Five for Friday: 23rd March 2018
Jalen Santoy - Pain
RIYL: Jimi Tents, Planet Asia, J. Cole
Jalen is no stranger to pain; in his own words: "I've never felt more agony, frustration, and overall, lack of understanding at one time. I lost one of my brothers, Seiyid 'Fast Cash' Rahmaan, to police brutality in Mount Pleasant... I've lost upwards [of] ten individuals who personally had strong influences on my life. None of these losses were due to natural causes." The track features a jazzy soulful beat that underpins the emotional pull of the lyrics.
Essie Holt - Magnetise
RIYL: Vera Blue, Wafia, Broods
Melbourne singer/songwriter Essie Holt has today released her second single, an electronic indie pop track called "Magnestise" which cements her status as an artist to watch in 2018. With production from fellow Melbourne artist Fractures, the track shines with luscious sweeping synths and smooth vocals.
"I wrote Magnetise with my good friend/collaborator Mark (Fractures) after I'd had a late night hanging out with a bunch of friends. We'd been drifting for a while due to everyone going in their different directions after school, but the conversations that night really confirmed it was time for me to move on. Magnetise is me coming to terms with ending a long friendship, but also feeling a sense of closure and satisfaction. We really tried to capture both the feelings of sadness and empowerment in the production."
Neo Noir - On The Hunt (ft. Krigare)
RIYL: SMLE
LA producer duo Neo Noir have a keen sense of melody in their writing which they showcase in their latest track "On the Hunt" featuring wonderful vocals from Krigare. Starting off softly on piano, the track progresses with a cinematic tinge towards a powerful and glittering chorus. Bradley Allan and Greg Ogan have previously produced for big names in the industry including Rihanna, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber. They started Neo Noir to focus on making their own music and working with talented singers that share their vision.
Shiva and the Hazards - East India Empress (Radio Edit)
RIYL: Oasis, The Verve, The Vines
In Hinduism, the universe is believed to regenerate in cycles. It is Shiva who destroys the universe following each cycle to allow for a new creation. Naturally, Shiva and the Hazards are here to usher in a new dawn with their debut single East India Empress. If you're a fan of Oasis or The Verve (this track is actually produced by The Verve's producer Chris Potter) then you'll like this alt rock track. The song features catchy guitar riffs, strong vocals and changes tempo a number of times throughout which is a nice touch you don't hear often.
Saltwater Sun - The Wire
RIYL: Our Girl, Yonaka, Dream Wife, Fragile Animals?
Reading, UK rockers Saltwater Sun have released a new single called "The Wire". The track features rockin' atmospheric guitars, a driving beat and a fantastic vocal melody. Thematically, singer Jen Stearnes tells us: "Recently I think we've found ourselves part of a society divided by misinformation and distrust. 'The Wire' is taking a look at the turbulent times we live in; the world's never been so connected, yet it's very easy to feel detached..." Catch them playing at the Are You Listening? Festival in their hometown on Sat 28th April, and if you want more like this check out their own curated playlist on Spotify.