Albums | Speech Debelle Shares New Single “11:11”
Posted by VMan on November 28, 2023
British hip-hop artist Speech Debelle is back in the spotlight with her latest single, “11:11”, taken from her fourth studio album, Sunday Dinner On a Monday, which is out now. This album marked a significant return to the music scene for the critically acclaimed artist, whose career took off with her Mercury Prize-winning debut album, Speech Therapy, in 2009.
Speech Debelle’s music has always been characterised by its sensitivity, introspection and an ability to weave poetic testimonies, playful narratives and thought-provoking discussions on power, politics and pleasure. Her sophomore album, Freedom Of Speech, produced by Kwes in 2012, further solidified her reputation as an artist unafraid to explore a wide range of themes in her work.
After taking a step back from music for a few years, Speech Debelle devoted her time to her other passions and impressed audiences as a semi-finalist on Celebrity MasterChef, showcasing her culinary skills and inventive recipes. Unifying her love for both music and food, Speech created the podcast The Work Brunch, where she cooked and discussed music, life and inspiration with esteemed guests such as Lianne La Havas, Nitin Sawhney, Shabaka Hutchings and Mikill Pane. With her third album, Tantil Before I Breathe, Speech took her artistic expression to a new level by pairing each of its nine songs with a delicious, inspired recipe, combining the elements of music and food into a unique, immersive experience.
More recently, Speech Debelle was featured in the BBC‘s three-part documentary series First Ladies of Hip-Hop. This documentary celebrates the remarkable contributions of female hip-hop artists over the last 50 years and recognises the triumphs of British women in hip-hop.
Now, Speech Debelle is making headlines once again with latest single “11:11”, a track that encapsulates elegance, grace, bravado and rap. Produced by Skripture, with additional production by Dem Drums, the song exudes the energy reminiscent of classic hip-hop. The single arrives alongside an equally impressive music video directed by Aiden Harmitt-Williams.
Speaking about “11:11”, Speech Debelle says, “The track reminded me instantly of classic hip-hop. It has that energy that makes you want to let everyone know what you as a rapper are meant to do with a beat.” “11:11” is a testament to Speech’s continued creativity and her ability to evolve as an artist while staying true to her unique style.
Albums | Check out “Gum” by Arky Waters
Posted by VMan on November 28, 2023
Arky Waters is an Australian newcomer who is crafting a unique blend of breakbeat/tech-house electronica which has a sound that can be likened to a mix between Bicep, Overmono and Godford. Listen to the single above now!
Just last month Arky Waters announced he had a new ep on the way while also giving us its first preview with new single called ‘Take My Time’, and he’s returning this week with the ep’s second offering, a fast-paced techno release called ‘Gum’, which he says…
“After COVID finished I tried to go to as many events as I could in order to support the music scene. Even on days I didn’t feel like it, I would drag myself out and go to all the local raves that were going on in Sydney – crews like Illicit, Allfriends, Pulso, City Soup and Motorik. I’d go by myself most times but it was never a lonely experience because the communities were so open and friendly. Everyone was doing something different but they were all celebrating music. It was kind of beautiful. I ended up making this track as a tribute to that time as I was exposed to a lot of techno that I had never heard before.” ~ Arky Waters
Albums | Producer/multi-instrumentalist Bass Physics unveils melodic bass single “FLY AWAY” (feat. CASS)
Posted by VMan on November 27, 2023
Bass music has the power to transport listeners to other worlds, and this is especially true of the sounds from Denver-based producer/multi-instrumentalist Bass Physics. Having gained a fervent audience who are enamored by his sparkly, hard-hitting bass aesthetics and live set – a vibrant performance style that sees him oscillate between electronic hardware, piano, and guitar – Bass Physics has cultivated a distinct sonic and visual language that gives fans a reprieve from their earthly struggles.
His creative sensibilities have led to performance slots at some of Denver’s most storied music institutions, including Red Rocks (5x), Decadence (3x), and a sold-out show at Bluebird Theatre – not to mention three performances at Cancun’s electronic music destination event Ember Shores. This year, he also remixed the Illenium, Grabbitz, and Wooli collaboration “You Were Right.”
Now, Bass Physics is revving up towards his debut album, Lost In Space, a full-length project that promises to deliver a collection of cinematic, mind-melding soundscapes. Filled to the brim with melodic compositions, immersive sound design, and, of course, otherworldly bass production, Lost In Space will be a holistic artist statement – a reflection of Bass Physics’ creative identity and a time capsule of his evolution up until this point.
Today, fans get their first taste of Lost In Space with melodic bass banger “FLY AWAY,” the LP’s lead single. A collaboration with vocalist CASS, “FLY AWAY” blends heart-thumping bass, angelic vocals, and intricate production flourishes all wrapped in a lush, extraterrestrial presentation.
“FLY AWAY” kicks off with an ascending, euphoric synth chord progression before bringing in CASS’s verse over a thumping, propulsive drum rhythm. The track then builds with CASS’s lyrics alluding to escaping reality before transitioning into an earth-shattering central section – a monumental drop that combines blazing bass design with trunk-rattling, trap-influenced drums for maximum catharsis.
“‘FLY AWAY,’ the first single off my new album, is one of my favorite songs in the collection. Lately, I’ve been sensing a collective phenomenon of people who are feeling trapped inside forces outside of their control, maybe even in their own minds. This song is for anyone who sometimes feels like all they want to do is fly away from reality. I think the way the sound of this track encapsulates the yearning of someone who just wants to feel free. It features some of my favorite production yet, and CASS absolutely crushed the vocals.“ – Bass Physics
Albums | DLG. connects with Koastle on “STRANGERS”
Posted by VMan on November 26, 2023
“STRANGERS” not only reinforces DLG.’s ability to craft infectious tunes with universal appeal but also highlights the seamless collaboration between DLG. and Koastle. As both artists continue to evolve and captivate audiences, it’s evident that their musical journey is just getting started. So, buckle up for the ride and let “STRANGERS” be the soundtrack to your own love story. Tune in above now!
Albums | Aruna refreshingly bridges the gap between modern pop and punk in ‘Good Guy’
Posted by VMan on November 26, 2023
Closing the year with a resounding bang, Aruna unleashes her latest single, ‘Good Guy,’ a brilliant and anthemic ode to the raucous pop-punk sound of the 00s. The track’s raw and unrefined approach perfectly aligns with Aruna’s buoyant DIY style, while the deliberately rough and fuzzy production adds a rustic charm that complements the singer’s distinctive musical personality.
‘Good Guy’ encapsulates a pop-punk aura reminiscent of a vintage Taylor Swift hit, with Aruna effortlessly crafting melodies that linger in the mind. The song navigates the complexities of relationships, presenting a classic narrative of finding the right guy and breaking free from a vicious cycle. It boldly flirts with the boundaries of a straightforward pop-rock anthem while incorporating influences and nuances from modern pop stars, creating a sonic fusion that is uniquely Aruna.
Albums | Blinky Bill Shares New Single “Dracula”
Posted by VMan on November 24, 2023
Multitalented producer, artist and DJ Blinky Bill from Nairobi, Kenya, has just released his latest musical creation, the electrifying single “Dracula”. This African hip-hop anthem not only showcases Blinky Bill’s exceptional talent but also carries a powerful message of empowerment and social consciousness. The single is accompanied by an equally remarkable music video directed by CJ Pixels.
With an impressive track record and a career spanning over a decade, Blinky Bill has proven himself as an artist of great influence. He is renowned for his work as one of the driving forces behind the electronic music and arts collective Just A Band, where he contributed to three albums. As a solo artist, Blinky Bill has already released two critically acclaimed albums, We Cut Keys While You Wait and Everyone’s Just Winging It And Other Fly Tales. And fans can expect his upcoming album, We Cut Keys 2, at the top of next year.
Blinky Bill’s collaborative spirit has allowed him to work with notable artists such as Nneka, Goldlink, Sampa The Great, Childish Gambino and Chance The Rapper, among others. He has also graced the stages of renowned events worldwide, including SummerStage NYC in 2019, TED 22 in Vancouver, Afropunk in South Africa and Paleo Festival, showcasing his versatility and captivating performances.
Blinky Bill’s latest single, “Dracula”, exemplifies his unwavering commitment to creating thought-provoking music. Speaking about the track, Blinky Bill explains, “‘Dracula’ is about standing up for yourself and speaking up for others in need of a voice.” The song’s poignant lyrics and energetic beats serve as a rallying cry for empowerment and change.
The genesis of “Dracula” came about serendipitously. Blinky Bill stumbled upon the song while working in the studio with his collaborator, Dillie. The track’s sample hook resonated deeply with him, evoking a sense of frustration and a need to address the world’s current state. In his own words, Blinky Bill shares, “It felt like a song that made me want to open up and talk about my frustration, which I think is indicative of other people’s frustrations on the state of the world right now. There’s a lot of feelgood music when many people aren’t feeling good. Reminded me of how Bob Marley used to talk about so many things going on around the world, happy and sad.”
Albums | Epikker Win Legal Battle, Happily Releasing Long-Awaited ‘VibeKing’ and ‘VibeQueen (Rising High)’
Posted by VMan on November 7, 2023
In October, Epikker, the electronic duo composed of Suniel Fox and Henry Strange, is gearing up to release two new tracks, “Vibeking” and “Vibequeen (Rising High).” Officially released in October, these tracks emerge as a creative output reflecting the duo’s recent confrontations and victories.
Complications arose with the resemblance of “Vibeking” to The Weeknd’s hit, sparking a legal confrontation that threatened to derail their momentum. However, it was this very struggle that brought a new voice into the fold—Luminiah. Her compelling vocals gave new life to “Vibequeen (Rising High),” a beacon of self-empowerment and an ode to reclaiming one’s core.
The essence of “Vibeking” lies in its core—a synthesizer laying down haunting chords, which morph into an expansive sound. This track is less about the storm that led to its creation and more about the hypnotic journey it takes you on. The rhythm is a slow burn; it creeps up on you and wraps around like a velvet cloak, emanating not just sound but emotion and atmosphere.
Then comes “Vibequeen (Rising High),” where the addition of Luminiah’s vocals transforms the track into an anthem of resurgence. Her voice adds texture to the tune, blending seamlessly with the pulsating beats to echo a message of empowerment. It’s easy to imagine this track flowing through the speakers, the bass and her voice entwining to lift the room into a collective high.
Together, these tracks aren’t trying to tell you a story—they’re inviting you to feel one. “Vibeking” captures a mood, a moment of deep reflection, while “Vibequeen (Rising High)” seems to answer back with a triumphant call to rise above.
Epikker’s journey might have shaped these tracks, but the music stands on its own, inviting listeners to find pieces of their own stories within its layers. As the release date approaches, the anticipation isn’t just about hearing from Epikker—it’s about experiencing the immersive world they’ve created, one beat at a time.