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Lana Love – Don’t Let Me: Palpably Punchy Pop

Lana Love has proven that she’s a Pop artist ahead of the contemporary curve with her latest single Don’t Let Me; stylish doesn’t even begin to cover her sensational sound. The palpably punchy Pop track, carries plenty of urban hype mixed with gritty realism to create a track that doesn’t just skirt around superficially. The Lyrics are as deep as the beat in her new single which dropped on May 31st, 2018.

The EDM Trap style beat provides the perfect platform for Lana to lay down her pitch perfect vocal offerings which blast through your speakers carrying an empowering good-vibe feel. There is as much strength as there is passion within her vocal offerings which switch from sultry to soaring. For her latest track Don’t Let Me, Lana Love teamed up with fellow vocalist Señor Cruz who perfectly rounded off the synergy of the track with his baritone vocals which makes Don’t Let Me one of the most visceral Pop tracks I’ve heard this year.

You can check out the official music video to Lana Love’s latest single Don’t Let Me via YouTube now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Sorry I’m Not In The Mood: Drew Hersch feels the cold shoulder on Love Of Yesterday

Sung with calming intensity and guiding into a rather fascinating love-filled world, Drew Hersch warms to the idea of that rather wonderful full kiss moment of passion to wash all tears away with on Love Of Yesterday.

Drew Hersch is a Boulder, Colorado-based indie pop singer-songwriter and music producer who uses his resourcefulness to record wherever he sees fit.

Heavily inspired by artists like Billie Eilish, Rex Orange County, and Lana Del Rey, Drew has found a way to combine stylistic familiarity with unapologetic originality. Drew Hersch’s signature sound can be recognized by its unique textures, vocal performance choices, theatrical structures, and its distinct blend of predictability and surprise.” ~ Drew Hersch

Showering the world with a lesson for many to learn from, Drew Hersch is at his imaginative best on this skyrocketing illumination to ponder for its brilliance. This is the message of looking back at that powerful embrace, which seems to make everything right.

Love Of Yesterday from Boulder, Colorado-based indie pop singer-songwriter Drew Hersch is a superbly created soundtrack for anyone who has felt those cold winds blow in when a once striking romance appears to be waning. Submersed in so much quality and just waiting to be played late at night, this superlative soundtrack shall strike like a loud clock and take us all back into a time we’d probably forgotten.

Hear this fine single on Spotify.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

Skin To Skin: London’s October Swimmer drifts meaningfully in with heartfelt story of lost love on ‘I Won’t See You Anymore’ (feat. Cat McFall)

As they left you in the freezing cold with no warm jacket and moved onto warmer climates beyond what you thought the story would be, October Swimmer drops the wonderfully meaningful new single about feeling the pain of heartbreak with a love that meant so much on ‘I Won’t See You Anymore(feat. Cat McFall).

October Swimmer is a Jamie Pope-created collaborative act from the well-established London, England-based songwriter, music producer and skilled multi-instrumentalist. After being in the music game since he was just eleven years-old as a self-taught artist, he makes that deeply intense music that mostly includes tremendously talented upcoming female vocalists, who have an important story to tell.

Influenced by legendary artists such as Cat Power, Portishead and Lana Del Rey, you quickly feel his powerfully stunning production pinching you softy – that is mixed with stunning vocals – which will have your happy hairs standing up straight to attention.

I became disenchanted by the session game as I was being called upon exclusively for my guitar playing abilities. I had stories to tell and I wanted to tailor them to my own vision.” – October Swimmer

I Won’t See You Anymore(feat. Cat McFall) from the multi-talented songwriter, music producer and multi-instrumentalist collective October Swimmer, is a quality single that splashes willingly into our waterproof headphones with a buoyant track that has you feeling so contemplative, deep inside your soul food-thirsty veins.

This is a brilliantly-made new single that is all about missing that sweet love and the touch of their soft skin – as they are now gone and you wonder how it all actually transpired – when it seemed like you would be together forever.

Stream this new single on Spotify and check out the IG page for more news.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

Watching them walk away: Alexander Broussard is quite breathtaking on ‘How Does It Feel’ (ft. Lana Wolf)

Taken off the latest eleven-track album ‘Now‘, Alexander Broussard returns with a deep piano-filled song that asks us ‘How Does It Feel‘ (ft. Lana Wolf).

The Netherlands-based indie-pop pianist and singer-songwriter, Billy Joel fan and former touring band member Alexander Broussard, is a truly gifted musician, who is back to his roots and is feeling so refreshed after this decision to do his solo music again. This is his first love and after three decades performing other artists music, he is on a mission to make as much quality original creations as possible.

This is the fascinating tale about caring so much for someone and how watching them walk away, really strikes your heart like a ice block, and makes you wonder if this is the right decision. Disconnecting from this once flourishing love is so sore on the soul as you see them waving at you in the distance.

With effortlessly luscious lyrics from her and his strong tone, these two make a lovely tender-wrapped team full of mystique and wonder on this almost-cinematic single- that will have you thinking about your previous relationships in life.

How Does It Feel‘ (ft. Lana Wolf) from the soulful Alexander Broussard is a true intimate sonic soundscape for the ages and brings back the classic feeling in your bones, which is so rare to hear these days.

With quality all of the place, this is a sensational single that might have you in tears or feeling quite reflective about past memories.

Stream this carefully crafted single on Spotify and see more on his IG.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

Kini Solana – In Bloom: Ambiently Visceral Dream Pop

If your Pop sensibilities sway the sonorous and dreamy way, you’re bound to adore Kini Solana’s latest track In Bloom. The blissfully melodic beat sets an archetypal ambient tone which fluidly progresses throughout the track. With palpable passion projected into the microphone it’s clear to see why Kili Solana shies so much iridescently brighter than the rest of the ambient Electro Pop acts on the scene to date. Perhaps what I loved most about Kini’s stylised soundscape was the fact she didn’t pander to her depicted innocence in the usual fractured twee styling, her music was ethereally spellbinding and sobering in equal measure. Not many Dream Pop singers manage to wrangle lyrics about decomposing into their tracks and get away with it. But In Bloom isn’t your ordinary Dream Pop track. The Trap style beat brings the contemporary edge whilst Kini’s vocals offer a soaring synergetic expression of harrowed talent.

To check out Kini Solana’s latest singles you can head on over to her SoundCloud page & connect with her via Instagram

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Secret Lover – Stela Cole – New Release

Sometimes all you need is a fun tune. When you have had enough of the inward looking and earnest indie kids, the cliché riddled rockers and the production line pop, something light, sassy, self-aware and playful is what is called for. Sometimes all you need is Stela Cole.

Balancing the pop infectiousness of Ellie Goulding, the darker undertones of Lana Del Ray and the street smarts of Lily Allen, her “beats from the Bible Belt” are as cool and contemporary as anything currently filling the dance floors, yet they still sounds like nothing else you have heard from any of the competition. Living up to her mantra that “trying to fit in gets you nowhere, standing out is what life’s all about,” Secret Lover is a mercurial and original blend of cartoon theme tunes, wonky, staccato dance grooves and bubble-gum pop beats making the most addictive cat nip for the very coolest of cats.

And the odd thing is that for all its apparent throwaway pop nature, this is throwaway pop that you just can’t stop listening to. How do you even do that?

Instagram: instagram.com/callmestelacole/

Twitter: twitter.com/callmestelacole

Facebook: facebook.com/callmestelacole/

Words: Dave Franklin

The Controversy of Music Industry Plants in 2024

Industry Plants

Everyone loves a good underdog story; a rags-to-riches allegory which proves that regardless of your starting point in life, there are no limits to success, which may go a fair way in explaining why every stratospheric music industry ascent in 2024 results in accusations of artists being media plants.

In this article, we will explore what an industry plant purportedly is, the artists that have been brandished with this label, how the phrase is often misused and why the buzzword is leaving such a bitter taste in music fans’ mouths in 2024.

What Is a Music Industry Plant?

A “music industry plant” is a term that’s often used, sometimes controversially, in the music industry. It refers to an artist who is presented to the public as being a self-made, organic success, but who actually has significant backing from a major record label or industry insiders. The implication is that the artist’s popularity and grassroots support are not entirely genuine, but rather manufactured or heavily assisted by the industry.

Here are some key points about music industry plants:

Hidden Support: The artist may have significant financial, promotional, and professional support that isn’t disclosed to the public. This can include high-quality production, marketing teams, and connections that independent artists typically don’t have access to.

Image of Authenticity: These artists are often marketed as having risen to fame through their own efforts, such as through social media, word of mouth, or self-releasing music. This creates an appealing narrative of an underdog or a breakout star.

Controversy and Debate: The term is somewhat controversial and can be seen as pejorative. It’s often used by critics or fans who feel that the industry is being disingenuous about an artist’s origins and support. However, others argue that all artists require some level of support and that the term unfairly delegitimises the artist’s talent and hard work.

Impact on Perception: Being labelled as a plant can affect how audiences perceive an artist, potentially leading to scepticism about their authenticity and talent. However, it doesn’t necessarily diminish their popularity or success.

Industry Plants - Another Form of Sexism in Music — Unpublished

How the Phrase ‘Industry Plant’ is Misused in the Music Industry

Eric Skelton’s article on Complex delves into the misuse of the term “industry plant”. Skelton explains that while the concept of industry plants is real, with music executives sometimes using their influence to promote artists, the term has been overused and misapplied to artists who quickly gain popularity, without clear evidence of label trickery or deception.

The article highlights that a true industry plant is an artist whose success is primarily due to industry connections rather than artistic merit or genuine fan interest. Skelton uses the example of 4Batz, a Dallas singer who became a sensation with just three songs. Despite accusations of being an industry plant, 4Batz’s rise was a result of viral success and not industry manipulation.

The article criticises the quick judgment of new artists as plants without substantial evidence, noting that the term is now used as a lazy dismissal of any rapidly rising artist. Skelton argues that the term’s overuse detracts from its original meaning and is counterproductive to understanding the music industry’s workings. He suggests that instead of hastily labelling artists as industry plants, people should focus on the music itself and decide whether they like it, rather than getting caught up in unproductive conspiracy theories.

Which Artists Have Been Tarred with the Industry Plant Brush?

Over the years, several artists have been accused of being industry plants, often due to rapid rises to fame or perceived sudden shifts in their musical style or image.

Here are some artists who have faced such accusations:

Billie Eilish: Due to her rapid rise to fame and the polished nature of her debut, some speculated that she had significant industry backing. However, Eilish and her team have consistently credited her success to her unique style and organic growth through platforms like SoundCloud.

Lana Del Rey: After her breakout with “Video Games,” some questioned the authenticity of her image and backstory, suggesting she was a creation of the music industry. Del Rey has been open about her struggles and journey in the industry, countering these claims.

Halsey: Halsey’s rise to fame, particularly after she collaborated with The Chainsmokers on “Closer,” led to some labelling her as an industry plant. She has spoken about her grassroots beginnings and the hard work that went into building her career.

Lizzo: Lizzo’s sudden mainstream success, especially with her album “Cuz I Love You,” led to some speculation about industry backing. However, Lizzo had been actively making music and performing for years before her breakthrough.

Travis Scott: Some have speculated about industry support in Scott’s rise, particularly given his connections with established artists early in his career. However, Scott’s unique style and production skills are often cited as the primary drivers of his success.

Post Malone: Post Malone’s quick rise after “White Iverson” led to discussions about whether he had industry support. Malone has talked about his journey and the work he put into his music before and after becoming famous.

It’s essential to approach the topic of industry plants with an understanding that the music industry is complex, and the path to success can be varied and nuanced.

The Controversy of The Last Dinner Party

In 2024, it is impossible to talk about music industry plants without mentioning The Last Dinner Party, the Brixton-hailing indie group, which has been described as a modern-day paradox due to the millions of pounds of marketing being poured into their inarguably artfully affecting music. Stream their 2023 hit single, Nothing Matters, once, and you won’t be able to fight the compulsion to keep returning to the earworm.

Given the gravitas of their music, there’s no denying they were worthy of their Rising Star Award bestowed upon them at this year’s Brit Awards after they became BBC Radio darlings opened for the Rolling Stones and Hozier.

The Last Dinner Party | Showbox Presents

However, The Last Dinner Party’s express route to notoriety isn’t the only source of contention surrounding the band after a misquoted statement suggested that people no longer wanted to hear about the cost-of-living crisis in post-punk music.

Criticism surged through social media, accusing the band of being out of touch, especially considering the lead singer, Abigail Morris’ background from the affluent Bedales School. Bassist, Georgia Davies, who initially made the statement while discussing the scarcity of bands at the Brit Awards, claimed that the statement was used out of context, and in her original statement she wanted to emphasise how people are seeking escapism in theatrical music amidst a challenging political climate. She emphasised the band’s awareness of their privilege and their passion for supporting independent music venues and artists from marginalised backgrounds.

Why Music Fans Are So Averse to Industry Plants in 2024

In 2024, the aversion to music industry plants stems from a growing awareness and appreciation of authentic artistic journeys, especially in an era where social media has amplified the visibility of independent artists.

When industry plants use a facade of grassroots growth, the perception of inauthenticity clashes with the values of transparency and genuine talent. The frustration is further heightened by the visibility of numerous talented artists who tirelessly work to build their careers without significant industry backing.

Social media platforms have made it easier than ever to witness the struggles and successes of these independent artists. Fans can now follow an artist’s journey from their early stages, often involving years of hard work, setbacks, and gradual growth. This direct connection and the transparent view into an artist’s development foster a deeper appreciation for their efforts and achievements. In contrast, industry plants are often seen as bypassing this struggle, gaining unfair advantages through connections and financial backing. This can be perceived as undermining the meritocratic ideal that the best talent, regardless of background or connections, should have the opportunity to succeed.

The visibility of hardworking artists on social media, who may struggle to gain recognition despite their talent, underscores the perceived injustice of the industry plant phenomenon. It’s a narrative of authenticity versus manufactured success, resonating deeply in a culture that increasingly values genuine artistic expression and the democratisation of opportunity in the music industry.

Every talented band who isn’t getting paid their dues in the industry will have been told, ‘all you need is one lucky break’ by well-meaning fans and politely agreed, meanwhile knowing that all they really need is millions in marketing money at their disposal. So is it any wonder that artists who rise to fame and get all the backing they could possibly need are posited as the natural enemy of the average independent artists tolling the dilapidated fields of the music industry? The same goes for promoters who pour their blood, sweat and tears into promoting an artist only to be ignored by the gatekeepers such as the BBC and NME.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

The December Dilemma: Five Reasons Why Independent Artists Should Rethink Releasing New Music During the Festive Season

New Music

As the winter chill sets in and the defrosting Mariah Carey for Christmas meme has circulated, December brings a unique atmosphere, one of nostalgia and celebration. However, for independent artists, this season presents a paradox. While it seems a tempting time to release new music, hoping to ride the wave of holiday cheer, there are several compelling reasons to reconsider your release strategy.

In this article, we will outline five of the main reasons why December might not be the ideal month for independent artists to debut their latest labours of love.

5 Reasons Why Independent Artists Should Avoid Releasing Music in December

  1. The Nostalgia Factor

December is a time machine, transporting listeners back to the warm, familiar tunes of yesteryears. The airwaves are saturated with classic hits and melodies, leaving little room for new entrants. This nostalgia-driven trend means that new tracks from independent artists often struggle to find an audience amidst the sea of timeless classics.

  1. Festive Frenzy Overload

The holiday season is a sensory overload – lights, shopping, family gatherings, and endless lists of obligations. Amidst this festive frenzy, music consumption patterns shift. People lean towards playlists that complement the season’s spirit, often side-lining new, unfamiliar music. This makes it challenging for independent artists to capture the attention of potential listeners.

  1. Financial Constraints

With wallets stretched thin due to holiday shopping and year-end expenses, music fans are less likely to invest in new albums or extravagant merch bundles. This financial crunch can significantly impact the revenue potential for artists releasing new music in December. You don’t want to build momentum with a campaign only for your efforts to be wasted because people’s disposable income has been swallowed.

  1. Year-End Reflections

As the year winds down, music enthusiasts and critics indulge in retrospection, compiling lists of the year’s best tracks and albums. New releases in December risk being overlooked in this reflective process, missing out on critical acclaim and end-of-year discussions.

  1. Promotional Pitfalls

The competition for media coverage is fierce during the holidays, with every sector vying for a slice of the festive attention pie. Independent artists often find it challenging to secure promotional opportunities, as larger, established acts with hefty marketing budgets dominate the scene. Furthermore, just like in every other sector, people working in the industry take time off, including Radio DJs, promoters, pluggers, journalists and playlisters. Even though it may seem that the music industry is always operational, it is far from the case, especially for smaller-scale operations that are more likely to give up-and-coming artists attention!

Why It Pays to Be Strategic with Your New Release Dates

While the allure of a December release is understandable, independent artists might find greater success and engagement by choosing a less congested time. A strategic release in the new year, when listeners are refreshed and eager for new sounds, could be the key to making a more impactful musical statement.

It is vital to remember that the first month of a marketing campaign sets the stages, captures the most attention, and creates an initial impression that can significantly influence the trajectory of an artist’s release.

In the digital era of music, much of music discovery and promotion is governed by algorithms, particularly on streaming platforms and social media. A strong performance in the first month can signal these algorithms to promote your music more widely, increasing your reach and potential fan base.

When Is the Right Time to Release New Music?

Choosing the right time to release new music is a strategic decision for independent artists, balancing industry trends, audience availability, and promotional opportunities. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, certain periods tend to offer more favourable conditions:

Early to Mid-Spring (March to May)

Spring symbolizes new beginnings, and the music world is no exception. With the winter holidays and major award seasons behind, listeners are often eager for fresh sounds. This period is less crowded than the end-of-year rush, giving independent artists a better chance to stand out.

Late Summer to Early Autumn (August to October)

Releasing music in late summer or early autumn can be advantageous. The industry starts to buzz again after the summer lull, but it’s before the holiday season’s frenzy. This timing allows artists to capitalise on the back-to-school energy and catch listeners before they switch to their holiday favourites.

January to Early February

The start of the year can be a strategic choice for release. The post-holiday calm means less competition, and people are often in search of new music to kickstart their year. However, it’s important to launch your campaign after the New Year’s festivities to avoid getting lost in the holiday hangover.

Mid to Late Autumn (Late October to Early November)

Releasing music during this time can be a smart move, especially if you avoid clashing with major holiday releases. Listeners might be looking for new tunes to accompany the change of seasons, and there’s a window of opportunity before the holiday music takes over.

Weekdays for Launches

Regardless of the month, consider launching your music on a weekday, typically Friday, which is the global release day for new music. This aligns with the music industry’s standard and maximizes the chances of getting featured on new release playlists.

Remember, these are general guidelines. The best release time also depends on your specific audience, genre, and marketing strategy. For instance, if your music has a summery vibe, a spring or early summer release might work best. Additionally, consider your readiness – it’s better to release when you’re fully prepared, rather than rushing to meet an arbitrary date.

But What About Christmas Songs?

If you have dreamed of releasing a hit Christmas song, you might be disparaged to read WIRED’s scientific explanation of why there hasn’t been a hit Christmas song in years. We’re not counting the atrocities LadBaby inflicted upon the world, illustrating how culture in the UK has never been in a sorrier state.

The article outlines how nostalgia plays a pivotal role in the enduring popularity of classic Christmas songs. These tracks often passed down through generations, create a sense of comfort and tradition that new songs struggle to replicate. The article also highlights how songs from as far back as the 1970s continue to dominate the festive airwaves, underscoring the challenge for contemporary artists to break into this nostalgic stronghold.

Furthermore, the music industry has undergone significant changes, particularly in how music charts are perceived and used. The rise of streaming services and the decline of traditional sales metrics have altered the landscape, making it more challenging for new songs to achieve the ‘classic’ status of their predecessors. This shift is exemplified by acts like LadBaby, whose novelty songs have topped charts in recent years, reflecting a change in what drives popularity and success in the music industry.

Interestingly, the article notes that even massive hits like Mariah Carey’sAll I Want For Christmas Is You” took years to reach their iconic status. This suggests that while new Christmas songs may be released, they require time to embed themselves into the festive canon, a process that can take decades.

The current music landscape, with its focus on streaming and novelty, further complicates this scenario, making it a challenging feat for contemporary artists to create the next Christmas classic.

For more advice on how to make the best moves in your music career in 2024, keep following our blog, and always let us know about your latest releases by submitting your music for review on our top 10 UK music blog.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

Kinda Scared: HANA IRENE eases all worries away with the atmospheric stunner, Alien

After lighting up our emotions on 2019s hugely memorable for the night drive, HANA IRENE returns with a rather magnificent single to open up minds no matter the galaxy on Alien.

HANA IRENE is a London, UK-based indie alternative music producer and singer-songwriter captivated by the escapism-feel of the space age and retro comic books.

She likes to mix 60s sultry vocals, soft rock and guitar with contemporary beats, basslines, and synths, with each EP or Album having a different theme and sound almost to reflect an aspect of that time. Her musical influences include Elvis Presley, The Ronettes and The Beatles but also Lana Del Rey, Beach House, and Frank Ocean.” ~ HANA IRENE

Taken from her new 7-track release called Space Station 98, HANA IRENE is rather spellbinding and shall alleviate our apprehensions away with this fearless effort to behold for its beauty.

Guiding us away from the bad energy and only flying toward where true romance shall blossom, this is a rather lovely single to cuddle with all night long.

Alien from London, UK-based indie music producer and singer-songwriter HANA IRENE is one of the more planet-hopping singles to get excited about in 2023. Showing us where the goodness is and asking us to get away from all polluted air, we find something rather inspiring to hold on tightly with as an angelic wonder transmits only pacifying vibrancy.

Listen up on Spotify.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

THISMINORITY mediates through the cold souls of his dastardly demons on ‘MEDI’

Showing that he is ready for the next step of his life after many years inside his own head, THISMINORITY is rather incredible on this new single to shake your ears awake like John Wick, ready for a rampage on ‘MEDI‘.

THISMINORITY aka Theo Minori is a mysteriously masked indie Hip hop artist who performs under a pseudonym to add to his thought-provoking enigma.

This PLACE being one of SELF LOVE and ACKNOWLEDGEMENT. Took me a long time to find the love that is the foundation and explanation for why I create I create what I create.” ~ THISMINORITY

Guiding us through hardcore rhymes that seem to shatter all the glass barriers you have put up inside yourself without even realizing it, THISMINORITY shows us a level of lyrical skill that has been hiding away for too long. His self-enlightened aura seems to grab your soul and wake it up from that pandemic slumber that has closed your eyes when you needed to be awake the whole time.

The reason This Minority’s face is hidden is not because of fear— it’s to show change, the metamorphosis out of the shell. A shell that was filled with inherited insecurities and generations of untouched potential. This change will inspire moments that will enhance revolutions.” ~ THISMINORITY

MEDI‘ from the underground Hip hop artist THISMINORITY is a devastatingly extraordinary song that shows us it’s possible to win the war inside your head, if you click into action when you’re ready to fulfill your destiny. Slicing his demons into half like a true samurai – this is a ninja-like experience – that might send your mind into overdrive. With a fierce mentality that knows that he is better than those sad small-minded folks who just try to bring you down to their sewage-smelling levels, this might the track your ears have been craving for all year.

When your eyes open at the precise time they need to, you know you’re ready for more than the scraps you have eaten before.

Listen up to this new day-changing single on Spotify and see more via the IG music page.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen