Author Archives: Ivan Chung

[Deep House] Uppermost – Talisman (feat. Lisa Alma)

uppermost
Talisman (feat. Lisa Alma)

Uppermost has always been a magician when it comes to chill music. The French producer is never afraid to experiment with new sounds while combining them with his own style. His previous New Moon EP was a classic example of that, as he provides us a series of funk/disco tracks with a little bit of indie vibe.

Uppermost’s new lead single, “Talisman” definitely reinforces a new direction for his sound. Featuring lovely vocals from Lisa Alma, this gem is a fusion of deep house elements with the producer’s signature dreamy furnish. It also lets us take a sneak peek into his upcoming Impact EP that’s going to be released April 22, which showcases Uppermost’s adaptation for the modern era dance music. We cannot wait to hear the rest of the EP, so stay tuned!

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Steve James – Renaissance feat. Clairity (ARMNHMR Remix) [TMN PREMIERE]

Steve James ft. Clairity
Renaissance (ARMNHMR Remix)

By the end of 2015, Steve James was making huge waves with his debut original track “Renaissance”, as we did a fun interview with him and got to understand his style of music a little better. Fast forward to four months later, the producer from Pittsburgh is set to release the “Renaissance” remixes compilation with the help of some talented friends.

Joseph Chung and Joseph Abella, together as ARMNHMR decided to add their own spin to the wonderful track and absolutely crushed it. Known for having a wide range of sounds, you never know what to expect from the two producers, and this remix is yet another genuine surprise. The melody-driven buildup gets straight to the point, and the vocals provide an infectious melody that will make you sing along to every word. The two different drops definitely highlight this track and provide some electrifying synth work, together with throbbing drums and occasional breaks.

ARMNHMR is no stranger to the dance scene, and this remix of “Renaissance” perfectly exemplifies that. We definitely look forward to more exciting tracks by the two Josephs in the near future.

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Fytch ft. Alisa Nappa – Over My Head [TMN Premiere]

Fytch
Over My Head (ft. Alisa Nappa)

Who doesn’t fancy some bass music to start off their Monday morning? Well we’ve got just the right track for you today. Following the success of “Sirens Over Paris”, which was played out by Porter Robinson during his Holy Ship set earlier this year, French producer Fytch has granted us with another gem off of his upcoming Falls Like Rain EP, and it’s definitely one of our favorites.

Fusing Alisa Nappa‘s alternative vocals with his signature heavy bass synths, Fytch knocks this one out of the ball park. “Over My Head” embodies an ominous and eerie atmosphere while getting your attention through infectious melodies provided by the lustful vocals. The drop combines the tweaked vocals and some electric sounding bass synth together with some trap elements. It’s unique in its own way, and we promise you’ll get hooked from your first listen.

If you dig the track, be sure to check out Fytch’s Falls Like Rain EP coming out on March 31 via Heroics Recordings. Trust us – you do not want to miss out.

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[Indie Dance] Ardency – Mechanism EP

Ardency never ceases to amaze us. Whether it’s their unique “neon 80’s” sound or their evolution as artists, the production duo undoubtedly sets a very high standard for other indie electronic acts. They’ve teased us with tracks like “Crystals” and “Races” off their EP, reminding us of their incredible talent. Now the wait is over, because their brand new Mechanism EP is finally here!

The four-track EP is definitely a game changer, as it perfectly showcases Ardency’s wide range of sounds. They step away from their usual neon dance vibe with “Like That”, which embodies a darker and heavier beat. The bassline resembles groups like Oliver who can masterfully fuse a retro sound with modern electropop music. “Crystals” is their hit single that has has an infectious melody with a the use of crystal synths. It shows a more chilled out side of their sound without losing authenticity.

“Races” stood out to us the most because of how different it is. The hardhitting bass towards the middle of the track was something we’ve never heard from them before, and it absolutely bangs. The melody-less bassline resembles the sound of REZZ, as it keeps adding to the epic buildup and outro of the track. It was definitely a favorite of ours. The EP ends with the title track “Mechanism” which once again features vocals by Icelandia. The soothing harmonies and the well-crafted synth create a dreamy and heavenly atmosphere, which is perfect for an ending track.

The whole project was a breath of fresh air, and it was easily their best work to date. We know for a fact that Ardency does not just make music that people want to hear, but rather some very original material that utilizes their creativity and brand of sound. Sky is the limit for these guys, and we certainly hope to expect more refreshing tunes in the near future. Peep the EP below and show some support if you dig!

Ardency – Like That
Ardency – Crystals (feat. Icelandia)
Ardency – Races
Ardency – Mechanism (feat. Icelandia)
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[Event Review] TMN’s 5 Favorite Acts from CRSSD Fest 2016

CRSSD2016_1

(All Photos by Summer Luu via ListenSD)

 

Following an epic weekend, CRSSD Fest might’ve just become our new favorite music event in California. Presented by FNGRS CRSSD, the two-day festival is everything we’d wish for and more. Even though it mildly sprinkled on Saturday night due to the El Nino weather, it’s safe to say this is the best CRSSD thus far. The Waterfront Park in San Diego was the perfect venue for a festival that features artists that preach good vibes and company. The palm trees on the side of the main stage stick out in an occasionally clear sky, and the rain might’ve just loosened us up a little bit more – the music made it that much better.

To sum up our experience at CRSSD, we’ve handpicked five of our favorite acts that we think best highlight the festival. Check out our list below after the jump (in no particular order).

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[Deep House] Hotel Garuda – Smoke Signals

Hotel Garuda
Smoke Signals

After much anticipation, Manila Killa and Candle Weather, together known as Hotel Garuda, are back at it again with the release of their first ever original track . Following the success of their “Feels” remix, the two producers combined their influences into a tune that pairs a deep bassline with some melodic vocals. “Smoke Signals” is a fusion of melodic and deep house elements, and it makes for a great modern dance track and the perfect club banger. If you’re not a fan of house music, give this a listen and it may easily change your mind.

Out via PRMD Music, “Smoke Signals” is definitely their best work thus far, as it clearly shows in the production of the track. With talents beyond their years, the dance duo will surely provide fans with more game changing tunes very soon.

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LOLAWOLF – Drive (Clayjay Remix) [TMN PREMIERE]

LOLAWOLF
Drive (Clayjay Remix)

Clayjay has been on our radar for quite some time now. Following the success of “Deer Stared At Me”, the young producer is back at it again with a brand new remix of LOLAWOLF‘s “Drive”.

The original tune is stripped and sped up to suit a rather casual vibe. Zoe Kravitz from LOLAWOLF provides an infectious melody with her delightful vocals, which complements the joyous energy of the tune. The signature synth stabs and swift drums in the drop will get your adrenaline level tenfold, and it’s definitely something we haven’t seen from Clayjay before.

This gem shows just how versatile Clayjay’s music can be. His evolving sound is something we look forward to with every new release. Make sure to show some support and grab a free download if you dig the track!

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