Harriet Brown | The Music Ninja

[Nu-Disco] Trails and Ways – Downright (feat. Harriet Brown) (Falcon Punch Remix)

Posted by Ash El Gamal - July 14, 2015

Trails and Ways ft. Harriet Brown
Downright (Falcon Punch Remix)

Since we first caught wind of Trails and Ways all the way back in 2012, we’ve kept a close eye on the Oakland band. They’ve steadily built their following since then, but this year has truly been a breakout one for them. After signing to Barsuk Records early this year, they released their debut album, Pathology, which both showcases what we love about their radiant, organic sound all the while expanding their sonic scope. The track “Downright” falls into the latter category with a groove that manages to combine their signature, South American-tinted style with an ’80s groove and aesthetic. A verse from Harriet Brown, another Ninja favorite, ties that vibe together with his silky vocals that recall Prince.

A week ago, Denver-based producer Falcon Punch put out a remix of “Downright” that maintains the 80s-revivalist nature of the tune all the while transforming it into a nu-disco jam. Electing to place Brown’s voice first, Falcon Punch utilizes many of the original’s elements–the breezy guitar and the catchy backing piano–but with the help of perfectly placed pads and a BPM boost, breathes new life into the song without losing its charm. Take a trip back to the Neon 80s and grab a free download above.

[Slow Jam] Harriet Brown – 20/15

Posted by Ash El Gamal - February 25, 2015

Harriet Brown
20/15

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One look at the artwork for Harriet Brown‘s latest single should clue you in to the fact that he’s doing things a little different. The LA-based singer/songwriter/producer certainly has an impressive voice, but it’s what he does with that range that makes him such a promising up ‘n comer. After recently putting out “Fiction,” an excellent collaboration with Astronauts Etc. and Toro y Moi, Brown’s latest release melds an array of influences to showcase yet another facet of his creativity. From a production standpoint, “20/15” carries an 80s-revival feel with its sentimental keys and slowly unfolding percussion. Brown’s vocal dexterity and clever, thoughtful lyricism once again prove a focal point, though, as he brings elements of soul, funk and R&B into the mix making for a completely novel sort of slow jam. Press play above, grab the nearest lady or gentleman and hit the slow dance like it was middle school all over again.

Single artwork credit: Nick Almquist (design); Jason Barbagelott (photos)

[Chill] Harriet Brown & Astronauts etc. – Fiction

Posted by Ash El Gamal - February 3, 2015

Harriet Brown & Astronauts etc.
Fiction

Soundcloud

After dropping the impressive Sadie EP last year, Oakland-based producer/vocalist Anthony Ferraro, aka Astronauts etc., has returned with his first release of 2015, a phenomenal collaboration with rising LA talent Harriet Brown. “Fiction” rests on a wobbling bass-line layered with psychedelic, wavy instrumentation creating an ethereal atmosphere. It is the soulful vocals, though, that really bring the sonic on this track to life as Brown flexes his creative vocal delivery and range. With Toro y Moi‘s Chaz Bundick also contributing to the production, it comes as little surprise that “Fiction” ends up sounding like a chillwave masterpiece. If you’re not yet familiar with Harriet Brown, we’d also definitely recommend checking out his refreshingly unique New Era EP. Zone to this marvelous song above and, for all the SF ninjas, Harriet Brown and Astronauts etc. will be performing together for free tonight at Brick & Mortar Music Hall.