Author Archives: Zara Hoffman

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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Bristol favourites True Strays bring listeners an infectious blend of blues, rock, and Americana, and in April 2024 will be embarking on a full band UK tour.

Hailing from Bristol, England, True Strays inject a modern edge into classic blues-rock, delivering a sound that’s both timeless and contemporary. Their music channels the spirit of legendary acts like Muddy Waters and Fleetwood Mac, while infusing it with their own distinctive flair.

With a reputation for their captivating live shows, True Strays have been winning over audiences across the UK and beyond. Whether they’re playing in intimate venues or commanding festival stages, their performances are always electrifying and bound to get your feet tapping and your heart racing.

Made up of lifelong friends Joseph James and James Cameron, True Strays are not just a band; they’re a force to be reckoned with in the world of blues and rock music. Keep an eye on them as they continue to make waves and redefine the sound of modern blues-rock. See for yourself on their UK tour—tickets here.

J. Bernardt, aka Jinte Deprez, gears up to unveil his second studio album Contigo, set for release on May 17, 2024, via Play It Again Sam.

With the anticipation building, J. Bernardt treats fans to a sneak peek of his upcoming work with the new single “Taxi,” featuring the bonus track “Matter Of Time.” Known for his diverse skillset as a classically-trained violinist, songwriter, instrumentalist, arranger, producer, engineer, and programmer, Deprez brings a wealth of talent to his music. He’s had a hand in producing several Balthazar albums and his debut solo album, released in 2016, was entirely self-produced.

J. Bernardt’s influence extends beyond his solo endeavors; he’s best known as one half of Balthazar, a cornerstone of Belgium’s alternative rock scene for over two decades. Together, they’ve graced prestigious stages worldwide, including All Points East, British Summer Time, and Electric Ballroom, amassing a dedicated fanbase and selling over 600,000 albums globally.

Bristol based artist Louis Cardozo has taken to the skies—literally!—and enchanted audiences with his latest music video for the single “Fly.”

In an unprecedented and visually stunning production, Louis combines a cinematic soundscape of music with the soaring elegance of a grand piano mounted on a paraglider. “Fly” is not just a song; it’s an exhilarating experience, a visual and auditory feast that defies convention. Co-directed by Franziska Treppman and Louis himself, the music video takes viewers on a captivating journey as Louis and his grand piano take flight, effortlessly gliding through the open skies against a backdrop of endless horizons.

On the single, Louis says, “The song ‘Fly’ is about embracing negative experiences and emotions and using them to build something positive. Often, as an artist, the biggest struggles are also our greatest source of inspiration. The song focuses on connecting with people experiencing these struggles, acknowledging them, and hopefully lifting their spirits enough to reach a place of acceptance.”

Louis is an independent Bristol based artist with a taste for fast-paced lyrics and Spanish guitar. Influenced by vintage blues, soul, jazz, and Latin records, he blends catchy foot tapping melodies with sentimental lyrics, bringing both energy and soul to his shows. With an EP in the works for later in the year and fresh energy to imagine more ridiculous projects into existence, Louis is not slowing down and will be bringing you more incredible musical experiences in the near future.

Derry-based pop-punksters Cherym continue to prove they mean serious business with the release of their new single “Alpha Beta Sigma,” out now. This is the opening track from their highly anticipated debut album Take It Or Leave It, also out now via Alcopop! Records.

The single is oozing with sass and swag from the offset, channelling the likes of Bikini Kill and Charly Bliss. Talking about the single, drummer Alannagh Doherty says, “ ‘Alpha Beta Sigma’ is about how gender inequality permeates every single aspect of our society. It is about the threat that men and patriarchy pose to women in this country. It is about the reclamation of our autonomy and our rights. It’s about freedom from fear and freedom to physical integrity, and overall it’s about having the freedom to just BE a woman.”

Alongside the new single, the band are also delighted to announce that they have been hand-picked by bassist Mickey Bradley to support “Teenage Kicks” legends The Undertones on their autumn 2024 German tour dates later this year.

Newcomer Marlowe (they/them) brings an electrifying fusion of alt-pop in their vibrant debut single, “Give It Up.”

Marlowe’s single celebrates the nuances of femininity from a unique perspective, as a male-presenting, non-binary gay artist. In their own words, Marlowe says “It represents the struggles I have when trying to navigate my love life… It’s an invitation to embrace your inner femininity.”

Their sound is alt-pop fused with Latin roots and hints of R&B nostalgia, and promises to be a captivating experience. Fans of the likes of Prince and Charli XCX will feel at home here.

Currently based in London, Marlowe’s music is marked by raw, emotive lyrics centered around their story and empowerment. Keep your ears and eyes peeled to see them filling up a dance floor near you soon!

Get ready to immerse yourselves in A Knife Ballet and his brooding new single “Red, Blue & Black,” out now.

Formerly known under the moniker The Holy Road, this artist has now progressed into creating a sound that is more exciting and expansive than ever. Fans of the likes of Radiohead and Black Country New Road will feel at home here. This single is taken from The Knife Ballet—aka Jonathan Stolber’s—upcoming album For The Blood of England, due for release later this year.

The single features a wide array of rich, dark musicality, whilst Jonathan is also joined by a multitude of talented friends including Maddie Cutter (Martin Grech), JJ Saddington (The Bridesmaid, Eaststrikewest), Ben Weedon (Maybeshewill), and Chris Fordham (Silent Commitee, Violets Gone), who help create this undeniably eery and cinematic sound.

“Red, Blue & Black” will also receive one bespoke vinyl pressing to be auctioned on Ebay to raise donations for Alzheimer’s Society.

Brit-pop is back! Well, sort of… Introducing Andy Goodwin and his quintessentially British new single “Fred Perry Girl,” out now.

Combining early noughties influences of Jamie T with the likes of contemporaries such as King Krule and Cosmo Pyke, Andy proves he’s definitely one to watch. His new single “Fred Perry Girl” is undeniably infectious from the offset, showcasing Andy’s relatable lyricism and unapologetic cool throughout.

You may recognise Andy originally from uploading fashion-related content onto TikTok, whilst now he’s also delving into the world of music. Having teased his latest single online and supported Balancing Act on their latest UK tour, Andy Goodwin is ready to showcase his musical prowess beyond the confines of his videos. Even with it being his first single, it looks as if Andy is ready for his music to reach an audience that can appreciate the full range of his creativity.

“Fred Perry Girl” is in stores now.

Ease your way into the working week with Portuguese/British singer Maya Blandy and soul-tinged single “B.I.B.”—out now via Rebel Records.

This release is the third to be taken from her upcoming album, which is due for release later this year. The single combines jazz, soul, and R&B infused sensibilities creating something seductive and sensational. Maya’s vocal takes centre stage as she sings with confidence and warmth throughout. Pairing her phenomenal voice is a simply breath-taking musical arrangement, comprising of several highly recognised and talented musicians, including Trevor Mires and Ryan Quigley.

Born in Australia, brought up in Madeira, and being part of an English/German family, Maya Blandy has created her own unique and diverse sound that draws on the various elements of her life. Maya’s songwriting skills range from from describing the love she has for the people in her life to the complex understandings of religion, nature, and society. We can’t wait to see what 2024 is going to bring for this very talented songstress.

“B.I.B.” is in stores now via Rebel Records.

With her sophomore album due for release on 9th February 2024, we thought it was time we put Katelyn Tarver on your radar. With her radiantly soft voice and soul-baring songwriting in full force, Katelyn is ready to take 2024 by storm.

Taken from the album is her latest single “Japanese Cafe,” out now. The single combines indie-folk with dream-pop infused sensibilities creating something truly heartwarming. Talking about the single, Katelyn says, “When I was a teenager, I had an album I was promoting, and it ended up taking me overseas to Japan to promote it. I performed at a bunch of gigs, but one in particular was at a maid cafe where they requested I wear a French maid outfit for the performance.

The audience watched while sitting in school desks, and the sound system was a boombox with a microphone held up to the speaker. It’s become one of those stories I tell at parties about my weird life as a teenage wannabe pop star. I used to be embarrassed about this time in my life, but writing this song helped me find a new appreciation for it.”

Already with a record of critical acclaim from the likes of Rolling Stone, NPR, Billboard, SPIN, Paste, Nylon, The Guardian, and American Songwriter—and millions of followers—on her new album, Katelyn explores the complexities that come with navigating life through your twenties and thirties. Let’s hope she’ll be making her away across the pond ASAP! The UK is waiting….

Katelyn’s new album Quitter is in stores on 9th February 2024.

You may recognise Debbii Dawson from the seventeenth season of America’s Got Talent where she wowed the judges by performing a slowed down version of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen.” She was voted through unanimously, however was later eliminated from the competition, but it seems the joke’s on them! Debbii’s latest single “Too Strange for the Circus” is a country-tinged slice of pop that certainly proves Debbii is one to watch for 2024.

Channelling her inner Dolly Parton / Stevie Nicks, Debbii’s unique twang soars effortlessly over the infectious musicality that feels gorgeously light and fluffy all the way through. Dawson describes an all-too-familiar isolation in “Too Strange for the Circus”—the floating loneliness of feeling just a few steps too far to be in anyone else’s orbit. She waltzes around a space metaphor, leaning into the weightlessness of the feeling: “I’m too strange for the circus /too human for Mars /too deep for the surface.”

Debbii is from Minnesota and describes herself as a singer, songwriter, and producer. Her grandfather immigrated to the US from India. On America’s Got Talent, Debbii explained that he taught himself to play the organ by drawing an organ keyboard on the pavement with charcoal. He then went on to teach Debbii’s father and herself in the same way. Pretty awesome, hey? Debbii will be making her London debut on 17th January at Folklore but I’m afraid its already sold out!

“Too Strange for the Circus” follows Dawson’s recent EP, “Learning,” also in stores now.

Multi-instrumentalist Benjamin Yellowitz returned last year with the release of his powerfully poignant new album Peel Back The Pleasure, out now via Veta Records. Previously known for his folk / singer-songwriter influences, this release sees Benjamin build upon this, whilst opening up new doors to a potential new audience. Sounding akin to the likes of RY X and James Blake, Yellowitz combines acoustic elements with ambient electronics creating a sound that is undeniably impressive.

This album doesn’t seem to have been promoted as a concept album, but in many ways it feels like it could be. Throughout the album, Yellowitz tackles difficult subjects such as accepting queerness, feelings of loss, and sexual pleasure. He also induces these lovely intervals of spoken word, for example on “(Something About Resilience)” where he’s clearly leaving a voice note for a friend after having a particularly hard day.

Even though there are elements of darkness within the voice note, it also concludes with a sense of positivity and how proud Benjamin is to be queer, despite the battles within that. This particular moment really sums up the album as a whole for us, because, even though there are deep, dark moments, there’s also a whole lot of love and joy on the album. Its a celebration of self-love and friendship… and a bit of sex.

Previous single “Bad Dad Club” is the perfect example of this. Discussing themes of gender, queerness, and complex family relationships, this release is brave, bold, and beautiful. There’s also a stunning video to go alongside it you should watch instantly. Going forward, it would be great to hear and see more of this experimental side to Yellowitz as there’s clearly something special going on here, but perhaps moving away from the classic folk-infused songwriting will give him even more of an edge in his bright future.

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Happy new year folks! We kicking off 2024 with something chilled to help ease those sore heads some of you will undoubtedly have. LA-based artist Julian Roy teams up with DAP The Contract and Bryn Bliska on their sultry new single “M.K.B,” out now.

The single combines jazzy electronics with mellow guitar and key twangs creating something otherworldly. If you’re looking for music to relax, focus, or simply vibe to, this release is the one for you.

Julian Roy’s sound is mixes modern R&B and neo-soul with experimental world music soundscapes. His music is inspired by his travels through the island life of South East Asia and South America as well as living with musical communities in Nashville, San Francisco, and now LA. Julian’s sound is best compared to artists like Frank Ocean and Chet Faker.

So, what are you waiting for? Unwind and relax to “MKB,” in stores now.

Exploding onto the scene, Twat Union are a new feminist punk band who are not afraid to speak their minds in the best way. Their hilariously outrageous debut single “UTI” is out now.

This all female seven-piece combine influences from the Riot Grrrl era with current punk trailblazers such as Dream Nails and Lambrini Girls. With wild, immersive gigs involving their distinctive provocative humour, the band don’t shy away from talking about things like period sex, thigh chafe, and the focus of this debut single: UTIs.

Talking about the single, front woman Kate Mac elaborates, “People don’t talk about UTIs very much, but most of us have had them, and most of us hate them (no kink-shaming if you like them but we would love to hear from you if you’re actually a fan). And if you don’t get them, we guarantee you know someone that does.

This song is for everyone to shout, laugh, cry, and generally express your anger about female and non-binary medical problems (we know some men get them too) and maybe we can change the narrative around when and how it’s ok to talk about issues down there.”

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Samantha Lindo’s latest musical endeavour, Ancestry, is a captivating exploration of identity and heritage that seamlessly weaves together diverse genres and influences. This highly anticipated released has been funded by the Arts Council and the MOBO fund of Help Musicians UK.

Ancestry is a compelling album that explores the stories from Samantha’s family history, including her great, great grandfather—a black methodist minister who defiantly married a white Scottish teacher in Jamaica in 1880. It also explores the history of his son, the Conservator of forestry of the whole island, who planted and protected the trees that are now under threat from the extreme weather and flooding of the climate crisis, as well as her grandparents who came to the UK in the fifties as part of the Windrush generation, all framing the expression of themes of climate justice, dual heritage identity, and inter-generational healing.

Each track takes us as the listeners on a journey, and sees Samantha’s warm, soul-tinged vocal soar effortlessly over stunningly rich soundscapes. From spiritual jazz to retro soul and even spoken word, the album oozes colour, confidence, and creativity. The first track on the album, “Child In Me,” introduces us to the theme and sound of the entire work. The solo piano we first hear is soon joined by Samantha’s incredible vocals and later layered by haunting strings, all in perfect harmony.

On “Child In Me,” Samantha says, “The writing process was inspired by nostalgic memories of aunts, uncles, and wider family members and reflecting on how the magic and joy of those relationships form part of the fabric of who we are. Last written but first on the album, ‘Child In Me’ is about those people now, despite complexity and family conflict, with the purity and innocence of a child. In a wider sense, it’s also about seeing hope and possibility, and boldly imagining a different future when we face so much complexity and crisis.”

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