My ears have been glued to Kainalu’s recent releases. This artist has the amazing ability to create tracks that are simultaneously downtempo and groovy. With his latest track, “Finding Peace of Mind,” he allows us to do just that. An infectious synth melody meets low key vocals to send listeners into a sublime state of relaxation. Jazzy drums and deft bass work give this one a funky vibe that promises to have you floating through space like a jelly fish in no time. Press play and enjoy.
Well Ninjas… here we are in the first week of April, sequestered indoors with ample time to expand our sonic palates, and introduce new artists. And while I wish this writer’s return to TMN was under more optimistic circumstances, here we are nonetheless. Thus, to help pass the time and hopefully share some newer artists with our readers during our ‘stay-at-home’ mandate, it’s time to share a genre(s), which have helped incite a musical reawakening worth writing about.
Categorized over time as Darkwave as early as the late 70’s/early 80’s with artists like Iron Curtain, Lives of Angels, and even Gary Numan & Depeche Mode, to the contemporary genre tags of Coldwave, Goth-Pop & Gravewave; the concept -with roots emerging out of post-punk and New-Wave- of pairing simple pop arrangements with minor keys, lo-fi percussion kits, and heaps of reverb has managed to permeate throughout the landscape of alternative music for nearly five decades now.
Ann and Alexander of Close To Monday are quickly making a name for themselves with their immersive electronic pop sound, drawing comparisons to groups like CHVRCHES and Boy Harsher. Yet, what really sets them apart is their ability to create a soundscape that’s not just about the music. Listening to their tracks, you’re transported to cinematic worlds, reminiscent of the haunting beauty in “Drive” or the neon-lit, futuristic vibes of “Blade Runner”. It’s this blend of sound and imagery that makes their music an experience rather than just a playlist addition.
Now the focus is on “Lie”, it truly is a story of Ann and Alexander themselves that’s captivating. Their approach to music is like painting a picture, each note adding a stroke of color to their sonic canvas.
Close To Monday has already etched their mark in the music world, earning top spots in the Dutch Alternative Charts and acclaim for their music videos at film festivals in London, Rome, and Paris. This international recognition speaks volumes about their talent in marrying sound with visual artistry.
In essence, Close To Monday are storytellers as much as they are a band. Come join them in a world where music goes beyond sound but also brings you on an experience, a journey through emotions and imagery.
Just like the rest of the world that watched the newest season of Stranger Things, RUNN was enamored by the alluring Eddie Munson. The lovable misfit inspired the creation of “If The Devil is You” which follows up from RUNN’s previous solo single “How To Be Happy.”
We knew RUNN could do pop, but this synthy treat is an instant favorite among her incredibly deep discography. What makes this song even more special is that RUNN not only wrote and performed the song, but she produced it herself and released it independently as well. It’s a strong record that will have you falling for it just as easily as we all did for Eddie Munson.
“There’s something that Eddie embodied in the show, a misunderstood person, a complex and rough around the edges person, a social reject that really resonated with me. I’ve got a soft spot for people like that, and find that they’re the most loving and passionate people out there. I wanted to write a song to every person who’s ever felt like they weren’t supposed to love who they love, but said “fuck it” and did it anyways.” – RUNN
The LA meets London duo Medii has planted a major flag on 2022 with the release of their LP What If This Is All Real. The fourteen track project showcases the group’s dynamic talents with influences from electro pop to 80’s, to indie dance and beyond.
The synth-laden throwback vibes that oozes throughout this LP is one of its best qualities. It’s a glue that keeps this album feeling tight throughout. Another highlight that keeps things cohesive despite the wide range of talents involved are the vocals. From front to back What If This Is All Real is packed with memorable performances from the likes of Cat Cayenne, Gemyni, Sidney Blair and more. Medii delivered a massively fun listen that manages to also express emotional sentiments that will make the LP a timeless treat.
