Browsing Tag

Soul Pop

Rokeby’s Cover of What is Love is an Arcane Sermon of Mourning, Desperation and Torment

For his debut single, the London-based up-and-coming artist, Rokeby, proved what difference a minor key can make when he melancholically reinvented the 1993 single, What is Love, which was a flood of euphoric momentum under Haddaway’s dance pop duress.

The acoustic rendering of the single completely recontextualised the lyricism; the minor key piano notes and the gospel-esque soulfully profound vocal harmonies allowed the cover to unravel as an arcane sermon of mourning, desperation and torment. The ethereal production which sees his vocal range defy gravity swims in sincerity, inviting you to get lost in the undercurrents of agony inflicted by the absence of affection or the presence of imperfect love.

By taking inspiration from Hozier, Tom Odell, Bon Iver, Freya Ridings and David Kushner for this track and the rest of his forthcoming EP, which was co-written and produced with Tom Fuller, Rokeby is set to become the UK’s biggest evocateur of 2024.

Rokeby’s debut single was officially released on February 21st; stream the single on Spotify, and keep the artist on your radar for the launch of his debut EP, which will follow in 2024.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Ty Ellenbogen unveiled the heart of modern RnB with ‘Stolen Time’

Ty Ellenbogen’s latest single and seminal piece of his Day by Day EP is a contemporary continuation of the ever-evolving RnB genre, which carries all the timeless soul of the greats. In Stolen Time, the singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer’s evocative vocal range shines as the melodious jazzy neo-pop instrumentals groove, shimmer, and envelop you in swathes of kaleidoscopic colour.

If The Weeknd, Drake and Frank Ocean are always in rotation on your playlists, you’ll easily accommodate this slick-with-innovation release that makes no bones about cutting to the candourous core of his bitter-sweet lament on investing in someone intent on deceiving their way through the dating pool.

The 20-year-old Nashville-hailing RnB Pop artist has been cutting his teeth in the music industry for the past 12 years and writing and recording original music for the past three. With his debut EP, he did more than prove to be a force to be reckoned with; he gave you a reason to fall head over sonic heels.

Stolen Time was officially released on February 23; stream the single and EP on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Dani Enli became the soul-pop supreme with her empowering RnB hit, used to it

Dani Enli’s debut RnB pop release, ‘used to it’, is a revelation in the world of bedroom pop. The Malaysian-Chinese Aussie artist, now an emerging icon in the pop scene, demonstrated swathes of talent that have been eagerly waiting to be unveiled. ‘used to it’ is a bold statement of Enli’s potential to not only hold dominion over the industry but to redefine the pop landscape with her contemporary sonic signature.

The track is a melodious, tonally tender anthem, resonating deeply with anyone who has felt burned by passivity and is ready to reclaim their power or find it for the first time. Enli’s skill as a singer-songwriter shines as she floods her own emotions into the production, ensuring the song unravels as a succinct, sweet, and rhythmically cathartic experience.

Enli’s background as a singer-songwriter, producer, and dancer, coupled with her journey from graduating as a doctor to pursuing her childhood dream in music, adds layers of authenticity and passion to her work. Her songs are not just melodies but vessels of healing and understanding, reflecting the power of music that has always resonated with her.

This track is just the beginning for Dani Enli. As she steps into 2024, poised to be the next pop trailblazer, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation for what she will bring to the table next. If ‘used to it’ is any indication, the future is bright for this talented artist.

used to it was officially released on February 2nd; stream the single on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Embrace the Chaos of the Soul with Wayne Wei’s Instant RnB Classic, Out of Control

Wayne Wei’s single Out of Control is a timelessly engrossing neo-pop masterpiece. With its staccato chords that luminously shimmer and pop and the enrichment of Wei’s vocal lines which draw you into a world where romanticism and retro timbres coalesce, the track is a testament to Wei’s organic magnetism as a sonic expressionist. The bluesy waltzing melodies lift the spirit beyond any known construct, embodying the essence of Wei’s unique musical vision.

Each element of Out of Control contributes to its overarching allure. The song is a standout track from Wei’s debut EP Cloud Chaser, which encapsulates the beauty found in life’s chaotic moments. Wei’s role as a multi-instrumentalist and producer shines through in this self-produced triumph, highlighting his ability to craft a sound that is both intricate and emotionally resonant.

Describing Out of Control as perfect might seem like hyperbole, but its impact on the mind, soul, body, and rhythmic pulses is undeniable. It’s a track that transcends the boundaries of conventional music, leaving the listener in a state of awe and admiration. Wei’s skill in blending high-calibre production with organic musical elements results in a piece that resonates with the listener long after the final note has played.

Rich in texture and depth, Out of Control promises a bright future for the NY-based Chinese artist. His ability to stay true to his romanticism of retro sounds, while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music, makes this track a must-listen for anyone seeking a truly unique musical journey.

Stream Out of Control as part of the Cloud Chaser EP, which hit the airwaves on January 5th on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Miranda Joy is an icon of graceful beguile in her latest single, Wasting My Time

Miranda Joy brought the proverbial house down with her latest single, Wasting My Time. Her classic approach to songwriting paired with the cutting-edge cultivation which resounds within the sophistication of the production allows her rapidly expanding fanbase to enjoy the best of both worlds as she delivers pure unadulterated emotion filtered through the lens of a relatable vignette.

It isn’t a stretch to say the vast majority of us waste life’s most precious resource as our time becomes trapped in digital vacuums or invested in people who aren’t worthy of our energy or attention, allowing Wasting My Time to unravel as a universally relevant release. The timely unveiling of the single, which coincides with when our motivations to keep resolutions slip, is sure to ensure the success of the single, orchestrated by the London-based luminary, whose voice has filtered through the O2 Academy Islington and graced the bill of The Great Escape Festival.

Her voice, a blend of raw emotion and refined artistry, carries the song with an effortless grace reminiscent of Joni Mitchell’s intimate narratives. Yet, there’s a stridency in her delivery, a nod to the iconic power of Prince’s Purple Rain. Even with the loungey adult contemporary elements filtered between the blues and soul layers, the accessibility of the single as Joy commands a panorama of emotions is palpable from the first verse.

Her past collaborations, like the acclaimed I Just Came to Dance with Carmy Love, and her contributions to Peter Beatty’s album, have all been stepping stones to this moment. Wasting My Time is a testament to her growth as an artist and a harbinger of the incredible work we can expect in her upcoming releases.

Wasting My Time is due for official release on January 19; stream it on Spotify. 

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Martina Stokes emancipated her listeners from self-degradation through the empowerment within her pop hit, Lose My Breath

Martina Stokes, a Canadian pop sensation in the making, has made an indelible mark on the music scene with her latest hit, Lose My Breath. Born into a musical family and raised on a diet of soul and powerhouse classics, Martina’s journey from a classical pianist to a pop icon is as inspiring as her music. Her latest offering is a clarion call to a generation, showcasing her as an unstoppable force in the contemporary pop era.

Martina’s voice, powerful enough to slice through the static of superficial pop, places her at the pinnacle of her generation’s pop artists. The track itself is a departure from the typical narratives of vulnerable love and heartbreak. Instead, Martina channels her emboldened energy into this fiery hit, delivering a message of self-worth and empowerment that resonates deeply.

The polished-to-perfection bold rejection of the stereotypical doe-eyed pop protagonist is a proclamation of the power you unchain when you assert your own value in love and life. The theme of emancipation from self-degradation is amplified by the track’s robust, bass-heavy beat, which perfectly complements her vindicating vocal lines. Drawing inspiration from legends like Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, Martina’s influence is evident in her vocal delivery and the soulful depth of her music.

Martina Stokes, with her unyielding dedication to her craft and her ability to weave powerful narratives through her music, is a visionary reshaping the landscape of modern pop music. Lose My Breath is a clear indication that Martina’s future in the music industry is not just promising; it’s luminous.

Stream Lose My Breath on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Hannah Johnson’s Latest Single, Slow Motion, is a Soulful Pop Revelation

American singer-songwriter, Hannah Johnson marked her striking entry into the music world with her debut single Slow Motion. This soulful pop masterpiece deftly subverts conventional pop tropes, introducing a fresh and invigorating sound to the genre.

From the outset, the track captivates with its killer slap bass, a bold choice that enriches the song’s texture. This element, woven into the intricate mix, creates an intoxicating rhythm that embodies the essence of the song’s theme: how passion can seemingly halt the passage of time. Johnson’s skill in blending this unconventional bass line with the traditional pop structure is a testament to her innovative artistry.

Johnson’s vocals are nothing short of mesmerising. Her smooth, sultry tones glide effortlessly over the exotic instrumentals, creating an auditory experience that is both soothing and exhilarating. The way her voice intertwines with the music evokes idyllic and deeply emotive imagery. This imagery, coupled with the song’s warm melodies, makes Slow Motion an ideal antidote to chilly December nights.

For those seeking a fresh pop sound, Hannah Johnson’s Slow Motion is a must-listen.

Slow Motion was officially released on December 15; stream it on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Abeni embarked on a soulful journey between past and present with her seminal single, Better Days

Abeni tapped into the collective distaste for the present through the heartfelt expression in her single, Better Days, from the debut EP, Lesson Learned. The track is a poignant narrative that encapsulates the essence of nostalgia, introspection, and the deeply human tendency to yearn for days gone by.

Abeni, whose journey from a shy, music-averse child to a multifaceted artist, infuses Better Days with a depth that is both personal and universally relatable. The song is a lament on the present, a reflection of fear towards an uncertain future, and a longing to recapture the bliss of the past.

Sonically, Better Days is a masterful blend of genres. Abeni’s background, spanning from classical to jazz and pop, is evident in the way she weaves these influences into a soulful tapestry. The track is underpinned by grooves reminiscent of 90s R&B, yet it feels utterly contemporary. Her voice, rich and emotive, acts as a guiding light through the layers of sound, ensuring that the listener feels every ounce of the song’s emotional weight.

The song traverses the personal and the universal, touching on the collective desire to find solace in the past as we navigate an often-tumultuous present. It’s a testament to her skill as a songwriter and her sensitivity as an artist.

Abeni Mason-Draffen is not just a singer; she’s a storyteller, and her stories need to be heard. As she continues on her musical journey, one thing is certain: the future is bright for this talented artist.

Stream Abeni’s debut EP on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Matt Brown will etch his way into your consciousness with his latest soul pop serenade, Everyday

Matt Brown’s neo-pop single Everyday is a soulful serenade that lingers long after the last note has faded. This contemporary crooner’s offering etches upon the listener’s consciousness with a calligraphic eloquence scarcely seen in the internet era of music as the euphonic depth of the production swells with oceanic propensities; each wave of sound carrying with it a quiescent surge of sweet beguile.

Everyday stands as a testament to the potency of razor-sharp songwriting chops as Brown’s musicality and craftsmanship are undeniably exhibited to showcase a command of sonic storytelling which captures the complexities of passion and how it can weigh heavy on the soul.

As the founder of the Soulfam Collective and a full-time musician, Matt Brown’s fluency across various instruments and styles imbues his music with an uninhibited expression; rather than marring his sound with loyalty to one genre, he teases a smorgasbord of style into his sound.

Everyday confirms Matt Brown’s place in the pantheon of artists who are not just creating music but are also moulding experiences for their listeners. With each release, including this latest gem, Brown continues to grow his presence and influence, becoming a staple in the spaces where soul and contemporary pop converge.

Everyday hit the airwaves on November 17: stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Synthpop’s silver-tongued evocateur, Cavono, exhibited his cultivated authenticity in his soul-draped single, Smooth Talking

The silver-tongued soul crooner Cavono has revolutionised the synthpop landscape with his deep, bass-y and baritone vocal lines in his latest single, Smooth Taking, which does exactly what it says on the tin.

By transcending the synthpop trend and staying unapologetically true to his urbane expression style, he delivered yet another elegant and cultivated track that will swallow you whole as you experience the smooth nostalgia-tinged melodies against the ardent backbeat, which exemplifies the singer-songwriter’s impassioned air that you’ll want to share time after time.

Before releasing his official debut single, ZELUS, in 2022, the Illinois-born, Fort Worth, Texas-based artist struggled to find a genre he resonated with, compelling him to craft his own delectably debonair sonic signature. By taking fragments from his favourite artists, including Dean Martin and DNCE, and carving out his own melodic niche, he became one of the most promising artists in 2023.

Smooth Talking is now available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast