OUT TODAY: Sonz of Thunder UK returns with track, ‘Money Talk’

For the last few years, Dancehall/Gospel duo SONZ OF THUNDER UK (SOTUK), consisting of brothers Shane and Dean Brown, have adopted the sweet rhythms of the Motherland (Afrobeats), which received a seal of approval from the likes of Capital Xtra, BBC1/1xtra and BBC London. Now the guys return to their Dancehall roots with brand new single, ‘Money Talk’, out 20th August now across various platforms.

Written by Shane and Dean Brown, ‘Money Talk’ sums up a well-known quote: The love of money is the root of all evil.With the glorification of money displayed in today’s world, where many are on a manic chase for the notes – without any consequences – SOTUK’s latest single is a reminder to not place so much faith in the very thing that causes break-ups and envy in relationships. Instead, ‘Money Talk’ encourages to place trust and faith in the Most High. 

Produced by Zabdiel Campbell, ‘Money Talk’ follows the re-release of their 2019 single, ‘Enjoy Life’, named Gospel Song of the Week by Soul Food Gospel Radio. The carefree riddim has also scooped the top spot on UGN Jamz’s Reggae Royalty Chart and AStepFWD UK Christian Chart in the reggae category.

Veterans in the UK gospel reggae scene, SOTUK has been spreading words of inspiration across the UK which earned them a steady following in the gospel and secular communities as well as receiving continuous support by the likes of Capital Xtra’s Ras Kwame, BBC London, Pulse88 Radio, The Beat 1036, Premiere Gospel plus many more. Recipients of TTMP Gospel Awards, SOTUK has been nominated for a Premiere Gospel Music Award. The brothers enjoy more good news; they were recently nominated for GX Awards for Best Reggae Act.

Blessed with performing on the same stages with some of reggae’s great acts such as Papa San, Luciano, Levi Roots and Christopher Martin, SOTUK has been working in Ghana with native producers, including Bizkitbeats and Kbeats, for tracks such as ‘Joy To The World’ and ‘Blessings Pon Blessings’, which possess an Afrobeat flow. Both tracks have demonstrated that the guys can take on many genres while maintaining their Reggae/Dancehall signature sound.

Stay tuned to SOTUK as they are currently working on new music, with fresh and exciting sounds for 2024…Until then, check out their latest single, ‘Money Talk’, out now across all good music platforms.

Connect with Sonz Of Thunder UK via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/sonzofthunderukmusic
X: https://x.com/UkSonz
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sonzofthunderukmusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonzofthunderukmusic

OUT TODAY: Ilselena Takes Us on a Summer Escape with New Single ‘Bring Peace (Fly Away)’

London-based RnB / Pop artist ILSELENA impressed fans once again with her latest single, ‘Bring Peace (Fly Away).’ The Denmark-born, British-American singer—with vocals often compared to and inspired by the likes of Cleo Sol, ELIZA, and D’Angelo—dropped a summer-perfect treat for her listeners.

Ilselena’s ‘Bring Peace (Fly Away)’ is an effervescent display of positivity. The singer penned the track during a getaway to the countryside, taking a break from the ‘hustle and bustle’ of city life. Through further appreciating and connecting with nature, the 22-year-old singer-songwriter translates this sentiment through her new single, encouraging listeners to take a blissful break from reality and embrace the warmth and joy of summer.

Ilselena has continued to team up with her brother and producer, Youngr. The writing and production mesh wonderfully throughout the song, with liberating lyrics that flow seamlessly over the instrumental. The rhythm exudes tranquillity, akin to the feeling relaxing on the beach, yet with a cheerful and subtle groove that sparks an itch to get up and dance as the sun sets.

Ilselena’s artistry continues to grow from strength to strength, following her debut EP if this is the future, released in 2022, as well as previous release ‘ready to please’ in November 2023.

Commenting on the new single, Ilselena said“This song means so much to me. Life can be incredibly busy and stressful for all of us, so I wanted to create something that helps people break away from that pressure this summer and get outside and enjoy themselves! I want listeners to feel relaxed and get a sense of joy, especially when the chorus hits. Working on this song was such a fulfilling experience, and I hope people enjoy it as much as I did making it. Also, I have a very exciting project in the works that I can’t wait to share with everyone when the time is right.”

Ilselena’s ascent has caught the attention of leading industry tastemakers and publications including EarMilk, The Face and Hunger Magazine. Her consistent growth has landed her a monthly residency at iconic hotel and member’s club The Ned, as well as an upcoming show in late July in collaboration with Global:Soul x Cross the Tracks at The Hackney Social.

‘Bring Peace (Fly Away)’ is out today (9th August) across various music platforms. Have a listen below…

Connect with Ilselena via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ilselena/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ilselena?lang=en

Handshake In Space makes a quick return with second album ‘Parallel Life’

Swedish EDM artist HANDSHAKE IN SPACE returns with the release of his second album ‘Parallel Life’, featuring his eight latest singles. The album cover pays homage to the iconic “Parallel Lines” album by Blondie, with a unique twist – the parallel lines are of varying lengths, symbolising the artist’s personal journey through mental health challenges over the past years.

“Parallel Life” builds on the success of HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s debut album, delving deeper into the complexities of human relationships. The album’s tracklist includes fan favourites and singles that have been captivating audiences over the past year.

Highlights of the album include:

‘You’re my cheerleader’: A vibrant and uplifting track that captures the essence of friendship and the magical moments of summer.

‘You’re my melody’: A captivating electronic dance track that showcases the artist’s signature sound

‘We go all night’: is an energetic collaboration between HANDSHAKE IN SPACE and Bouingy, showcasing the artists’ ability to create a captivating dance track

”The colors dance upon my skin”: Explores themes of sensory experiences and emotional responses to music and rhythm

HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s signature sound, blending ethereal synths with driving rhythms, is on full display throughout “Parallel Life.” The artist’s growth is evident in the sophisticated production and deeply personal lyrics that resonate with listeners on an emotional level.

“This album is a testament to the power of love in all its forms,” says HANDSHAKE IN SPACE. “I wanted to create a sonic experience that captures the euphoria, pain, and everything in between that comes with loving someone.”

The album is available now on all major streaming platforms, and fans can also explore the artist’s unique sonic universe through his previous releases, including the well-received debut album ”Anonymous.

‘Parallel Life’ was released last Friday (2nd August) across various music platforms. Have a listen below…

Raphael Tate shares singles ‘Same Energy’ and ‘Zion’ from latest EP ‘Love’.

RAPHAEL TATE – dubbed as the ‘Prince of Soul’ by his loyal fans – has returned in 2024 with EP ‘Love’, out now via Jermaine Forde’s label Ajang Music.  A multi-Grammy nominated producer and the son of the Brinsley Forde from legendary reggae group Aswad, Jermaine has worked with the likes of Julian Marley and Black Uhuru and also produced Raphael Tate’s 2020 BBC London/BBC1xtra-approved single, ‘A Fool In Love’.

From the four-track set, Raphael Tate shares first offering ‘Same Energy’, a steamy soulful love note which possesses soft and sensuous reggae undertones. ‘Same Energy’ was produced by Jermaine Forde and Terrence Chamberlin (Bluesteel Studio).

The UK-based singer, songwriter and producer also has a treat for the die-hard reggae fans of the yesteryear with second track from the EP, ‘Zion’. Produced by Jermaine Forde and Grammy multi-award winning artist Jazzward, who has worked with Bounty Killer, Damian Marley and Bobby Brown, ‘Zion’ is a song that’s most personal to Raphael as he shows his love for the downtrodden heroes and praise their resilience against acts of inhumanity.

Raphael shares his inspiration behind penning ‘Zion’: “This song captivates my love for my people, who has been attacked by many hands without restoration and without impunity. I wrote this song as a sign of triumph that, as the Bible says: ‘The meek shall inherit the earth’. Zion was inspired by a particular scripture in the Bible (Matthew 5:3-12) that ‘The poor, the meek, the humble, the downtrodden, the persecuted are going to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven’. I wrote ‘Zion’ as an encouragement to our people; we may be downtrodden, but not forgotten. I want it to be a triumph song to the children of diaspora – the lost children of Israel. The lions of judah will rise again! “

Showing love in all forms, Raphael Tate’s EP, ‘Love’, follows his critically acclaimed debut album, ‘Love Grieve Live’, which mirrors the cycle of losing a dear one: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Raphael knows all too well what it’s like to be on the turbulent journey: in 2020, his mother unexpectedly passed away and understandably Raphael went through a rollercoaster of emotions.

Singles from the heartfelt album, ‘Gotta Hold On’ and ‘Keep On Moving’, gained widespread attention from gospel and secular stations, across the globe, including BBC West Midlands, BBC Stoke, Mi-Soul, Phoenix FM (where he did an interview with Michelle Ward about the meaning behind ‘Love Grieve Live’ on her multi-award winning show, Eat My Brunch), Susy FM, Soul Food Gospel, Amazing Radio, SoulCity The Beat in Italy, South Africa’s Ubuntu FM, plus many more.

2023 saw Raphael Tate reach new heights with his appearance on ITV’s Starstruck, where he impersonated the Godfather of Soul James Brown, impressing judges Adam Lambert, Beverley Knight, Rowland Keating and Jason Mansford. A new member of The Recording Academy/Grammy Awards Class of 2023, Raphael Tate has been put up for a Grammy consideration for Best New Artist of the Year (general category). ‘Love’ EP will be put forward for this year’s Grammy nomination.

Raphael Tate is becoming a firm figure in the UK gig scene; a resident artist at London’s The 606 Club since the beginning of 2023, Raphael Tate has been an opening act for the legendary Odyssey at The Robin in Wolverhampton and Camden’s iconic venue, Jazz Café in last year.

Raphael Tate continues in 2024 to circulate various venues across the UK with his compelling yet exhilarating live performances. He opened for Odyssey once more at The Robin in May and recently opened for the legendary reggae group, Black Uhuru at Jazz Café and Band on the Wall in Manchester during their UK & European tour. Raphael Tate will take the stage at his residency, The 606 club on 11th August. 

With a busy schedule ahead of him, Raphael Tate still finds the time to show some ‘Love’ via his latest EP, out now across various music platforms. Continue to witness the remarkable rise of Raphael Tate by connecting with him via social media (see below).

Connect with Raphael Tate via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/RaphaelTateofficial
X: https://x.com/TateRaphael
IG: https://www.instagram.com/raphaeltateofficial/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@raphaeltate3

Thaïs Sala returns with her lusciously layered and immersive brand of electronic pop single ‘Sleeves’.

THAÏS SALA, the Paris-born singer/songwriter and cultural curator, is back with another stunning single, ‘Sleeves’, taken from her forthcoming debut EP, Echo Museum, which is set to release on 21st August.

Having grown up between the enchanting streets of Marrakech and the diverse landscapes of the UK, and now living in Montreal, Thaïs brings a rich, global perspective to her music. From a young age, Thaïs Sala has been immersed in a world of cultural diversity, and it shows in her music. Her unique sound blends electronic rhythms with soulful vocals, moving effortlessly between crystalline highs and husky lows. This mix of vulnerability and strength is a hallmark of her style, making her music resonate on a deeply emotional level.

Following the release of ‘Atonement’, Thaïs Sala now presents ‘Sleeves’, the second instalment from Echo Museum. Produced by Moses Belanger, ‘Sleeves’ is an intricate blend of subtle electronica elements and layers, making it an immediate and compelling listen. The track opens with emotive piano chords seamlessly mixed with Thaïs Sala’s ethereal harmonies, evolving into a rousing synth progression and a four-on-the-floor rhythm. This striking blend of soul and house music showcases her unique ability to merge genres effortlessly.

Lyrically, ‘Sleeves’ explores the theme of emotional honesty, likening the act of putting on and shedding emotions to wearing and removing clothing. Phrases like “uniform of feels” capture the routine of the psyche and the pressures to conform to external expectations. The song is a reflection on the struggle to be true to oneself and others while navigating life’s inherent highs and lows.

In the vein of artists like RY X, James Blake, and BANKS, ‘Sleeves’ is a modernised electronic and pop-infused masterpiece. Its deep, brooding quality soothes and enthuses simultaneously, showcasing the magic of Thaïs Sala’s craft.

As Thaïs Sala gears up for the release of Echo Museum, ‘Sleeves’ solidifies her place as a powerful new voice, with her ability to blend genres and create deeply personal yet universally relatable music making her an artist to watch for 2024 and beyond.

‘Sleeves’ was released on Wednesday (31st July). Why not have a listen below…

Connect with Thaïs Sala via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulsphynx/