Here’s some of the strongest new rap to emerge from the UK in some time. Intricately produced beats that compliment melodic tones, with a sense of introspection and melancholy. The intentional anonymity of UKNWN also adds to the power of his sound.
“I don’t enjoy being the centre of attention. Genuinely someone who doesn’t fit in – I’m an outcast”.
Taken from the new EP ’22’ which is out on 19th June.
“The song was written from a very personal and introspective place, however it has taken on a new and more powerful meaning because of what has been happening with Covid-19 and the global reinvigoration of the Black Lives Matter movement. The video was shot at home in my living room, which was completely blacked out using thick, heavy fabric. It was the hottest day of the year so far, so it was a challenge. It was directed by Sophie Jones and shot remotely via Zoom with my housemate Holly Milk who took on the role of camera person, lighting operator and all round life saver.”
A trio who are crafting some of the most engaging, playful indie pop that I have heard emerge from their native Sweden for some time.
This track evolved from a freestyle from Aminé, which was then reworked into a stunning piece of downtempo house which I am officially crazy for.
“Another line he says is “I bench press my problems like ‘add another weight’”. And that’s a really beautiful like modern macho line to me.”
Having recently graduated from Musikmakarna (one of Sweden’s biggest music institutions), Sanna Martinez has already begun crafting her name as a talent who’s both a singer and song writer.
This release is an immediately arresting and shimmering blend of Swedish synth and disco. You’ll also hear some influences of Halsey, Zara Larsson and Ariana Grande on the track too, which is pure pop bliss.
Hailing from Richmond, VA, Peter $un has crafted a kind of hip hop that makes you feel enriched through it’s introspective and thoughtful lyricism, in a way that’s so easy and enjoyable to connect with.
“When I wrote this song things in my life were chaotic and unexpected, much like 2020 has been so far. I’m a strong believer in history repeating itself so I try to capture moments that will be relatable not just now but twenty years from now. I think the unity and love between our people during this time is beautiful! Black is beautiful! The fact that the world is finally aware of the systematic racism in America that’s been going on for hundreds of years is an amazing first step in the changes that are necessary for true equality in this country. I wrote this music to comfort me through some of my darkest days so hopefully it can make someone else’s brighter.”
Label-mates Tessa Violet and Canadian newcomers daysormay team up to create one of the biggest indie pop bops of the year so far.
Taken from daysormay’s upcoming EP, due for a release later this year via T∆G Music.
A rousing blend of Norwegian power pop and synth.
“In one moment you’re in loves’ intoxication, but in the next one you feel that love is a curse. It’s pretty weird, but while looking back on previous relationships even my very best friends couldn’t comfort me. It really makes no sense when I’m looking back on it. Is it because the need of being seen is biggest from that very person that just told you you’re not good enough?”
In an act of solidarity, Lolo will donate her merch sales for June 2020 to Black Lives Matter and the LGBTQ Freedom Fund. She will also be donating annually each June to a Black Lives Matter cause for the rest of her career.
In the week prior to this latest single, Lolo donated $5 from every pre-save to The Loveland Foundation, an initiative that offers free therapy sessions for black women.
“‘Ex Lovers’ was written during a time in my life where I was dating people just to get over a certain person. I convinced myself there was something real in these relationships when really, I knew there wasn’t. In one of the cases actually, it felt like that person was doing the same thing, trying to get over an ex by dating me, and we found ourselves in the same position, which is where the line ‘maybe we’re just using one another’ came from. We were both trying to get back at our ex lovers.”
“This is a summer club song. Knowing that Donae’o is the king of UK Funky music – match made in heaven. Greentea Peng was the perfect foil for this, her melodies are unique and she’s wicked.”
Taken from the upcoming mixtape ‘None Of Us Are Getting Out Of This Life Alive’ which is released via Island on 10th July.
The duo return today with a stunningly emotive piece of indie and RnB.
Taken from upcoming project ‘The Amanda Tape’ which is out soon.
Hailing from the South West of England, multi-discipled creative RefraQ (Joe Mawson) has blended intricately complex electronic beats with spectacular video art.
This release comes from the ‘Northlands’ EP, which is out now.
