Right in the forefront of Italy’s buzzing electronic music scene is enigmatic Iranian-born singer Nava Golchini and her band, aka NAVA.
A unique blend of culture and electronic twists, they create music that is truly visceral, both musically and visually. Their new single ‘Skin’ is soft and edgy, as it explores the darker side of human nature.
Out to set the message straight and spread an empowering message to her fans, Talitha is doing ‘Fine On My Own’.
Having only released a smattering of singles over the past two years, Talitha is creating her own definition of R&B in the UK, slowly emerging as one to watch within the genre. The predominantly R&B track hits with a unique vibe, taking pop influences from artists like SIA whilst adding an urban twist.
Indie pop duo Hoofa makes a big splash with their follow up single to ‘Alone‘, called ‘Water Balloons’.
Based on summertime fun in their youth, playing water balloon fights, this is a generous pick up to remind us that being 2m apart outside can still be fun!
We haven’t shared music from electronic duo, Kaleida since 2015, so it was a pleasant surprise to see a new release appear in our inbox!
A lesson in sonic minimalism, the Glashier-directed stunning visuals features an array of solo dancers filmed on the streets in a fully locked-down Berlin.
Sounds like: Aquilo, New Order, Depeche Mode, The Human League, VÉRITÉ, Salt Ashes, Evvy, Monogem, Paperwhite, Chvrches, Palmedo, Prinze George, Nina Yasmineh, Day Wave, Poliça, Rhye, MS MR, Roisin Murphy
Berlin-based electronic pop band NIHILS shares the pop-kissed new single ‘Lost in L.A.’.
In an era of instant gratification, will we ever truly find what we are looking for? This song imagines driving through a desolate Los Angeles looking for purpose and a sense of belonging in an era of never lasting joy.
Lisbon trio Vaarwell is back with a sultry new single, ‘New Woman’.
Set in a dreamlike scene, warm keys underpin the delicate, ethereal vocals we have come to expect from Margarida Falcã. Accompanied by subtle electronic elements, we join Vaarwell on their journey to becoming vulnerable.
East London songwriter Runrummer‘s new single ‘Toronto’ speaks about her experience living in Ontario when she was 19.
It’s about growing up with big dreams, but being confined to aprehensions, “about being gay, coming out, experimenting with drugs, living far away from home for the first time, and trying to live up to people’s expectations.”
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
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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
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
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.
We are loving the husky vocal tones of London-native Mafalda and brisk piano keys in her current single ‘Goodbyes’.
The beautifully constructed ballad is easily something you’d hear in the charts, possibly as a result of Mafalda’s recent work with UK and US based producers.
After a brief hiatus, Alexx Mack returns to our stereos with her latest release ‘Your Car’, featuring EXES.
Alexx took the year long break to rediscover herself and her music, and the break has done her good. The reformed sound is ruminating and lustrous, everything a modern, dark synth-pop song should be.
Sounds like: Julia Michaels, Halsey, Kate Boy, The 1975, The Magnettes
It will feel like summer is still here if you take a listen to Wooshay‘s new single ‘Alone’.
A stripped-back and easy house melody bounces throughout the song, as the Californian duo blend Middle Eastern production with the warm and commercial vocals of Deanna.
Sounds like: The Him, Shift K3y, Karen Harding, Le Youth
Matt Wills has backing from all walks of musical life, so who are we to disagree?
Although Matt seeks collaborations from those in electronic music and grime scenes, ‘Lights Out’ is right up Indietronica’s street.
The video has been directed by Chris Parton and firmly showcases Matt’s knack for putting together an incredibly hook with romantic vocals and on point production.
Sounds like: Ed Sheeran, Aquilo, Bastille, The Kooks
Oxford quartet Low Island share the cleverly choreographed and colourful video for ‘The Lines’, which has a distinct 90’s vibe to it.
It features young dancer Olly Bell and focuses “on the current states of anger, protectionism, division and paranoia that have become so prevalent in today’s society.”
Sounds like: Four Tet, Alt-J, Glass Animals, Shy Luv, Hot Chip, Caribou, Aquilo
Despite the deliciously boozy bass-lines and woozy vocals in ‘High’ that conjure up feelings of warm stoner summers, the song was written and recorded during the coldest and darkest part of the year, which is only a testament to Florda Well for their positive outlook.
We are expecting great things from Sydney-based artist IDA based on the sound of her latest single ‘1111’.
Also the vocalist in Little Deed, IDA is well practised in recording and performing. ‘1111’ offers a great second solo single – delicate synths slow-burning beats and yearning vocals.
Expect her debut EP, ‘i’ to be out before the end of the year.
Greek artist, Σtella has just released her highly anticipated sophomore album, ‘Works For You’.
To celebrate, Σtella has put together a playlist for us. Enjoy!
Moscoman, Manfredas – Dévoué (Manfredas Remix) First time I heard this song I kinda felt like I was tripping, in a good way. I’m happy to have shared the stage with Moscoman once.
Arthur Russell – Springfield Arthur Russell will always remain a mystery to me. It ‘s music from outer space in a way.
Yello – Oh Yeah Really don’t know how to comment on this. Just a good listen and a place for phantasies.
Unknown Mortal Orchestra – Multi-Love “She don’t want to be a man or a woman”. Good for her.
Grace Jones – Pull Up To The Bumper I love this song so much. It explodes in my head every time.
Julian Casablancas – 11th Dimension
This track takes me back in time, it’s got that heart ache feeling you just can’t miss.
KAYTRANADA – BREAKDANCE LESSON N.1 A DJ and a good friend of mine introduced me to this song by Kaytranada, and now I play it whenever I wanna shake my head a little.
Red Axes, Abrão – Balma (feat. Abrão) Loving Red Axes this year, they did a show In Athens last month. Good boys.
Jean-Jacques Perrey – Cat In The Night I sadly found out about Jean Jacques Perrey the day he died, late 2016. This man was a genius and is really worthy to listen to pretty much everything he’s done.
Toro y Moi – Lilly “This place is up for grabs, I give it to you for free”, that line was stuck in my head for a long time. Really good sound.
Fleetwood Mac – Never Going Back Again – Remastered The album “Rumours” has been one of my favorite albums ever, but just recently I gave a lot of attention to this track in the album. How sweet.
LA Priest – Lorry Park
LA Priest hit me in the stomach at around 0:50 with that beat, oh man, thanks.
Alan Hawkshaw – Beach Journey Super fine tune by Mr Alan Hawkshaw. This track takes me places I didn’t know existed.
Vulfpeck – Back Pocket
Bravo, Bravo, Bravo to Volfpeck for this massive funky smart track.
‘Works For You’ is out now via Inner Ear Records and is seriously good. Listen to ‘Way To Go’ below.
Sounds like: Kaleida, Annie Lennox, New Order, Depeche Mode, The Human League, Cash+David, Christine & The Queens
Swedish producer Saturday, Monday has once more teamed up with London producer, Brolin.
The video for ‘Pilgrim’ tackles the heartbreaking and difficult subject of immigration through the lens of a 17 year old boy travelling to Sweden alone. Altering between close-ups of the protagonist and the stereotypical beautiful countryside of Sweden that refugees dream about when they begin their extremely dangerous escape from war zones, there is another conflict at work: the perception of refugees from the general public.
Saturday, Monday’s ‘SUPERSET’ EP is out now on Playground Music. Buy here.
Sounds like: Rainer, H A R T E B E E S T, Kaleida, Ji Nilsson
Los Angeles alternative girlband, MUNA return with a video for ‘Winterbreak’, which features Ione Skye of ‘Say Anything’ fame.
Speaking about the video, MUNA says:
“The ‘Winterbreak’ video is about the dual experience of belonging and non-belonging involved in returning to a former home. Often when we’ve visited the places we grew up in, we’ve found ourselves in the strange space between nostalgia and total regression. We visit familiar places in which we no longer fit, surround ourselves with familiar people with whom we don’t necessarily connect anymore, and engage in familiar activities that might normally strike us as incredibly immature. Despite being in the same world we were immersed in as children and adolescents, there is a sense there that almost everything about ‘home’ has changed. Generally for us, the only solace has been really great friends. So we tried to show some of that.”
Their debut, ‘The Loudspeaker EP’, will arrive on 6 May via RCA Records.
Sounds like: KALEIDA, The Levity, Paperwhite, Monogem, Shura, Solange, Charli XCX, Kita Alexander, VÉRITÉ, Salt Ashes, Palmedo, Prinze George, The Japanese House, Imogen Heap
There seems to have been a slight shift to a more rock-based sound in recent months and Echoes are no exception.
Their sound is a cauldron of rock, indie and electronica.
The Dawn Golden cover of ‘All I Want’ starts of with atmospheric, ethereal electronic, and only kicks in 3/4 of the way through, but when it does, it gives us a glimpse of what Echoes maybe like live.
It’s also the first time they have sung together on a track.
Sounds like: Oh Wonder, Skies, London Grammar, The 1975, Banks, Fickle Friends, Monogem, Paperwhite, PROM, Kaleida, Sirena, 1987, IYES, Two Door Cinema Club, Until The Ribbon Breaks
Taking it down a notch, the girls draw deeper into their musical souls to create more of a minimal sound, but one that still has the discernible, powerful lead vocals we love.
‘Detune’ is the first single to be taken from their second EP.
Sounds like: Aquilo, New Order, Depeche Mode, The Human League, VÉRITÉ, Salt Ashes, Evvy, Monogem, Paperwhite, Chvrches, Palmedo, Prinze George, Nina Yasmineh, Day Wave, Poliça, Rhye, MS MR, Roisin Murphy
South Australian step-sisters Beth & Skye (aka Auguste) proudly unveil the hotly anticipated music video for their critically acclaimed debut single ‘Slow Motion’.
Produced by Andy Bull and directed by Aaron Schuppan, the clip revolves around the artistic stylings of Brooks Salzwedel, the Los Angeles based artist who conceptualised the single art for ‘Slow Motion’.
A song about about infatuation, ‘Slow Motion’ evokes the feeling of complete disarmament one feels at the mere sight of the object of their desire. “Slow Motion is about that feeling you get when you unexpectedly see someone you are in love with or infatuated by. Everything starts to move in slow motion and feelings come crashing in from all directions”, Skye explains.
Sounds like: Monogem, Keep Shelly in Athens, Owl Eyes, Kaleida, Grimes, Mr. Little Jeans, Say Lou Lou
CHVRCHES return after a nine month break with a new gem, ‘Leave A Trace’.
Staying true to what made them such a successful trio in the first place, ‘Leave A Trace’ has strong repetitive vocals (courtesy of Lauren Mayberry, who really has a knack of getting her point across), crammed in over unique luscious sounds.
It’s fair to say that CHVRCHES will be leaving some serious musical traces, once again.
And check out the luscious Goldroom remix (added 17 Dec).
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
