Psychedelic songstress ANIQO has released a video to accompany her new track ‘Fear.’ Directed by Matthias Pfeiffer (aka Pupillendriller) and produced by Guy Sternberg (Keane, Feist, Yoko Ono, Kings of Convenience) the video is a haunting visual translation of a potent track.
On ‘Fear’ ANIQO speaks of the control measures implemented by media, government, and religion, using masks and dimly-lit scenes as a literal translation. The evocative visuals are well suited to the atmosphere of the track, leaving the viewer with a strong message.
Speaking of the concept behind the video, ANIQO tells us: “The video symbolizes confrontations with various fears… Matthias and I have a similar perspective on the world, also in aesthetic terms. To visualize the feeling of a song is not easy but we managed to do that here. Fear has many faces and I became even more aware of that during the shoot.”
Halfnoise – the celebrated solo project of Zac Farro (Paramore) – announces their 4th studio album ‘Motif’,due November 5th, and shares new single ‘Superstition’.
Continuing from the sonic style of first single ‘Two Of Us’ (praised by DIY, DORK, Rocksound, Brooklyn Vegan and more), ‘Superstition’ is a swaggering, sexy confession of love punctuated with explosive bursts of vintage strings and funky rhythms that Farro’s smooth tenor vocals croon over the top of.
Motif, released via Zac’s own label Congrats Records is the soundtrack to a genuine, real life love affair. Inspired by his relationship with partner and collaborator Kayla Graninger, Motif charts the journey of new love…from infatuation to maturity, from New York to Los Angeles, from spontaneity to the everyday.
The story begins in medias res with the breezy, hand-holding, instrumental stroll fittingly titled, “Introduction.” From here, the record picks up with latest single, “Superstition,” setting the stage lyrically with the vulnerable, sincere adulations of a boy in love and way in over his head.
‘Motif’ unapologetically resides in the hi-fi mid-70s atmosphere of The Bee Gees, Gaye, Nilsson, Lennon and ELO, with swanky keys, nostalgic string arrangements, gushing sentiment and unrepentant saxophone — all without a hint of irony or parody. Noticeably forefront are the melodies, which find Farro louder in the mix than usual, more exposed, and stretching his vocal and poetic range. Meanwhile Halfnoise moves into previously unexplored musical and emotional territory with both passionate and playful abandon.
The album closes strong with Last Day on Earth, a dreamy, Mind Games-esque anthem combining the whole cast of instrumental characters in a rapturous, romantic crescendo as the two lovers fantasize about their relationship in apocalyptic metaphor. The story’s final image is of the couple gracefully accepting a world that is unaware of its own impending demise and indifferent to the warnings of the new lovers, who alone, in the purification of love, can see the truth.
Halfnoise was founded by Farro in 2010, and has gone through many different musical iterations. Acclaimed 2016 album ‘Sudden Feeling’ drew from elements of shimmering synth-pop, which quickly developed into 2019s ‘Natural Disguise’ which combined alternative rock, with disco elements, and which has led to the next chapter, beginning with ‘Two Of Us’ & ‘Supersition’.
Not one to rest on their laurels, since rejoining Paramore in 2017 Farro has released two EPs & one album under the Halfnoise moniker, as well as setting up his own label (Congrats) and producing the recent debut record from fellow Nashville artist and partner ELKE.
‘Motif’ is a bold new step for Farro & Halfnoise, exemplified by latest single ‘Superstition’.
Josephine Philiphas just released her stunning new single ‘The Clue.’ Centred around the acceptance of impossible love, the track is reminiscent of the sounds of Nina Simone or Nancy Sinatra.
Having worked with renowned producers including Christian Löffler and Trentemøller, Philip’s versatility as an artist is highlighted by ‘The Clue’, which saw it’s release via Midnight Confessions.
A simple, back to basics track, this pretty, vintage-style song is a pleasant ode to some of our great female vocalists. Speaking of the track Philip explains: “‘The Clue’ is a contemporary love song. It revolves around impossible love and the acceptance of it. The track is also an homage to Nina Simone’s version of Billie Holiday’s song Don’t Explain. Don’t Explain was written by Holliday in response to one of her husband’s affairs. When he tried to explain away why lipstick was on his collar, Simone responded disgustingly “Take a bath, man; don’t explain”.” The Clue is an inspirational tribute to the great women, their sound, storytelling and courage, who took to the microphone and stage before me.”
‘The Clue’features on the Spotify playlist POP_GROUND.fm
Los Angeles-based pop icon, iLana Armida, gives a refreshing new rendition of a love story as old as time on her upcoming hit single, “Summertime Love.” Having written music for several popular artists, including Doja Cat, Etana, and Common Kings, and performing alongside Lil’ Dicky and John K, iLana Armida definitely has the experience and know-how to create the next big pop track, which she undoubtedly will do with her upcoming single of many to come.
Opening with a slow build that grows into a smooth, wavy sound that really sets the tone for the rest of this summer vibed song. The vocal melody perfectly complements the airy synths and thumping bass sounds to create a sound that instantly makes you feel as if you’re driving in a convertible on a warm summer day or relaxing on the sandy beaches of California. Listeners are enveloped in the easy going but passionate nature that has come to define the character that Armida’s fans have come to know and love.
Summertime Love showcases the dedication to craft that has seen iLana wrack up over 7.6m Spotify streams on song writes, while sonically riffing on her trademark optimistic and joyful vibe. Herself of mixed heritage, she remains ‘ethnically ambiguous’ and draws on global influences resulting in music that transcends restrictions to any one location, promoting a spirit of inclusivity in all that she does. iLana Armida creates art that invites all to be welcome, feel accepted, and have a little fun.
I sing songs that incorporate multiple languages and genres purposefully so that people of all cultures and backgrounds and ethnicities can feel connected to the music…I want everyone to feel accepted and united.
