ABSYTE’s “Ain’t Nobody” opens with a striking vocal layer that immediately establishes the main melody, which is then beautifully complemented by smooth, live-sounding keys. A distinct melodic chorus provides a strong contrast to the rap verses, and the hi-hat-driven beat expertly ties all these professional production elements together. Lyrically, the song is a heartfelt expression from a woman who realizes that no one loves her quite like her partner does, and she wants to show her gratitude for a lifetime. Ready to hit “send” to your person? This one’s for them.
Manchester-based artist DBL A and Manchester-born producer, Yves Jones, link up to create DBL A’s latest single ‘Grabbing at my ankles’. Following a spell of lyric and flow-heavy releases, the artist marks a sonic shift with his latest single. Showcasing stripped-back flows, as well as more melodic vocals, DBL A experiments with new sounds on a soulful and ‘genre bending’ track. The song came about as a result of regular sessions between the two. Off the back of their 2022 UK garage release ‘smarties’ Yves Jones (one half of rising Manchester based duo ‘Fieves’) displays experimental vocal processing that works hand-in-hand with DBL A’s delivery, showing just how comfortable the two young creatives are working together. introspective lyrics from the north Yorkshire native paint a vivid picture over soulful samples and synths as he talks on topics of self-destructive behaviour and overcoming negativity from exterior forces. The 23-Year-old artist looks to take larger strides in the UK music scene as well as within his own artistic development. Releasing on 13/10/2023, DBL A, displays his range on a song that likens itself more towards a genre-mixed sound than that of his previous releases – One that any fans of Sampha or Vegyn should be sure to check out. Having already shown his talents at a Ballami radio cypher, alongside Manchester-based artist ‘Finnerz’, earlier in the year ‘DBL A’ is one to watch in the UK scene as the artist promises that there’s ‘much more to see from him’ before the year is done.
Onesapa, the Singer and songwriter from the Netherlands with Moluccan and Dutch Indian roots teams up with Laura Picar, coming with the attitude for On my Way, an uplifting hip hop tune with playful old school vibes. Delivery is really wavey enriched with clean vocals in the chorus. The instrumental features a distinctive synth riff that dances between two semitone chords. Lyrically the song revolves around themes of self-confidence, artistic identity, and a determination to stand out. The project is accompanied by a video clip that captures the classic atmosphere of the track. It’s time to play. Listen below!
Born in the United States with Nigerian roots, singer, songwriter and producer Michael O. (Michael Odokara-Okigbo) is releasing his newest single “Japa,” which means “to flee” in Yoruba (a language in Nigeria) slang, in reference to the many Africans being forced to seek a better life in the western world. The track serves as a unifying anthem, encouraging people of all backgrounds to return and tap into their ancestral lineage.
Co-Produced by Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Academy (Grammy Awards), JAPA is the story of survival and a story of the foundation and creation of America.
“Japa” is the lead single on Michael O.’s EP, released in 2023. With this same mission of solidarity in mind, Michael O. also recently created, and is the founder of the first African language learning app, NKENNE. Winner of the 2022 Gorham Savings Bank’s Emerging Business Awards, and with over 7000 users and growing, NKENNE was developed to create an avenues for her he Global African Diaspora to connect to their roots through language. www.nkenne.com
“Japa” and NKENNE were made possible by the Recording Academy’s MusiCares foundation. Michael O. received a grant from MusiCares in 2020 as part of their COVID-19 relief program, which allowed Michael O. to use his passion for connecting people through music and technology to jumpstart this app and his upcoming EP.
Along with Harvey Mason Jr. and The Recording Academy’s most recent initiative to create more visibility for the Afrobeats movement in the United States, we believe Michael’s story can inspire people to think outside the box in order to create avenues of connection and elevation, via music and tech.
Amidst the scorching global heatwave, rain-kissed UK finds solace in Cherise’s Summer Love.
Hailing from UK Cherise is back with Summer Love, part of her debut album titled ‘Calling’. The recipe in “Summer Love” is straightforward yet impactful. The rhythm has a choppy jdilla vibe. Cherise’s expressive vocal delivery takes center stage in the verses, beautifully complemented by dreamy lo-fi guitars. The chorus introduces some cool, harmony rich back vocals, a groovy synth bass line and some sweet retro infused detuned synth chords which add a touch of nostalgic retro vibes to the mix.
Cherise comments on the track, “I am who I am!’ That’s what I wanted to say with ‘Summer Love’. It’s about me dancing with joy while being honest and shameless about my quirks, personality and desires. For me, 2023 is the Summer of Love because we’re unrestricted and free to dance.”
SAGE SUEDE’s album titled “Renegade” offers an intriguing collection of 11 songs. The album presents an eclectic blend of different styles, making it challenging to label it under a specific genre. And in our opinion, this is what sets it apart and makes it stand out. Despite its experimental touch, it ensures that listeners can engage with its fresh sound. The vocal delivery remains consistent throughout the tracks, adding a sense of coherence to the overall listening experience.
One notable aspect of the album is the plethora of interesting synth riffs found in the instrumentals. These intriguing elements, combined with a clear focus on creating both immersive atmospheres but also delivering playful vibes, further enhance the album’s appeal. Additional is a work, as a whole, that refuses to conform to pretentiousness or commercial conventions often associated with the genre. Instead, it breaks away from standard recipes, offering a refreshing and liberating listening experience.
We wholeheartedly invite you to explore this album, as it provides moments that are bound to resonate with you as it embodies a sense of freedom and is filled with exciting surprises.
Are you searching for piece? Deore returns with his latest single titled “Piece,” showcasing a deeply personal and honest lyrical journey. The track’s instrumental composition is marked by the enveloping warmth of saturated analog keys, which contribute to creating a gentle and inviting atmosphere. The beat exudes a classic soul trap vibe while Its deep and resonant sound sets the stage for a laidback late-night experience. On top of that a vocal chop adds an extra texture to the already organic arrangement. A testament to Deore’s artistry and ability to produce soulful music that resonates deeply with the audience.
Chris Hyson teams up with Frida Touray for Do You Mind, an irresistible contemporary R&B track filled with enchanting romance. The song’s notable feature is its straightforward yet highly impactful chord progression, consisting of just two chords. The smooth groove, propelled by the captivating bass line, seamlessly intertwines with the sweet and comforting analog-sounding synth arpeggios, resulting in a warm and inviting production. On top of that, the expressive vocal delivery adds an extra layer of emotion, enhancing the overall intimate atmosphere. Close your eyes and picture a serene sunset beach with pink skies. Who wants to leave?
London born, Kent Raised; Thomas Jay is a Neo-Soul, R&B/Pop Singer Songwriter. Originally performing and releasing under the name ‘THOMA’ he has previously played shows at O2 Academy Islington, Chinnery’s Southend, The Tunbridge Wells Forum, SoulTown Festival, Black Deer Festival, and has been a regular performer for Sofar Sounds London. As THOMA, Thomas Jay received support from BBC Introducing Kent on various occasions, most noticeably with his single ‘More’ being made Record of The Week in 2019.
After taking a break during the pandemic to rediscover his sound and focus on his artistry, Thomas is now fully embracing his rich soulful voice and leaning into the Neo-Soul/R&B sensibilities he grew up listening to. His new single ‘Ease My Mind’ is the perfect example of his ability to merge catchy R&B/Pop hooks with flawless Neo-soul tinged production. ‘Ease My Mind’ documents a longing to stop acting contrary to your own best interests, when your own-self becomes your own worst enemy.
Qeeran, a queer artist hailing from Melbourne, has released a new album entitled “IN RETROSPECT” which takes listeners on a poignant and introspective journey, delving into the artist’s life experiences such as migration, love, heartbreak, personal growth, and self-love, spanning across the 9 tracks of the project. Remarkably, Qeeran is responsible for all aspects of the album’s creation, including production, writing, mixing, and mastering.
Musically, “IN RETROSPECT” is a smooth and cohesive production that combines soul trap influences with elements of R&B and hip hop, perfectly complementing the artist’s skillfully autotuned vocals. The warm and inviting keys in the arrangement provide a strong foundation, while the gently saturated synth elements have a calming effect, creating a laid-back atmosphere that invites the listener to relax and reflect. Overall, Qeeran has delivered a beautifully crafted album that not only showcases his musical talent but also provides an intimate glimpse into his life experiences.
HipHop Paranoia 