Albums | Josh Teed drops “Just Breathe”
Posted by VMan on February 9, 2024
Denver-based experimental bass producer and violinist Josh Teed has made a name for himself through his distinct approach to electronic music.
Blending expertly crafted, left-of-center bass sound design, symphonic instrumentation, and lush, ethereal atmospheres, Josh Teed’s style has led him to touring slots with big name bass acts such as CloZee, Dirtwire, and Koan Sound; a performance at a Pretty Lights Official Pre Party; releases on influential label Gravitas; and collaborations with artists such as Chmura, Notlö, and more.
Now, following the release of his 2022 full-length album Recurring Dream and subsequent remix album, Josh Teed is revving up towards his next EP, Taking It All In – a 6-track package being released via The Gradient Perspective Records.
Filled to the brim with cinematic electronic stylings and Teed’s signature bass production, the artist designed his new EP to be a reflection of his life journey thus far. Having grown up in New Hampshire, lived in Vietnam as a basketball player and coach, and then entered the music industry as a bass music disruptor, Taking It All In represents a rumination on life’s twists and turns – and acts a reminder to cherish every moment and embrace whatever might come your way.
As a result, Josh Teed’s new EP retains many of the elements his fans have grown to love while pushing his sound into new directions. With a further emphasis on melodic expression, lead vocals, and granular synthesis, Taking It All In seamlessly blends pop sensibilities with intricate production flourishes, a combination that marks a new sonic turn in Teed’s career.
“‘Just Breathe’ was one of my favorite tracks to work on from this upcoming EP. The combination of Chuuwee’s lyrical skills and Logan’s (Bl?m) beautiful voice really make for a unique, soulful vibe in this tune. This EP was about stepping out of my normal wheelhouse, and this track is the one that puts that approach on full display.
“As for the tour, this will be my 3rd national headline tour, and I wanted to push myself to make this one the best yet. I’ll be adding piano and electronic drum pad into my sets alongside the violin now, and will be carefully curating the sets along with custom visuals.” – Josh Teed
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 | 1tbsp drops new album, ‘Mosquito Love’
Posted by VMan on August 17, 2023
In a world where musical experimentation often risks alienating audiences, 1tbsp’s ‘Mosquito Love’ defies expectations. It’s a daring testament to the power of artistic exploration and a celebration of the limitless possibilities within electronic music. So, buckle up and prepare for a sonic journey like no other when you dive into the immersive world of “Mosquito Love.” Whether you’re a seasoned electronic music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises an unforgettable experience that lingers long after the last track fades away.
Albums | Shoffy Releases new Album, …Onward & Announces Tour
Posted by VMan on September 22, 2022
Shoffy’s new album …Onward came out a few weeks ago and I am a massive fan of the full thing front to back. The electronic infused pop record is filled with catchy music that is on the cusp of commercial but in the best way. Working on the LP over the past year, Shoffy has been focused on uber focused on creation as of late and is now gearing up for a national tour that starts at this month. A few of my personal favorite songs off of this one are easily “Fade” “Nightmares In NYC” and “Sad Man” but there a ton of great music on it. If you are on the look out for a new album to run through, tune in to …Onward by Shoffy above now.
Chill, Hip-Hop | Toronto’s Dancehall & Afro-fusion king Lexxicon unveils his latest album, ‘TROPICON ISLANDS’
Posted by VMan on December 7, 2021
Jamaican Born and Toronto bred Lexxicon is known for his dance-oriented Dancehall, Afrobeats, Pop and hip-hop-influenced sound. Finding inspiration in the works of established artists such as Sean Paul, Stefflon Don, and Wizkid, Lexxicon hopes to champion the afro-fusion genre with his upcoming projects and create a similar imprint on the international music scene. His new LP, TROPICON ISLANDS, is a hybrid project that is a breathe of fresh air. Spurred on by overwhelmingly positive reviews from Pop and Dancehall lovers alike, Lexxicon has kept fans on their toes offering an eclectic array of sounds and textures; from the tropical vibes of his native Jamaica to the dynamic rhythms of Congo and beyond, this is an artist who truly embraces his roots and takes inspiration from his surroundings. Tune in above now and don’t sleep on Lexxicon.
Hip-Hop | Cooper Glass Drops new ‘Seasons’ LP
Posted by VMan on September 11, 2021
Following the success of his previous singles, Cooper Glass returns on the sccene with his ethereal new album album ‘Seasons’. His hybrid approach and style should help the up-and-coming rapper stand out among the mass competition in the hip-hop space. The new LP is a culmination of glistening synths that create a delicate backdrop, pockets of glimmering electronica, and Cooper Glass’s voice being the driving force that guides the project throughout, welcoming listeners to his carefully curated dreamworld. Check out a quote from Glass below and stream his new album above now!
“This song [Play It Cool] is about somebody who is in over their head in a foreign environment. It is easy to want to panic in these situations and freeze up. By taking a breath and playing it cool, you can then adjust to situations or states of mind.” He adds, “Fall is the closing song on my album, and is meant to be somewhat of a redemption. It is about facing your issues head-on, no longer running from them, and coming to the realization that it is okay to go on a different path in life than those around you.”
Pop | Gillian Heidi Releases Impressive Debut LP
Posted by VMan on August 17, 2021
Rising Boston-based singer/songwriter Gillian Heidi has finally released her debut album, ‘3AM’, a project where she flawlessly blends elements of Pop, Indie and Alternative Rock and more. While their are plenty of rising stars in the Pop space I hear something special in this project: not only lyrically but from a melodic standpoint. Listen to the LP above now and read a quote from Gillian Heidi on the release below now.
“I’ve been building 3AM for almost 2 years now, and I have never been more proud of music I’ve released. To me, the album is all about growing up, falling apart, and coming back together. It is my coming of age story. As I get older, I look at the songs on this album as different stages of growing up. Some songs I wrote in eighth grade, some I wrote throughout highschool. They all have different meanings to me and have helped me process different emotions while becoming who I am today. I have never been more excited to release something into the world as I am about 3AM, and I hope everyone loves this project as much as I do!”