Song of the Day: avoid! – Sion

German-born and South Korea-based multi hyphenate SION has returned with the release of his highly anticipated EP, ‘Sociavoidance’. Marking a transformative period for the hit-maker, ‘Sociavoidance’ goes against what we’re accustomed to, navigating a variety of genre-bending sounds; the 5-track project is a step in a different direction for the storyteller. Following on from the February release of ‘O.o’, we dive deeper into Sion’s unpredictable world. With an EU tour on the horizon later this year, ‘Sociavoidance’ is a glimpse of what to expect on stage.

Exploring the disassociation in modern-day interaction, Sion bares elements of vulnerability as he confronts his fears and desires surrounding social interaction and relationships, forming a comforting familiarity for many that’s enriched with depth and emotion. Boasting a refreshed creative flare, ‘Sociavoidance’ finely blends indie electronica, abstract hip-hop, alt R&B, and glitch pop yet still remains cohesively structured. After hours of refining the smaller details, this project reflects a time of great significance and self-reflection.

Opening the EP with “avoid!”, Sion instantly sets the tone as he acknowledges his disillusionment with modern-day relationships. Confronting his difficulty with human connection, he shares that his existing relationships are strained because of it.

”When asked about the difference between this album and previous projects, Sion explained, “This project marks the beginning of a new journey for me musically. I dove into different subgenres such as indie electronica, abstract hip-hop, alt R&B, and glitch pop, while trying to bind together all these different sounds in a cohesive manner through tons of sound design. I’m not sure, and kind of scared about how it will resonate with my audience right now. But at some point, I needed to progress, and this work certainly gives me the courage to experiment with even more genres and styles going forward in my career. I want to be remembered as an artist who has many facets but maintains a distinct colour, and I’d like to believe that this album is a good start in the right direction.”

Listen to ‘avoid!’ below…

Song of the Day Cold Water – Tom B (ft. Lucy Wroe)

Hailing from London, experimental producer TOM B‘s single ‘Cold Water’, featuring long-time collaborator, Lucy Wroe, is an unapologetic statement on the music industry as an independent artist. It embodies all the frustration towards gatekeeping and the devaluation of independent artists. Cold Water can also be felt as an ode to women in the industry, trying to navigate the border between ‘playing the game’ and maintaining self-respect.

Lucy says: “The title itself is a metaphor for the industry. Feeling submerged in Cold Water; regularly feeling the numbness left in the wake of bad experiences, which are all too common on the independent music scene”

Tom says: “You spend enough time in a scene or a circuit, you slowly figure out what the game is and how to play it. Eventually, we got to the point where we thought ‘do we make music because its what we want? Or do we make music to entertain promoters and get more gigs where we have to sell all the tickets?’”

‘Cold Water’ was exclusively available on Bandcamp from 22nd May and was released on all streaming platforms from a week later. All Bandcamp profits was donated to The Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund.

Listen to the riveting single below…

Afrobeat Sensation YXL Ayo unveils alluring love note, ‘Easy’

Produced and engineered by the illustrious Super Beats (Skeete, IAMDDB), YXL AYO‘s highly anticipated single, ‘Easy,’ takes listeners on an alluring journey navigating the complexities of modern love and desire. The track tells a vivid story of a woman eager to leave her troubled past behind, seeking salvation from our protagonist who, in turn, questions her true intentions with the poignant refrain, “Tell me why you want me to save you.”

YXL Ayo skilfully blends the rich textures of Alté with the smooth, emotive vibes of R&B. Super Beats’ production provides an intentionally minimalistic soundscape, creating space for Ayo’s introspective lyrics and evocative vocals. The track delves into the nuances of romantic pursuit and the yearning for genuine connection, challenging listeners to discern the difference between true affection and the desire for rescue.

Available on all major streaming platforms from last Thursday (27th June), ‘Easy’ is set to solidify YXL Ayo’s rising status in the Alté and Afro-R&B scene, as he delivers this irresistible record. Have a listen to the beauty below…

Birmingham Artist Lyco Returns With New Single ‘Crème De La Crème’ ft. Camidoh

The UK and Africa come together for a beautiful blending of sounds for LYCO and CAMIDOH‘s new single ‘Crème de la Crème’.

Nigerian born, UK raised singer/songwriter Lyco has been steadily releasing singles such as ‘Ice N Rum’ and ‘Gucci’ with artists such as Lotto Boyzz, Sneakbo, Ivorian Doll and 2Face, building a reputation for his melodic, smooth tracks.

His new single is a flavoursome, sexy, Summer sizzler with Lyco and Camidoh bringing Afrobeats vibes. Weaving in-between lyrics smoothly for a beautiful, mesmerising single, the two artists vocals fit perfectly together.

Lyco says on the track: “Creme de la Creme is a double edge sword. On one hand to the listener that isn’t paying full attention and is just enjoying beautiful melodies it’s a light-hearted summer song. On the other hand those who really take in what I’m saying will immediately feel the sensual nature of the adult themes I’m trying to describe with nuance. Truly the best of both worlds.”

LYCO is a multi-genre singer-songwriter hailing from Birmingham, United Kingdom. Being Nigerian born LYCO has been able to concoct beautiful new dramatic flavours into Afrobeat universe. He has written for the likes of Steff London, Ivorian Doll and Birmingham’s own Lotto Boyzz.

LYCO has also found massive success on the Tik Tok platform amassing over 100,000 followers through his comedy and documentary skits which has expanded his fanbase globally preparing the way for international success on all fronts.

Former known from Birmingham’s “LYCO X WXYNE” duo, LYCO has branched out in pursuit of a solo career to further express and deliver ground-breaking melodies that will transcend the Afrobeats movement both locally and abroad.

Listen to ‘Crème de la Crème’ below…

Song of the Day: I’m Climbing – Ericka Nicole Malone

‘I’m Climbin”, is the powerful lead song from NAACP winning ERICKA NICOLE MALONE‘s documentary The Bucketwish. The song is a cathartic release, ushering in an era of abundance for Ericka Nicole Malone as ‘I’m Climbin” is a reminder to take the reins and set the course in pursuit of our wildest dreams.

The single lends its unique R&B meets neo-soul sound to songwriter Ericka Nicole Malone and producer Printz Board, a Grammy Award winner and co-writer of the anthemic ‘Where Is The Love?’ from the iconic music group, Black Eyed Peas. Malone’s soul-striking vocals collide over earthy bass lines and emboldening cascades of piano, offering listeners a profound and transcendent musical experience.

Ericka shares, “I penned “I’m Climbin’” as a lead song on the soundtrack to The Bucketwish because I want people to remember who they are and to keep climbing up the stairs of life to different levels no matter how hard it gets.”

Ericka is an NAACP award-winning filmmaker and songwriter who works to elevate female voices and creatives of color. Her new documentary, The Bucketwish is about pursuing unexplored passions, reminding viewers that it’s never too late to start a new journey. It is an intimate profile on Malone’s story, fears, and impending future ahead.

Listen to ‘I’m Climbin” below…