705 & MillyLee share new joint project ‘Too Cool’

As the summer breeze kicks in and the temperature rises, London based rapper and producer 705 taps Afrobeats artist MillyLee to keep things a little chilled with brand new single, ‘Too Cool’.

‘Too Cool’ possesses a soft Afroswing vibe, filled with positivity and self love, with 705 singing: “I’m too cool like the North Pole”. MillyLee exudes nothing but self confidence as he slams some blazing versus against the hazing backdrop.

‘Too Cool’ is the follow-up to the equally smooth track ‘Sauce’, which received praises from Roadie Music and, of course, NEW LEASE MUSIC. Why not have a listen below…

Song of the Day: What You Go Through – Tilly Valentine

UK singer-songwriter, TILLY VALENTINE delivers an uplifting message of self-growth, in latest single, ‘What You Go Through.’ Flourishing through introspective storytelling, soulful melodies and nostalgic charm, ‘What You Go Through’ serves as a testament to embracing life’s highs and lows.

Valentine shares, “Writing this song particularly resonates while navigating my twenties. With everyone experiencing a different season of life, it can be tempting to compare whether you’re on the right track. This song acts as a reminder that everyone has individual and incomparable journeys. We’re all growing and healing from our own circumstances.”

The accompanying music video features Valentine’s cherished home tapes, reflecting on the innocent simplicity of childhood.

With BBC Radio 6 Music championing her “beautiful pop music”, rising independent artist Tilly Valentine has already garnered multi-million streams and broadcasts across BBC Radio 1 (Tip of the Week), BBC 1Xtra, BBC 6 Music, The Hot List, Jazz FM and more.Walking a tightrope between new discovery and mass appeal, House of Solo solidified Valentine’s presence in the music scene as “one of the most tipped voices in the UK”.

Why not check out the official video to ‘What You Go Through’ below…

UK rapper AKS takes his flow to new levels in visualiser for ‘Let Me Explain (Wordplay Freestyle)’

British-born wordsmith, AKS (pronounced “Ay-Kay-Ess”), unveils the release of a captivating visualiser to accompany his latest single ‘Let Me Explain (Wordplay Freestyle)’. Following the positive reception since the track’s release, the three-letter man is ready to share a visually captivating experience with his growing audience.

Even before it’s official launch, ‘Let Me Explain’ had been making some waves, earning the lyricist praise from industry tastemakers like DJ Semtex (#5SongsYouNeedToKnow – Capital Xtra) and Jess Iszatt at BBC Radio London. Going on to see support from Wordplay Magazine, and catch the attention of publications such EARMILK, and Global Grind further solidifying AKS’ growing reputation both home and abroad as an artist to keep a firm eye on in the UK’s Hip-Hop scene.

Shot and directed by AKS himself, the visualiser for ‘Let Me Explain’ channels the rapper’s trademark Burgundy & Mustard aesthetic, whilst enhancing the song’s bold lyrics. Delivering a commanding performance whilst brandish a range of handwritten placards featuring supporting statements, the London rapper offers deeper insights into the song’s themes and messages. It’s a testament to AKS’ creative vision and multi-faceted talents as an artist.

In an era where independent artists are expected to go beyond just making music, AKS showcases his versatility with the self-produced visualiser. The video offers viewers a glimpse into AKS’ world, where soulful beats and thoughtful lyrics converge to create an immersive experience.

Taken from his forthcoming project ‘As Plane As Day: Departures & Arrivals’, ‘Let me Explain (Wordplay Freestyle)’ is available for streaming/download on major digital platforms and offers a welcome glimpse into the direction AKS is taking as he progresses towards the culmination of his Modes of Transport series.
Why not check out the visualiser below…

Song of the Day: So Much More – Quinn Oulton

London-based multi-instrumentalist & songwriter QUINN OULTON‘s first single of 2024, ‘So Much More’, is a poignant reflection upon the life of his grandmother, who lived with Parkinson’s Disease for as long as he can remember.

Written from the perspective of Quinn’s grandmother, the track details her fighting spirit and love for life, despite the adversities she faced. It’s a deeply moving tribute to a woman who had no time for self-pity, but spent a lifetime pouring love into the world and helping others. Quinn contrasts his tender lyrical approach with a frenetic combination of acoustic guitar, electronics and dulcet saxophone tones, creating a musical representation of the complexities of living with Parkinson’s.

On the track, he shares: “This track is dedicated to my grandma, GK, who had Parkinson’s for almost as long as I can remember. She was cheated out of life experiences, but despite being born into unimaginably difficult circumstances and fighting for a life she was proud of, she didn’t wallow in self-pity. Instead, she took it upon herself to learn every dark detail about the disease that was eating away at her, and focused her brilliant mind on helping others in any way they needed.”

South London-based multi-instrumentalist, vocalist & producer Quinn Oulton is known for his unique concoction of electronic, indie and jazz. His recent releases bring contemporary RnB elements into the mix – expect heavily altered vocals, chopped acoustic guitars and fast-paced drums.

His debut album ‘Alexithymia’ was released in 2022, receiving national radio support from Gilles Peterson & Huey Morgan (6 Music), Jack Saunders & Sian Eleri (BBCR1), along with Jamie Cullum (BBCR2)& Jamz Supernova (BBC1Xtra). It includes tracks featuring Moses Boyd and Genevieve Artadi. The deluxe version of the album, released in 2023, features singers Ella Grace and Monica Martin, whilst recent singles have also seen him team up with the likes of Reuben James, Linden Jay and Col3trane. He has recently played supported artists including KNOWER, Laura Misch and Jamie Cullum, and is set to embark on his first UK headline tour this November.

Have a listen to ‘So Much More’ below…

705 returns with new single ‘Sauce’ ft. R15k

After the successful release of ‘Good Feeling’, 705 recruits R15k to give you ‘Sauce’ in new single.

‘Sauce’ goes on a sonic journey into the heart of the urban landscape, where the rhythm of the streets beats as relentlessly as a drumline. From the gritty alleys to the towering skyscrapers, this track encapsulates the raw energy and unyielding spirit of the concrete jungle.

With hard-hitting beats that echo like the footsteps of hustlers on pavement and razor-sharp lyrics that cut through the noise of the city, ‘Sauce’  immerses listeners in the pulse-pounding intensity of drill music. It’s an anthem for those who navigate the concrete labyrinth with resilience and determination, forging their path through the chaos.

Through its unapologetic authenticity and unwavering delivery, ‘Sauce’ captures the essence of street life, reflecting the struggles, triumphs, and unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of the urban landscape. This is more than just a song; it’s a declaration of survival, a testament to the strength of those who call the city home…Have a listen below…