PREMIERE: SUSU – ‘Slow Death’

Breathing new life into a rock and roll classic, New York outfit SUSU have shared their new single ‘Slow Death’, a cover of the Flamin’ Groovies 1986 original track. Taken from their debut EP Panther City, which is set for release on 13th November, SUSU have put their own spin on the single with their powerful vocals and interweaving harmonies.

Formed of vocalists and songwriters Liza Colby and Kia Warren, SUSU want to provide listeners with a soundtrack to everyday America. “Whether you are on the bus or not, SUSU will always be USUS,” Colby & Warren explain, and this message of unity is underscored by the sounds of fellow band members Joey Wunsch (guitar), Ronnie Bruno (drums) and Connor McClelland (bass).

On ‘Slow Death’, SUSU have maintained the swirling psych-tinged guitar sounds of the Flamin’ Groovies’ original, with Colby & Warren’s vocals freshening up the classic track. “We aren’t shy about being black women in Rock and Roll. There is an aliveness, an awareness, and a spirituality to SUSU that are both timely and timeless,” Colby explains. That’s exactly what they captured on their previous single ‘Work Song‘ and once again on this latest release.

Watch the video for ‘Slow Death’ below.

Follow SUSU on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & Spotify for more updates.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

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Track Of The Day: Okay, Bye – ‘Bubble’

A relatable guitar tune about getting tangled in our own emotional safety nets, Exeter-based duo Okay, Bye have shared their latest single ‘Bubble’. Taken from their recent EP Personal Hell, which the band recorded, mixed and mastered in their home studio, the track is a buoyant slice of garage-punk designed to motivate listeners into pushing through their apathy and reconnecting with the world again.

“‘Bubble’ was ironically written before social bubbles or the pandemic came about,” vocalist Grace explains about the single. “It’s more fitting than ever in a time where we feel constant guilt for not checking the news and only feel worse when we do.” Okay, Bye have successfully channelled their confusions about switching off from the world into a cathartic few minutes of crystal clear vocals and fuzzy guitar sounds.

The song’s relatable opening line “When I read the news I just get upset / Or I feel confused and then I get depressed” epitomises the anxieties many of us are currently feeling, but there’s self awareness and reassurance once this ‘Bubble’ has burst. As Grace sings “I don’t want to let myself down / Don’t want to be a stupid girl / Don’t want to be patronised,” she holds herself accountable, with a vocal that’s reminiscent of No Doubt’s Gwen Stefani.

Okay, Bye’s desire to power through problematic times is reflected in their strong DIY ethos and their playful, thought-provoking tunes that provide a light distraction during these uncertain times.

Listen to ‘Bubble’ below.

Follow Okay, Bye on bandcamp, Spotify, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram for more updates.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

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LISTEN: Zelha – ‘Player One’

Pop artist Zelha has just released new single ‘Player One’, taken from her debut EP which will be released over the course of the next year.

A melancholic ode to someone who’s just out of reach, even when they’re holding your hand, ‘Player One’ is an instant alt-pop earworm. Zelha, with soulful and rich tones, laments a lover who is more focused on winning the game and levelling up than on connecting with others, as subtle drops and rhythmic synths flow throughout. A heartfelt sonic gem, ‘Player One’ puts us into a longing space, watching someone we love slip away right between our fingers.

Born to Beligan and Mexican parents, Zelha takes her unique perspective straight into her songwriting. Citing influences like Dolly Parton and Lorde, the singer/songwriter infuses her music with honest, emotion-strewn storytelling.

Aisha Kasmir
@aisha_vocal

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WATCH: Kadija Kamara – ‘Best Moves’

With her positive attitude and talent for filtering contemporary music elements through a nostalgic lens, Kadija Kamara‘s sound is equal parts catchy, vibrant and motivational. The London-based songwriter has shared a video to accompany her latest single ‘Best Moves’ and it’s a bright reflection on working hard, keeping your chin up and spreading good vibes.

“I filmed [the video for] ‘Best Moves’ with a bunch of amazing creative friends and completed the edit myself,” Kamara explains. “It was filmed across various locations in London. I planned to film it earlier this year, but due to pandemic it didn’t quite work out, but I am happy with the results. You’ll catch me dancing and roller skating in clips acros the video. I picked up skating during lockdown which has become a big part of my life today.”

“I wanted to show different characters in the video doing things that they love. The characters include a passionate tennis player, a male roller skater. A model being photographed at a photoshoot, but also doing a great job as a mum with her child on set. Dance teachers and their young students. A singer, a DJ who has a love for dancing and other normal people just living their day to day lives. I want everyone to feel included, which is why I filmed a range of people. A lot of my friends got involved which I feel very grateful for.”

With her afro-pop inspired sounds and uplifting visuals, Kamara is helping listeners push through self doubt and make the most of their best moves. Watch the video below.

Follow Kadija Kamara on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & Spotify for more updates.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

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