New Track: God Bless England -HalfBrother

Steadily making their mark with their distinctive, genre defying sounds and thought-provoking observations on identity and challenging social norms and roles, Murkage Dave and Patrick Scally – aka – HALFBROTHER return with ‘God Bless England’ – a poignant reflection on post-Brexit Britain.

The song is the follow-up to the duo’s debut single ‘Go Tell The Mandem’, which was hailed by i-D as ‘quietly profound’ and ‘remarkably lucid’.

Forming after collaborating on ‘Car Bomb’ – which became a cult hit last year and culminated in support from Pharrell Williams on his Beats 1 radio show – HALFBROTHER’s unique take on alternative R&B influenced sounds has been garnering them a loyal legion of fans and catching the attention of outlets such as DIY, Earmilk and Mass Appeal.

They recently brought their first performance as a duo to The Old Blue Last as the main opening act for Star Slinger and later this year they are set to release their debut album ‘Men Can’t Protect You Anymore’ which will feature more new music and exciting collaborations with UK Hip-Hop artist Oscar #worldpeace.

 

 

Music Video: Listen – Vs

Following on from their free download debut single ‘Listen’, UK alt-rock VS return with the track’s official music video.

Official news from the Vs camp confirms that their debut EP ‘Reality?’ shall be available to the public from today.

Drawing upon a myriad of influences spanning across the broad spectrum of rock and metal sub-genres, the Leeds (UK) band promise to deliver melodic hook-lines, guitar driven rock outs and emotive dynamics with their self-released debut offering.

Check out the video.

Album Review: Love, Hugh – Hugh

Last time HUGH were featured on NEW LEASE MUSIC was last September, with their upbeat and chirpy single, ‘Look at In Laughter.’ Soon as I learnt of their debut album, ‘Love, Hugh’, I had to have a peep as the infectious melodic pop overtones in ‘Look Back In Laughter’ have been swimming in mind ever since its feature on the blog.

The four piece band from London, featuring Joshua Idehen and Izzy Brooks, have been praised by BBC Radio One, The Guardian, Stereogum, i-D and Hype Machine for their balanced blend of R&B/soul and synthpop featured in the 11 track album…and quite rightly so.

However I have to say the better part of ‘Love, Hugh’ is the second half of the album. The sweet melancholic presence of pop art takes a back seat, making way for the smooth and atmospheric R&B, enhanced by a woofing electronic bass (which reminds me of Massive Attack, for some reason).

Usually, I don’t follow hypes, but this one for real.. they’re definitely worth a trial. See the recommended tracks below.

Must Listens: I Can’t Figure You Out, Protect My Heart, I Don’t Like You, Take It Slow, In and Out of Love.

New Music Video: My Brudda – Artan

ARTAN is proving to be a captivating artist. His unique sound combines singing and lyricism via unique melodies and clever rap verses. Having recently debuted ‘Opposite Interests’ on SBTV, the first taste of his ‘Breaking Stereotypes’ E.P, he now releases ‘My Brudda’ exclusively on GRM alongside the official release of the E.P.

The record is a soulful ditty with a hip-hop twang bouncing along beneath ARTAN’s jazzy vocals. The depth to his voice makes an intriguing listen as his lyrics show off a rugged charm and swagger to his manner.

Having turned the heads of rap fans and tastemakers with the release of his Bl@ckbox freestyle in 2016, platforms have been hot on his heels to release new content and judging by the YouTube comments that are already pouring in for ‘My Brudda’, it is clear to see why ARTAN is commanding an array of support from major online platforms such as Link Up TV, GRM Daily and SBTV.

‘Breaking Stereotypes’ is out now on Spotify and Apple Music; catch the fresh new video for ‘My Brudda’ below.

Upcoming Release: Broken Glass – Tiger Lilly

Hailing from the suburbs of London, TIGER LILLY is one hell of a songstress who’s not afraid to wear her heart on her sleeve, showcasing a full-on raw and emotive lyrics.

After two successful UK tours playing at some of country’s most legendary venues, the award-winning alternative indie pop artist is currently promoting the upcoming release of her new single ‘Broken Glass’ after the success of her previous single ‘Green Eyed Monster’ which was featured on ‘BBC Introducing’.

TIGER LILLY‘s music has been aired on numerous radio stations across the world including 7 BBC Radio stations and has been featured in several national and international music and lifestyle publications as well as being broadcast live on BBC Persia TV and several performances during the London 2012 Olympic Games at Dorney Lake as part of ‘The Games Walk Festival’.

‘Broken Glass’ will be available on all major music platforms from 1st August.