Author Archives: Zara Hoffman

Acclaimed vocalist, DJ, and activist NGAIO is on a journey to spread powerful messages that resonate with the soul, and her new single “Goddess” is no exception. The single is taken from her highly-anticipated, self-produced debut EP “Four Quarters,” which blends jazz, dub, and trip-hop creating a sound that is truly innovative.

Of “Goddess” NGAIO says, “‘Goddess’ is about understanding that we are connected to more than the physical space of here and now. It’s about knowing that we can find that connection in nature and ourselves.” “Four Quarters” sees NGAIO embarking on a deeply personal and introspective journey, delving into the exploration of identity, cultural heritage, and the challenges of authentic self-expression in a world often resistant to alternative perspectives. As a genre-fluid shapeshifter, NGAIO effortlessly blends sounds and shatters expectations.

As well as performing solo, NGAIO founded Booty Bass as a space for women and non-binary folk to come together and play big, bad, unapologetic bangers. Since its conception in 2018 it’s become a space that promotes an appreciation for different cultures and sounds worldwide where dancing and laughing is key. NGAIO was also recently a part of the Censored campaign highlighting female nipples being sexualized, which was part of a city-wide exhibition addressing the hypocrisy of it and the consistent policing of women’s bodies.

With her commitment to making the world a better through music, “Goddess” and “Four Quarters” are only the start for this formidable artist.

London-based alt-rock trio Honeyglaze announce the release of their sophomore album Real Deal with the release of their empowering new single “Don’t,” out now.

Anouska Sokolow of the band says, “Based on my favourite Destiny’s Child song ‘Bills, Bills, Bills’ (which is also a song about being done with waste men), ‘Don’t’ was written after the end of a particularly bad relationship and I had this anger at every man I felt had ever wronged me or spoken down to me. It’s really fun to be aggressive and direct sometimes, especially when it’s unexpected.”

The single is undeniably powerful from the offset, with Sokolow’s cutting edge vocals at the forefront throughout. “Don’t” is a striking calling card for Real Deal; the album which follows their 2022 self-titled debut.

Honeyglaze are a South London based, haiku-loving trio comprised of vocalist and guitarist Anouska Sokolow, bassist Tim Curtis, and Yuri Shibuichi on drums.

“Don’t” is in stores now via Fat Possum Records.

J. Bernardt—aka Jinte Deprez—may be best known as one half of Belgian favourites Balthazar, but his latest album Contigo proves he can certainly hold a tune on his own as well. The album hits a mark between sophisticated and loose, emphatic and subtle, and steely and warm. Combining influences of orchestral pop, soul, and funk, the album oozes with a rainbow of flavours for the listener to indulge in.

Opening with “Rio,” which was written on a trip to Brazil, we are immediately welcomed by majestic strings showcasing Deprez’s vulnerable side. The track then fades into “Taxi,” a literal trip as Deprez needs to escape so he can process the bad news. Throughout the album a backdrop of streamlined funk, with thick bass and guitar twangs, adds to the contrast of strings, creating something undeniably slick and suave.

“Don’t Get Me Wrong” once again showcases Bernardt’s unique ability to combine orchestral pop with funk-infused flavours, creating something truly mesmerizing. Talking about the release, Deprez elaborates, “’Don’t Get Me Wrong’ takes a walk-through on communication skills that are not on point, even fed by a sabotaging desire of two people that choose projection rather than self-reflection. It’s an old habit of most of us use to fuel the fire, until it burns the house down.”

Next up is “Last Waltz,” slowing the pace down but by no means the power in Deprez’ stunningly unique baritone. Tracks “Contigo” and “Matter of Time” fall into a similar vein, sounding akin to The Last Shadow Puppets and Jungle.

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EEVAH’s EP “Simplify Life” is a captivating blend of catchy hooks, haunting melodies, and electrifying guitar riffs, alongside personal and relatable lyrics that delve into profound themes. The four track EP explores different topics like relationships and people pleasing, and has revealed a new, raw ferocity that is propelling this emerging duo.

Of the EP, the band say “We’ve always been a singles band because in some ways I think we were exploring what we were about and what we wanted to sound like. That’s probably the reason behind our ever eclectic back catalogue. But with this EP we wanted to nail down the EEVAH sound once and for all. It’s called ‘Simplify Life’ but the journey to the finish line has been anything but. It’s taken the addition of live drums for us to realise what’s important. Dynamics, storytelling, truth, soul, everything that we love about music thrown into the melting pot and served up in sonic slices under three minutes long.”

The opening track “Say It’s Just Us” begins gently before erupting into a vibrant indie pop anthem, with the catchy synths providing a perfect backdrop for the poignant vocal delivery. The lyrics and theme of the song are about putting pressure on relationships to fit into a certain box, when really we should “say it’s just US.”

“Notice You” takes a darker, more melancholic turn on the EP. The deep piano notes and distorted guitar, paired with sorrowful vocals, make this track a true heartbreaker. Lyrics like “Can you see me, cause I’m holding on” are deeply relatable, navigating a path of sadness rarely explored by the band.

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Post-disco Welsh duo Martyrs recently released their vibrant single “Where Did You Go?.” The pair are influenced by an eclectic blend of artists ranging from Afghan Whigs and Billy Joel to Deerhunter and Cyndi Lauper, ultimately creating a sound that sounds like Bruce Springsteen dusting with Chic.

The track is taken from their sophomore album Luminism, showcasing the diversity of sound and influences Martyrs held dear to their heat. “Where Did You Go?” is a perfect jumping off point for first time listeners. Opening with a stylish narration, the track bursts into life through effervescent brass instrumentation before strutting into a sparkling beat. The vocals juxtapose with the sonics, creating an introspective, evocative landscape in what the band describe as a horror story set to a disco beat.

“Where Did You Go?” follows the successful release of “Sunset Thinking,” picking up support from UK taste makers such as God Is In The TV and Amazing Radio. Martyrs are using the release as way of giving back to their community, with profits from sales of both “Where Did You Go?” and Luminism to Trussell Trust: Stop UK Hunger.

“Where Did You Go?” is taken from album Luminism, in stores now.

PHOTO: HOLLY WHITAKER | Experimental duo O.—yes that’s it, that’s their name—are back with another wonderfully woozy delight for you to sink your teeth into. Their latest cut “Micro” is taken from their upcoming debut album WeirdOs, out via Speedy Wunderground on 21st June 2024.

Saxophonist Joe Henwood plays with an impressive amount of distortion, creating something that sounds like a synth or a guitar as a result, whilst drummer Tash Keary plays skitter-splat breakbeats, creating a feast for the ears that is certainly not for the fainted hearted! Get ready for your walls to shake…

Talking about their upcoming album release, the duo explain, “WeirdOs is a dark, heavy album based around our love of riffy basslines, blast beats, dub, noise, and all the weird sounds in between. It was recorded live across two weeks in the studio with Dan Carey and aims to replicate the feeling of being at one of our gigs.”

“Micro” is in stores now. Catch them at a festival near you this summer.

Having recently signed to Nice Swan Records alongside the likes of English Teacher and SPRINTS, Dublin’s latest rising star Kynsy is looking to make a splash with new single “Money,” out now.

Talking about the release on Instagram, Kynsy said, “This song dives deep into the complexities of love, nostalgia, and longing, offering a raw exploration of the heart’s journey. Produced in my bedroom with the help of Caesar Edmunds on mixing duty, this project pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I’m proud to say I took the leap.” “Money” is a scuzzy indie-pop delight from the offset. Fans of the likes of Soccer Mommy and Alvvays will feel at home here.

The Dublin based artist has developed her own songwriting rules that have given her the ability to experiment, push her own boundaries, and avoid being pigeonholed into any one genre. Kynsy is definitely one to watch…

“Money” is in stores now.

Singer songwriter Luke Fraser has returned with his theatrical new single, “The Curse.” Following on from Fraser’s debut album, Moth Eaten Romeo in 2022, the troubadour will unveil several singles as he builds towards EP “So Below” later this year.

Having spent many years performing on the London live circuit, both as a solo artist and with a band, Fraser has built a loyal fan base through his emotive style of music. Dramatic, literate, and heartfelt, Fraser’s sound sits neatly between the likes of John Grant and Andrew Bird.

“The Curse” is a perfect encapsulation of Fraser’s stunning sonics. Graceful piano, atmospheric percussion, and confessional lyricism play out, as Fraser’s reflective vocal takes centre stage. A mature, bittersweet piece of music from start to finish.

It’s easy to see why Fraser’s approach to songwriting has garnered support from tastemaker far and wide with the likes of Radio X, Absolute Radio, BBC Introducing, Clout Magazine and many more supporting the artist.

‘The Curse’ is available to stream now.

This week we have a debut release from Irish alt-pop duo PostLast! You may recognize the duo from their respective bands HAVVK and BARQ, both of whom we’ve previously championed here at TVD.

PostLast’s debut single “Connect 4” is an upbeat escape into the joy and fragility of making friends as a grown-up. “The song is about rediscovering your inner child through connection with others, and remembering how to switch off, play and dance with reckless abandon,” the band elaborate. Fans of the likes of St. Vincent, AE MAK, and Sorcha Richardson will feel at home here.

Julie Hough and Stephen McHale first connected while completing a joint headline tour of Ireland and the UK in 2017. Over the past year they have been writing in secret, preparing each element of their collaboration to be ready for public release in spring 2024.

“Connect 4” is in stores now.

Oxford’s Self Help have released their propellant, post-rock single, “Enrage Engage.” The five-piece create an expansive sound in the realms of Squid, KEG, and Idles, all packaged in their own unique style.

“Enrage Engage” is the lead single from the band’s debut album of the same name. Following on from previous single “Spaceman,” Self Help have ramped up the eccentricity a couple of notches as they direct their ire at the ills of the world.

Self Help wear their heart on their sleeve, sarcastically voicing their displeasure at the state of the modern world. “Enrage Engage” is packed full of fuzzy melodies, distinctive vocals and a maelstrom of in-your-face guitars.

Following a short, self-imposed, break from the playing music, Self Help returned in 2022. Their uncompromising sound led to a number of festival appearances and airplay on BBC 6 Music as well as support slots with the likes of Squid, Goat Girl, The Murder Capital, and Animal House.

Having recently supported Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard, and with further singles due for release, we here at The Vinyl District can’t wait to hear the record in its full, sardonic glory.

Debut album Enrage Engage is due in stores on 7th June 2024.

Ever evolving alt-rock outfit HAVVK’s raucous new album To Fall Asleep is a grunge-filled musical endeavour, packing a powerful punch that leaves you pining for more. The highly anticipated album was released on the 15th March via Veta Records.

Made up of Julie Hawk (bass, vocals), Matthew Harris (guitar), and former Bitch Falcon drummer Nigel Kenny, HAVVK’s emphasis is on social issues in their art—from bodily autonomy to “filthy landlords.” These upcoming tracks were primarily recorded in Belfast’s Start Together Studio with producer Rocky O’Reilly (Wheatus, And So I Watch You From Afar).

This is an album about sleep, and the things that keep us awake at night. Talking about the album, Hawk says, “We started talking about sleep a lot as a band a few years ago when I was experiencing insomnia. I was waking up with an unshakable feeling of urgency, like I was forgetting something and then letting my thoughts spiral for hours. Sleep was something I had always taken for granted, so at first this felt like a huge betrayal from my body. But it wasn’t really. Actually, it was my body trying to tell me something. I had to really listen to it, and examine how honestly I was living my life, and how much energy I was giving to things that I didn’t have the capacity for.”

Single “You Say You Won’t” is all about toxic and self-sabotaging habits, and starts with the slow thrum of the bass guitar, building up to heavy drops made for headbanging. The chorus takes the song into a more hopeful sound, contrasted with the lyrics saying “you say you won’t, but you do it again,” which is all too relatable for us all.

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British singer-songwriter Sophie Faith has been making waves for a while now. She combines jazz, soul, and hints of hip hop infused sensibilities and we think it’s about time you sat up and took note.

Sophie’s latest single “Dopamine” is no exception as it oozes with smooth, sultry melodies and Sophie’s equally mesmerising vocals shine throughout. Sophie has amassed a dedicated following and millions of streams with her string of singles since 2017.

Previous collaborators include Erick The Architect, Flatbush Zombies, Reuben James, Coops, Linden Jay, Joe Beard, Fred Cox, Lophiile, Joe Hertz and more from around the world.

Sophie is currently on her “Hold My Drink” tour, which will be the title of her upcoming project. Get tickets whilst you can!

“Dopamine” is in stores now.

Alt-indie duo EEVAH showcase their true selves with vibrant new single “Heartbeat Is Missing.”

Taken from their upcoming EP “Simplify Life,” the single includes electrifying guitars and a persistently throbbing rhythm. For fans of the likes of Pale Waves and MUNA, “Heartbeat Is Missing” is oozing with raw ferocity and angst from the offset.

Talking about the single, frontwoman Nicole Smith says “It’s about pleasing people, changing yourself to fit in, and losing who you really are. Becoming desensitised to people’s apparent lack of boundaries or empathy, weaving together negative attention into a protective armour that keeps away the darkness but also blocks out the light, realising that then lashing out.”

EEVAH are made up of Nicole Smith and multi-instrumentalist producer and member of Embrace, Rick McNamara. The duo have built up a cult following performing hundreds of online shows to an ever growing community.

EEVAH’s upcoming EP “Simplify Life” is in stores on 23rd May 2024.

This week’s AOTW comes from South East London. Lola Young has been making waves for a while now in the UK, despite only being 22 years old. Her latest release “Intrusive Thoughts” is a highly relatable, raw slice of songwriting that will hit you right in the feels.

Young’s upcoming album My Mind Wanders And Sometimes Leaves Completely is set for release on 26th May 2024. It represents the start of a new chapter for the rising newcomer.

Stepping into a new light of expression, Lola explores the depths of her creativity whilst consistently drawing her authentic South London edge through the project. She blends her passionate vocals with the emotions she is exploring with her casual wit and frankness, offering a genuine insightful experience for fans.

Lola is currently embarking on her North American tour at Vinyl in Atlanta, GA before going on to perform in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Tickets are available here.

“Intrusive Thoughts” is in stores now.

This week’s Artist of The Week is Marla Kether—a rising and thriving session bassist, DJ, and producer based in London.

Marla has previously worked with the likes of Yazmin Lacey, Loyle Carner, and Obongjayar, as well as working on a self-produced EP “All That We Have,” which was released last year. Most recently though, Marla has teamed up with another TVD favourite, Samantha Lindo, on new single and remix “Bloodline,” which is out now.

Inspired by the likes of Kaidi Tathum and Kokoroko, the remix is Marla’s first release since her debut EP. With the help of some wonderfully warm and rich horns played by Poppy Daniels and James Akers, Marla has switched up this soulful jazz piece into an immersive bed of grooves reminiscent of the broken beat scene of the late ‘90s, and sounds that encapsulate the essence of “London jazz.”

Marla explains what drew her to this rework: “The mix is so full-bodied and rich, and the track is beautiful. With my music, I’m used to working with different elements recorded separately, as with electronic music there isn’t much importance placed on instruments sounding like they were recorded live.”

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