Author Archives: Jake Balbes

[Chill] Earlly Mac – Naturally (Feat. JMSN) (Prod. Icepic)

Posted by Jake Balbes - January 7, 2015

Earlly Mac ft. JMSN
Naturally (prod by Icepic)

Stream the new release from proud Detroit native, Earlly Mac. The Finally Famous member delivers a stimulating tune in which he recounts a most sought-after woman from a night out. His vivid verse allow us to ‘Naturally’ paint the picture. As soon as those smooth vocals puncture your headphones you’ll be hooked; a ninja guarantees. The synth work is stellar and that drum kit really pops. Produced by Icepic, this one really has that bounce.

How does a record like this come together? “These things happen naturally.” An appearance by a Detroit neighbor, JMSN, takes the single to another level, “like an apple blossom tree.” This is a pleasant unveiling by a solid lineup of young talent. It would be great to hear more from all involved. Does anyone else feel really excited for music in 2015? This really sets the tone for what will be considered smooth in my book for the year.

[Chill] Cavalier- Flirt (Feat. DrewsThatDude) (R. Kelly Remix)

Posted by Jake Balbes - January 5, 2015

Cavalier
Flirt (feat. DrewsThatDude)

Buy

Producers Cavalier and DrewsThatDude link up on this remix of one of my personal favorites from the King of R&B, R. Kelly. These two really breathe major life back into this 2007 hit. I can vividly remember the weight that this song used to carry when I was back in High School. The lyrical delivery from Kells is as magical as ever. This rework feels natural and lures you in with its soft and elegant intro. Once that bass and melody come in though, this one really goes off. Not the best song for a complicated couple to enjoy together, yet I would still suggest it as a great night cap. It’s been a busy winter for Cavalier as he recently released a six track project entitled PIETA, which you can find on Bandcamp. DrewsThatDude has been quite active as well. Head over to his soundcloud to find some awesome work with Gravez, B N J M N, C. Justice, Fortune & much more. This is a perfect R&B tune to start off 2015. A tip of the cap is truly deserved.

[Electronic] DPTRCLB- I Wonder

Posted by Jake Balbes - January 5, 2015

DPTRCLB
I Wonder

Soundcloud

Really satisfied by my recent finding of DPTRCLB (The Departure Club) and their latest single ‘I Wonder’. From what I can unearth on the Internet, DPTRCLB began as a monthly clubnight and transformed into a musical project lead by Connor Nestor. This serves as a follow up to single ‘Horizon‘, which features some majorly impressive vocals from Auckland native Sam Allen. This laid-back tune is for the reggae/club fans and is best to be listened to with some quality headphones/monitors. I love how minimal this track can feel at times. It serves as a great reminder that less is more in many cases. Head over to the DPTRCLB soundcloud to find some great edits in addition to this relaxing joint.

Electronic

[Indie/Rock] Mesita – Heard You’re Happy

Posted by Jake Balbes - December 31, 2014

Mesita
Heard You're Happy

Soundcloud

Recorded in Littleton, CO, ‘Heard You’re Happy’ is the lead track on the brand new digital album, The Phoenix, from Mesita. This one grows with intensity and shows off some wicked personality. The extended tune is layered rather well and is a great report of what it feels like when distancing yourself from someone important. As I continue to listen, the more I enjoy the elegant piano keys and stimulating guitar riffs. I’m really looking forward to diving deeper into The Phoenix. You can find the full album on Bandcamp.

Read the below note posted by Mesita on Facebook in anticipation for the December 30th, 2014 release.

“This one has been difficult…

Been working on this album for a long time now, and it feels off. Lately, I’ve been in a bit of a bad headspace, and the new songs really reflect that. It’s bitter and it’s negative and not who I am or want to be. So much time and effort’s been put into it, so it needs to be released. But it comes almost as catharsis. “This is what it was, what’s next?”

For 2015, the aim’s to get back into the groove that drove me to make music in the first place. Have a few different things in the pipeline. I’ve had an idea stewing around for a bit, and the time feels right for it. The next album that I’ll begin work on will be a direct sequel, Here’s To Nowhere 2.

Thank you all for sticking around while I get sorted out. I love you all, man. Can’t begin to emphasize that enough.

The Phoenix out Tuesday on mesitamusic.com.“