Following on from her Sugarlows EP in March, Toronto based singer/songwriter Dalia Dargazli has released her latest stunning single ‘Shades of Green’. In many ways it is an unusual meeting between two very different worlds. Lyrically it could be an essential summer hit, full of carefree fun and chilled out vibes. Musically however this is something far grander, a mellow kaleidoscope of splendid soundscapes. A single listen feels like a peaceful flight over a boundless and breathtaking landscape. The production is immaculate and the percussion in the latter half of the track builds towards a superb close. Dalia certainly has talent beyond her years and is clearly no stranger to big ideas and memorable melodies. If there’s more music of this high standard on the way then she could well be one to watch!
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Album Review: Preoccupations – Preoccupations
Preoccupations – PreoccupationsSpotlight!: Gold Complex
In the words of one of the greatest music movies The Commitments: “Soul is the music that people understand”, and few understand how to create great soul the way that Gold Complex do. This Canadian octet have brought a classic timeless sound into the 21st century and have created something slick and sexy with an irresistible groove. Their signature song ‘Backbone’ boasts a stunning brass section and some funky flourishes from the rhythm section. The more restrained ‘Cities & Lovers’ gives room for lead singer Will Bowes to show off his versatile vocals and the guitar work on ‘O.G.’ wouldn’t sound amiss coming from Steve Cropper. I challenge you to resist the urge to dance when listening to their music, but be warned that it is a challenge that you are bound to fail! Sometimes you need to look back to find the way forward and with the band currently recording their debut album New Soul, due in April 2017, it seems Gold Complex could be key players in a stunning soul revival.
Those looking for something fun, fresh and funky should check out the deluxe edition of their debut EP which is available for free download on SoundCloud.
Spotify has teamed up with Tinder
Yes, you read that correctly! Popular “dating” app tinder has worked with music streaming giants Spotify to incorporate new music related features. Users can now add their own personal ‘anthem’ to their profile as well as choose to display their all time favourite artists or current crazes. Users can also combine their Tinder and Spotify profiles to search for potential matches based on music tastes. You don’t need to have read High Fidelity to know that music can make or break a relationship and the new features show that Tinder clearly have their priorities in order.
Album Review: Keaton Henson – Kindly Now
Keaton Henson – Kindly NowTop Tracks: Dyslexic Postcards – The Shakes That You Make
Let’s be honest with ourselves here, Dyslexic Postcards was never going to be the name of a sensible band. This Miami based alternative rock band inject a sweet hint of madness into everyday life. ‘The Shakes That You Make’, from their debut EP Spare The Altar, starts off fairly unassuming before launching into quirky psychedelica. The atmospheric opening wouldn’t sound amiss coming from The War On Drugs but soon descends into what sounds an unlikely collaboration between The White Stripes and The Flaming Lips. Vibrant and addictive, the band know how to make a great melody but are committed to doing so with tongue firmly in cheek. Dyslexic Postcards clearly love what they do and I’m certain that you will too.
Skepta wins 2016 Mercury Prize
In a shock result London grime MC Skepta has won this year’s Mercury Music Prize for his album Konnichiwa. The rapper has unfortunately beaten bookies (and public) favourite Blackstar by the late David Bowie. The final shortlist also included deserving finalists: Laura Mvula’s The Dreaming Room, Michael Kiwanuka’s Love & Hate and A Moon Shaped Pool by Radiohead, who are still yet to win despite being the most nominated act in the prize’s history. Despite thoroughly disagreeing with the final result we can take solace in the fact that this year’s shortlist contained a varied and plentiful wealth of British talent… and y’know, at least it didn’t go to The 1975!
Album Review: Bastille – Wild World
Bastille – Wild WorldTop Tracks: Marga Lane – Thinking About You
Multi-instrumental singer/songwriter Marga Lane creates divine soul with such grace and finesse that it almost seems effortless. A former graduate of the world renowned Berklee College of Music, she has worked hard to create her upcoming Motown inspired EP Undressed, due for release December 2nd. The striking simplicity of ‘Thinking About You’ highlights her immense talent and keen ear for a great melody. Consisting of a simple guitar line and Marga’s sublime vocals it is a refreshing breath of fresh air to the often overproduced world of modern R&B. This track looks back at the roots of great soul music and sees the irresistible appeal of an incredible voice and a hopeful message of love. Sometimes less is more, and with such heavenly vocals Marga Lane is undoubtedly someone that the world needs more of.
Top Tracks: Joshua Luke Smith – Becoming Human
We have all suffered our fair share of slings and arrows in our lifetimes, whether inflicted by others, by the cruel hands of fate, or by our own making. In your day to day life you will pass countless people enduring unspoken struggles seemingly without respite. Joshua Luke Smith, one of the most profound and inspirational young wordsmiths of his generation, has released a powerful new track in partnership with Samaritans to raise awareness for World Suicide Prevention Day. His moving spoken word track ‘Being Human’ focuses on what we all have in common, rather than our petty differences. It spreads a message of strength through togetherness, of holding each other up and standing together come what may rather than dragging each other down. It teaches to love unrestrained and feel connected to those we make take for granted. Joshua’s passion, empathy and understanding make this the perfect track for such an important cause.
Belwood Music 