WATCH: S.A.A.R.A – ‘Forest’

A sultry blend of jazz, dance and classical elements that explore the fine line between fantasy and reality, EDM artist and composer S.A.A.R.A has shared a video to accompany her new single ‘Forest’. Treating her musical output as a “fantastical playground” that allows her to explore these boundaries, her new visuals are a hazy reflection on the juxtapositions we encounter in both our real, and our online lives.

“I have quite a visual approach to song-writing and production,” S.A.A.R.A aka Sara Belle explains. “I want to create atmospheres and experiences for the listener which can be transposed into the arrangement.” Through her lush synths, dancing beats and smooth vocals, S.A.A.R.A captivates her listeners and transports them into the dreamlike state reflected in the video for ‘Forest’, directed by Emily Seale-Jones.

“I wanted to create something that captured the magical and haunting quality of the track whilst also acknowledging S.A.A.R.A’s unapologetic approach to making music,” Emily comments. Through her use of slow motion and kaleidoscopic transitions, Emily compliments S.A.A.R.A’s intoxicating rhythms, as she comprehends what it means to connect and disconnect from technology and bring ourselves back to the moment.

Watch the video for ‘Forest’ below.

Follow S.A.A.R.A on bandcamp, Spotify, Twitter, Instagram & Facebook

Photo Credit: James Chegwyn

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

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LISTEN: Tiece – ‘Nowhere, Now Here’ (Tiiva Remix)

A beguiling soundscape that celebrates the joy of new found infatuation, London-based artist Tiece has shared the Tiiva remix of her track ‘Nowhere, Now Here’. The pair were introduced to each other during the first lockdown of 2020 and have worked together to create this beautiful offering which enraptures the senses with its ear-melting vocals and atmospheric beats.

“This song has gone from a remix to a song in it’s own right!” Tiece explains. “It’s kind of about the moment between being sane and being in love, so this song is like the sensation of falling into the madness of romance with all its unanswerable questions and swells of towering feelings. This remix is flowing, moving and feels very alive to me.” Tiiva has reflected Tiece’s emotional energy through their use of sultry electronics and hazy beats, allowing listeners to fall in love with Tiece’s soft, intoxicating vocals.

“When Tiiva sent me the first draft of their remix I had tingles!” Tiece continues. “This reimagining of my song has inspired ideas for more new music. I love working with Tiiva and I’m very excited to share what we create together. I’m so thrilled to have been able to find each other AND work remotely together despite all the madness of lockdown! It feels so good to be making music, seeing progress, enjoying the process and making friends.”

Producer Tiiva is equally as thrilled about working with Tiece too. Having taken a “deep dive” into the artist’s music, they’ve subtly revealed more of the emotional layers in the original recording and we can’t wait to hear future collaborations from the pair.

Tiece (who is also one half of Girlhood) and Tiiva also contributed tracks to Despicable Zee’s Atigheh Reimagined EP in 2020, which you can check out here.

Listen to the remix of ‘Nowhere, Now Here’ below.

Follow Tiece on bandcamp, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter & Facebook

Follow Tiiva on bandcamp, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter & Facebook

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

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LISTEN: Naz & Ella – ‘Internalised’

A gentle, sincere lament about the personal affects of internalised homophobia, North London-based duo Naz & Ella have shared their latest single ‘Internalised’. The first track to be taken from their upcoming EP (DE)HUMANISE, the track is a quiet yet candid exploration of the struggles the duo have faced whilst coming to terms with their sexuality and gender identities.

“It was important to us that this song conveyed an emotional journey with a light at the end of the tunnel,” explains Ella. Though the context of ‘Internalised’ is rooted in pain and confusion, the duo treat it tenderly with their blend of dreamy guitars and lush vocal harmonies. Together, they overcome the fears that have manifested after “too many years of hiding in the shade / wrapped in shame” to find peace and pride in their identities. “For the first time in my life / I’m proud to call you mine” the pair sing, providing hope for queer listeners who may still be on their journey to self acceptance.

“Internalised homophobia is a very isolating experience,” Naz explains. “Not only are you hurting yourself, but also those around you whether intentional or not. Whilst we think it’s important to take responsibility for your actions, we wanted to call out how growing up in a cisheteronormative world teaches queer people that there’s something wrong with us. Ultimately, only we can set ourselves free if we’re willing to unlearn that socialisation and push through the pain.” The duo have also explored the experiences they touch on in ‘Internalised’ further in a new podcast which you can listen to here.

Listen to the track below.

Follow Naz & Ella on bandcamp, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter & Facebook for more updates.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

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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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