Tag Archives: Foster the People

Augustine – Coast [Spotify Studios Recording]

Augustine - Coast [Spotify Studios Recording]

Swedish indie-wonder Augustine shares his pulsating new single ‘Coast’, released exclusively as part of Spotify’s Studio Oyster program.

Another wonderful story told to capture the idea of how seeing a happy loving couple together stirs up painful emotions in a delicate and groovy manner.

‘Coast” is a song about loneliness, and a longing to understand this world a little better. I was confused and jealous of everything I laid my eyes on when I wrote it. And I often get struck by this feeling about wanting to escape from myself and from my body when I’m feeling down. I guess it comes down to the desire to have someone by your side who understands you and all your weird thoughts.” Augustine says.

Sounds like: PNAU, Foster the People, James Blake, Maggie Rogers, Phoebe Bridgers, Tame Impala, Phoenix

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Weekly Gems 80

OH Wonder – Hallelujah

OH Wonder by Olga De La Iglesia

OH Wonder by Olga De La Iglesia

OH Wonder returns with the glorious new single, ‘Hallelujah’! Praise be!

The visuals, shot in one take, feature Anthony West and Josephine Vander Gucht in a field amongst a selection of multi-coloured church gowns. As colourful and catchy as ever.

Sounds like: IYES, Kid Astray, Banks, Fickle Friends, Monogem, Paperwhite, PROM, Blood Orange, Years & Years, Bipolar Sunshine, Broods, ASTR

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Islandis – Slow Down

Islandis by Cormac Power

Islandis by Cormac Power

Australian duo Islandis – aka producer/instrumentalist James Chave-Dubois & Ben McInerney – share their bright new single, ‘Slow Down’.

Sharing one song a year, this radiant upbeat jam breathes nostalgia and contagious pop hooks

Sounds like: New Navy, Phoenix, Foster The People, Goldroom, Strange Talk

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Daniella Mason – Woman Lover Powerful

Daniella Mason

Damn right, Nashville-based Daniella Mason knows the power she has a woman.

A modern feminist anthem through and through, it spells out the world from many womens’ eyes. Her forthcoming EP, ‘Physical State’ is due out this fall.

Sounds like: Imogen Heap, The Japanese House, Robyn, Maggie Rogers, Billie Eilish, George Gretton, Luna Pines

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Tony Njoku – CONFIDENT

Tony Njoku

Nigerian-British avant-pop auteur and artist Tony Njoku shares the brilliant new Max Jedwab-directed video for ‘CONFIDENT’.

The intense single adopts a confessional, diary-like intimacy underpinned by whirring synths, which dissolve into effervescent chaos.

It is taken from his new album, ‘Your Psyche’s Rainbow Panorama’, released on 4 October via Silent Kid Records, in which he has taken inspiration from a work of Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson’s glass walkway, entitled ‘Your Rainbow Panorama’.

Sounds like: Sacred Animals, Ben Khan, Flying Lotus, Ghostpoet, Gaika, Lightfoot

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Zanski – Younger You Feat. Emilia Ali

Zanski

Zanski digs deeper with his creative new single, ‘Younger You’.

A laid-back RnB affair, Zanski has teamed up with vocalist Emilia Ali to deliver unparalleled vocal lines, rich harmonies, and sweet grooves that perfectly showcase his ability for some serious tuneage, with as much intrigue and substance as James Blake or Jai Paul.

Sounds like: Ben Khan, James Blake, Honne, Banks, Jai Paul

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Slow Shudder – Just As You Are

Slow Shudder

Pop music is always in a state of flux, and there are always artists doing interesting things with it if you know where to look. This week it’s Seattle-based producer-singer-songwriter Slow Shudder.

Reminiscent of the likes of Robokid and PC Music artists, ‘Just As You Are’ walks a fine line of forward-thinking contemporary production and early 00’s sugary pop, for a delightfully charming ballad.

Sounds like: VÉRITÉ, Robokid

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Broken Back – One By One Feat. Alle Farben

It’s coming to the end of summer, which is why you need to listen to the almost-tropical ‘One By One’ by Broken Back and featuring Alle Farben.

The combination of Broken Back’s upbeat and quirky energies with his whimsical vocal styling, combine effortlessly alongside Alle Farben’s diverse, colorful, and boundless spirit.

It’s out now via Sony Music/Ultra Records.

Sounds like: Klingande, Möwe

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Weekly Gems 77

Margot Polo – Let’s Get Out

Margot Polo

Margot Polo (aka David Provenzano) releases his new single, ‘Let’s Get Out’.

A song about breaking out of routine ruts (something he is guilty of), Polo has teamed up with esteemed producer, Brad Wood, and their main goal with the track was to create a fun and huge chorus…and they have definitely succeeded.

Expect a five-song EP out this fall.

Sounds like: Von Sell, Foster the People, Tame Impala, Vampire Weekend, CHAPPO, The Beatles

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Holt – Tower

Holt

We all have safe pillars in our lives and London based self-taught singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Holt is no exception.

Using her father as the reference in her new single, the lyrics tell a non-linear story about that is capable of transporting the listener to another world.

Sounds like: RUNAH, Bat for Lashes, Björk, Enya, Massive Attack, Nils Frahm

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Bokito – Freckle

Bokito

Indie-funk band Bokito releases their new single ‘Freckle Leather’. Often mistaken for a heavy metal band, Bokito bring back their combination of signature hooks, unshakeable melodies and playful lyrics. A tightly-packaged, uproarious mix of indie, rock and perfect pop cadence that hooks listeners in straight at the first beat.

At first, ‘Freckle Leather’ reminds of Vampire Weekend, however, the five-piece stand their ground pretty quick and combine a lot of different styles. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Jeff Buckley and Justin Timberlake, the group created a completely new sound of modern indie regulated by ergonomic melodies.

Sounds like: Vampire Weekend, Two Door Cinema Club, Stereohoney, Shiners

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The Hails – Sugar

The Hails

Inspired by the cool glamour and fast life of the Miami Vice era, The Hails share their new song ‘Sugar’.

With its danceable beats and 80’s synth pop influence, ‘Sugar’ is a crafty juxtaposition that melds truth and fiction with the lyrics telling the story about a girl who lives life brazenly and recklessly.

The five-piece from Miami have met at Florida University and since then have dedicated their unique sound with classic drum machines to create an irresistible trademark sound of their own.

Sounds like: Sade, Hippo Campus, Kid Bloom

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Halfloves – Polvo

American indie band Halfloves releases their latest release ‘Polvo’ from their forthcoming sophomore album ‘Dazer’, out on August 30.

‘Polvo’ is a fresh new indie addition with melodic riffs and upbeat drums. With its carefree instrumentals and dreamy lyrics, the song is only a taster of what the upcoming album has to promise.

“We recorded this song in a barn in the middle of a cornfield in Iowa where the classic NY studio ‘Magic Shop’ has found a new home, now dubbed the ‘Magic Barn’.”

The band praise themselves on having recorded ‘Polvo’ in the same studio that Bowie, Björk, Coldplay and many others used to make some of the most defining records of our time.

Sounds like: Clinic Blonde, Two Door Cinema Club

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Vacation Club – Always or Never

Vacation Club

‘Always Or Never’ is the latest single released by the edgy, yet colourful band Vacation Club.

Written and produced by the band themselves, the laid back and catchy pop song elevates the perfect combination of upbeat beats and Helena Hahn’s beautiful vocals. The band has taken a raw and youthful approach towards the journey of love heightening both the highs and the lows.

Sounds like: LANY, Pale Waves, The 1975, Donna Lewis

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Noble Oak – Evaporate

Noble Oak

Canadian-born, singer-songwriter Noble Oak has released his latest single ‘Evaporate’.

The song features his melancholic, beautiful vocals combined with captivating instrumentals he’s Oak yet again managed to create a dreamy release that will sound even better performed live on a big stage.

Noble Oak’s full-length debut album with Last Gang is set for worldwide release in 2020.

Sounds like: Luna Pines, Tame Impala

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Weekly Gems 76

fluxx.world – Like Me

Fluxx.world

Introducing the playful duo, fluxx.world.

The multi-faceted talents create infectious, experimental pop in their basements studio in a London warehouse. They also run their own underground audiovisual club nights, as well as producing and remixing for other artists.

Check out ‘Like Me’ below.

Sounds like: Allie X, Sofi Tukker, Phantogram, MØ

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Keir Gibson – Eyes Wide

Keir Gibson

Scottish-born Keir Gibson releases his debut track ‘Eyes Wide’.

Despite being brought up on a dose of Scottish music, the 18 year old’s sound borders the electronic, pop and folk realms in an alt-pop fusion.

‘Mixed & mastered by Grammy-nominated mixer Matty Green and Grammy award-winning mastering engineer Joe LaPorta, ‘Eyes Wide’ showcases what’s more to come from the talented singer/songwriter.

Sounds like: James Arthur, Maggie Rogers, Julia Michaels, Lauv

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Apollo LTD – Man That I Used To Know

Apollo LTD

Indie pop duo Apollo LTD share the sway-inducing visuals for ‘Man That I Used To Know’.

Much like their last single, ‘Misfits‘, this one is incredibly easy listening with its smooth production skills, twinkling synths, and luscious vocals.

Sounds like: LIONLION, Phoenix, Foster The People

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cln – Change My Mind

cln

Australian artist cln shares his downtempo new single ‘Change My Mind’.

Whilst the track’s production appears minimalistic in it’s electronic approach, there is a dark undertone of R&B that lingers throughtout the song in a contemplative manner.

Expect cln’s debut album in September.

Sounds like: Aquilo, Bon Iver

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Zanski – Smoke In My Lungs

Zanski

Zanski is the electro-R&B project of Tom Probizanski.

With a sound captivating and emotive, Zanski’s sound is refreshing, yet relevant. His new single ‘Smoke In My Lungs’ echoes of the wonderous Ben Khan in it’s distinctive groovy sound.

It’s out now via CloudKid.

Sounds like: Ben Khan

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Napoleon Gold – Love Don’t Cut Me Down (feat. Haiva Ru)

Napoleon Gold - Love Don't Cut Me Down

French-born Antoine Honorez aka Napoleon Gold returns with his latest single ‘Love Don’t Cut Me Down’ featuring the vocals of Haiva Ru’s Allie Merril.

The track can be compared to an 80’s Fleetwood Mac song that’s been given an electronic boogie re-skin.

Speaking of the unique late-night feel of his music, Napoleon credits his life-long struggle with insomnia, “During my first year in Brussels for university, my insomnia became more and more frequent. I remember staying awake night after night, making music, watching the sunrise from my music desk – it had this beautiful orange and golden colour, I knew seeing this colour meant I had once again failed to sleep, but it also symbolised a new day, a new beginning. I decided to name that colour ‘Napoleon Gold'”.

Sounds like: Goldroom, Chela, RAC, Le Youth, JackLNDN

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Tom Tripp – TAM

Tom Tripp

Grammy-Award nominated producer and vocalist, and Mura Masa collaborator, Tom Tripp returns with his latest single ‘TAM’, the first release off his forthcoming project ‘FLAG’.

The electro-laced funk track started life back in 2016, undergoing various iterations on Tom’s Laptop until a session with Grades earlier this year led to a final version that the self-proclaimed perfectionist was finally happy to share with the world.

Sounds like: Mura Masa, LISS, Ben Khan

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Thailah – Feels Right

Thailah

Exciting London-based singer Thailah shares the banger, ‘Feels Right’.

Ramping up the BPM, her fourth ever release, has been produced by the up and coming producer J.AR.K. to create a track that will work equally well in the car as in the club.

Sounds like: Just Kiddin, The Him, Tove Lo

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Tropic – Lights Out

Tropic - Lights Out

Brooklyn based duo, Tropic (aka electronic producer & DJ, Phuse, and R&B singer/songwriter Jo-B Sebastian) shares their breezy new tune ‘Lights Out’.

With delicate falsetto vocals that energetically loop around syncopated beats, the track explores the regret and denial that comes after a breakup in both nostalgic and futuristic manner.

Sounds like: Great Good Fine Ok

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Daniella Mason – Deepest of Wells

Daniella Mason

Nashville-based alternative pop act, Daniella Mason, is back with a dreamy new visual that continues her ‘Mental State’ EP and ‘State of Mine’ sound series in which she aims to explore different parts of our humanity.

With her latest music video release – shot and edited by Dylan Reyes – Mason aimed to create a dream sequence that visualises the feeling of wandering throughout her mind and expands on its aimlessness.

Sounds like: Imogen Heap, The Japanese House, Robyn, Maggie Rogers, Billie Eilish, George Gretton, Luna Pines

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Weekly Gems 62

FUSHIA – Dreams & Stardust

FUSHIA

Meet intriguing twin sister duo FUSHIA. Both feminists and musical artists in their own right, their music pulls otherworldly inspiration from various continents.

Their highly vulnerable new single ‘Dreams & Stardust,’ is full of empowering messages daring you to believe in yourself and turn your words into actions.

Sounds like: Bat For Lashes, Kae Astra, Kate Bush, Björk

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Augustine – A Scent of Lily

Augustine

Stockholm-based Augustine follows up his debut single with ‘A Scent of Lily’ – a cinematic and melancholic interpretation of Ariana Grande‘s ‘Into You’, and the powerlessness of losing yourself in a relationship.

Once again, Augustine takes us on a journey through a future-retro, bombastic-pop soundscape.

Sounds like: PNAU, Foster the People, James Blake, Maggie Rogers, Phoebe Bridgers, Tame Impala, Phoenix

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Drinker – Wave

Drinker

Drinker returns with their latest offering called ‘Wave’.

The partnership of bicoastal NY/LA duo of songwriter Aaron Mendelsohn and producer Ariel Loh, Drinker provides a sonic realm of enlightened experimental-pop and ambient productions.

Listen to the addictive ‘Wave’ below, taken from their upcoming debut LP, ‘Fragments’, released on May 3rd via B3SCI Records.

Sounds like: Yoke Lore, Thom Yorke, James Blake, Trentemoller, The Acid, Fever Ray, Sevdaliza, Tame Impala

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Abby Wolf – Change Your Mind

Abby Wolfe

Sometimes the best pop songs are the most simplistic, allowing them to be catchy and emotive.

One of these contenders is ‘Change Your Mind’ by New Zealand-based Abby Wolf. An effervescent track which depicts the internal struggle faced when you’re unsure of the right path. Something we all can relate to.

Sounds like: Bri Clarke

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Sam Feldt & Yves V – “One Day” (feat. ROZES)

ROZES

Exciting EDM and pop vocalist ROZES features on Sam Feldt & Yves V‘s new tune, ‘One Day’.

Sam Feldt fell in love with the vocals of ROZES when he heard it on the track she made with The Chainsmokers. So he decided to work with her on a new track, together with Yves V.

Their studio session resulted in a track with the perfect balance between Yves V’s pop dance sound, the uplifting summer tunes of Sam Feldt and the airy vocals of ROZES.

Sounds like: The Chainsmokers

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2SH – Good Time.

2SH

Norweigan duo 2SH is on a quest to blend their analogue upbringing with forward thinking, digital music-making.

Slotting into the nu-funk realms, their music can win the hearts of dance floor enthusiasts, for fans of Calvin Harris. and the like.

Listen to ‘Good Time.’ below.

Sounds like: Jungle, Chic

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MIG50 & FRANK E MADDOX – Fearless (Gimme The Light)

MIG50 vs FRANK E MADDOX - “Fearless (Gimme The Light)

Finally, to finish the gems off, is the frenetic ‘Fearless (Gimme The Light)’ from a new collaborative project between MIG50 & FRANK E MADDOX.

Both Chicago natives, the track loops in Chicago house basslines with as if it was Sofi Tukker on speed, combined with the fiesty originality of Georgia.

It’s a perfect way of the duo expressing their own artistic style outside of their work with other artists including SIA, NVDES and Empires.

Sounds like: Georgia, Kanye West, NVDES, Sofi Tukker

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Young & Sick – Bitter End

Young & Sick

Young & Sick is the project by musician and visual artist Nick van Hofwegen.

After a stroke of luck following a move from his home country of Holland to London, Nick was commissioned to put together artwork for artists such as Foster the People, Maroon 5 and Mikky Ekko.

If that wasn’t enough to contend with, this creative genius has taken his pen music and the result is funkily brilliant. His new single ‘Bitter End’ “is a celebration of seeing things through completely. It’s looking back at a pretty wild year of countless obstacles and turbulent skies. Through the eyes of an unstoppable maniac”.

You can purchase Young & Sick’s ‘Ojai’ EP on limited edition 7″ vinyl here, out now via Neon Gold Records / B3SCI Records.

He also plays some live dates supporting Our Lovely Friends and The Knocks (tickets here), where you can likely expect a multi-faceted experience of music performance and interactive art.

Tour Dates

Jan 24 // Vancouver, CA @ Fortune Sound Club
Jan 25 // Seattle, WA @ The Showbox
Jan 29 // Chico, CA @ Senator Theatre
Jan 31 // Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
Feb 1 // San Luis Obispo, CA @ The Fremont Theatre
Feb 2 // Los Angeles, CA @ The Novo
Feb 5 // Santa Fe, NM @ Meow Wolf
Feb 6 // Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater
Feb 8 // Dallas, TX @ Dada Dallas
Feb 9 // Austin, TX @ Historic Scoot Inn
Feb 10 // Houston, TX @ Bronze Peacock Room
Feb 12 // St. Louis, MO @ The Ready Room
Feb 14 // Chicago, IL @ Concord Music Hall
Feb 15 // Columbus, OH @ A&R Music Bar
Feb 16 // Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE
Feb 17 // Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
Feb 20 // Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of Living Arts
Feb 21 // Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair
Feb 23 // Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel

Sounds like: Von Sell, The Knocks, Passion Pit, Summer Heart, Goldroom, Roosevelt, Sofi Tukker

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An Indietronica Preview of NOS Alive 2018

NOS Alive

We do like a good festival, and after hearing that NOS Alive in Lisbon, Portugal is up there as one the world’s best music festivals, we decided to plan a trip in July to find out what all the fuss is about!

In the mean time, buckle up and check out our ones to watch within the indietronica genres (looks like we’ll mainly see you at the Sagres Stage then!).

THURSDAY 12 JULY

Friendly Fires, Sagres Stage

Friendly Fires

Energetic Brit boys Friendly Fires return to the festival circuit after a hiatus.

Having already had massive success with hits such as ‘Paris’, ‘Jump In The Pool’ and ‘Skeleton Boy’, their new single ‘Love Like Waves’ doesn’t disappoint and continues the theme of tropical-tinged synth sounds.

Expect a highly fun and bold performance at NOS Alive.

Sounds like: Fenech-Soler, Two Door Cinema Club

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Jain, Sagres Stage

Jain

Jain is a multi-cultural singer/songwriter and self confessed beat-maker, originally from France, but who has also spent time in Dubai and The Congo.

Jain means achieving liberation of the soul, and that’s exactly what this music embodies with its flecked sounds of African rhythms with simple, yet vibrant vocals.

Watch the video for highly recognised song ‘Makeba’ below and catch Jain at the Sagres Stage on Thursday.

Sounds like: Brigitte, Santigold, L.E.J, Yodelice, Lilly Wood & The Prick

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Khalid, Sagres Stage

Khalid

One artist we are super stoked to check out live is Khalid.

The American singer/songwriter originally started writing music during his college years, where he was also declared prom king. Amalgamating an array of sounds from classical, pop to hip hop, Khalid shows a real sense of urgency in his music.

We can’t get enough of his track with Billie Eilish, and can’t wait to see him perform at NOS Alive.

Sounds like: Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky, Father John Misty, Frank Ocean, Chance the Rapper, Lorde, James Blake, Billie Eilish

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Wolf Alice, Sagres Stage

Wolf Alice

Indie rockers Wolf Alice have been our firm favourites from the UK for some time now. They never disappoint at a live show, fronted by a fresh-faced Ellie Rowsell’s seemingly blasé but endearingly nervous attitude.

Expect a set full of their most brilliant tunes…so that’s all of them then!

Sounds like: Black Honey, Peace, Superfood, Foals, Circa Waves, Harry

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Sampha, Sagres Stage

Sampha

Sampha is to be one of the UK’s best musical exports in 2018.

He has a knack for writing songs with deep and personal lyrics of pain and reflection, some of which have unfortunately has stemmed from health hardships suffered with his family at home, and we can’t help but think we are supporting him on this journey.

Truly thought-provoking stuff, definitely worthy of a slot at NOS Alive.

Sounds like: Jessie Ware, Frank Ocean, Solange, Moses Sumney, James Blake, Chet Faker, SBTRKT, Dallas Green

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FRIDAY 13 JULY

Two Door Cinema Club, NOS Stage

Two Door Cinema Club

We have watched Irish electro-poppers Two Door Cinema Club play live countless times, and that’s why they’ve made this list.

It’s hard to believe these youngsters have been around for over eight years. Still full of energy and banging tunes, catch them on the Friday!

Sounds like: Phoenix, Hot Chip, Passion Pit

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Future Islands, NOS Stage

Future Islands

Future Islands‘ front man Samuel T Herring’s dancing is reason enough to go watch these guys at NOS Alive. And of course, the US synthpop band are wildly brilliant in as many unique, refreshing and inspiration ways possible.

Expect big things on stage!

Sounds like: Arcade Fire, Perfume Genius, Twin Shadow, Sylvan Esso, Austra

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CHVRCHES, Sagres Stage

CHVRCHES

Feisty feminist attitudes and catchy lyrics is what CHVRCHES brings to the table.

Lauren Mayberry has faced her fair share of trolls online, but to her testament, the Scottish trio continue to go from strength to strength. We are very much looking forward to this show!

Sounds like: Kate Boy, Avec Sans, Purity Ring, Vogue Dots, R.A.B.B.I.I., Kaleida, Gems, IYES, For Esmé, ALMA, Pale Hands, Acre Tarn, Prinze George, Leitbur, Monogem, PALMEDO, NONONO, Still Corners, MUNA

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Portugal. The Man, Sagres Stage

Portugal. The Man

Bold American rock band Portugal. The Man have been making serious waves of late, and if you haven’t heard of them, you soon will.

An iPhone soundtrack waiting to happen; expect goosebumps, sway inducing vocal harmonies and a fist pumping bass line.

Sounds like: Foster The People, Broken Bells, Grouplove, Circa Survive, MGMT

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Surma, Coreto Stage

Surma

Imagine if M83 and Joanna Newsom met one day and decided to make some music. The result would be the quirky and ambient tones of Portuguese Surma (aka Débora Umbelino).

Working with loop pedals, the solo artist works with analogue and digital sounds creating a primal yet sonic environment.

Sounds like: Yellerkin, Yoke Lore, M83, Joanna Newsom

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SATURDAY 14 JULY

Lotus Fever, Coreto Stage

Lotus Fever

Kicking off Saturday’s ones to watch are Lisbon natives, Lotus Fever.

They fit somewhere in-between Alt-J and Pink Floyd and it’s really refreshing to hear. We are expecting a super tight performance, thanks to their longstanding stint together since 2011 and it being their local city.

Sounds like: Alt-J, Pink Floyd

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Mighty Sands, Coreto Stage

Mighty Sands

Mighty Sands is a Lisbon-based quintet.

Their music has tendencies to sway in the 60’s, psychedelic market – imagine riding on a surfboard in space. However, we expect their set at NOS Alive to be a relaxed affair, where you can chill out and have a cider…or ride a surfboard in space, whatever takes your fancy!

Sounds like: Father John Misty, Tame Impala, MGMT

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MGMT, NOS Stage

MGMT

Less under the radar than the counterparts in this piece, but still worthy of a slot on one’s to watch at this year’s NOS Alive. The mighty MGMT!

The eclectic US-based duo are known for their otherworldly take on modern indie rock music, often combining psychedelic synths, crunchy guitars and stodgy vocals with fun videos.

Sounds like: Empire of the Sun, Foster the People, Tame Impala, Portugal. The Man

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Perfume Genius, Sagres Stage

Perfume Genius

Covering topics such as sexual abuse, suicide and alcohol abuse, Perfume Genius (aka Mike Hadreas) is one such musical role model we want to be more involved with.

His music represents such struggles and recoveries in a camp but delightfully magnificent way.

Sounds like: Sufjan Stevens, St. Vincent, Kate Bush, M83, David Bowie, Future Islands, Fever Ray

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Bernado, Coreto Stage

Bernardo

Wow, Bernado‘s vocals have blown us away after watching her live performance of ‘The Boy Is Mine’.

The London based British/Portuguese singer/songwriter effortlessly combines modern attitudes from London attitude with a jazzy flair.

Sounds like: Amy Winehouse, Jorja Smith

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Real Estate, Sagres Stage

Real Estate

With a warming lo-fi sound, Brooklyn-based dream team, Real Estate is our last act to consider watching at NOS Alive.

Run by childhood friends who played in their backyards during the summer months, Real Estate write simple and endearing songs full of luminous guitar riffs and delicate synths.

We envisage this show to be a perfect end to a perfect weekend.

Sounds like: Summer Heart, Washed Out, MGMT

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Find out more info about NOS Alive and purchase remaining tickets here.

Playlist: Captain Kidd

Captain Kidd

Ohio based psychedelic pop quartet Captain Kidd share their new single called ‘Wild’, which is a blissful tune full of calming harmonies and shining production.

Lucky for you lot, Captain Kidd put together a playlist for us.

Blood Orange – Best to You

The hardest part about making this list might have been picking the right Dev Hynes track, but we would be lying if we said we’ve been jamming any other more than this one. The man truly is a genius, especially when it comes to writing parts for female vocalists, which is clearly shown in “Best to You.”

McFabulous – I Live Above the Hobby Shop

We were shuffling through discover weekly once and came across this track and thought maybe this was a live version of Glass Animals. We looked it up and realized they had sampled McFabulous for “Season 2 Episode 3,” and we absolutely loved this jam. Plus, McFabulous is an incredible name.

Ariel Pink – Another Weekend

Ariel Pink is the epitome of an artist pushing the boundaries of their sound. In fact, he has no boundaries. He does whatever he wants. Not many people can make experimental music catchy. This track off his new album is no different.

Porches – Find Me

One of our favorite current artists, still unknown to some. We fell in love with his last album Pool. It’s such a progression from his debut release. His latest, “Find Me,” combines that retro 90s house sound with modern day indie pop. We can’t wait for more from his upcoming full length.

TENDER – Machine

We discovered this U.K. based duo on a sub Reddit a few years back. They had one track out called “Armour.” We immediately fell in love with their production and the low and high vocal melody combo, which seems to have become their signature sound. Nate and Eric had a chance to see them live a few months back in Philadelphia.

La Poré – Sad Girl

La Poré is the fast rising solo project of our drummer, Nick Samson, started about a year ago now. If you’re into anything 80s or Foster the People then check out this track, and keep a look out for more of this tasteful pop coming from our percussionist!

Kanye West – Lost in the World

Kanye has been a favorite artist of ours for a long time, and has accompanied us on many road trips back and forth to Cleveland, so a playlist without him just wouldn’t feel right. Between the Bon Iver intro sample and the heavy driving beat, we have always felt this epic album closer is an underrated banger.

Frank Ocean – Self Control

Frank Ocean released Blonde in August 2016, and we instantly fell in love. His raw, emotive vocal style and minimalistic production caught our attention, and the album as a whole continues to get better with every listen. We like this track in particular because it starts out small and simple, but slowly transforms into one of the most moving songs on the album.

Jamie XX – Girl

Jamie XX has been a huge influence on us as self producers, especially with our percussion. We were obsessed with his album In Colour our last year of college. We lived in this enormous house with 9 people total, constantly jamming “Girl” and other accompanying tracks. The people we lived with that year are still some of our best friends, so the combination of nostalgia and the mark Jamie XX has had on us with our production makes this an important track.

Miguel – waves (Tame Impala Remix)

Kevin Parker of Tame Impala continues to amaze us with his progression as a producer and song writer. I mean, who saw Currents coming when Parker first released Innerspeaker? It seams as though he gets poppier with each release, but somehow still maintains that other worldly psychedelic goodness that many fans initially fell in love with. The “waves” remix isn’t what one would normally think of when thinking about a “remix.” It sounds like Miguel and Parker just teamed up to make a banger psych pop track, with those warm drum tones, luscious synths, and of course, lots of flanger.

Sounds like: RÜFÜS, SAMA

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Weekly Gems 17

Shoos Off – Future Heartbreak

ShoosOff

Time to kick your shoes off and get down with this week’s favourite tunes.

First up is Los Angeles-based bedroom collective, Shoos Off.

Led by singer Patrick Killeen, these guys amalgamate synth sounds with delicate, upbeat vocals, in a modest manner.

Listen to ‘Future Heartbreak’ below.

Sounds like: The Knocks, Smallpools, St. Lucia

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Sonata Kay Feat. Novo – Reach

Sonata Kay ft. Novo - Reach

Meet Sonata Kay, a London-based artist with a bright future.

Citing various influences from around the world, Sonata Kay likes to combine the ethos of a traditional singer/songwriter with electro-pop production.

Listen to dramatic ‘Reach’ below, featuring Novo.

Sounds like: Melis, Amethysts

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ARIA – You Got Me Good

ARIA

Continuing to share her desire for electronic, pop and R&B, London-based ARIA shares her latest single called ‘You Got Me Good’.

The track is about a darker realisation of relationship hardships, portrayed through atmospheric guitar riffs and vocal belt-outs.

Sounds like: Emile Sande

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Margot Polo – Turn You, Baby

Margot Polo

Halloween has passed, but we are still jamming to Margot Polo‘s spooky new single, ‘Turn You, Baby’.

Margot says that the throw-back number “is for self-professed werewolves and fans of Michael Jackson, Foster the People, Justin Timberlake, and The Killers” and we couldn’t agree more.

Sounds like: April Towers, Tame Impala, Vampire Weekend, CHAPPO, The Beatles

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Kastrup – Try It All

Kastrup

You can really see why Kastrup‘s music has been described as creating arena pop.

The Swedish duo’s new single ‘Try It All’ definitely encompasses this, with its longing vocals and an uplifting children’s choir of a chorus to match.

It’s out now via Strandberg/ Westberg Music.

Sounds like: Imagine Dragons, OneRepublic, Twenty One Pilots

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Weekly SubmitHub Gems 1

We receive a huge amount of submissions via SubmitHub, and unfortunately cannot review all of the tracks, so we have decided to compile those tracks into a weekly segment of gems we’ve particularly enjoyed.

Dream Lake – Midnight Sun

Dream Lake

Swedish electro-pop duo Dream Lake share the dreamy ‘Midnight Sun’.

This song perfectly encapsulates the airy, long days of light during the summer in Sweden, with dreamy vocals and romantic keys.

Sounds like: Summer Heart, Beach House, M83

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Vanguards – Rosie & The Blackheart

Vanguards

Vanguards are a indie pop focused four-piece from Brighton.

‘Rosie & The Blackheart’ is a bittersweet love song that echoes 80’s guitar legends. The track was recorded live and produced by Steve Harris (Kodaline, Dave Matthews, Kaiser Chiefs).

Sounds like: INXS, Kings Of Leon, The 1975, Kodaline

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Tigers and Thieves – Change Your Mind

Tigers and Thieves

US-based Tigers and Thieves share ‘Change Your Mind’, an indie rock track that has all the markings of a hit, despite being recorded in their garage studio. It’s been mixed by Brian McTear (The War on Drugs, Sharon Van Etten, Local Natives).

Sounds like: Local Natives, Foster the People, The Neighbourhood, alt-J, Surfer Blood, The Temper Trap, Nick Mulvey

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Gold Fir – Night Walk

Gold Fir - Night Walk

Despite what the name suggests, London duo Gold Fir (aka James and Mabel) play funky tracks for our immediate pleasure, day or night.

Their music is full of sass n soul, and is definitely bold.

Sounds like: Madonna, Little Dragon, Goldfrapp

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Someone – Say Something

Someone

Songstress, Someone is shaking off her cutesy appeal with a more earthy sound on ‘Say Something’.

Jangling beats sway nicely alongside upbeat guitar riffs and catchy vocal leads.

Sounds like: Few Bits, Bryde

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ALKE – Without You

ALKE

Los Angeles-based pop duo ALKE release ‘Without You’.

There is no denying the obvious chemistry shown between Jameson Flood (production, guitar, keys) and AK Karrasch (vocals) on the track as it explores love versus independence.

Sounds like: Monogem, Phantogram, Shura

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Vox Eagle – Sweet Temptations

Vox Eagle

Australian/US duo Vox Eagle share the glistening ‘Sweet Temptations’.

It’s a song about late nights out on the town and those sweet temptations that you may (or may not) encounter.

Expect their EP to arrive next week.

Sounds like: Cut Copy, Joe Goddard, Roosevelt, Goldroom, Tame Impala, LCD Soundsystem

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DVWEZ – Giving Into Us

DVWEZ

DVWEZ (pronounced “Dames”) is making a stand for independence, all the while giving into strong desires.

Lush R&B melodies breathe over unique alt-electro soundscapes in ‘Giving Into Us’.

Listen below.

Sounds like: Salt Ashes, Aaliyah

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Saro – Eyelids

Saro

Newcomer Saro continues to produce dark pop music.

His new track ‘Eyelids’ is delicately produced with its brooding falsetto vocals and a soft touch of melancholy.

Sounds like: Aquilo, Jack Garratt, Draper, Clean Bandit, Years & Years

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