Tag: London

OUT TODAY: Nino SLG Drops Track, ‘What’s Left’ + Video, Ahead Of EP, ‘Mirror Story.’

South-London’s rap wunderkind NINO SLG kicks off 2023 with the announcement of his forthcoming EP ‘Mirror Story’ – slated for release on 10th March. The announcement arrives today with ‘What’s Left’, Nino’s introspective, deeply-felt new single and video.

‘What’s Left’ sees Nino collaborate with famed producer Kyle Evans (Dave’s We’re All Alone In This Together) for this emotive track that sees Nino delve into his battles with mental health, and discuss how he sought solace in the local youth clubs that helped him channel his energies into honing his craft. Split into two sections, the second half of the single is woven with tension as Nino grapples with thoughts on materialism and lust before coming to a sombre conclusion that ‘I don’t know what’s left no more’. The single is accompanied with a stripped-back video directed by Spike Silverton that reflects the duality of the single, finding Nino in his bedroom performing the single to his mirror image.

Speaking on the Mirror Story announcement, Nino said –

“My new EP is a story about the person I can see in the mirror. It’s my most vulnerable project to date, and I want people to see this side of me. Lyrically I’ve touched on materialism and everyday possessions, concepts and distractions to try and show how these steer people away from conquering the real problem which is usually themselves. Musically, I’ve reflected the contrasting emotions in the lyrics by switching up the production as you move through the project. Mirror Story is about exploring myself and my emotions, in the hope that there might be other people out there who are feeling the same – I hope that my EP makes them feel understood“

The five-track EP sees Nino reflect on the person he is and the man he is becoming. The project sees Nino climb to new heights with lyrics touching on mental health, anxiety, insecurities, materialism and life growing up in inner-city London, set to Nino’s trademark keys and a paired-back production which intertwine elements of drill, rich instrumentation including cello and 90s hip hop beats.

Watch the heartfelt video for ‘What’s Left below…

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    Nia Chennai Has New Found Confidence After Break-up In Single, ‘Since We Ain’t Together.’

    NIA CHENNAI‘s new single, ‘Since We Ain’t Together’ follows the well-received debut single ‘Players Part’ released in October 2022. Nia Chennai has set the tone for the start of her career by letting her followers know, that she is ready and capable of consistently dropping good music.

    The rhythmic R&B/Neo-Soul number had been teased on TikTok, weeks before its release and a few of the videos created had gone viral. Nia amassed over 200k views with hundreds of comments, likes and reposts using the sound.

    Produced by Ewan Vickery, Since We Ain’t Together’ documents Nia’s newfound confidence after a breakup. The smooth vibe sheds light on a message that most, if not all ex-lovers can relate to. The track delivers on every aspect with a catchy hook, soothing backing vocals, and a beat reminiscent of the sounds of Kali Uchis/Anderson Paak or Lilly Allen.

    ‘Since We Ain’t Together’, was released yesterday (24th January) across various music platforms. Check it out below…

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    Marie Dahlstrom Releases Video For BBC Radio 1Xtra-Playlisted ‘Clouds’ ft. Delleile Ankrah

    Danish, London based singer and producer MARIE DAHLSTROM has released the video for new single ‘Clouds’, directed by Lennon Gregory (Poppy Ajudha, Sasha Keable). The new single features vocals from MiC LOWRY’s Delleile Ankrah, was produced by Dan Diggas (Mahalia, Central Cee, M Huncho).

    Widely known for her irresistible R&B-flecked neo soul, new single ‘Clouds’ bursts with positive affirmations: “I keep telling myself / every day I wake up in the morning – I got it”, as Marie and Delleile share verses across the track before uniting on its soaring chorus. Showcasing their respective transfixing vocal prowess, the pair muse on losing yourself – but taking the necessary steps to change things and move forward.

    ‘Clouds’ is the first taste of Marie’s second full length album expected for release later this year – the follow up to her widely acclaimed debut Like Sand. Check out the video for the smooth single below…

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    Pollena Offers Optimism In Dark Times With EP, ‘Rising.’

    Following earlier tips from the likes of BBC 6 Music, Line of Best Fit, Notion, Radio 1/1Xtra, Under the Radar, Beats Per Minute, Earmilk – to name a few – London-based artist formerly of neo-soul outfit Girlhood – POLLENA returns with her debut EP ‘Rising’ on Team Talk Records.

    Pollena isn’t afraid to tackle a darker world in her debut EP, finding power in the fight for a better life. ‘Rising’ stands out by giving us a reason for optimism even – especially – in challenging times. Featuring raw and honest themes delivered with Pollena’s signature rich, smooth vocals, the EP blends genres, from neo soul to house, electronica and RnB, in an accomplished celebration of individuality, resilience and vulnerability and a call for hope.

    Co-written and co-produced with Barney Whittaker aka Footshooter, following the success of their previous collaboration ‘Stand Up’, ‘Rising’ reveals a fresh and rejuvenated sound for Pollena that melds together elements of neo-soul, house and RnB.

    The leading ‘Black Holes’ is an exploration of spacey synths, glowing keys, and commanding bass lines accompanied by powerful yet ethereal vocals. “I’m searching for a way out of the darkness, trying to hold on to a glimpse of light through connection. ‘Black Holes’ speaks to our innate desire to feel whole and an understanding that good times shared together are the answer.” Pollena.

    The following ‘Diamonds’ is a glowing house and UK garage-inspired bop with a powerful message. “I’m sick of society pressuring us into lives we don’t want. We blindly follow the paths set out for us and do what’s expected, we simply don’t have to. I want ‘Diamonds’ to encourage listeners to fight for a better life.” Pollena

    ‘Lemons’, the first release prior to the EP’s launch, reveals waves of sun-kissed harmonies accompanying glowing jazz keys and a rich, Latin-inspired rhythm to create a summer vibe full of hope and optimism. “I want to celebrate living a life that feels true to me and inspire others to do the same. ‘Lemons’ is all about slowing down and connecting with what makes you happy.” Pollena

    Rounding up the EP is the hazy, lo-fi ‘Bask In Blue’. A mellow R&B beat blends warm, soulful harmonies with balmy keys. “Bask in Blue tells a story of letting uncomfortable feelings in and embracing sadness whilst holding onto the hope that things can change.” Pollena

    So if you’re suffering from the January blues, I reckon this mini EP will offer up some comfort. Have a listen below…

    Must Listens: Black Holes, Lemons

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    New Lease Music’s Top Ten Songs of 2022

    Here’s the blog’s top ten songs, which completes the top releases of 2022.

    Some of the songs on the list were staples on the NEW LEASE MUSIC weekly charts in 2022, whereas others quietly clocked up heavy amount of streams and views via the blog.

    So are you ready to explore the list? Good!

    Just in case you missed it, you can view the Top Ten Music video here and Top Ten Albums here.

    Have a great weekend!

    10. DO IT LIKE THAT – CAITLIN MIN FA

    9. DANNY BOY STEWARD – DONE ME WRONG

    8. SHARE MY LIFE – RAPHAEL TATE

    7. REMEDY – FRENCH THE KID

    6. UNCONDITIONAL – DARREN PARRY

    5. STRUGGLE BUS – OLTEA FRANCES

    4. LORD I NEED YOU NEAR – RAPHAEL TATE

    3. DANCING WITH THE ENEMY – JVSTN

    2. BOSS (CALL AWAY) – K HARRISON

    1. IT ENDS WITH US – APRIL JAI

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