Max Normal – Oh What a Thing

Hauntingly disjointed yet incredibly charming, this gem from Max Normal is another testament to the band’s natural talent. The beat is very unique and grabs one’s attention without fail. One of their more chilled songs, it is still a very brilliant piece that stands out from the rest. Maybe due to the way the beat doesn’t align with the chorus or perhaps it’s just Ninja’s attempt at a low-tempo performance that completely captures our ears. A truly exceptional piece that when compared to songs from the Die Antwoord era just goes to show the diversity in the band’s creative ability. You should definitely check out Max Normal if you’re a fan of their current format as it would help with your understanding of the band’s evolution.

Funkadelic – Maggot Brain

A crispy instrumental piece supported by spoken word delivered by Funkadelic’s own, George Clinton. “Psychedelic” wouldn’t even begin to describe the extent of this track’s quasi-paranormal sound. Even though it is over 10 minutes long, it certainly doesn’t feel that way and it completely drowns you in all its funky goodness. It can both be interpreted as a track depicting incredible joy and excitement as well as one morbidly illustrating a state of frustration and terrifying loneliness. One thing to note is that Eddie Hazel’s guitar solo is surprisingly unsettling whilst maintaining a level of serenity. Perhaps this is what provides this track with its unique sound. Somewhat of an acquired taste yet there is no denying that Eddie has managed to create one of the greatest guitar solos of all time.

8.5/10

Chet Faker Ft Banks – 1998

We’re loving this re-release of 1998, featuring the soulful and creative Jillian Rose Banks, AKA our beloved BANKS. Chet Faker’s original track is nostalgic yet energetic, but BANKS verse adds an additional dimension in the form of her sultry vocals, before her chorus gives the entire song an almost sinister sounding undertone. She brings in melodies reminiscent of her own track “Warm Water”, which complement Chet’s last chorus nicely. We love this collaboration and hope to hear much more from this particular duo in the (very near) future.

9/10

The Weeknd – Often (Kygo Remix)

With the Weeknd’s newest single ‘Often’ being released this summer, it wasn’t going to be long before someone released a remix to rival the original. Cue Kygo, Norwegian producer famed for his remixes of M83 and Ed Sheeran, to create a somehow even smoother version, with a pulsating synth that stabs through the echoing and cut up vocals. With a bass line subtle enough for the rest of the layers to become more complicated during the verses, the multiple silences in production are effective in highlighting its intricacy when it kicks in a few seconds later. A remix which, as stated earlier, could rival the original.

9.5/10

Andreya Triana // INTERVIEW

 

After having collaborated with Flying Lotus, Bonobo, Mr Scruff and Breach, being selected for the Red Bull Music Academy in Australia, having a critically acclaimed album under her belt and headlining the Roundhouse Summer Sessions show on Friday the 25^th of July, it’s safe to say Andreya Triana is riding her wave of success. We were lucky enough to catch up with the London based singer-songwriter to find out her secrets for cracking the industry she is now such an influential part of.

Eliza Shaddad – Waters

Raised across Europe and Africa, the now London based Eliza Shaddad creates an infectious folk song with a darker element churning its way throughout. The track starts off with a twinkling riff which immediately sets the sombre yet urgent sounding tone, which carries on right until the last chorus erupts into a confident, soulful climax.  Shaddad’s vocals are rich and controlled, remaining strong right up until the last line of the song. Having provided vocals for Clean Bandit tracks and opening for the likes of  Rudimental, SBTRKT and Mercury Prize-Winners Alt-J in the past, Waters is sure to push Eliza Shaddad further into her own spotlight.

9.5/10

Ben L’Oncle Soul – Seven Nation Army

This cover of the White Stripes classic adds a soulful, energetic twist which is refreshing and makes the track ideal for long summer days. The piano riffs which are sprinkled in throughout the duration of the track and the offbeat reggae style chords thrown in make for an altogether more uplifting listening experience than the original may have offered. Laid back and easy to listen to, the French singer-songwriter makes the track his own and adds an exciting twist to a well known, well loved classic.

8.5/10

SUBMISSION: The Sundance Kids – On the Mend

“On the Mend” is the first EP from Cardiff based indie rock band The Sundance Kids, and is slightly reminiscent of Arctic Monkeys circa “Whatever People Say I am..”, sound, with a raw sound which is somewhat easy to relate to. The chorus is catchy enough to stick with you but the overall sound’s not too overly polished, with the vocals and guitar giving the track a looser sound which works well. If you want to hear more from them, you can follow them here at @Sun_DanceKids

Ed Sheeran – Take it Back

Off the newly released ‘X’, ‘Take it Back’ is one of the understated standout tracks on the album, highlighting Ed Sheeran’s natural flair for songwriting and wordplay, as well as the ability to immediately switch between rapping and singing on cue. The song itself is more lyrical than it is melodic but this doesn’t detract from its infectious nature and ability to get inside your head and stay there. The lyrics are clever and insightful, giving a clearer glimpse into Ed’s personal life than his other tracks may have so far. Other great tracks off the album include ‘Don’t’ (supposedly written as a dig at ex Ellie Goulding) as well as ‘Bloodstream’ and ‘Tenerife Sea’. 

9/10

FKA Twigs – Two Weeks

The video for FKA Twig’s newest single  ‘Two Weeks’ just dropped and the whole thing pretty much sees her sitting in one place being as sultry and sexy as possible whilst mini versions of herself dance around her feet. The song itself is typical of her style; dripping in synths and R&B slickness, with her trademark ethreal voice making lines like “higher than a motherfucker/ dreaming of you hustler lover” actually sound quite cool. Her voice is captivating as always, and although not her best work, is worth a listen.

7/10