Tag Archives: Portugal The Man

Weekly Gems 43

Beacon – On Ice

Beacon - On Ice

Beacon is NYC-based duo Thomas Mullarney III and Jacob Gossett.

The new single, ‘On Ice’ showcases Beacon’s signature sound of melodic yet mysterious pop music with a cathartic edge.

Like a beacon of light, the duo use multiple instruments to portray a journey from darker places to those of colour and spirituality.

‘On Ice’ is out now on Ghostly International.

Sounds like: Matthew Dear, Nimmo, Solomon Grey, Junior Boys, Kyson, Hot Chip, Cut Copy, Aquilo

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The Rungs – King of Books

The Rungs - King of Books

The Rungs is a female-fronted, alt-pop, bedroom-based project from Brooklyn NY.

Their new single, ‘King of Books’, is a dreamy, melancholic indie synth song that explores a toxic relationship, capturing that moment when the rose tinted glasses are lifted.

Sounds like: Men I Trust

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ORKID – NoNoh

ORKID

ORKID shares ‘NoNoh’ and it’s every bit of tuned electro-pop you’d expect from a young Swedish act.

Offering sweet fragiity with commanding vocals, it’s beauty will instantly captivate you.

Speaking about the track, ORKID says,

“”NoNoh” is about that moment when you feel you’ve had enough of someone’s bullshit. Singing this song is literally a release for me. It’s an aggressive yet awesome feeling of strength. The song kind of speaks for itself; with the melodies and track combined, “NoNoh” gives you exactly that sense of self-empowerment”

Sounds like: Rihanna, Rita Ora, Harlee

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Tanjier – Lights

Tanjier

Irish trio, Tanjier create perfectly crafted indie pop with a sophisticated attitude about modern day pressures on Generation Y.

Their new single, ‘Lights’ explores the challenges of breaking the typical parental expectations of going to college, getting a 9-5 job, and making enough money to buy a house. It tells the story of someone who has gone through all of these so-called life goals successfully but, ultimately, isn’t happy.

Sounds like: Dead Ceremony, The Kite String Tangle, Foals, George Michael

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ANNALIA – Cycles

ANNALIA - Cycles

Los Angeles-born singer/songwriter ANNALIA has some serious talent.

Described as “organic pop”, she distinguishes herself from the crowd by discussing important topics and using real instrumentation over catchy beats. In her new single, ANNALIA considers the cycles of emotional abuse in a relationship.

If anyone can help you through this, it’s ANNALIA, her killer pipes and “You’ve Got This!” attitude.

Sounds like: Linney, VÉRITÉ, Carly Rae Jepsen

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Twin XL – Good

Twin XL

Meet five kids who go by the name of Twin XL.

Their glistening and gorgeously retro single ‘Good’ maybe a debut, but between the lads, the three have written and produced for artists such as All Time Low, Lindsey Stirling, and Life of Dillon, and have had their music featured in commercials and trailers like Disney’s Christopher Robin and ABC’s Lucifer

Sounds like: Portugal, The Man, Titanics

SoundCloud

Hydromag – P.J.R

Hydromag

Hydromag is the dream-pop project of Falmouth-based producer and multi instrumentalist Josh Best-Shaw.

He has just released an uplifting and almost freeing track called ‘P.J.R’, which unfortunately covers the sad topic of suicide.

Speaking on the release, Hydromag says “It was not easy task to write this song, it took a lot out of me and I spent far longer on it than any other song I’ve written. I’m still not sure that I’m fully happy with it, but it was a good way to address the issues I had locked away.”

Sounds like: Summer Heart, Washed Out

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Gregory Dillon – Painted Blue

Gregory Dillon - Painted Blue

We’ve had a lot of NYC-based artists on this week’s gems, however each of them have something unique to offer us.

Last but not least is Gregory Dillon and his new single, ‘Painted Blue’.

With a driving 80’s backbeat, considering a backdrop of the New York skyline, Gregory explores the city and all its musings.

Sounds like: Du Tonc, Captain Kidd

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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: Chelsea Lankes

Chelsea Lankes

It’s not long until the end of the year, and what better way to see 2017 through with a playlist from Chelsea Lankes. This one goes out to all the ladies, and is probably one of the best playlists we’ve ever had! Lucky you!

“Here are some favorites over the last couple months including songs from favorite albums this year: SZA, Phoebe Bridgers, YOUTH, Lorde and Wolf Alice. Also I put a few singles from female pop artists I love and respect! To be enjoyed while driving at night, at low key parties, showering or anywhere you might sing really loud alone. 🙂”

…And whilst we have you, give Chelsea’s new track a spin too.

Sounds like: MUNA, Wet, Evvy, Ghost Beach, Kyla La Grange, Ji Nilsson, Tove Styrke, Carousel, Kitten, Nina, Mikky Ekko, Remmi, Cappa

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Weekly Gems 15

Nikö Blank – Do U

Nikö Blank - Do U

Meet Nikö Blank.

A Korean native, the rising DJ and producer has shared remixes of the likes of Flume, Disclosure, Portugal. The Man, LAUV, Klangstoff and MOONZz.

His single ‘Do U’ features the polished vocals of Jacob Luttrell and channels some serious soultronica vibes.

Expect ‘The Frame’ EP to be out in November.

Sounds like: Flume, Usher, Medasin, Jacob Banks

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filous – Already Gone ft. Emily Warren

filous

Austrian producer filous has also been an inquisitive soul, and a fast learner, perfecting a number of instruments at the tender age of 10. Fast forward 10 years, and filous finds himself nestled amongst the likes of Flume and ODESZA with his electronic music.

‘Already Gone’ features the delicate vocals of top songwriter Emily Warren (The Chainsmokers, FRENSHIP) and is out now via Ultra Music.

Sounds like: Gabrielle Aplin, Sigrid, Fenne Lily, Flume, ODESZA, Klei

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Blonde Maze – Thunder

Blonde Maze

We get a real sense of nostalgia listening to ‘Thunder’ by NYC songstress, Blonde Maze.

Touching piano keys and ethereal vocals express the beauty of maturity required to grow old and feel comfortable with someone.

Sounds like: Le Youth, Goldroom, Maggie Rogers

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Ella Blixt – WINNERS

Ella Blixt

Swedish multi-instrumentalist Ella Blixt shares her debuts single, ‘Winners’.

It’s ultimately a wise pop song which takes each part of the musical puzzle to write successes.

‘Winners’ is out now on Teto Records in Japan and Squeeze Day Recordings in Europe.

Sounds like: Joe Goddard, Sóley

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MRY – Walking On Fire

MRY

Not happy with the corporate grind, MRY decided to sack his job in engineering and head for the bright lights of the Pacific Coast.

The result is ‘Walking On Fire’, a feel-good indie dance track that easily reminds you of the summer just gone by.

It’s out now via YouTooCanWoo.

Sounds like: The Levity, Cub Sport, Island Club, Lanes

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Lyves – Cover Me

Lyves

Lyves shares ‘Cover Me’, which has been co-produced with Will Night.

It’s another honest and passionate song from the London artist, and is about the push and pulls of a relationship.

Sounds like: Kllo, London Grammar, James Blake, SOHN, The Weeknd, Banks, Jamie XX, Jesse Ware, Shura, Seal, Boards of Canada

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The Born Love – Badlands

Badlands by Sahir Khan

The Born Love is a duo who are ready to embrace the music scene with their modern anthems.

Their new radio-ready track, ‘Badlands’, is about mistakes that have led to a waning love.

Sounds like: The Temper Trap, Kings of Leon, Foreign Air, Portugal. The Man, Local Natives, Broken Bells, Grouplove

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The Born Love – Tempest

The Born Love

The Born Love

Debuting their first single, The Born Love share ‘Tempest’.

Comparing themselves to The Temper Trap and Kings of Leon may seem like a slightly cavalier approach, but what’s the point if you don’t aim high? And in this case, the resemblance is just.

‘Tempest’ has the flavourings of an electronic track, but with the additional rocky drums, and an all indie inspiring chorus.

The track was written by Kevin and Aron (BANKS, Halsey) of the band, and has been mastered by Brian Lucey (The Black Keys, Arctic Monkeys) in Los Angeles.

Sounds like: The Temper Trap, Kings of Leon, Foreign Air, Portugal. The Man

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Lavoy – Smile

Lavoy

Lavoy

Crafting delightful indie pop for everyone’s ears is Alaskan band, Lavoy.

Not to let dark and desolate winters and freezing, long road trips get in the way of touring , these guys are determined to do what they love, smiling all the way.

Which brings us nicely onto their new single, ‘Smile’; a track “about finding something you thought you’d lost forever. It’s about that moment when you lock eyes with your best friend or loved one. You know you’re home and you can’t help but smile.”

Lavoy’s forthcoming three-song EP, produced by Casey Bates (MxPx, INXS, Portugal. The Man) will be released later this year.

Sounds like: Portugal, The Man

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Titanics – Stepping Out

Titanics - Stepping Out

Titanics – Stepping Out

Titanics started as a project by Albany-based Mark Lombardo. Lombardo has since been joined by guitarist Derek Rogers.

With a lot under their belt already, Titanics has been featured on the Mercedes Benz ‘Best New Talent’ Mixtape 2013, and played with MSMR, Vacationer and Portugal, The Man.

Latest track, ‘Stepping Out’ is a chilled dreamy pop track. As you watch the video, you get the impression that Lombardo is slightly tired of who ever ‘Stepping Out’ and it’s pretty refreshing!

The B-Side is a remix of Tycho‘s ‘A Walk’:

Sounds like: Pistol Shrimp, Portugal The Man, MSMR, Vacationer, Tycho, War on Drugs

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