Album Review: The Introduction – Zoe and Zara

Since appearing on NEW LEASE MUSIC with their single ‘Get Up Now’ last January, my mind would sometimes wonder on the whereabouts of twin sisters ZOE & ZARA. A few week ago, my curiosity was quashed when received an email from the duo.

After five years on London’s music scene, the pair decided to start a new chapter on their journey. So after much deliberation, long hours in the studio (which came with tears and near-breakdowns – their words, not mine!) ZOE & ZARA now present their debut album, ‘The Introduction.’

Recorded at The Blue Studio in Dalston (my hometown!), ‘The Introduction’  displays a delightful journey of Jazz (modern and from the golden era), old school soul and neo soul alternating between the down right funky and the ambient/easy listening.

The flood of tears and near breakdowns definitely paid off –  their neo-soul signature is more rich and refined (compared to their previous releases). The sisters’ venture into other genres by far didn’t disappoint. Their soothing vocals in fourth effort ‘Hey Sir’ were well suited to the golden jazz/big band/rat pack combo.

After reading the review, I think you guys know how I feel about this album. All there’s left say is – ZOE & ZARA, I salute you!

Check out the album and song recommendations below:

Must Listens: Weather Is Golden, Autumn Afternoon, Butterfly, Talk About It

New Music Video: Blessings – Thugz SNE

Hailing from Wednesbury, West Midlands is THUGZ SNE and his brand new visuals for his 2015 track, simply entitled ‘Blessings’.

Sampling from Jaded Edge’s hit ‘Walked Outta Heaven’, this young emcee gives thanks to the big man above (GOD, just in case you’re wondering) for all the blessing he receives – even though he didn’t recognise them at first hand!

‘Blessing’ is taken from THUGZ SNE‘s 14-track album, ‘Streets 2 Tha Studio’, available on iTunes…but before you head off, check out the visual to this smooth slammer.

Song of the Day: Let Me Be – Reppy Hustle

REPPY HUSTLE has been part of the huge influx of talented rappers the UK has seen within the last 18 months, each fighting for their own slice of the pie and notable success. With a clear determination, visible through his consistent video output across key influencer platforms including GRM Daily and Link Up TV, Reppy has proven himself to be one of the key newcomers and is now making his transition from the underground to the notable ‘one to watch’ stomping ground.

Latest release ‘Let Me Be’ is a well-rounded tune with all of the trimmings, giving a taster of what REPPY HUSTLE is really capable of in his music. A harmonious instrumental is satisfying on the ears, whilst the deep bass adds just the right kick of spice and movement to the mix. Reppy rides out with fluency as his bars and flow meander across the verses before hitting out a big song-a-long hook that is set to become a summer favourite.

Previous records include ‘You Were Acting’ and ‘Council Block Boy’, which shows a harder edge to the flourishing rapper yet, both hold his ability to create proper ‘records’, rather than throw away tunes, at their core. Check him out online and get tuned in and turned to REPPY HUSTLE

New Music Video: Snapchat (Ain’t No Killing My Vibe) – J. Kas x Ruell

NEW LEASE MUSIC staple J.KAS is back with the music video for track ‘Snapchat (Ain’t No Killing My Vibe)’ , taken from his EP ‘Snapchat’ – read the review here.

With long-term collaborator, singer Ruell, J.KAS provides us with four minutes of after hours smoothness.

Check out the video for ‘Snapchat (Ain’t No Killing My Vibe)’.

New Music Video: Runaway Devil – House Above The Sun

Hailing from South London, HOUSE ABOVE THE SUN have released a rather interesting production for their brand new single, ‘Runaway Devil’, released on Friday.

‘Runaway Devil’ – taken from their forthcoming debut album, ‘Five Hours North’ – is a guitar-drenched offering which heavily draws influence from gritty roots/blues, folk and Americana.

This four piece have drawn comparisons with acts as diverse as First Aid Kit, White Stripes, Black Keys and Stone Roses, building on core influences from rock artists including Dylan, The Doors and Tom Petty and alt-country like Gram Parsons and Uncle Tupelo.

Currently they are building-up a burgeoning following around the capital’s folk and roots underground, including a triumphant appearance at the recent Merge festival on London’s South Bank. Their ever-growing following has earned these guys back-to-back live performances in London for the remainder of the year.

Have a listen to ‘Runaway Devil’… if you like sound of this band, go and show your support at one of their shows:

Saturday, Sept 9 – The Pack and Carriage, 162 Eversholt St, Kings Cross, London NW1 1BL
Thursday, Sept 14 – Biddle Bros, 88 Lower Clapton Rd, London E5 0QR
Saturday, Oct 7 – The Finborough arms, 118 Finborough Rd, Kensington, London SW10 9ED
Wednesday, Oct 11 – Fiddler’s Elbow, 1 Malden Rd, Camden, London NW5 3HS
Wednesday Oct 25 – Chalk Farm Folk, The Monarch, Camden
Wednesday Nov 8 – Mark Beaumont Presents, The Monarch, Camden
Wednesday Nov 22 – Chalk Farm Folk, The Monarch, Camden ‘The Last Waltz’ night