monica, Caye is an artist/producer/songwriter with an evocative falsetto and a gift for melodic improvisation. He's been steadily winning fans across the US and around the world since breaking onto the scene in 2015.
Building on his classical training by experimenting with jazz, hip hop, calypso, and reggae, Caye defies genre to create a signature sound that is all his own. Inspired by the creative freedom of Bon Iver, the soul-moving rhythms of Bob Marley, and the lyrical genius of Kanye West, Caye creates music that’s as captivating as it is technically complex.
Caye has always felt at home behind the console and began by rapping over his beats—earning Wiz Khalifa’s attention and ultimately a feature from him on Caye’s single “Easy”. Throughout the years, bars transformed to choruses and verses, as Caye honed his vocal control, range, and his now signature falsetto. In addition to producing all his own records, Caye has continued to hone his sound by producing for Alessia Cara, Meghan Trainor, and Abhi the Nomad.
In 2020, he set out on an artistic exploration, traveling to remote regions of California with his instruments, art supplies, and a band of like-minded creatives. The last 2+ years have culminated in a full-length LP that thrives on headphones and speakers but is best experienced when improvised live—in the same method it was written. Grounded in his love for the steel drum, We Love explores Caye’s excellence across instruments that create music that’s emotionally engaging and spectacularly cinematic.
2022 promises to be his biggest year yet, which will introduce his expansive new sound to his ever-growing audience. The full album, We Love, will be released as singles, with a new one out each month for the rest of the year. He intends to continue spreading inspiration and building his reputation, with live shows beginning early in 2023.
R.em.edy Announces Her Intimate Debut EP "Last Summer" and Debut Headline at The Toff
Rising Melbourne R&B singer-producer superstar R.em.edy has announced the release of her debut EP “Last Summer” on November 25th, launching it with her first ever headline show at The Toff on November 26th.
Rising Melbourne R&B singer-producer superstar R.em.edy burst onto the Australian music scene in late 2019, quickly becoming known for her powerful voice, intimate lyricism and impressive production chops. 3 years on, after accruing over 450,000 streams and receiving placement on some of the most prestigious editorial playlists, being named as one of Cool Accidents Artists To Watch in 2022, getting shortlisted for Acclaim All Stars 2022 as well as achieving Triple J and FBi Radio airplay, she is set to release her debut EP Last Summer on 25th November, launching it with her first ever headline show at The Toff on 26th November.
Announced on Monday, Last Summer is an extremely personal project that has seen significant evolution throughout its creation. Originally written as a concept EP about a whirlwind summer fling R.em.edy had in 2020, the project quickly turned into something more meaningful and came to represent self reflection, letting go and processing past feelings.
To celebrate the release of her debut project, R.em.edy is hosting a Last Summer EP Launch on Saturday, 26th November at The Toff in Town, featuring her full live band, indie pop darling Jade Alice and neo-soul extraordinare YARA. The show serves as her first ever headline set, having become known in the local scene for her dynamic live performances as a support act over the years.
Featuring hit singles 613, Hurry Up and Questions, Last Summer lets R.em.edy fully showcase her near-unmatched level of talent in every area, putting her heartfelt songwriting, trademark hypnotic layered vocals and window-rattling production on full display, combining elements of R&B, soul, hip hop and indie pop into a harmonious blend that’s distinctly her own, even breaking new ground and exploring alt rock on Don’t Love You.
The creation of Last Summer took an emotional and physical toll on R.em.edy, painstakingly recording and re-recording each track over the course of 2 years until everything was perfect while dealing with bouts of serious vocal injury and her ongoing experiences with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, TMJ and other significant disabilities, putting her body and heart on the line for the project.
The visuals of the EP were produced throughout 2020 and 2021 when R.em.edy was originally intending on releasing the project, but now have a whole new meaning associated with them for her compared to when they were first created.
"Releasing them in late 2022, they act as a time capsule of the era of myself I’m letting go off with this project.
The low self esteem, toxic relationships, eating disorders, lack of self love, perfectionism, putting others before myself to a fault.
With this project I say goodbye to her & leave her in ‘Last Summer’, allowing myself to embody my truest self & embracing my alter ego ‘Nikki’ as who I am today.”
Follow R.em.edy on her social media, pre-save “Last Summer”, and get tickets to her headline show at The Toff on 26th November HERE.
Atlanta Based RnB Artist Kay Soul Drops Her Concept EP "Connections"
Kay Soul is a recording artist, songwriter, plus model and aspiring actress based in Atlanta. She just released her six-track concept EP entitled “Connections”, which she wrote, and features production by Erik "Mrdoublebeats" Ficklin and Anthony Smith.
Kay Soul is a recording artist, songwriter, plus model and aspiring actress based in Atlanta. She just released her six-track concept EP entitled “Connections”, which she wrote, and features production by Erik "Mrdoublebeats" Ficklin and Anthony Smith. “Connections” was recorded, mixed, and mastered at Miller Street Studios in Chicago.
Talking about her newly unveiled project, the multi-talented creative says, “The EP is a fusion of genres, including gospel, R&B, pop, Hip Hop, jazz, and Soul. Its harmonies are layered over bass-heavy synth beats with deep lyrical content and good vibrations. The lead song "Strong Connection", is about the type of love that I felt I always wanted but never had. It maps out a new way of loving by being patient, dedicated, and kind, and it's about something more than just romantic love. There's a universal theme of building strong connections in our lives with ourselves and others." The EP is completed by the tracks "Bad Connection", "Disconnection", "Reconnection", and "Lost Connection".
Speaking about the artistic vision for herself and her listeners, Kay states that “I am a healing artist. My goal is to share the broken pieces of myself through music in hopes that others will find beauty in their broken spaces. I'm hoping that my songs will provide listeners with hope and the courage to heal their souls.”
UK Singer-Songwriter Demi Jordanae Shares Her Debut EP "How Did We Get Here"
UK based Pop/R&B artist Demi Jordanae brings out an outspoken, expressive, and extroverted character in her music. Check out her newly released debut EP entitled “How Did We Get Here”.
From writing and recording as a D.I.Y introverted bedroom singer-songwriter from a young age, UK based Pop/R&B artist Demi Jordanae brings out an outspoken, expressive, and extroverted character in her music. Her artistry reflects versatility in her sound and style. Influenced by artists across multiple genres, she seeks inspiration from artists like Diana Ross, to Aaliyah and Amy Winehouse. Following her release “Smell Like You”, Demi joined all-female music LA label Powher Sound this past June.
Moving forward a few months and Demi has just released her debut EP, The "How Did We Get Here", which is an emotional rollercoaster. Each song has a different mood, emotion, sound and style, so it is evident why the EP ends with “How Did We Get Here". You finally get to that place or feeling in your life that you visioned a long time ago after the unpredictable, emotional journey.
Not only is "How Did We Get Here" the last track, but unintentionally also the last song to be created out of them all.
"I had no narrative or idea whatsoever for the EP. I was just creating and writing about anything I felt. I don't write from personal experience but from imagination. I get inside a character's mind with lyrical places that can resonate or relate with other people's life experiences."
Kihyun of Monsta X, Releases His First Mini Album, "YOUTH"
Kihyun, of Monsta X, is taking off with his 2nd solo journey with the release of his 1st mini album “YOUTH”. Dropping 6 months after his solo debut of VOYAGER, and 7 years after his debut in Monsta X; YOUTH is filled with songs stemming from personal stories and the things Kihyun wants to tell his own self.
Kihyun, of Monsta X, is taking off with his 2nd solo journey with the release of, KIHYUN 1st Mini Album YOUTH. Dropping 6 months after his solo debut of VOYAGER, and 7 years after his debut in Monsta X; YOUTH is filled with songs stemming from personal stories and the things Kihyun wants to tell his own self. Kihyun expands “YOUTH is about my current perspective on my youth and my determination as a solo artist. The lyrics include the things I want to tell myself, both in the past and present. Even though this album is my personal story after 7 years as an artist, I think many people can relate to my emotions because everyone reflects on their youth at some point in time.” Youth is a transient world that everyone visits but cannot return to, making it a world that we all wish to visit again someday. In this album, Kihyun acts as an observer and storyteller as he asks, answers and discovers himself.
Following the success of his solo debut in March, which entered multiple Billboard charts and also scored the year’s largest opening first-week album sales for a K-pop male soloists so far [Forbes]; this album’s title track of the same name, “Youth,” vividly expresses Kihyun traveling back to the raw emotions that he felt when he was younger. An alternative track that features Kihyun’s refreshing vocals, “Youth” has present day Kihyun alternating between telling his younger self about his past emotions and his current resolutions. From imagination to reality, Kihyun unapologetically tells the range of emotions he feels while on the path to his destination. The song offers a new experience for listeners to empathize with as Kihyun expresses his confidence as a seasoned artist, now 7 years post debut, and his newness to being a solo artist.
“It is really meaningful that I can share my story to all my fans through my music. I hope you will fully enjoy all the songs and stories I’ve shared with you through this album! Thank you!” - Kihyun
Through the album’s 5 tracks, Kihyun shows off his diverse range as a vocalist and the variety of genres he can perform. “Bad Liar,” written, composed and arranged by Hyungwon, an active DJ and fellow member of Monsta X, artfully expresses the bad lies and conflicted heart of wanting to break up but also get back together. Another track by Monsta X’s Hyungwon and inspired by the movie Closer, “Where Is This Love” expresses a love that cannot be felt. “Stardust” shows off Kihyun’s dynamic vocal charm. The full English-language track, “Where Is This Love” showcases Kihyun’s raw emotions through his vocals and powerful lyrics. “Cause of You,” an easy listening pop number with a bright acoustic guitar, closes out the album with a surprise appearance from Monsta X’s Joohoney. The support of RYAN JHUN, Ea Na Kim, Hyungwon, BrotherSu, among many others, boost Kihyun’s confidence in releasing this album.
Listen to “YOUTH” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Kihyun on his website and social media.
Interview: Chicago Based Rap Artist/Producer Smokey Smothers Talks About Her New Single "Hollywood"
Chicago based rap artist and producer Smokey Smothers connected with Dopecausewesaid x NxtNow Music for an exclusive interview to discuss her new song “Hollywood”, which will be featured on her upcoming EP “Hollywood Smoke”, and much more.
“For as long as I can remember I’ve been drawn to everything music related. I was messing around with a keyboard and boombox recording tapes at 6 and 7 years old...”
Big salute to you on the release of your new song "Hollywood"; it's a dope track. What was your creative process for its development?
Thank you so much. The creative process for this track was completely random. I made the beat first. Just wanted to try something different and do a throwback west coast vibe. When I got the foundation for the beat down the hook came to me immediately.
The song as a whole is loosely based on some experiences I’ve had in life with partying.
"Hollywood" will be featured on your upcoming EP "Hollywood Smoke"; can you describe the project for us, and whether there is an overarching theme to all of its songs?
This project is showcasing my rockstar, player type alter ego named Hollywood Smoke. The theme is just me having fun and showing a side of myself I don’t always show.
Each song has its own unique vibe. You get two bangers, a party track and a little something you can ride to at the end.
How did you initially get started as an artist and producer? Were there any artists/producers that motivated you as a creative when you were growing up?
For as long as I can remember I’ve been drawn to everything music related. I was messing around with a keyboard and boombox recording tapes at 6 and 7 years old, but I got my first drum machine and started rapping and making beats seriously around age 10.
Timbaland and Pharrell were my earliest influences beat wise. I’ve always been a big Aaliyah fan so Tim’s early work influenced me a lot.
By the time I got into 9th grade Kanye dropped Through the Wire and I thought it was cool as hell to see someone from the Midwest not only rap but produce as well. He’s still an inspiration of mine today.
Would you say that the city of Chicago inspires your songwriting at all?
Chicago definitely inspired my songwriting. Being from Kenosha, WI I think we are heavily influenced by Chicago’s music. A lot of us Kenosha kids grew up on Do or Die, Crucial Conflict, Twista. I think Chicago started somewhat of the foundation of Midwest hip hop honestly.
Growing up I spent a lot of summers here and living here as an adult has somewhat reignited an old flame in me.
With the year slowly winding down, have you thought about some goals musically for 2023? If so, what are they?
2023 I plan to keep the momentum going and putting out even better content. I like to be free with my music and next year I’ll be trying out some different sounds, digging into my alternative side a little more.
Connect with Smokey Smothers: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | YouTube