Tove Lo by Kenny Laubbacher
Our favourite pop track this year, Tove Lo doesn’t disappoint with ‘No One Dies From Love’.
A heartbreak bop you can dance to, the Alaska-directed video follows movie star Tove and a robot named Annie 3000 get it on in a steamy dystopian love story.
Watch below.
Sounds like: Charlie XCX, ASTR, Broods, Hayley Kiyoko, Nina Yasmineh, Tove Styrke
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Following a life-changing move to Toronto from London, Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Malory releases her sophomore album, ‘Killer Cut Offs’.
Completely self-produced, the album is full of quirky pop bangers, and Malory has kindly put together a playlist of influences for our readers.
Tove Styrke – I Lied
Tove’s album ‘Sway’ was huge inspiration for me early on when I was writing this album. The production is so cool, the songs are catchy, pop but so fresh and not cheesy at all. I love the lyrics in this one and the playfulness of the vocals.
Ashe – Choirs
Found this on my discover weekly and fell in love with it. The plucked and percussive production was something that inspired my production on songs like ‘Daydrunk’.
Rostam – In a River
I was so stoked to discover Rostam, I’d always loved Vampire Weekend but he’s just insanely talented on his own too. I really look up to him as a writer and producer. The way he builds this song, it’s so cinematic and warm. I love his ability to combine organic, world instruments and electronic sounds, this one totally inspired my production of ‘Alone With You’.
Still Woozy – Habit
This one is so funky and cool. The harmonies and melodies are awesome. His attitude and patter definitely inspired me on ‘Killer Cut Offs’.
Fortunes, Justin Bieber
These two are awesome, love love their lyrics and used to listen to this on repeat. Their hip hop influenced beats and chill production helped inspire ‘Puppy Love’.
Skip – SuperParka
Addicted to this song. The melodies, attitude and that driving bass line are pure genius. Seeing Superparka live at The Great Escape inspired me to strive to be more experimental and unafraid to be DIY in my production.
Charli XCX – Boys
I’m not alone when I say this one’s an absolute hit. The video game style production and Charli’s attitude were definitely an influence for me.
Vibes – Touch
My talented sister Taylor aka VIBES! She’s always been a huge influence on me and does everything herself. ‘Touch’ is one of my favourites, it’s so playful, glitchy, catchy and has so much sass which I adore. Love that line ’I promise to behave soon’.
Tove Styrke – On the Low
The main bass /synth line on this was a huge inspo as a starting point for my song ‘Killer Cut Offs’. The lyrics are so beautiful and honest too. Just another lovely choon from my main gal Tove.
Rostam – Wood
This was the first song of Rostam’s I heard and I totally fell in love. It reminds me of the Darjeeling Ltd. (Wes is also one of my fave directors). The composition and orchestration are glorious and his vocals are like a lilting lullaby.
Tove Stryke – Say My Name
Again, the bloopy synth bass line and her patter on this are just soooo cool. Not to mention it’s a BANGER. Lyrics, hooks and vibe it’s all there.
Sounds like: VÉRITÉ, Evalyn, Violet Skies, Violet Days, Chloe Lilac, Ryn Weaver
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With a melting pot of sounds, a tapestry of multicultural influences, and a female crew that M.I.A. would be proud of, 21-year-old Ghita (pronounced Rita) is shaping up to be an international future pop icon.
The visuals for the self-directed ‘On My Mind’ is set in her homeland of Morocco. Sporting Balmain and Balenciaga, Ghita and her friends exude captivating charisma and class wherever they go. Their journey takes them from urban locations to the country’s beautifully desolate wilderness.
Ghita comments, “‘ON MY MIND’ is about the deeply personal nature of each individual’s journey through life. I believe in my dreams and my ambitions, and I want to inspire people to do the same. I also wanted to address female empowerment. In Morocco, more and more women are fighting for their right to be heard. They’re standing up for emancipation, for equality between genres, and to bring down this patriarchal society.”
Sounds like: Tove Styrke, Tove Lo
Italian-based, Russian-bred fashionista and singer/songwriter Patricia Manfield – aka HĒIR – oozes cool.
Whilst she has travelled the world modelling, music has always been at the centre of HĒIR’s universe. Her debut EP, ‘Daddy Issues’ is a collection of songs described as “a gallery of thoughts” inspired following her parent’s split whilst she was a kid.
Speaking about the EP, she explains,
“I guess I just kind of grew up with a crazy desire of wanting to be independent, especially from a male figure. I always wanted to wear the pants and make the decisions. I think part of my ambition comes from a sense of emptiness and lack of satisfaction in a father figure. But I also wanted DADDY ISSUES to be an awareness, something positive, that makes you more of a woman, instead of the great cliché of being needy. It’s more of a “yeah I got em and I’m so fine with it. But I’VE GOT THE RIGHT TO SAY IT, you don’t.””
Her new single ‘Get Down Dance’ inspires excitement. It’s a nocturnal electro-pop tune built upon a modern production enriched by HĒIR’s seductive and hypnotical vocals.
Sounds like: Tove Lo, Tove Styrke, Lorde, Banks
daste. – About Us
Australian trio daste. shares the smooth electro / lo-fi-funk single, ‘About Us’.
As with all things daste., the “d” is in the detail. Delivering an inspiration message, the song is about battling with uncertainty. Listen below.
Sounds like: RÜFÜS DU SOL, Two Another, LEISURE, Tora
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uomo – All I Hear
Introducing the new project by Pietro Filippone – aka uomo.
His latest release, ‘All I Hear’, is the first song that Filippone has written by himself for the project. A decent bit of autotune in there, the softer house elements give the song a gorgeously gentle uplift.
Sounds like: Henry Green, Roosevelt, Goldroom, Hayden James, Elderbrook
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Tungz – Can’t We Just Be Friends Again
Bristol-based quartet Tungz combines effortless funk riffs with infectious vocal melodies and indie-pop sounds in new single, ‘Can’t We Just Be Friends Again’, out now via Heist or Hit.
It speaks of the confusion and the weird frustration that comes with wanting to snap back to being happy with someone you’ve only ever really been cool with before.
Sounds like: Ben Khan, Christine & The Queens, Patawawa, Bamily
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Amtrac – So Afraid ft. Alex Metric
DJ and producer Amtrac has teamed up with Grammy Award-winning British musician, DJ and producer Alex Metric on vocals in new single, ‘So Afraid’.
Looping vocals contemplate a simple question, “why you so afraid of love?” as Alex Metric’s breathy, enunciated voice lends an edge to the droning synths beneath, forming a steady crescendo of sound and passion that blooms.
Sounds like: Du Tonc, Cut Copy, Lane 8
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Dirty Nice – 100,000 Heartbeats
UK duo Dirty Nice releases ‘100,000 Heartbeats’. A synth-wave pop at the core, it’s the perfect counterpart to the more lo-fi B-side, ‘Love Team’.
Originally presented as a special Valentines Day release, Dirty Nice sent a number of personalised cards to fans. Continuing this theme on their Instagram, an intergalactic cartoon epic has unfolded with a new card revealed every day.
Sounds like: Elder Island, Camel Power Club, Gorillaz, Everyone You Know, 10 O’Clock Chemical
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Ekko – Off My Mind
Norwegian native, singer/songwriter and producer Rebekka Danielsson – aka EKKO – shares the visuals for ‘Off My Mind’.
Highly energetic, glorious pop with addictive melodic hooks and immaculate production this tune ticks all the boxes to be a serious club anthem and floor filler.
Expect her debut EP ‘Symptoms’ out later in the year.
Sounds like: Tove Lo, Chelsea Lankes, Allie X, ALMA, Kim Petras
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Langva – Different Things
‘Different Things’ by Norweigan artist Langva is the perfect antidote in these gloomy days we find ourselves in.
It’s a short and sweet burst of summer, with a groovy bassline that amplifies the affectionate feelings you may have for someone.
Sounds like: Easy Life, Yakul
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ELBA – Remember Me
Rising Danish pop songstress ELBA is making waves.
Starting her musical journey in the local choir at the age of six, it was clear her destiny was singing. Her new single ‘Remember Me’ showcases her powerful vocal range, and perfectly fits with the electro-pop production.
Sounds like: Mabel, Harlee, JUJ
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Discrete x Chris Collins – Better Days
Creative music producer Discrete teams up with Chris Collins on ‘Better Days’.
With a top-notch level of production and flawless vocals, combined with inspiration from an extensive range of genres, prepare to click repeat.
Sounds like: Goldroom, Le Youth, The Weeknd
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Emilie Nicolas – Who’s Gonna Love You
The Norweigan artists are smashing it this week, and it’s truly great to see Emilie Nicolas return.
Showing a new side to her music – less “cool pop” and more reflective – ‘Who’s Gonna Love You’ is centred around the difficulties of letting go of a relationship, succinctly capturing despair, unbridled joy, and the desire to dance.
Sounds like: Tove Styrke, Tove Lo, Susanne Sundfør, AURORA
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Ed Prosek – Mercy
The Berlin-based indie-folk troubadour, Ed Prosek returns with a luscious ode to his love affair with music, lifted from his forthcoming EP.
It plays out like a heart-wrenching ballad and is brought into a tender balance by Ed’s genuine delivery.
Sounds like: Dermot Kennedy, Frightened Rabbit, Bruce Springsteen, Chet Faker, Talos
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Nic Hanson – Crush on You
Boy, have we got a little crush on Nic Hanson.
Having just toured with the wonderful Moon Boots and with a flurry of viral Insta covers, Nic Hanson is sending his take on funky pop.
Sounds like: Prince, Ed Sheeran
The Endorphins – Dead or Alive
Stockholm siblings Alva & August Heldt are The Endorphins.
As their name suggests, their feel-good future pop is set to induce endorphins. As they put it – “It’s about love, friendship, parties and sex“, and what’s wrong with that!
Listen to self-expressive ‘Dead Or Alive’ below.
Sounds like: The Magnettes, Banks, Fabich, Pastel, Midnight Pool Party, Keljet
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We are on a bit of journey of self-love at the moment, and it appears that Chelsea Lankes may well be too.
Having just married, Chelsea’s musical direction has shifted from heartache pop to “be true to yourself” power ballads and we love the new sound.
Listen to ‘Easy’ below.
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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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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Magnus Bechmann – Bruises
We all have those moments at the traffic lights when the amber light strikes. Do we slam the breaks on or speed on through the looming red light? Luckily for us, 21 year old Norwegian native, Magnus Bechmann is willing to take the risk and “go all in” with his music.
The result is the playful indietronica track, ‘Bruises’.
Sounds like: Kid Astray, Phoenix, Two Door Cinema Club
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VOKES – Screens
Los Angeles-based band VOKES question society with their new single, ‘Screens’.
It’s a feel-good number about not such a feel-good subject of addiction to technology, which we are all guilty off, so how about we put down our phones and take a listen?
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MRCH – My Mistake
MRCH are seriously doing it for us at the moment.
The video for the Phoenix duo’s new single ‘My Mistake’ takes us on an intergalactic journey exploring NASA found footage and cimenatic-like visions of vocalist, Mickey Pangburn.
Sounds like: Goldfrapp, Wolf Alice, Lilies On Mars, CHVRCHES, Garbage
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Two Islands – Still Life
Liverpool-based Two Islands remain mysterious, but nonetheless we enjoy their indie anthems.
Their new single, ‘Still Life’, is another ambitious release and a bid to “reclaim the romance of falling in love with an artist solely through their songs.”
Their positive attitude and knack of creating groovy bangers definitely sets them apart.
Sounds like: Island Club, Tuska
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Fever High – Good Advice Feat. Jeff Goldblum
Time to get nostalgic with ‘Good Advice’ by NYC-based duo Fever High (aka guitarist/singer Anna Nordeen and singer/songwriter Reni Lane).
Apart from bohemian vocals and interludes of joyous guitars and tambourines, the song features anecdotes about bad advice from none other than Jeff Goldblum!
Sounds like: Icona Pop, The Bangles
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MagnusTheMagnus – Calling Feat. KIDDO
We finish this week’s gems with Swedish producer MagnusTheMagnus‘ new single, ‘Calling’ featuring KIDDO.
The off-kilter pirate radio station beat throughout the track reminds us a bit of Jamie xx in its innovation. Add KIDDO’s enticing vocals and you have a unique and highly danceable track.
Sounds like: Santigold, Tove Styrke, MØ, Jamie xx, Major Lazer
Ella On The Run
Sultry-pop sensation, Ella On The Run, returns with the brilliant video for ‘Walk Away’.
It has been directed by Rafe Gibbons (Will Joseph Cook), and features varying kaleidoscopic images and mirrored sequences of Ella On The Run, as she grapples with the temptation of a forbidden love.
Ella On The Run proves once again that a straightforward, but strong attitude, prevails.
Sounds like: Banks, Salt Ashes, FKA Twigs, Tove Styrke, Snow Patrol, Lucius, Tove Lo
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Chelsea Lankes
In February, Chelsea Lankes shared with us a pretty cool playlist. We didn’t think she could get much cooler, until we were ‘Paralyzed’ by her new single.
It’s a dreamy number with alluring vocals and misty synths.
‘Paralyzed’ is taken from Chelsea’s self-titled EP, available now in a limited edition 10″ Pink Vinyl via B3SCI Records here.
Chelsea will also be playing The Satellite with Transviolet on 18th April.
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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