Tag: unsigned music

Song of the Day: Different Now – Pauline Andres

Born in France to a coal miner’s family, PAULINE ANDRES has captivated audiences with her sweet and smoky voice that “perfectly conveys the thoughts and observations of an old soul walking home at closing time.” Growing up near the Franco-German border in a multicultural household of Hungarian and Balkan descent, Andres was immersed in a vibrant mix of languages and traditions.

Now based in Nashville, TN, Andres initially garnered attention as an Americana singer-songwriter. However, during the lockdown, she reinvented herself as an engineer and producer, venturing into retropop and synthwave. Her first electronic release, ‘Til the End of the World’, dropped in the Fall of 2020, followed by the experimental ‘Medicine Woman’, earning her vocal comparisons to legends like Stevie Nicks and Nikki Lane.

Andres’ latest single, ‘Different Now’, marks yet another evolution in her distinctive musical journey. This upbeat and fresh pop track, infused with disco sensibilities, showcases Andres’ ability to command a song with a danceable and carefree spirit, perfectly capturing the essence of a summer anthem.

The funky and electric chorus highlights Andres’ knack for weaving pop melodies into dynamic productions. Originally penned by Andres, the track’s beat was later reshaped by her UK-based co-producer George Harris, resulting in the birth of ‘Different Now’.

She shares “‘Different Now’ is a song about reconciliation and growth. It’s a love song to begin with but is about much more than romantic relationships. It’s about emerging on the other side. It’s about seeing things differently and healing.”

Reminiscent of Sophie Ellis-Bextor, this cool 90s-tinged electro-pop anthem is luscious and catchy, yet lyrically profound and shows depth. In the vein of artists such as Caroline Rose and Angel Olsen, ‘Different Now’ stands out as the perfect pop-infused remedy from Pauline Andres.

Accompanied by an official video co-directed by Corey Simpson, ‘Different Now’ heralds a new direction for Andres in this intoxicating disco-pop track. Fans can look forward to her ambitious Fall release, ‘Final Girl’ – a tribute to classic slasher movies, co-produced by Sinclair, a fellow producer with whom Andres has collaborated on multiple Nashville Film Festival projects.

With her unique ability to blend genres and create evocative, heartfelt music, Pauline Andres continues to prove herself as an artist who defies expectations and pushes creative boundaries. ‘Different Now’ is a testament to her ever-evolving artistry and an artist with the world at her feet.

‘Different Now’ is now out across various music platforms…why not check out the official video for the single below…

Connect with Pauline Andres via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulineandresdidit/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0CHV7SrZP8o2nVtg8GCaOk
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEGmc8K8eQFcTCrSb_AlRPA
Website: https://www.paulineandres.com/

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Isco Cruz shares genre-bending EP ‘Heartbreak’s Paradox’

Rising artist ISCO CRUZ charges up his recent project ‘IC Flows: Before Heartbreak’ with a new EP titled ‘Heartbreak’s Paradox’. This new EP features five additional tracks, expanding on the emotional and narrative journey that began with ‘IC Flows: Before Heartbreak’.

The release includes ‘Double Standards,’ which received support on OkayAfrica and landed on several Spotify Editorial playlists, including New Music Friday, R&Beats, and Fresh Finds Africa. ‘Double Standards’ was followed by ‘Life I Chose’ on 27th August, just two days before the full EP dropped. Created live on TikTok, ‘Life I Chose’ quickly went viral on the platform, with fans urging for the release of the single. The EP also includes tracks, including the previously released ‘Another Good One Gone’ and ‘S.A.D Freestyle’.

‘Heartbreak’s Paradox’ builds on the momentum of Isco’s previous work, offering deeper insights into his versatile style and emotional depth. The EP promises to deliver powerful performances, blending genres seamlessly to explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth.

The roll-out of ‘Heartbreak’s Paradox’ is thoughtfully designed to balance anticipation and engagement, particularly given Isco’s status as a rising artist. Releasing singles ahead of the full EP in August 2024 serves a strategic purpose: it acknowledges the reality that listeners may be hesitant to dive into a full-length project from a relatively unknown artist, while also recognising the deep connection that can be formed through a cohesive body of work.

Isco explains, “I became a fan of my favorite artists through their bodies of work. Releasing ‘Heartbreak’s Paradox’ in this way is not just for the listeners who are tuned in now, but for those who will discover my music in the future. This project is a crucial piece of the puzzle, offering a glimpse into my journey and setting the stage for what’s to come.”

Isco Cruz is more than just a musician; he’s a storyteller whose songs resonate with the pulse of contemporary life. Born in Cape Town to Angolan parents, Isco’s music is as diverse as his heritage, blending elements of R&B, Pop/Afro Pop, and Hip-Hop to create a sound uniquely his own.

From his early days, Isco’s passion for music was evident. He began with poetry, which later evolved into a profound talent for rap and singing. His influences range from the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, to modern-day icons like Kanye West, Drake, and The Weeknd. These varied influences come together in Isco’s music, creating a rich tapestry of sound that speaks to listeners across the globe.

Isco’s artistry lies in his ability to weave intricate narratives with his music, telling stories that speak to the heart of the human experience. His lyrics are introspective and honest, exploring themes of love, loss, and the quest for identity in a complex world. This depth of content, combined with his melodic sensibilities, makes Isco’s music not just enjoyable but emotionally impactful. Each release is a chapter in his ongoing story, inviting listeners to journey with him through the highs and lows of life.

He is not just an artist; he’s a musical chameleon, constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in music. Isco Cruz is an artist to watch as he continues to carve out his path in the music industry.

Isco Cruz’s EP ‘Heartbreak Paradox’ was released last Thursday (29th August) across various music platforms. Check it out below…

Connect with Isco Cruz via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/iiscocruz/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3SUjoT9mCuAOBjAYVtzB9b
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iscocruz
Website: https://www.iscocruz.com/

Must Listens: You Should Know, Slow Down, Double Standards

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HANDSHAKE IN SPACE releases new single, ‘You Make Me Feel’.

EDM artist HANDSHAKE IN SPACE is back with his highly anticipated new single, ‘You Make Me Feel,’ out now across various music platform.

Known for his innovative sound that blends electronic beats with emotive melodies, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE continues to push the boundaries of the genre. His latest track makes a captivating addition to his discography, showcasing his signature style that resonates with fans across the globe.

“In this single I wanted to capture the euphoric feeling of love and how it can make you feel alive,” says HANDSHAKE IN SPACE. “I’m really looking forward to sharing ‘You Make Me Feel’ with the world and hope it gives listeners the same joy I felt creating it.”

HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s single, ‘You Make Me Feel’, is out now across all good music platforms. Why not have a listen below…

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OUT TODAY: Jozem exposes the moody side to summer with his indie-R&B EP, Summerhaze

A sombre, bed of airy soundscapes introduces JOZEM‘s new EP, ‘Summerhaze’, through track, ‘Foolish Heart’, where the tranquility of Rwanda-born, Toronto-based artist’s vocals offer a place of escapism, introspection and even retrospection during a season that’s associated with having pure unadulterated fun.

Although the EP is described as a body of work that displays ‘a moody side of summer’, which peeks into Jozem’s many life experiences and those who are close to him, personally the five-track project could also be described as a transitional EP from Summer to Autumn – a season that prepare us for hibernation and a period of some serious self-discovery and perhaps reflecting on loss of friendships, relationships strains and heartache of losing a love interest, releasing all those pent up issues and coming out the other end renewed and healed. As these themes of self-discovery and introspection runs potent throughout the EP, ‘Summerhaze’ is also a gentle reminder of recognising the real cheerleaders in your life when times get a little rough.

The perfect example of this is through title track, ‘Summerhaze’, which reflects on an experience with one of Jozem’s close friends, who was going through a rough patch and, like most of us, that person would put on a brave face to mask the pain – even though Jozem could see right through the mask and feel his friend’s pain. He may have felt helpless at the time, but Jozem has learnt a valuable lesson from the experience that ring loud in the track – and that lesson is that it’s not a sign of weakness to reach out and confide in someone who you truly trust.

Soft layers of electronic soundscapes begins to make its presence known in ‘Test’ and ‘Waiting, Soft’ concluding the EP perfectly which, personally, radiates some sense of hope and optimism through the muddy maze, that’s unfortunately called life.

‘Summerhaze’ EP is now out today (29th August), via various music platforms. Why not enter into Jozem’s world below…

Must Listens: Summerhaze

Connect with Jozem via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/followjozem
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jozem__/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jozem
Website:https://www.iamjozem.com/

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Britain’s Got Talent star Nick Edwards shares stunning EP, ‘Live At Yellow Arch’.

If you’re a massive Britain’s Got Talent fan, you may recognise this guy – NICK EDWARDS.

Since finishing up in the semi-finals in series 15 on the talent show, the dad-of-two has been making leaps and bounds, particularly in the country music scene around the world. His latest EP, ‘Live At Yellow Arch’, may just be the ticket to further cement his place in the country music community.

Recorded at Sheffield’s infamous Yellow Arch Studios, where a string of award-winning albums were produced for the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Kylie Minogue, Jarvis Cocker and Franz Von, ‘Live At Yellow Arch’ forms four captivating live performances, where Nick’s robustly soulful vocals introduces the set through ‘All That You Can Give’, accompanied by guitar licks creating an intimate setting which radiates a tranquil glow.

The EP continues with the comforting glow with a breathtaking cover of War & Treaty’s monster hit, ‘That’s How Love Is Made’. While still maintaining the huskiness that was pleasantly apparent at the beginning of the EP, Nick’s vocals turns all emotive, which compliments the woeful violins and soft soulful bass – all which perfectly gives a new appreciation to the original song.

That warm soulful glow really begins to shine through and concludes the EP perfectly with ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’ and ‘Trouble’ which, together with the gleeful violin, somehow gives off a Dr Hook & The Medicine Show feel.

Currently, Nick Edwards is creating his debut album – but he wants to make sure it is just right! Until then, his body of work, ‘Live At Yellow Arch’, serves as the perfect filler for his loyal and potential fans. Have a listen below…

Must Listens: That’s How Love Is Made, Trouble

Connect with Nick Edwards via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/therealnickedwardsbgt
X: https://twitter.com/TherealNick85
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_nickedwards

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