Inspired by the early 00’s R&B feel-good sound, ‘I Spy’ features a captivating appearance from the newest addition to the 916 Collective, Nayyah, alongside singer/songwriter/producer, Nikz. The dynamic vocals of both members play their roles in telling a story of budding attraction and shy infatuation.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the track, Nayyah shares “I wanted people to feel that fun 2000s R&B type vibe when listening to the song. I know that there are shy girls like me out there who can relate to seeing someone from across the room that catches your eye so I wanted us to recreate that moment from both perspectives on the record.”
The accompanying visuals, directed by illpressions and Cali, draw inspiration from the iconic Alicia Keys record ‘You Don’t Know My Name,’ adding an extra layer of nostalgia to the overall experience setting ‘I Spy’ up to be recognised as yet another masterfully executed release from the Oxford based collective.
The single is out today (25th January) across various music platforms. Check out the video below…
LA-based genre-bender ASHA IMUNO deciphers mixed signals and hits the mute button on relationship drama with the release of his new whip-appeal single ‘PHONICS’, featuring Long Beach, CA natives WESTSIDE BOOGIE and Tempest. This sharp, bouncy co-production by Asha and Zach Ezzy (Jordan Ward, Smino, Alex Isley) captures a reimagined, West Coast hip-hop feel, as the interplay between the rich overtones of world-renowned harpist Sara Kawai’s harp and the punchy 808s strike a harmonious balance. Asha’s sonic world straddles the edge between nostalgia and innovation, drawing inspiration from California legends like Vince Staples, ScHoolboy Q, Suga Free, Bino Rideaux, Blxst and Anderson Paak.
“‘PHONICS’ is a song about relationships that end up getting more complicated than what was originally intended, but it’s not a heady, sappy type of song,” explains Asha. “I used to obsess over BOOGIE’s storytelling in highschool and Tempest is all around one of my favorite artists coming up out of California. We made this song for the whip and the house parties. It’s got this feeling and bounce in it that you could only get from the West Coast.”
In addition to the new single, Asha shares the delivery date of his debut album PINS & NEEDLES, out March 1st, 2024. This news follows acclaim from media tastemakers at Pigeons and Planes, The Line of Best Fit and more, all who have shared their respective excitement for the full-length project.
“I’m hoping the listener can feel more of me peeking through the music with every song I share. ‘PUSHING BUTTONS’ is about shame and redemption, ‘DID I CALL AT A BAT TIME?’ is cheeky and confident, ‘FLORIDA WATER’ is about love-nostalgia and ‘PHONICS’ is more of my imperfect, irritated, reactive side. It’s all about showing that I’m a real person with strengths, weaknesses, habits and contradictions,” says Asha on the steady progression of the introspective world he’s shared thus far.
Asha’s cult following was ignited with his breakout single ‘ZIG ZAGGING,’ which has accumulated over 11 million streams on Spotify. His innovative spirit has led to recent career milestone moments, including performing at A Toast To Black Hollywood during this year’s BET Awards. He is a member of the POC-led artist community KOGO (home to CONNIE, Alé Araya, Curtis Waters, KOAD & more), and has earned co-signs from the likes of Jordan Ward and Hit-Boy, alongside collaborating with buzzing upcomers like Aaron May and AG Club. 2024 is sure to be the year Asha makes the jump from fan favorite to commanding superstar with his bold debut. Have a listen to ‘Phonics’ below…
Known for his captivating R&B melodies and profound storytelling, TOLDYAA‘s latest track ‘N.A.S (Nobody Ain’t Shit)’ promises to be a standout addition to his growing discography.
Blending the emotive depths of artists like Bryson Tiller and Brent Faiyaz with the unique edge of Nippa, Toldyaa’s music has been captivating listeners since his debut in 2016. His journey from collaborative projects to a successful solo career has been marked by self-taught expertise and a deep-rooted passion for music.
‘N.A.S (Nobody Ain’t Shit)’ brings a fresh trap soul vibe to Toldyaa’s distinctive R&B sound. Produced by Adot The God, The track is a testament to his artistic evolution and his ability to resonate with audiences through his music. This release is not just a song but an experience, complete with Toldyaa’s signature immersive storytelling that brings his music to life.
His voice has been amplified by platforms like BBC 1Xtra, Capital Xtra, BBC Introducing, Reprezent, No Signal as well as an array of popular R&B blogs, highlighting his growing influence in the music scene. With ‘N.A.S (Nobody Ain’t Shit)’, Toldyaa is set to start 2024 on a high note, continuing his journey of musical exploration and connection with fans. This release is a precursor to a promising year, with a new EP on the horizon that will further demonstrate his unique sound and enduring passion for music.
Listen to Toldyaa’s new offering of 2024, released 18th January across various platforms…
EARTHQUAKE LIGHTS is a four-piece rock outfit from NYC. Having all met during their time at college, the band quickly saw success with their very first EP, earning placements in a national NBA/Tissot ad campaign and an Alex Gibney documentary. Their music has received critical acclaim alongside multiple Spotify editorial playlists and a placement in Isabel Sandoval’s award-winning film Lingua Franca, as well as a feature on Vulfpeck’s album The Joy of Music, The Job of Real Estate.
Earthquake Lights kick off 2024 with the release of their new single, ‘Heartbeat.’ Inspired by the loss of a vulnerable family member, the poignant track is a reminder to cherish our loved ones in the face of looming troubles. The band dig into the unpredictability and fear of loss, particularly with losing people sooner than you think. Lead singer Myles Rodenhouse shares, “It’s about that moment before the end – when you know it will end but do not know when exactly.”
The introspective song features a programmatic element to the arrangement, where the kick-drum and bass mimic the sound of a heart murmur. Taking inspiration from Japanese classical composers, Rodenhouse confides, “Melody takes a lot of reflection for me. Being on my own allows me to find something more personal.” ‘Heartbeat’ is dedicated to the Mikel Sisters. Listen to the stunning single below…
Indie dance duo MIDNIGHT MYSTERY CLUB enters into 2024 with all guns blazing with their latest album, ‘Aesthetics Vol.1’, released earlier this month, 11th January.
Known for their blurringly chilled and spanky pieces that’s fit for lounging in the balearic sun, the guys have taken a slightly different direction, adopting a deeper and darker baseline that offers another form of tranquility. Having said that, towards the ending of the collection, ‘Stay Young Forever’ and ‘Only Dancing’ somewhat retains the trademark of vibrantly mesmerising soundscapes which radiates a warm sunny glow.
It’s great to see that Midnight Mystery Club are back in good form, using their stellar skills as producers. Their latest album just displays that they were very worthy of being winners of 2018 Independent Music Awards in the Electronic/Dance Producers of the Year.
New Lease Music 