PLAYLIST: August 2021

The GIHE team have unearthed some more new music gems for you to listen to on our August Playlist! There’s an eclectic mix of electronic bangers, swirling shoegaze tunes, gritty guitar tracks and alternative alt-pop sounds. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below and make sure you hit play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

Grandmas House – ‘Golden’
The GIHE team collectively ADORE this single from Bristol queer punk trio Grandmas House. Taken from their upcoming self-titled debut EP, which is set for release on 15th October via Brace Yourself Records, ‘Golden’ is a gritty, thundering reflection on the apathetic outlook of the organisations that profit from the suffering of others. (Kate Crudgington)

ARXX – ‘Not Alone But Not With You’
The latest single from our total faves, ‘Not Alone But Not With You’ continues to cement ARXX as consistently exciting and forever honing their sound to become even more amazing. A gritty, yet reflective, and unapologetically honest offering, I just love this track’s driving emotion and anthemic singalong energy. Another swirling slice of rousing power-pop from the impressive Brighton duo. There’s also a fab Comic Review of this track up now, courtesy of illustrator Sally-Anne Hickman. (Mari Lane)

HighSchool – ‘Sirens’
Full of moody vocals, buzzing bass lines and playful riffs, Melbourne trio HighSchool have shared this sultry lo-fi banger accompanied by a very cool music video. Check out their previous single ‘De Facto‘ too. (KC)

Basement Revolver – ‘Skin’
Inspired by guitarist & vocalist Chrisy Hurn-Morrison’s thoughts and struggles about her own body image, Basement Revolver’s ‘Skin’ is a swirling, reassuring ode to self-acceptance. The track is taken from the band’s upcoming album Embody, which is set for release later this year. (KC)

Slow Crush – ‘Hush’
Hazy guitars, lush vocals and heavy beats combine on this beaut new single from Belgian shoegaze outfit Slow Crush. ‘Hush’ is also the title of their upcoming album, which is set for release on 22nd October via Quiet Panic. (KC)

Lost In Your Mind – ‘Restless’
Dublin-based newcomers Lost In Your Mind have shared this new single today, along with an accompanying video. Inspired by their love of Riot Grrrl, post punk and dark wave, Aoife McMahon, Tracey McEvoy, Elisa Kuhl and Andrea Lambe make music that makes them feel good, and latest single ‘Restless’ does exactly that. (KC)

Berries – ‘The Expert’
The latest single from GIHE faves, London trio Berries, ‘The Expert’ takes down all those patronising know-it-alls with a spiky punk energy. Tackling imposter syndrome with a ferocious, grunge-fuelled drive, Holly Carter’s distinctive sweeping vocals ring out with a rippling power alongside frenzied riffs, showcasing the band’s trademark raw passion. (ML)

Barry – ‘Neolithic Homosex’
Following their eponymous 2019 album, South London based Barry have now shared a new double A-side release. First of the tracks, ‘Neolithic Homosex’, ponders the all-important issue of what gay sex was like in ancient times. Propelled by breezy beats and joyously jangly hooks, whirring keys flow alongside brazen vocals and added cheering hand claps, oozing an uplifting, sunny energy with a fizzing, playful charisma. ‘Neolithic Homosex’, alongside double a-side ‘No More Boys’, is out now. Download from bandcamp. (ML)

Beorma – ‘Her’
I love this track from Birmingham-based duo Beorma. Mixing R&B and indie pop sensibilities with a Prince inspired guitar solo, ‘Her’ is a smooth, melancholy-tinged reflection on absent love. (KC)

Sans Soucis – ‘On Time For Her’
London based artist and one of our faves Sans Soucis has released ‘On Time For Her’ as the lead single from their highly anticipated EP of the same name. Speaking of the track, Sans Soucis says it’s a life changing statement: “It means that I am finally here for myself and I’m ready to seek happiness in life rather than being stuck in my past trauma.” (Tash Walker)

Emma Bradley – ‘I’ll Be Outside’
22 year old Emma Bradley’s ‘I’ll Be Outside’ is a song I find incredibly calming, written about being the person who shows up for yourself. Of the track, she explains “I hope that when people hear my songs, they can feel less alone in their own experiences and also empowered in some way. I think sensitivity gets a bit of a bad reputation, but everything that we feel someone else somewhere has also felt.” (TW)

Bleach Lab – ‘Real Thing’
This Bleach Lab melts me every time I listen to it. Definitely check out their recent EP A Calm Sense Of Surrounding if ‘Real Thing’ makes you a big ball of feelings too. (KC)

Anna B Savage – ‘Since We Broke Up’
Lifted from her upcoming EP These Dreams which is set for release on 24th September via City Slang, Anna B Savage’s latest single ‘Since We Broke Up’ tentatively celebrates the joy she experienced after an emotional break up. If you like the sound of this, you should definitely check out her debut album A Common Turn. (KC)

Aisha Badru – ‘The Way Back Home’
The latest single from Aisha Badru, ‘The Way Back Home’ offers an endearing reflection on relationships and the age-old realisation of “if you love something, set it free”. Propelled by a lilting energy and shimmering grace, it’s a beautifully stirring ballad, with a poignant lyricism swirling throughout. A simply exquisite, evocative creation that’ll soothe the ears with its resplendent, uplifting allure. The Way Back Home, the upcoming EP from Aisha Badru, is set for release on 3rd December. (ML)

Olivia Dean – ‘Slowly’
‘Slowly’ is a lovely piano ballad from Olivia Dean showcasing a different, more intimate side to the London artist. Taken from her recently released EP, Growth. (TW)

Siv Disa – ‘Toxic’ (Britney Spears Cover)
Having recently announced the release of her upcoming debut album, Siv Disa has now shared a wonderfully unique cover of a Britney Spears classic. Propelled by a shimmering musicality and chiming beats, Disa’s rendition of the 2001 anthem oozes its own majestic ethereal haze as the bewitching, sweeping allure of her vocals flows throughout. A beautifully captivating ode to our favourite pop queen. Siv Disa comments on her decision to release this cover: “Now that the abuse of Britney’s conservatorship has been exposed I hope we’re all taking a minute to think about how she was publicly judged ten years ago, and how that played into the nightmare she had to live in. I hope she gets back everything that was taken from her. We love you, Britney!!” (ML)

Alex Loveless – ‘Brixton’
East London based musician Alex Loveless’ new single ‘Brixton’ captures a moment of romantic indecision with its lo-fi beats and strung out vocals. This is Loveless’ first release that features a guitar, which they managed to borrow from a friend. (KC)

BEBELUNA – ‘Drunk’
BEBELUNA is an artist I’ve played before on our radio show and I’ve been following them ever since. This track ‘Drunk’ is a very enjoyable mash up of jungle and electroclash. My only criticism of is that it is TOO SHORT, but there’s nothing wrong with being left wanting for more. (TW)

CREATRX – ‘experience’
Non-binary, LA based rebel CREATRX declares they are “Not a boy / not a girl / baby I’m an experience” on this savage new single. “This song is a reflection of how I view my gender,” CREATRX explains. “I feel that my spirit (and many others) transcends the limited ideas of gender in Western society and this is a song celebrating that – encouraging us all to take up space, explore and push more.” This single is taken from their upcoming EP dirt. honey. glitter. water, which is an exploration of “what it means to be Black, young, ratchet and spiritual” in today’s world. (KC)

DROWND – ‘Sinner’ (KANGA Remix)
I’m a big fan of KANGA’s industrial, pop-tinged sounds and I am obsessed with her remix of DROWND’s new track ‘Sinner’. Full disclosure – DROWND is the new project of my older brother Joe – and I am thrilled that she’s remixed this track for him as he is also a big fan of her work. You can check out the slick visuals for the original track here. (KC)

Nilufer Yanya – ‘Day 7.05093’ (keiyaA Remix)
I can’t get enough of this track with its synthy sizzles, insect tapping beats and of course Nilufer Yanya’s dreamy vocals. So good. Check out their recently released Feeling Lucky? Remix EP out now. (TW)

John Glacier – ‘Icing’
This song comes in at under 2 minutes and leaves me gagging…gasping for more! It comes from elusive East London vocalist John Glacier, taken from her recently released 12-track project SHILOH: Lost For Words. You can all send me your thanks for the recommendation later, but for now enjoy ‘Icing’ because this track is over almost as soon as it starts. (TW)

BABii – ‘Shadow’
As is always my want, I’m going to slip a little bit of UK garage influenced music into this playlist. ‘Shadow’ from BABii nods to those club sounds we’re all desperate to be immersed in right now, with an edge of electronics. (TW)

JOON – ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ (Depeche Mode Cover)
A cover of the Depeche Mode classic, JOON’s rendition of ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ offers a playful, twinkling soundscape, whilst maintaining all the colourful energy of the original. Joon is Yasmin Kuymizakis, a Maltese musician and producer who ten years ago survived a life-changing car accident, and since then has seen making music as a necessary part of recovery. She’s recently released her beautiful album Dream Again and is also co-founder of the Maltese Sound Women’s Network – an organisation connecting, supporting, mentoring, promoting and educating women and girls in electronic music and sound. Find out more about her in a recent interview we had with her. (ML)

YAY MARIA ft. Franx – ‘Template’
Having previously captivated our ears as the front person of Grawl!x, Trans and queer artist YAY MARIA has now announced the release of her debut solo album, Oyez. The first of three tracks to be shared from the album, ‘Template’ is an empowering slice of poignant power-pop. Made in collaboration with Nottingham based queer artist and musician Franx, it’s a blissfully euphoric anthem celebrating being your true self in the face of adversity. You can buy ‘Template’ on bandcamp now – and all proceeds are going to the QTIBIPOC Therapy Fund; an initiative of the Radical Therapist Network, to create access for Queer & Trans People of Colour to safe therapeutic spaces & services. (ML)

Jenny Moore’s Mystic Business – ‘He Earns Enough’
Featuring members of Trash Kit, F*Choir and Bamboo, six-piece choral punk ensemble Jenny Moore’s Mystic Business have been captivating our ears for some time. Latest single ‘He Earns Enough’ reflects on shamelessly money-grabbing men who increased their fortunes to the tune of billions during the pandemic, while millions around the world struggled and suffered. As the swirling layers of vocals trickle alongside each other and grow with an empowering energy, a sweeping, celestial splendour is created. And, ending with a sea of voices exclaiming “Enough!” in unison, it perfectly captures the rage and sense of hopelessness of living with the continuing injustices of a patriarchal capitalist society. He Earns Enough, the upcoming new EP from Jenny Moore’s Mystic Business, is set for release 8th October via Lost Map Records. (ML)

Bas Jan – ‘You Have Bewitched Me’
Formed of songwriter, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Serafina Steer, alongside Rachel Horwood (Trash Kit, Bamboo, Jenny Moore’s Mystic Business), Emma Smith (the Elysian Quartet, Jarv Is, Seamus Fogarty) and Charlie Stock, London experimental collective Bas Jan have now shared their first music in three years. Propelled a swirling ethereal majesty, ‘You Have Bewitched Me‘ offers an effervescent reflection on the mesmerising power of first attraction and new love. With the delicate grace of its sparkling harmonies, ‘You Have Bewitched Me’ showcases the subtle power of crystalline voices coming together in unity to create a truly euphoric soundscape. (ML)

MEI – ‘Let Dusk Welcome Me’
Taken from London artist MEI’s latest EP, ‘Let Dusk Welcome Me’ provides a welcome pool of tranquility. Reflecting on a refreshing evening walk she took after having been ill with COVID, it interweaves a lilting jazz-infused groove and funk-fused beats, rippling with the smooth allure of MEI’s lush, soulful vocals and a gently empowering spirit. The Hard Way Around The Sun, the new EP from MEI, was created with an all-female team and is out now. (ML)

Blonde Maze – ‘Being Pulled’
The latest single from total favourite, New York based artist Blonde Maze, ‘Being Pulled’ is inspired by “the conflicting feelings of wanting to move forward while being pulled backwards by your memories”. Bathing the ears in shimmering ripples of dreamy reflection and oozing a woozy, hypnotic splendour, Amanda’s vocals flow with a blissful haze, creating the perfect soothing tonic. A beautifully calming and delicately uplifting soundtrack that I so desperately need right now. (ML)

Get In Her EarsLeave a comment

LISTEN: GIHE debut Soho Radio show with Noga Erez 05.05.21

After 6 years of presenting on Hoxton Radio, the GIHE team are thrilled to announce that we’ve moved over to the NYC & Culture channel on Soho Radio! For our debut show, we played a mix of iconic feminist punk anthems and new music tunes from some of our favourite women and non-binary artists.

Tel Aviv-based pop renegade Noga Erez also spoke to us about her brilliant second album KIDS, working alongside her creative & life partner Ori, and we circled back on some of the interesting things she said the first time we met her back in 2019.

Listen below:

Tracklist
Bikini Kill – Rebel Girl
Noname – Blaxploitation
PÁULA, POVOA & JERGE – Primavera
Sans Soucis – I’m On
ARXX – DEEP
Grandmas House – Always Happy
Shy Girl – Tasty
Catherine Moan – Fools (Depeche Mode Cover)
Currls – Let Down
SOPHIE – BIPP (Autechre Mx)
Tiece – Nowhere Now Here (Tiiva Remix)
Nun Habit – Righteous Jerk
Bitch Hunt – Eau Claire
Noga Erez – VIEWS
Noga Erez – You So Done
**Noga Erez Interview**
Fousheé – Deep End
Tirzah – Send Me
Fears – Fabric
Beckie Margaret – FF
Mykki Blanco – Free Ride
New Pagans – Yellow Room
Fightmilk – Overbite
pink suits – Fake Great Britain
Thigh High – Because The Night (Patti Smith Cover)
Naz and Ella – No (Doesn’t Mean Convince Me)
X-Ray Spex – Oh Bondage, Up Yours!

Get In Her EarsLeave a comment

PLAYLIST: April 2021

The GIHE team have unearthed some more new music gems for you to listen to on our April Playlist! There’s an eclectic mix of indie anthems, alt-pop gems, electronic soundscapes and gritty guitar tunes. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below and make sure you hit play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

Noga Erez – ‘Fire Kites’
GIHE favourite and pop renegade Noga Erez’s new record KIDS has barely left my turntable since it was released in March. The record is bursting with her trademark charisma and energy, epitomised by this track ‘Fire Kites’. Keep and eye on our GIHE socials for an exciting announcement involving Noga very soon…
(Kate Crudgington)

Miss Eaves – ‘3 Jobs’
This banger from Brooklyn-based rapper Miss Eaves features on Loud Women’s third compilation album, which is bursting with anthems from DIY bands from both sides of the Atlantic. The record also features tracks from ARXX, GÉNN, LibraLibra, Vulpynes, Bugeye, Jelly Cleaver, Breakup Haircut and Pleasure Venom. Grab your copy from bandcamp now. (KC)

Little Simz – ‘Introvert’
The latest single from innovative artist Little Simz, ‘Introvert’ may just be her most powerful offering yet. A poignant reflection on the last year and an empowering rallying cry to break free from societal limitations, the track is propelled by an immense sense of grandeur and cinematic instrumentation. A heartbreakingly impassioned anthem, touching on themes of governmental corruption, poverty and race, it’s a truly magnificent and necessary listen. “I’m a Black woman and I’m a proud one / We walk in blind faith not knowing the outcome / But as long as we unified then we’ve already won.” (Mari Lane)

Sans Soucis – ‘I’m On’
An uplifting blend of lush vocals, warm synth textures and smooth beats, songwriter & producer Sans Soucis’ single ‘I’m On’ is a genre-bending reflection on her own experiences of recovering from an extended period of depression and the joy she experienced when she was able to re-connect with herself again. (KC)

Ruti – ‘Daylight’
Essex-based songwriter Ruti may only be 21 years old, but she has a distinctive, soulful voice that shines with a majestic, mature glory on ‘Daylight’. This track is taken from her recent EP, All At Once. (KC)

People Club – ‘Damn’
This smooth new offering from Berlin-based five-piece People Club is an exploration of the behaviours surrounding addiction to internet pornography. “We wanted to examine how porn addicts can actually be super high-functioning and never get ‘found out’, yet actually can suffer seriously as a result of their habit,” the band explain about the track. ‘Damn’ features on People Club’s new EP Take Me Home, which is set for release on 7th May. (KC)

Nun Habit – ‘Righteous Jerk’
Having wowed us with their sparkling charisma playing for us at The Finsbury back in 2020, the London-based queer five-piece Nun Habit have now announced their debut album, set for release in August. Taken from their recent double a-side release, ‘Righteous Jerk’ oozes an eerie mysticism before building with thrashing beats and scuzzy, reverb-strewn riffs, alongside Kate’s sweeping soulful vocals. ‘Righteous Jerk’ is out now alongside double a-side ‘Slip n Slide’. hedge fun, the upcoming album from Nun Habit, will be released in August, with an accompanying celebratory launch party on 16th August at The Victoria in Dalston. (ML)

Maya Lakhani – ‘Walk Alone’
Inspired by the current conversations that are happening around women’s safety, the culture of victim-blaming and pure desire to walk alone as a women, British-Indian artist Maya Lakhani’s latest single is propelled by a gritty, emotion-strewn power. Flowing with the soaring, raw splendour of her vocals alongside a majestic, otherworldly musicality, it oozes a captivating sense of grandeur and poignant sentiment. (ML)

Softcult – ‘Take It Off’
I’ve been listening to Softcult aka twin sisters Phoenix and Mercedes Arn Horn’s debut EP Year Of The Rat so much recently. It’s a bittersweet collection of lush, grunge-infused songs that culminate their thoughts on sexism, misogyny and objectification, and ‘Take It Off’ aches with with their subdued anger. Lyrically, it’s directed at catcallers, but it doubles up as a care-free dismissal of ridiculous trophy wife standards too. (KC)

Bitch Hunt – ‘Eau Claire’
The latest single from London based non-binary band Bitch Hunt, ‘Eau Claire’ offers the first taste of the band’s upcoming debut EP. An ode to a Wisconsin town where singer Sian used to live, with its stripped back jangling hooks and raw, heartfelt vocals, it builds in momentum to an effervescent slice of perfect punk-pop. Shapeshifter, the debut EP from Bitch Hunt, is set for release on 28th May via Reckless Yes. (ML)

Wallice – ‘Hey Michael’
It was love at first listen when I heard this single from LA-based Wallice. I love her candid lyrics on this playful lament about having your ear chewed off by a mediocre man at a party. Watch the accompanying video for the track here. (KC)

Fightmilk – ‘Overbite’
The recent single from total faves Fightmilk, ‘Overbite’ is taken from their upcoming new album. Oozing a track’s subtle romanticism and tongue-in-cheek wit, the raw emotion and distinctive smooth-yet-husky charm of front-person Lily’s vocals deliver a heartwarming sentiment alongside an infectious, shimmering energy. The perfect, alternative fuzzy love-song. Contender, the new album from Fightmilk, is set for release on 14th May via Reckless Yes. (ML)

PACKS – ‘New TV’
This brooding offering from Toronto-based PACKS is a hazy ode to “other people’s garbage.” I love the sound of Madeline Link’s vocals and the grungy, hazy guitars on this track. The band will be releasing their debut LP Take The Cake on 21st May via Royal Mountain Records/Fire Talk. (KC)

Tirzah – ‘Send Me’
The latest single from Tirzah, the first we’ve heard from her in two years and boy am I glad she’s back. Teaming up again with previous collaborators Coby Sey and Mica Levi, Tirzah delivers us another beautiful song with futuristic subtlety. The amount of emotion and longing that’s conveyed in her music blows me away every time, leaving me with all the feels. Fingers crossed the release of ‘Send Me’ is only the beginning of more music to come from Tirzah. (Tash Walker)

Deap Vally – ‘Give Me A Sign’
Us GIHE girls are super excited to hear Deap Vally’s new EP American Cockroach, which this new track ‘Give Me A Sign’ is lifted from. Set for release on 18th June via Cooking Vinyl, the LA-based duo have collaborated with Jennie Vee (Eagles of Death Metal) and the brilliant Ayse Hassan (Savages/ESYA) for this record, which the duo describe as “songs for the underdog, the outlaw, the defeated, for the days when you feel like no one understands you or you can’t do anything right.” (KC)

Catherine Moan – ‘Fools’ (Depeche Mode Cover)
This is a fun, polished cover of a Depeche Mode b-side from Philadelphia-based electro-pop artist Catherine Moan. Her buoyant electronics and infectious rhythms give this slice of 80s alternative music nostalgia a welcome sultry twist and it’s been bouncing around my head for weeks. (KC)

Shygirl – ‘Tasty’
One thing that is getting me through my weeks at the moment is listening to music that makes me just want to dance. Especially this track from the incredible Shygirl. Pull up those hoods and get moving. (TW)

Mykki Blanco – ‘Free Ride’
Firm fave Mykki Blanco released ‘Free Ride’ alongside the news that they’d signed to Transgressive Records at the beginning of this year. Speaking about the track, Mykki explains “Some of the most intimate moments and conversations I have ever shared were with my mother on long drives in the Southern countryside when I was a teenager. The music that soundtracked these memories on our daily journeys was the stuff of my mother’s generation. I would find myself daydreaming, reflecting and envisioning the kind of life I would like to create for myself.” With all its feel-good vibes, this song has been buzzing around my head constantly since I first heard it – I LOVE IT. (TW)

DEELA ft. T6lu – ‘FIT’
A fun, provocative cut from British-Nigerian rappers DEELA and T6lu, ‘FIT’ is all about being able to say what you want, when you want. Their slick lyrical delivery and dense beats reflect the pair’s direct approach to making empowering, unapologetic anthems. (KC)

Alex Loveless – ‘Through 2 U’
This is a slow-burning offering full of hazy beats and brooding vocals from Hackney-based DIY electronic artist Alex Loveless. Released via Loveless’ own label Dirty Mind (named after their own club night inspired by the Prince record) ‘Through 2 U’ is an intoxicating combination of smouldering alt-pop hooks and melancholy-tinged lyrics. (KC)

Pallas Athene – ‘Gimme Gimme’
Toronto-based artist Pallas Athene contributed this ambient track to Object Ten, a compilation album that features original pieces of experimental, electronic music by new and established artists. Put together by London drone-pop band The Leaf Library, the album is a real breath of fresh air for anyone looking for a departure from their usual listening habits. (KC)

Tokky Horror – ‘Godliness’
London-Manchester-Liverpool trio Tokky Horror have taken things down a notch on their latest offering ‘Godliness’, which is taken from their debut EP I Found The Answers And Now I Want More, set for release on 21st May via Alcopop! Records. “I think we show our more expansive side on ‘Godliness’,” Zee Davine explains. “Where our first two singles were the ‘flag-in-ground’ moment when we wanted to assert our presence with intensity, ‘Godliness’ is us letting our guard down a bit for something more genuine.” (KC)

GHLOW – ‘Not Fit For This’
A visceral blend of distorted guitars, energetic beats and commanding vocals, this single from Russian-Swedish heavy duo GHLOW is taken from their debut album Slash and Burn, recently released via PNK SLM Recordings. I love their intense rhythms and jagged riffs and recommend listening to the full album if you like what you hear. (KC)

A Place To Bury Strangers – ‘End Of The Night’
With a change in lineup and a new EP titled Hologram on the way, Brooklyn’s A Place To Bury Strangers have unleashed this caustic new tune that buzzes with unrest. Founding member Oliver Ackermann has been joined by John Fedowitz (bass) and Sandra Fedowitz (drums) for this record, which is released on 16th July. (KC)

SPITBOY – ‘In Your Face’ (Remastered)
Don Giovanni Records have announced that they’re releasing trailblazing San Francisco based 90s feminist hardcore band SPITBOY’s discography on 25th June. Titled Body Of Work (1990-1995), 100% of the profits from the record will be going to the National Women’s Law Center. This is the first time SPITBOY have appeared on my radar and I’m loving their grungy, riot grrrl sound. (KC)

The Bug Club – ‘Checkmate’
Set to release their debut EP this Friday, Welsh trio The Bug Club’s ‘Checkmate’ showcases their uniquely uplifting, frenetic brand of garage rock perfectly. Propelled by a vibrant, driving energy, it oozes a playful sense of euphoria as gloriously scuzzy hooks race alongside blissful harmonies. Launching Moondream One, the upcoming debut EP from The Bug Club, is out 30th April via Bingo Records. Read our interview with Tilly from the band here. (ML)

Queens & Kings – ‘Going Through Hell’
Propelled by a fuzzed-out visceral energy and gentle blues-rock twang, ‘Going Through Hell’ reflects on Toronto duo Queens & Kings’ 10+ year relationship and the struggles they have gone through both personally and as a band. As Alissa’s gritty swooning vocals flow with a stirring, soulful drive alongside scuzzy hooks, it’s a powerful Americana-tinged slice of garage-rock brimming full of anthemic emotion. (ML)

GracieSouz – ‘Brian Cox’
Having just released her stirring debut EP Better In Space, GracieSouz creates sweeping, ethereal soundscapes. Paying ode to the famed scientist with Gracie’s soaring, crystalline vocals and a cinematic splendour, it oozes a bewitching, majestic grace. A shimmering slice of brooding electro-pop. Better In Space, the new EP from GracieSouz, is out now. (ML)

MELÓ – ‘Castle’
Taken from her upcoming EP Youthless, Canadian-Hungarian artist MELÓ’s latest single ‘Castle’ reflects on themes of mental illness. Evoking images of escapism, it oozes a sweeping, ethereal soundscape propelled by the soaring power of the soulful vocals. Flowing with a shimmering majesty, it’s a captivating slice of dreamy alt-pop. (ML)

Gillie – ‘Retirement Paradise’
The title track from her recent EP, Welsh songwriter Gillie tentatively explores what it means to slow down and reflect on what you truly need on ‘Retirement Paradise’. “I think this is the track that defines me as who I am today,” she explains. “I’m now aware that the people whom I previously thought lived slow and boring lives, have become the people I take note from. I often joke that I could go into retirement right this moment and live quite happily, and so that’s how this track developed.” (KC)

Be Charlotte – ‘We Are Burning’
Taken from her debut EP Dreaming With The Lights Off, Be Charlotte’s ‘We Are Burning’ soars with a twinkling emotion and lilting, folk-tinged melodies. Propelled by Charlotte’s distinctive luscious Scottish vocals, it’s a sparkling pop anthem, calling us to action at a time when hope may seem to be lost. (ML)

All cats are beautiful – ‘(u know) u mean a long minute to me’
The first single to be taken from their upcoming EP, all cats are beautiful (acab)’s ‘(u know) u mean a long minute to me’ is a truly stirring slice of twinkling lo-fi indie pop. A shimmering, swirling soundscape, it wraps itself around the ears and heartstrings with beautiful harmonies and woozy beats. A wonderfully soothing offering oozing an emotive sparkling splendour. the things we made, the upcoming new EP from all cats are beautiful, is set for release on 6th August via Moshi Moshi. (ML)

Thigh High – ‘Because The Night’ (London 2021)
I first heard Thigh High’s cover/performance of ‘Because The Night’ as part of Patti Smith’s celebrations around the inauguration of President Biden. The track is now available for you to download and it’s just beautiful. I had the pleasure of interviewing Thigh High last year and I recommend you check out the rest of their catalogue – a band truly dedicated to celebrating and centering queer joy in their music! (TW)

 

Get In Her EarsLeave a comment

LISTEN: Sans Soucis – ‘I’m On’

An uplifting blend of lush vocals, warm synth textures and smooth beats that radiate with a new found artistic confidence, songwriter & producer Sans Soucis has shared her latest single ‘I’m On’. Released via AWAL in collaboration with The Young Guns Network and co-produced by Cid Rim, the track is a genre-bending reflection on the artist’s own experiences of recovering from an extended period of depression, finding joy and freedom when she was able to re-connect with herself.

“When I wrote this song, I wanted to express the fact that I am honestly ‘on’, like how people turn on a TV. I am awake,” Sans Soucis explains. “I’m ready to experience the world and enjoy my career path. A big part of my depression was that I felt less able to enjoy music, but after healing, I finally feel alive. My artist name is a nickname given by my Congolese family meaning ‘care-free’. The irony is that, for a time, I was making music as Sans Soucis, but I wasn’t really feeling like Sans Soucis. Now I am, and this song came to me in a flash; I needed to sing my heart out and put together all these harmonies, to express the joyousness and happiness I was feeling.”

Through her considered lyrics, exquisite vocal layering and tentative beats, Sans Soucis beautifully captures the relief of coming back to yourself after an inexplicably difficult mental health struggle. She hopes that her new offering will inspire others to reach a similar level of peace. “The biggest lyrical takeaway from this song is ‘Stop everything and set yourself free, I’m telling you just follow what you need’,” she continues. “I feel like joy and creativity should be recycled, and I want to inspire others to feel creative in life, whatever that means for them.”

Sans Soucis will be releasing her new 6-track EP, On Time For Her, later this year and has a London showcase performance penned for September.

Watch the video for ‘I’m On’ below.

Follow Sans Soucis on bandcamp, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter & Facebook

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment