Music - NEW MUSIC

Kami Kehoe – love songs vol. 1

This weekend’s bop comes courtesy of Alfitude favourite, Kami Kehoe. On her new single ‘love songs vol. 1’, Kehoe treats listeners to an infectious mix of disco, funk and electro-pop.

And yet, while the production is uplifting and playful, the song’s lyrics tell of a time when Kehoe fell in love with someone who she was constantly warned about.

“This record talks about my experience of a past relationship where people close to me tried to warn me that I shouldn’t be in it… that it was wrong. But, I kept fighting for it because I never saw what everyone else could see. Even though I realised they were right in the end, I could only see the good in this person through my eyes.”

Kehoe is currently finishing off work on her much-anticipated debut album. In the meantime, if you’re lucky enough to live in LA then you can catch Kehoe performing at the iconic Peppermint Club on 18th March 2023 – tickets can be found here.

Kami Kehoe

MIIA – Skin of a Fool (feat. Vaarin)

Fans of dark melancholic pop will be delighted with Norwegian artists MIIA and Vaarin’s new collaboration, ‘Skin of a Fool’.

Quintessentially Scandinavian in its production style, the song’s mystifying soundscape lures listeners in to a world that is haunting and tense, while the powerful lyrics encourage us to break free from the insecurities that hold us down.

“I didn’t know Vaarin that well, but I admired her. Her truth was just so clear to me. Not only are her melodies beyond special and sincere – she also takes risks and isn’t afraid to make the listener a bit uncomfortable. We wrote “Skin of a Fool” during a vulnerable conversation about feelings we had felt surrounding not being good enough. Our producer, Joachim ‘J RYGGS’, already had these enchanting chords that immediately spoke to us. You need to allow darkness to ‘get out’ of it. And sometimes, in order to do that, you need to know that you’re not alone. You need to let love in – and only when you do that – you can finally be free.” – MIIA

Both MIIA and Vaarin have had exceptional rises to fame within their home nation and globally. MIIA has amassed more than 150 million catalogue streams to date, while Vaarin’s work consistently draws over 14k monthly listeners on Spotify alone.

MIIA | Vaarin

🎵 Ones To Watch Playlist 🎵Scandinavia Sound Playlist

Augustine – Mary Cookins

Acclaimed Scandinavian indie artist Augustine has come to be known as somewhat of a musical chameleon, and today’s release of his new single ‘Mary Cookins’ proves that.

Serving as a taster to the Swedish Grammy-nominated songwriter & producer’s upcoming sophomore album, the track feels nostalgic and relatable, but also experimental and eccentric at the same time.

With its dreamy fusion of psychedelic cosmic pop and indie, the song’s lyrics look at the (all too relatable) feelings of anxiety that arise from worrying too much.

“This was the first song that came to me in this album process and we had so much fun making it in a little cabin in the south of Sweden. Everything just fell into place and I felt like it marked a new beginning after a break from the studio.”

Augustine performs at SXSW in Austin on the 17th and 18th March – more details can be found here.

Augustine

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Sofasound – Control

Hailing from South Florida is highly acclaimed singer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Sofasound.

Newly signed to Magic Magic Collective, this rising talent has already amassed over twenty million career streams to date.

With its dreamy yet eclectic take on indie-pop, infectious new single ‘Control’ presents listeners with a refreshingly original sound, and serves as a teaser to Sofasound’s forthcoming LP, ‘Outside’.

“Finding healing, building friendships, sharing love.”

Currently commanding more than 90k monthly listeners on Spotify alone, it’s safe to say that Sofasound is one Floridian talent to keep on your radars this year.

Sofasound

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New Music: Chloe Ann

Hailing from the English city of Leicester comes promising pop-rock artist Chloe Ann, who has just released a superb new single for us all to enjoy.

‘Never Call You Mine’ was written as an anthem for all the people out there who are stuck in the ‘friend zone’ with someone that they have feelings for.

“‘Never Call You Mine’ is about when you’ve caught feelings for someone you thought would only ever be your friend, and you know deep down that they will never feel the same.”

A talent already on the rise, Chloe Ann has picked up support from the likes of BBC Introducing and Radio 1, and has also managed to perform on tour alongside artists as noted as BEKA and Kelsy Karter.

Chloe Ann

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Ponette – Fake My Feelings (feat. Torine)

Two of Norway’s biggest newcomers join forces today on the release of ‘Fake My Feelings’.

As expected, this collaboration between Ponette and Torine is nothing short of pop perfection, and treats listeners to an anthemic song that somehow feels both playful and melancholic at the same time.

To date, Ponette has amassed millions of catalogue streams while also receiving tastemaker support from the likes of NRK P3 (Norway’s national radio), Earmilk and Acid Stag.

Meanwhile, Torine continues to build on her impressive run of global hits (totalling over 45 million streams), and currently commands more than 600k listeners on Spotify alone.

‘Fake My Feelings’ is produced by Coucheron, and is lifted from Ponette’s forthcoming album, which is released soon.

Ponette | Torine

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New Music: townsend

Our favourite newcomer today has to be Nashville-based singer, songwriter and producer townsend (aka John Townsend).

‘dramamine’ showcases a refreshingly original production that applies brash hyperpop beats over a fragile and emotive indie-pop sound.

“A song about being decisive when you’re with an indecisive person.”

The result is a piece of music that is full of contrasts, and invites listeners into a soundscape that feels unpredictable and unsettling, but also deeply moving to experience.

townsend

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Rich Tuorto – Thick Skin

It’s no secret that the music industry is one of the hardest for creative talents to succeed in. And while some are lucky enough to hit the mainstream in their youth, most musicians are programmed to feel that their chances of success rapidly dissolve as they become older.

American singer, songwriter and producer Rich Tuorto touches upon this issue on his melodic new single, ‘Thick Skin’.

Through its emotive blend of dreamy pop and indie, the song lays bare Tuorto’s own personal struggles, and how he found ways to overcome them.

“I often feel like I was supposed to know exactly what I wanted to be when I was 18 years old in order to have had any chance of success in this unforgiving industry. As I get older, I can’t help but hear all of these voices in my head, telling me that I missed the boat, that my time has run out, that I chose this path too late in life, and now no one is willing to listen. But when I stop and think for a minute, I realise that all of this doubt is only based on my own insecurities and there is nothing in the way of my own success except for me.”

“‘Thick Skin’ is a song for anyone that doubts themselves. That feels like they ‘don’t fit the mold’ and therefore will never be able to achieve their goals. A reminder that there is no limit to what we can achieve as long as we back ourselves, block all of the noise around us, and just unapologetically pursue our passions.”

Currently residing in Brooklyn, Tuorto is both a soloist releasing music under his own name, and is also an accomplished producer working with other artists in genres as diverse as pop, rock, R&B and country.

Rich Tuorto

New Music: The Jürgen Clubs

The Jürgen Clubs might just be one of the hottest new indie names to emerge from Denmark this year.

Initially forming in 2021, this group of rockers create punchy songs that are both sonically energising and lyrically vivid.

Inspired by the topic of male impotence, new single ‘Soft’ was written after a time when lead singer Magnus went on a Tinder date – with an empty stomach and a little too much booze:

“The song is based on an evening when I wasn’t too proud of myself, and in the attempt to get a second chance, I invited her out to a restaurant while she’s on her way out the door. Of course she turned down that invitation a few days later.” – Magnus Grilstad, The Jürgen Clubs

Alongside the release of the track, the band have also unveiled an accompanying 80’s style music video for fans to enjoy.

With praise from the likes of Danish heavyweight magazine GAFFA under their belts, The Jürgen Clubs look set to take on their biggest year yet.

The Jürgen Clubs

🎵 Ones To Watch Playlist 🎵Scandinavia Sound Playlist

KIDS N CATS – Idiot

Vienna-based outfit KIDS N CATS have been disrupting Austria’s pop scene ever since their formation back in 2014.

With a refreshingly raw, quirky and unashamedly bold style of sound, this collective of musicians have delivered songs that are not only unique and intriguing, but also highly captivating to experience.

New single ‘Idiot’ continues this trend, and showcases a manic fusion of abrasive alt-pop, indie and garage rock – proving that even after almost a decade together, this group still know how to shake things up!

KIDS N CATS

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New Music: Christos

Hailing from Brisbane is promising alt-pop artist, singer and songwriter Christos. Today’s release of ‘Sparks Fly’ highlights this up-and-coming talent’s impressive artistry, and is already one of our favourite singles of the week.

Through it’s polished production and catchy melody, the song looks at the feelings of lust and love that arise when two people find an attraction with each other. Elaborating on the track’s lyrics, Christos explains:

“‘Sparks Fly’ represents me journeying through my emotions of finding that one person that I’d do anything for. It’s laying it all out on the table for someone and trying to show that I’m the right one for them.”

While still early in his career, Christos has so far amassed more than 150k catalogue streams on Spotify alone. More songs from the artist can be found here.

Christos

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BOBI ANDONOV – Bad Decisions

Australian star BOBI ANDONOV unleashes a perfected slice of cinematic dark pop today with his new single, ‘Bad Decisions’.

Intensely captivating in tone, the song serves as an introduction to the much-acclaimed singer, songwriter and producer’s new style of sound.

Remarking on the track’s lyrical concept, ANDONOV explains:

“‘Bad Decisions’ is about finding someone who can keep up with your freedom, and your decadence, and the fun you can have exploring with them.”

As one of Australia’s most hyped talents in recent years, ANDONOV has garnered praise from outlets as noted as Billboard, Nylon, Time and triple j, while also amassing more than 14 million career streams on Spotify alone.

BOBI ANDONOV

TUSHAR – Exit Sign

If you’re in the mood for some cheery indie-pop then today’s your lucky day! Australian-based artist TUSHAR is back with a charming new single that’s sure to get you in the weekend mood.

Lyrically inspired by the moments when you realise you’ve had a little too much to drink, ‘Exit Sign’ presents listeners with a playful fusion of indie and dreamy pop.

“This song was written about that universal moment on a night out when you go to the bathroom alone and realise how drunk you really are. Shoutout to all the adolescents out there; may you also be saved by an ‘Exit Sign’.”

As a talent on the rise (with more than 250k cumulative Spotify streams to date), TUSHAR is a name to watch for. You can catch the artist at this year’s SXSW in Austin – more details can be found here.

TUSHAR

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Lexie Carroll – tomorrow

After the huge successes gained over the last twelve months, it’s safe to say that London-based teen talent Lexie Carroll might just become one of the UK’s newest musical exports.

Adding to that momentum, heartfelt new single ‘tomorrow’ continues to shine a light on Carroll’s artistry. With its delicate fusion of indie, folk and pop, the song delivers a sound that is impossible not fall in love with. Elaborating on the lyricism, Lexie explains:

“‘tomorrow’ is about feeling really safe with somebody. Like there could be a full on apocalypse going on outside but sitting in their living room you’re in your own bubble and everything’s okay.”

Now signed to famed record label Seven Four Seven Six (home to Matt Maltese, Matilda Mann, bb sway and many others), Carroll looks set to take on her biggest year yet.

Lexie Carroll

Lexie Carroll Live Shows 2023

May 12th Great Escape Festival – Brighton
May 18th Matilda Mann support – Jazz Café, London
August 12th 110 Above Presents: Othr festival

New Music: Amyrion

Emerging from Los Angeles is singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Amyrion.

Upon pressing play to their new single ‘Figueroa’, you’ll be faced with a sonic experience that really is something quite special.

Through its unique mix of hazy pop, psychedelic funk, R&B, soul and indie, this beautiful song tells of the struggles that humans face when trying to fall in love in the modern world.

“Feels really vulnerable and underneath the bubbles the song is about depression and the feeling of disconnection in the contemporary romantic internet age.”

With more than 200k streams from the release of just four singles, Amyrion looks set to become one of California’s newest prospects.

Amyrion

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03CAS – WITH OR WITHOUT (feat. Elijah Aike)

Acclaimed London-based emcee 03CAS is back today with a powerful new single that continues to showcase this rapper’s extraordinary songwriting skills.

Serving as a taster to his upcoming debut LP (out soon), ‘WITH OR WITHOUT’ is lyrically inspired by the importance of self-motivation, and features the talents of fellow Londoner Elijah Aike.

“I wrote the song when I was really struggling with motivation. I was going through a lot at the time, hence the first line, ‘celebrate what’s intact, we’re seismic.’ It’s ultimately about motivating yourself to keep pushing despite feeling like no one’s in your corner.” – 03CAS

Following his initial debut back in 2021, 03CAS has since gone on to receive praise from tastemakers as prominent as Pitchfork, Resident Advisor and even Harper’s Bazaar.

03CAS | Elijah Aike

Nikki White – Fairweather Friends

Canadian indie starlet Nikki White is back today with a captivating new single, entitled ‘Fairweather Friends’.

Fusing powerful and thoughtful lyricism with an energetic 00’s-inspired pop-rock production, the song looks at the unfortunate times when your friends let you down. Elaborating further, White explains:

“I wrote ‘FWF’ in LA with my two friends Jordyn Kane and Aaron Blackmar. When I went into the session I had an idea about writing a song with the words Fairweather friends. I got the idea from my boyfriend the night before actually. I was complaining about some old friends and how they ditched me when things got bad and he told me to ‘let go of those Fairweather friends.’ I think he got the phrase from the Kadhja Bonet song haha.”

White has also unveiled visuals to compliment the release of the single, of which she says:

“The video was a collaboration between myself and the director, Alexander Sworik. Our main goal was to capture the feeling you got watching Much Music videos on a Sunday morning. We went into the shoot with a loose plan and lots of energy. We spent the day running around our hometown, stealing shots and filming everything and anything we thought looked cool. My friend in the video is actually my best friend in real life. We’ve been best friends for over 22 years.”

The track serves as a perfect example to White’s style of songwriting, which aims to pair raw and hard-hitting lyricism with beautifully written melodies.

While working on her forthcoming debut project, White will address serious topics like eating disorders, as well as the human range of emotions, including depression, anxiety and insecurity.

Nikki White

New Music: Blusher

You might not yet be familiar with Blusher, but this rising Australian trio have just signed a deal with Atlantic, while also commanding more than 125k monthly Spotify listeners.

‘Dead End’ is still only the group’s second single, and treats listeners to a shimmering slice of nostalgia-tinged electronic pop.

It’s rare to find a musical outfit garner so much attention so early on in their career. We sense Blusher might well be Australia’s next big pop export… So be sure to keep these hugely talented ladies on your radar!

Blusher

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Klaverson – Believe

UK-based singer, songwriter and producer Klaverson (aka Jack Lintorn) returns with his third single today, entitled ‘Believe’.

Through its finessed blend of indie, electronica and downtempo, the track draws listeners in to a soundscape that is cinematic and rich in character. In some ways, ‘Believe’ feels reminiscent to the ground-breaking productions perfected by Moby on his iconic 1999 album, ‘Play‘.

To date, Klaverson has amassed more than 100k streams from the release of just two singles, confirming his status as one of Britain’s most promising downtempo newcomers.

Klaverson

New Music: Kerry Charles

If you’re mesmerised by the sounds of Tame Impala as much as we are, then chances are high that you’ll fall in love with New Jersey’s Kerry Charles.

Inspired by artists as iconic as Prince, Hall and Oates and Steely Dan, Charles creates an interesting style of pop that harks back to the 70s and 80s while still maintaining a sense of freshness.

New single ‘I Live Alone’ treats listeners to a nostalgic production that is sultry yet sincere in character, and serves as a tantalising taster to his upcoming debut LP.

Kerry Charles

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