First week of November down, hard to believe we’re almost done with 2021. As always, there’s been a lot of phenomenal releases, way more than we could possibly ever write about, but here are 7 of our team’s favourites. I hope there’s something you enjoy in this week’s New Music Sunday lineup!
Charlie John » Little Things
Emotional and passionate, ‘Little Things’ is a journey
INDIE TOP 39
Losing people is weird because you never know what you’re going to miss. Charlie John dives into these complicated thoughts on their new release ‘Little Things’. The warm sound was constantly growing and expanding, pushed along by the emotional vocals. As the texture would change, John’s vocals gave familiarity. New voices were constantly slipping into and out of the groove helping to support the melancholic vocals. Part of this cool sound was due in part to the awesome mixing bringing out the details. Another part is the powerful, commanding vocals. Easily matching the energy of the instrumental, their versatility and strength enhanced the whole performance.
Make sure to connect with Charlie John on Instagram
Clara Moschetta » Nice Guy
The high energy of ‘Nice Guy’ is infectious and will have you fed up with so-called “Nice Guy’s”
INDIE TOP 39
After watching season two of “Sex Education” (I haven’t seen it so no spoilers I promise), London-based artist Clara Moschetta knew she had to capture the anger she felt about the protagonist, Otis. Upset at the insincerity of him and other people-pleasers who ignore their own feelings, ‘Nice Guy’ captures these complex emotions phenomenally. The delicacy of the vocals suited the light texture and helped the lyrics feel more intimate; like they were coming from a friend you’ve known for years. They easily transition into the higher energy texture without losing that familiar tone. Despite the familiarity and catchiness of the sound, the frustration is palpable. Moschetta sounds passionate and empowered on this anthem to those who don’t deserve your time.
Make sure to connect with Clara Moschetta on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
Darkroom Data » Fall With You
‘Fall With You’ is unique, encaptivating, and impressive, definitely not a single you’re going to want to miss.
INDIE TOP 39
Indie electro-pop duo, Darkroom Data sound mysterious and intriguing on ‘Fall With You’.While cool jazzy riffs from all sorts of voices dance in the background. Deep bass and rhythmic percussion give the song its eerie and intense texture. Vocals float ethereally over top, giving it a modern yet nostalgic sound. The lightness and delicacy of the melodies expand the groove set by the synths and guitars alike. Surreal lyrics drift in and out of reality in between the refrain of the chorus’. Despite their repetitive nature, each time felt different thanks to the unpredictable instrumental. Another outstanding release from Darkroom Data.
Make sure to connect with Darkroom Data on Instagram » Twitter
Echo Hotel » Hives
Poetic lyrics drift by listlessly on Echo Hotel’s enchanting new track ‘Hives’
INDIE TOP 39
‘Hives’ by British alt-rock band Echo Hotel, reflects on and mourns the ending of a relationship. One of the coolest parts of this song was the many different moods the band adapted. From acoustic strings and vocals to almost rock-like grooves there was a little of everything to keep you engaged. Lyricism plays a vital part in the impact of the song as well – storytelling was captivating and poetic, while still being approachable. The rhythm section was versatile and adapted phenomenally to the mood of the story. The seamless blending of the instruments and vocals was simply gorgeous.
Make sure to connect with Echo Hotel on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
Karen Harding » Anxiety
Karen Harding captures difficult emotions beautifully on ‘Anxiety’
INDIE TOP 39
Anxiety is an emotion that most people experience at some point, yet is hardly talked about. Karen Harding hopes to change that with her aptly named new single ‘Anxiety’. Beautiful vocals are paired with introspective lyrics and a minimalistic instrumental. The soothing vocals seem to float along, pushing the song through its thought-provoking verses. Layered vocals sound beautiful side by side, and the light bouncy instrumental provides just enough structure for the harrowing melodies to soar and lead the song. Due in part to Harding’s phenomenal performance, the powerful vocals will ring in your head for hours.
Make sure to connect with Karen Harding on Facebook » Instagram
Maeji’s Mind » Back To Spot
Delicate and enchanting are just the first words that come to mind when listening to ‘Back To Spot’
INDIE TOP 39
It’s not every week I get approval to write about instrumental songs. There’s no lyrics to lean back on so the artist is on full display. Melodies and harmonies have to be top-notch or else the song isn’t engaging. Although ‘Back To Spot’ is only the third single by Maeji’s Mind it manages to sound mature and capture your attention. Catchy, easy-going melodies are contrasted with an almost psychedelic style of production. Not only that but despite how relaxing everything was the track was unpredictable. The minute I fell into a lull, the groove was changing and new voices entering.
Make sure to connect with Maeji’s Mind on Instagram » Twitter
Stav G » Leaves
The beauty of ‘Leaves’ is unique and captivating
INDIE TOP 39
Stav G continues to push boundaries and explore the definition of beauty in their new song ‘Leaves’. Released alongside a cinematic music video, ‘Leaves’ is gorgeous and unlike anything else. Jazzy melodies pull at the harmonies, as poetic lyrics drift like the wind. Constantly moving forwards, the adaptive rhythm section was awesome. Occasionally disappearing or changing energy, the groove would occasionally fragment. Through these more chaotic sections, however, the vocals were as sweet as honey – never losing their graceful delivery. The soundscape created by Stav G was one of a kind and an absolute joy to listen to.
Make sure to connect with Stav G on Facebook » Instagram » Twitter
