A1aska – Black and White

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Black and White is a new single from artist, A1aska. Born and raised in Alaska, the artist chose the name “A1aska” because while he was in the military, people always seemed surprised when they found out where he was from. So it became a casual nickname and later an artist moniker. While he has only been releasing music for the last year or so, A1aska has 10 years experience making electronic music, dating back to his high school days.

This latest track reveals his true power level. Black and White is a high octane, futuristic dance track that blends various elements of EDM and synthpop. Subtly dark energy and an aura of mystery radiate from this radical jam, which has a polished, almost industrial sound. The mix is rich and robust, brimming with intensity, while the synths are absolutely pristine. Though this is primarily an instrumental track, there are lyrical phrases which accentuate the song’s ambiance, and which are also quite catchy in a hypnotic sort of way. In fact, I would go as far as to say this song could become a hit, as it practically programs the lyrical mantras into your brain. This is an excellent release. In addition to being thought provoking, Black and White is a well-crafted piece of musical machinery.

For more info:

https://soundcloud.com/a1askamusic/black-and-white

Kid Condo – 409

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409 is a new single from hip hop artist, Kid Condo. Not to be confused with the classic Beach Boys’ song of the same name, this is a solid and straightforward rap jam. “Kid Condo” is one of the more memorable artist monikers I’ve seen. As a rapper, Kid Condo has a stream-of-consciousness delivery style and raps with an almost emo intensity in his voice. It’s lively and engaging. The lyrics are refreshing in the way they combine youthful angst and bravado with vulnerability. The subtle sensitivity will surely resonate with listeners of a certain age. Apparently this is the first song this artist has ever released. There’s definitely some potential there. The beat has a nice kick to it, and the backing music features ambient synths that spread out the mix evenly. Kid Condo is just getting started, but I have a feeling we’ll be hearing more from this guy.

For more info:

https://linktr.ee/kidcondo

Love – Lawrence Qualls (feat: Steven Spradley)

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Love is a new single from Los Angeles-based music producer, Lawrence Qualls and features Steven Spradley. Co-written by J. Blu, this classic neo-soul jam features a bright and creatively melodic musical backing. Sonically, it’s quite pleasing in its colorful, collage-like form. The song is ultimately carried by the exquisite vocals of international soul singer, Steven Spradley. His voice is dynamic and emotive, displaying an impressive range in both tone and feeling. He is also a superb singer technically, making it look way easier than it really is. Musically, the term “soul” gets thrown around a lot, but in my opinion this music is truly soulful, as it is performed with incredible heart and with an energy that derives from some place even deeper.

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Qualls provides an excellent musical framework for this track to be successful. The songwriting structure is simple yet brilliant in its emphasis of certain elements, while the mix sets the stage for the song’s invigorating ambiance. In these relatively uncertain times, the song brings out the better part of humanity and makes for an uplifting experience. There’s a lot of talent here, and everyone involved is clearly a veteran in their respective musical discipline. Lawrence Qualls has a full length album coming out, The Adventures of BoogaloodaGod, which is slated for release on 12-25-20. The title is certainly intriguing, and I have no doubt the album itself will be top-tier.

For more info:

Waterplanet – Girl

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Girl is a new single from Baltimore-based indie duo, Waterplanet. The song is from their new EP, Never Far. Frankly, this is psychedelic indie folk pop/rock at its finest. The song centers around a “stupid” girl (not to be confused with the 90s classic by the band, Garbage) who is described with afflicted sincerity and an endearing bitterness. The lyrics are actually somewhat thought provoking. Is this self-reflection, a tale of a relationship/friendship gone sour, of resilient women overcoming obstacles, or a combination of the above?

By almost any conceivable metric, Girl is an indie gem. The vocals of Millie Landrum are beautiful and sensitive, even as they powerfully drive the action. Her voice reminds me a bit of Juliana Hatfield or maybe the singer from The Cucumbers. Musically, the track has about as close as you can get to an authentic 60s sound. The backing music is perfect and has a Velvet Underground vibe. I actually miss the 90s and early 2000s when there were a plethora of indie bands recreating this style. I love it.

For more info:

http://www.waterplanetband.com
https://www.facebook.com/waterplanetband
https://waterplanet.bandcamp.com

Hemisphere – Transmission

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Transmission is a new single from San diego-based band, Hemisphere. Appearing on their latest album, American Dreams, the song incorporates elements of rock, pop, jazz, fusion to create an impressive adult contemporary release. I especially love the synths, which sound like something out of Buck Rogers. These synthesizers are positively energizing. The mix is full and rich, with an eclectic mix of instruments and charismatic, emotive vocals. This track rocks in its own unique way and is powerful and invigorating. Combined with a robust beat and euphoric atmosphere, the lyrics are belted out with authentic emotion, resulting in a wave of positive vibes. The musicians are clearly veteran professionals who play their instruments with meticulous precision. This song (and the entire album for that matter) is totally satisfying.

For more info:

https://hemisphereband.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Hemisphereband/

CIENFUE – Life in the Tropics

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Life in the Tropics is a new album from electronic psychedelic artist, CIENFUE. First off, let me just point out what an awesome album cover that is. Aesthetically, it’s right up my alley. They say not to judge a book by its cover, but when I saw that artwork I knew I would like this. The songs combine elements of psychedelia with tropically flavored synth pop, creating a highly enjoyable retro-futuristic concoction. The beat has an organic, relaxed and almost tribal feel, while the instrumentals range from video game style “chip tune” sounds to epic, ethereal synths. Musically, my favorite song on this album is the ultra catchy, Sunset Sesh. The performances are professional and competent. Thematically, everything fits together well, and the sound is consistent throughout. Honestly, this is a masterpiece. It has more than obscure “avant garde” appeal as well, as the stellar (yet sparingly used) vocals bump these jams up a notch. There are songs on here that could genuinely be hits.

For more info:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Cienfue/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/cienfue/

Broot – Reason Number One

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Reason Number One is a new single from Haverill, MA-based hip hop artist, Broot. This is one of those classic hip hop jams that is powered mainly by the rappers impressive flow. The beat is minimalist, while the ambiance is largely composed of a delightfully eerie musical backing. There’s definitely a slightly dark and haunting quality to the recording. Remove the vocals, and this track could be a good fit on any indie horror movie soundtrack. The music is a real attention grabber, right from the opening bell.

For his part, Broot raps in a fast-paced, stream of consciousness style. He demonstrates impeccable timing, and his performance would make this song worth listening to even if there were no music at all. His lyrics are detailed and comprehensive. With his delivery, you’ll want to listen to this at least twice to see if you missed any juicy tidbits. The mix has a nice clarity to it. Unlike many contemporary hip hop artists, Broot doesn’t have a “busy” mix that obscures or distracts from his talent. He’s a solid poet who raps well. What little music there is simply enhances his delivery, by providing a bit of correlative, spooky atmosphere.

For more info:

https://smarturl.it/rn1
https://soundcloud.com/broot603/reason-1

Trynket – Downbeat

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Downbeat is a new single from Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter, Trynket. Originally, she is from the islands of Cebu, Philippines. Trynket has developed a growing cult following with her genre crossing music. She has been working diligently for the past two years in the studio, where she has slowly began to incorporate soul and hip hop into her recordings, which had previously been primarily synth-driven.

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This latest track, features a stylish, futuristic beat, with eloquent synths. It combines elements of retro-80s quality with 90s rhythm and a full, rich sound. The production quality is excellent. From a sonic standpoint this is about as good as you can get. The backing music is actually clearer and better than what you hear in most major label pop songs. Trynket’s vocals are ultimately what bring everything to life. Her voice is absolutely entrancing. She has a unique and captivating cadence in her delivery, and there’s an exotic, subtly tropical quality in her tone. This song is basically cutting edge synthpop with a hint of R&B flair. This song is ready for prime time and belongs on the charts.

For more info:

https://linktr.ee/trynketmusic
https://trynketmusic.com/home

Jak Frawst – Gotta Make It

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Gotta Make It is a new single from hip hop artist, Jak Frawst. It’s not as if you can really go wrong with a moniker like that, but in this case Jak Frawst’s latest jam is indeed awesome. It was produced by JAZ-O, under the Werkshop Music LLC banner. The track re-captures the spirit of 90s golden age hip hop, with its modest pacing and larger than life sound. The backing beat is deep, blending surreal elements of magic and fantasy with a crisp, robust rhythm. I’ve reviewed a lot of hip hop songs this year which have had excellent backing music. This one ranks up there with the best.

For his part, Jak Frawst maintains a charismatic vocal presence, with that casual, old school delivery style that will always be supreme. He lists Run-DMC and LL Cool J as being among his influences, yet he manages to draw from his inspirations while not simply emulating them. He has established his own distinct style. Jak Frawst’s upcoming EP, Trials and Triumphs is slated to be released soon. Stay tuned for his upcoming projects, which include musical collaborations with Sammy Davis Jr.’s son, Women’s D-League B-ball, and others.

For more info:

PRESSURE – BEATEN BUT NOT DEAD

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Beaten but Not Dead is a new single from Swedish melodic rock group, Pressure. The band’s name stems from idea of embracing and overcoming the “pressures” that people face in their daily struggles. Sound wise, the group’s influences include artists like Sabaton, Bon Jovi, Raubtier and Mimikry. Beaten but Not Dead blends elements of hard rock and metal to create a kind of anthem of resilience.

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As the title suggests, the song promotes the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity. Much like coal can produce diamonds, pressure can transform humans into something more powerful. While the pacing is modest, the impact is thunderous, and the song rocks. The production has excellent clarity, and the performances are musically competent. I listened to the English version, but the track is available in Swedish as well. Hot off the presses, Beaten but Not Dead was released officially on Oct 1st (today).

For more info: