Author Archives: Clare Williams

[Acoustic] Patrick Wolf – Born To Die (Lana Del Rey Cover)

Posted by Clare Williams - September 18, 2012

Patrick Wolf is arguably the UK’s most innovative artist, and his musical career has seen him constantly experimenting with and altering his sound from record to record in order to create something new and fresh. So, it seems only natural that Wolf would cover “Born To Die,” by the eccentric pop princess Lana Del Rey. Wolf’s approach is far folkier than the original, and sees him pour all his energy into delivering heartfelt vocals accompanied by some gorgeous strings. If you’ve loved this track (and face it, why wouldn’t you?), then don’t miss Patrick’s new album Sundark And Riverlight, out October 15.

’Patrick Wolf – Born To Die (Lana Del Rey Cover)’

Buy

[Electronica] Ultraísta – Smalltalk (Four Tet Remix)

Posted by Clare Williams - September 17, 2012

Radiohead producer Nigel Godrich’s latest project is the experimental synth outfit Ultraísta, whose latest track “Smalltalk” has been tinkered with by Kieran Hebden, the brains behind Four Tet. All manner of shuffling, somewhat syncopated beats and rhythms collide in this version of “Smalltalk,” allowing the plaintive female vocals to come to the fore. An inspired twist on a great little track from Godrich and co, stay tuned for more from Ultraísta.

’Ultraísta – Smalltalk (Four Tet Remix)’

Soundcloud

[Hip-Hop] Jez Dior – Candles

Posted by Clare Williams - September 17, 2012

Jez Dior is one of the hottest up and coming hip-hop stars out there, and his first ever release “Candles,” show exactly why you should be excited. Not only does Dior sample a track by Daughter (one of our favourite artists), he also adds melody to his raps, creating a beautiful contrast of tough and soft. Jez’s ambition for this cut is matched only by his talent, and we’re expecting great things from him on Scarlett Sage, his forthcoming mixtape.

’Jez Dior – Candles’

Download

[Remix] Imagine Dragons – It’s Time (Passion Pit Remix)

Posted by Clare Williams - September 17, 2012

As good decisions go, getting Passion Pit to remix your hit single is pretty high up on the list, as Imagine Dragons have found out. The Vegas quartet just dropped their new record Night Visions, and Michael Angelakos and the boys have risen to the challenge of giving “It’s Time” the full synth-pop reworking. While the band have kept the soaring indie-rock vocals and some of the uke, “It’s Time” now resembles something of a tropical disco hit, with shimmering synths taking the lead. One of those tracks that will soundtrack your nights out for many months to come, this version of “It’s Time” more than proves Passion Pit’s talent as remixers.

’Imagine Dragons – It’s Time (Passion Pit Remix)’

Soundcloud

[Rock] The Zolas – Knot In My Heart

Posted by Clare Williams - September 17, 2012

The Zolas both look and sound like the next big thing to come out of Brooklyn, but the Canadian duo are in fact all about creating post-modern pop with a lo-fi sensibility. Take their stunning new track “Knot In My Heart,” which combines warm buzzy guitars and witty lyrics with some serious chart-busting pop hooks. At just over three minutes long, it is definitely on the short and sweet side, but we can guarantee you’ll be humming this infectious and joyful track all day. Don’t miss The Zolas’ sophomore record, Ancient Mars, out October 2.

’The Zolas – Knot In My Heart’

Soundcloud

Alternative/Rock

Liars – Point Your Pistols To The Sigh

Posted by Clare Williams - September 14, 2012

Once again, the Adult Swim Singles Program hits the spot with this new effort from Liars. “Point Your Pistols To The Sigh” is a jittery electro epic that shows a far darker side to the band’s music, while remaining firmly in earworm territory. With synths that sound like a million old video games slowly dying, we can guarantee that “Point Your Pistols To The Sigh” won’t be leaving your brain for a while after you’ve first heard its brooding doom-laden vocals.

’Liars – Point Your Pistols To The Sigh’

Stream Only

[Folk] Javier Dunn – Call Your Girlfriend (Robyn Cover)

Posted by Clare Williams - September 14, 2012

LA-based songwriter Javier Dunn picked up the guitar at the age of 10, and since then he’s never looked back. He’s worked with Sara Bareilles, and has put out several EPs since his debut in 2006. One of our favourite tracks from Dunn is this gorgeous acoustic cover of Scandinavian pop princess Robyn’s ‘Call Your Girlfriend’. Dunn has re-worked the lyrics to reflect a male perspective, and his simple guitar accompaniment makes an for incredibly emotional creation. Javier is currently recording another album, so stay tuned for more news.

’Javier Dunn – Call Your Girlfriend (Robyn cover)’

Soundcloud