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Music News

The Gardens of Babylon will host their debut Amsterdam music festival

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Date: May 14th

Location: NDSM wharf

Doors open: 12.00

Official Event | Tickets

On May 14th, The Gardens of Babylon will host its first Amsterdam music festival at Noorderlicht and NDSM in Noord with the likes of

Matthias Meyer, Yulia Niko, Robag Wruhme, Blond:ish, Stavroz [band], Kevin Valentine (live), Nasiri (live) and soundofoz amongst tens more.

After a long winter whirlwind of restrictions and lockdowns, and thus inevitable letdowns and setbacks, you may have found yourself in a deliberate state of hibernation.

It’s time to awaken from the slumber, after a period of transformation and change. Spring is here, summoning us to break free from our cocoons, emerging as colourful butterflies.

Transforming the NDSM wharf into a garden of vivid hues and inspiration, we invite you to wear your most colourful outfit to spread your wings and flutter freely.

Divided over three stages, you will find DJs, live bands, acts, immersive performances, speakers, spiritual activities, and much more.The first stage offers 12 hours of music from the likes of Kompakt associate Blond:ish, a full band show from Stavroz who are known for injecting an overall ethnic, acoustic and organic vibe to electronic music, and electric back to back between Madmotormiquel and Sarah Wild. Also playing are Arabella Memdouh, Arabella Memdouh, Niv Ast [live] and the Kalaha Moon band.

Area 2 welcomes innovative talents from the worlds of house and techno including long time Watergate resident Matthias Meyer, the leftfield studio wizard and genre bending DJ Robag Wruhme and Berlin based Yulia Niko who releases on Damien Lazarus’ Rebellion imprint as well as a hybrid show from Garden City Movement and a set from Sinai.

Area 3 is Levantine House and welcomes soundofoz, live shows from Nasiri, Kevin Valentine and Nawras Altaky as well as more from Breath & Energy, Salmaan and Hamada’s Dabkeh.

Lineup

Area 1:

Arabella Memdouh

Kalaha Moon [band]

Dandara

Niv Ast [live]

Madmotormiquel b2b Sarah Wild

Stavroz [band]

Blond:ish

Area 2:

Sinai

Garden City Movement (hybrid)

Robag Wruhme

Yulia Niko

Matthias Meyer

Area 3 (Levantine House):

Breath & Energy

Salmaan

Nawras Altaky (live)

Hamada’s Dabkeh

Kevin Valentine (live)

Nasiri (live)

soundofoz

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Hot Dub Rave Machine — Melbourne

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Announcing

Hot Dub Rave Machine — Melbourne

Having consistently delivered the best party vibes around Australia and the world over the past ten years, Hot Dub Time Machine is back with a brand-new show celebrating the best in dance music from 1990-2022.

A full audio-visual experience, Hot Dub Rave Machine will be a two-hour journey through dance music history, featuring 100 of your favourite tunes from The Prodigy to Fisher, Faithless to Flume & Daft Punk to Darude.

Register for presale to secure your spot on the dancefloor

THE TIMBERYARD

The Timber Yard is a 6,000sqm Port Melbourne industrial warehouse space, comprising of both indoor and outdoor areas. The Timber Yard is a landmark Melbourne venue which has remained true to it’s heritage of second-hand timber storage and fabrication.

Click Here To Register

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Music News

Circle

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Where are you currently based?

Enmore, NSW, Australia. Which shares the same postcode as Newtown. Why do they make suburbs share postcodes sometimes? The lesser of the two always knows who they are and carry around an inferiority complex for the entire existence. I’m going to print some t-shirts that say Free Enmore and see where that gets us.

What’s been happening recently?

Mostly it’s work and recalibrating to a new normal after lockdowns and the restrictions that impacted how we work. Anything related to music falls just a little outside of that so even though it’s ‘work’ I’m writing these answers at 6:12 am so that I can get to work on time!

You have an album on the way, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

The sound wasn’t directly influenced by anyone or anything but it’s nothing new insofar as it’s an album driven primarily by simple acoustic guitar. The sound is a little different to works we’ve previously produced because the four track tape machine was front and center on every song. The songwriting itself all came about in a couple of weeks in December 2020 during a particularly dull lockdown period.

How did you go about writing this album?

Songs that are easy to write are the most fun to write and also the easiest to finish. You seem to open a channel for truth (or at least relative truth) and it pours out of you. To keep with the water analogy, I’m still unsure how you control or if you even have any control of how open the tap is. These songs were easy to write and easy to finish and so hopefully honest and resonant.

What does this forthcoming album mean to you?

Every song on the record is a person’s name and someone that is known quite well to us. Al, Lucy, Helen, Dan, Tam, Sid, Eddie, Katherine, Mac and Nadia. There’s a couple of less common names there but it’s interesting to point out that almost everyone has an Al or a Lucy or a Dan in their lives. They started as songs specific about the people but then grew and blossomed into archetypal concepts that we hope people can relate to and enjoy.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

The songs were all recorded at Enmore Audio during 2022. Because of the concept that we wanted everything to be tracked to cassette it was useful having Owen Pengliss here as recording engineer; he loves analog gear and was more than up for the challenge. Noah Church played quite a few of the electric guitars and whenever there’s drums that’s most likely Owen. We mixed the album as a team over several months and also mastered the tracks at Enmore Audio.

What programs/equipment did you use?

A couple of our favorite mics were across pretty much everything. A Neumann M147 and an AKG c414 were up and ready to go at every tracking session. They went through one of either of our UA6167 channel strips and then straight into our four track Tascam. Those takes were then bounced and lined up in Pro Tools for mixing.

Your sound has moved in a new direction, what prompted this?

It’s more of a concept sound inspired by the limitations of lockdown and something we just wanted to explore for a very long time. We’ll almost certainly go back to the production style found on Another 69 Love Songs Part 1. After all, we’ve committed ourselves to producing part 2 and 3 at some point! Of course if the world absolutely loves

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Destroyer’s new album Labyrinthitis. Which after typing out for the first time I realise is a real word and after a quick Google search realise it’s a condition of the ear! I hope that doesn’t mean our good friend Destroyer has Labyrinthitis?! Anyway, an album well worth checking out.

What’s planned for 2022?

Music wise, Circle has been collaborating with quite a few artists and we’re in two minds as to whether or not it’s okay to release some of these tunes while we’re in an album cycle. It can quite often be a two year cycle between writing a track and having the material out there in the world so tossing up the notion of a new paradigm where it’s totally okay to drop singles left and right regardless of the album cycle you might find yourself in.

Triple J Unearthed | Facebook | Youtube

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Music News

Sarah MK ‘Mittos’ Premiere

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah MK strikes the balance between message and music with graceful mastery. Seamlessly alternating from slow-burning R&B to full-blown MC, she has an impressive sonic versatility, characterized by fine-tuned lyrics over warm, soulful backdrops.

Sarah is an Université de Montréal alumni, with a bachelor’s degree in Jazz vocals. She independently released her 2011 debut “Worth It” to widespread acclaim from music critics and fans alike, becoming a sought-after collaborator at home and abroad. She’s worked with the likes of local legends Dubmatique, virtuoso pianist Anomalie, family-oriented trio Brown and emblematic RapKeb group Dead Obies, among countless others. MK has extensively toured North America and Europe, whether at international festivals performing as a soloist or in support of such highly regarded acts as the incomparable Fred Wesley, Canadian rapper Socalled and world-renowned clarinetist David Krakauer for the funk-klezmer hybrid project Abraham Inc.

Her new album Wax & Gold marks a return to form for the visionary songstress. Reminiscing on a chance encounter with mega-impresario Scooter Braun where her sonic aesthetic was brought into question, Sarah found herself at a personal and professional crossroads. Considering the current R&B climate, she originally sought a more folk-oriented direction. This marks the beginning of her ongoing collaboration with multi-instrumentalist Christopher Cargnello, who along with MK co-produced the album. The core of her band, composed of keyboardist Caulder Nash, drummer Anthony Pageot and bassist Jonathan Lorgis was first assembled during a local Jazz bar residency in 2017. The bulk of the material is a byproduct of the synergy that was born of those rehearsals, one that can only be achieved through jam sessions with live musicians in flow state. Sarah wrote 8 out of the project’s 10 songs during a 3-month creative outburst in 2018. About the impetus to compile her album, she says: “I went in with the intention of ‘let’s play together'”. The formation is completed by a horn section made up of Andy King, Alexandre Dion, Christopher Vincent and Rachel Therrien.

She addresses a wide array of themes, such as in the nostalgic “Hey Richard”, a song about an involuntarily estranged friendship, or the tongue-in-cheek “Pancakes For Supper” a syrupy Funk number co-written by Salin Cheewapansri on the drums. Sarah’s all-star assembly of artists and musicians helps bring her songs to life, enlisting recording artist Clerel and co-writer Judith Little to assist on vocals as well as Caro Dupont, who plays the flute on “Goodbye”.

Sarah’s acoustic sojourn eventually gave way to a full-circle moment where she fully embraced the Neo-Soul that informs and inspires her to this day. On reconnecting with her live music roots, she concludes: “You’ll find me at my best on stage.”

PLAY/LISTEN

http://www.sarahmkmusic.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/SarahMKOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/Sarahmkmusic/

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Music Interviews Music News

Nuela Charles

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Where are you currently based?

I am an artist based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I have been here for the last 13 years, and have loved developing as an artist here.

How did you first start playing music?

I first started playing music because my dad had an acoustic guitar in the house. I taught myself how to play using tabs from popular songs, and eventually started writing my own songs.

What’s been happening recently?

Recently I was awarded the SOCAN Foundation HER Award. It is an award given out to two female-identifying artists in all of Canada for their accomplishments within their careers. It was really cool and I was very honoured.

Your new single ‘Awakening’ will be released on April 1, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

“Awakening” is one of those songs that went through the most work to get to where it ended up. It started out as more of a downtempo afrobeat song, but definitely evolved into this anthem about standing in your light and owning your space.

How did you go about writing ‘Awakening’?

When I started writing “Awakening” I had the verses all flushed out already. It was more of a rap sing kind of feel, that I haven’t really explored before. And then when we finally figured out the feel of the song and the chorus, the lyrics and melody came and fit in there so well.

Where and when did you record/produce/master?

I started the song in my apartment in September 2021, but then went to Los Angeles in October to finish working on it with producer Matt Parad (Selah Sue, Will Joseph Cook). We did a bunch of songs together over a 2-week span, and then I had it mastered in Toronto, by Grammy-nominated João Carvalho.

How did you approach the recording process?

With this project I was very hands on. Everything started from an inspiration nugget that I started by myself, and usually ended up writing the first verse and chorus. And then once I was confident in that I would send it to my producer, and he would flush out the production, and give me a song structure to allow me to finish writing the lyrics. We definitely got the songs mostly done, before I went to LA to record lead vocals and finish production. I then recorded the backing vocals in my apartment when I got back home in November. The rest was such a blur but it was all mixed and mastered by mid-December.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

My usual go to’s are Nothing but Thieves or Sam Fender, but I have a Spotify playlist that I updated each month, with new discoveries and songs that I’m loving. At the top of that list currently are Young Franco feat Pell, Sycco, Royce Wood Junior and Wolf Alice to name a few.

What do you like to do away from music?

To be honest this is something that I am working on – actually having a life outside of music. However, I really enjoy watching movies, or being outside on my grandparent’s farm with their horses.

What’s planned for 2022?

2022 is going to be filled with tons of new music! I’m super excited to be able to kick off this new era of Nuela Charles songs that are the most reflective of who I am as a person and an artist.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Fave food would definitely be Mexican. And I really like hanging out at home – is that weird? If I’m not working – I like to chill because I know how it feels to be super busy and always on the go, and I’m definitely slowly heading into that season, so I’ll take couch nights while I can!

Website: http://www.nuelacharles.com

Twitter: @nuelacharles

Facebook: /nuelacharles

Instagram: @nuelacharles

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Festival News Music News

TOUR ANNOUNCEMENT | FULL TILT FESTIVAL RETURNS IN JULY WITH A HUGE LINE-UP!

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Ready Player Two!

Just when you thought Full Tilt was done and dusted for 2022, the team at Destroy All Lines have brought their A game to deliver a sequel of truly epic proportions, with an army of international and local alternative acts ready to descend on the East Coast this July.

Boasting more star power than Mario on an invincible race to the finish line, Full Tilt will journey from Eatons Hill Hotel in Brisbane to the heritage-listed Bella Vista Farm Park in Sydney, before closing out proceedings at PICA (Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts) in Melbourne.

As for the bands ready to roll in round 2 of Full Tilt this year?

Fearlessly leading the pack are California metalcore heroes The Ghost Inside armed with their blistering self-titled fifth album released in 2020. Expect an absolute sonic KO from these LA lords when they take the stage. Also joining in on the action is Florida rock staples Underoath who will bring their brand-new album Voyeurist along for the ride, while pop rock gets set to entirely level up in the hands of acclaimed genre-chameleon PVRIS.

Hard rock and gleeful horror will collide when melodic heavies Ice Nine Kills start their engines, while some of Australia’s finest alternative acts will bring all of the riffs and riotous combos to proceedings, from deathcore icons Make Them Suffer to odd world aficionados Ocean Grove, Brisbane’s rock juggernauts WAAX, Adelaide indie sensations Teenage Joans and punchy pop-punk prodigies Yours Truly.

Also wielding some extra international glitz and grit, The Wonder Years will bring some searing feels alongside some mallgoth goodness courtesy of carolesdaughter, and punked-up bliss from Static Dress. And prepare to unlock some extra heavy Aussie spice via Saviour and To The Grave.

It ain’t game over just yet – get set for even more Full Tilt in 2022! And prepare to unlock.

Early Bird Tickets on sale: Monday 11 April, 9am local time

Sign up for early bird pre-sale here

General Public Tickets on sale: Wednesday 13 April, 9am local time

FULL TILT FESTIVAL LINE-UP:
THE GHOST INSIDE
UNDEROATH
PVRIS
ICE NINE KILLS
MAKE THEM SUFFER
OCEAN GROVE
WAAX*
THE WONDER YEARS
YOURS TRULY
TEENAGE JOANS
CAROLESDAUGHTER
STATIC DRESS
SAVIOUR
TO THE GRAVE

*Sydney + Brisbane only

DATES AND VENUES:
SATURDAY 16 JULY – EATONS HILL OUTDOOR AND BALLROOM, BRISBANE
SUNDAY 17 JULY – BELLA VISTA FARM, SYDNEY
SATURDAY 23 JULY – PICA (PORT MELBOURNE INDUSTRIAL CENTRE FOR THE ARTS), MELBOURNE

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Music News

Tasman Keith + Genesis Owusu share venomous ‘CHEQUE’ lifted from A Colour Undone LP out July 8

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Photo by Harry Chalker

ACCLAIM FOR TASMAN KEITH

“A man on a mission”
triple j

“Tasman Keith’s career is showing no signs of slowing down”
NBN News

“His sights are firmly set on global superstardom”
NME Magazine

“All up, the rapper was on stage for barely five minutes all night,
but that was all it took for him to steal the show”
The Australian

“Razor-sharp lyrics, effortless flow and a staunch pride for his hometown”
triple j Unearthed

“…Keith’s career appears ready to lift off”
Billboard

“One of the best examples of pure Australian hip-hop we’ve been treated to”
Complex

“Meet the Australian Rapper Lending a Voice to the Voiceless”
VICE

“A formidable voice in hip-hop”
Red Bull Music

“Determined to use his platform to give a voice to the voiceless”
Acclaim Magazine

“He’s taking no prisoners”
Life Without Andy

“Tasman Keith is taking control of the narrative”
FBi Radio

“Making waves”
Monster Children

“One of the most exciting voices in hip hop in Australia right now”
Purple Sneakers

“Tasman Keith is unstoppable”
Pilerats

Star on the rise Tasman Keith today shares ‘CHEQUE‘, a noxious collaboration with six-time ARIA Award winner Genesis Owusu, lifted from Keith’s upcoming debut album A Colour Undone out this July 8 via AWAL. LISTEN + WATCH HERE.

‘CHEQUE‘ picks up the boastful swagger of previous release ‘5FT FREESTYLE‘, which saw Keith debut one of two personas whose journey will unfold through A Colour Undone. ‘CHEQUE‘ sees the reappearance of an insolent, devilish ego that thrives on self-indulgence and conceit. What begins as a stripped-back gospel service rapidly snaps into fury – ruminating on the need for a saviour, for “someone that’s going to come down to this earth and just do something for us,” salvation arrives through a steadfast beat-switch. Here Tasman and Genesis share a wrath as unapologetic and vicious as Pusha T and No Malice, be it Keith‘s remark “I told her watch em ego trip, I bust their ego lip” or Owusu‘s “You put your name next to mine, the audacity.”

In Tasman‘s words, “CHEQUE’ is the continuation of the character introduced in ‘5FT FREESTYLE’ split into two parts, the abrasive ego and then the controlled version of that ego. Lyrically it’s just having something to say over some crazy production. I called Genesis and told him I had a joint for him to talk his shit on… a few weeks later he rolled through and locked in the verse.“ Genesis Owusu shares, “Tasman specifically told me to flex. Talk that talk. The weirdo shit is cool but it’s time to rap.”

The visuals of ‘CHEQUE‘ are made up of two parts; The first represents the suppression of an abrasive ego and the elimination of superficial tendencies through destroying facades and false perceptions of one’s own individualism (the destruction of the television & the burying of Tasman’s ego). The second explores accepting one’s individuality through success and revelling in it (showcased in the laissez-faire, stylistic direction during the second half of the video).

Of the video, director Zain Ayub shares, “Tasman is so committed to his craft and his vision that it was an amicable and exciting discussion we had to explore the ideas for Cheque; his openness allowed the idea to flourish. After brainstorming independently, the idea of burying Tasman alive was born and we filmed the destruction of the television and the grave shot on the same day we filmed 5FT Freestyle in Bowraville. Initially, I wrote a narrative-driven concept that would showcase both Tasman and Genesis in a new light: confronting their own alter-egos, in a darker setting, however, this evolved into a simpler approach to the video. Instead of tackling a narrative/conceptual idea, I felt it was apt to lean into the ‘fun’ nature of the sonics. Focusing on a playful yet serious direction that showcased more personality complimented both artists in this piece. Tasteful, simple and bold.”

‘CHEQUE‘ arrives on the heels of ‘LOVE TOO SOON‘, a soulful jam from Keith immediately embraced by iHeartRadio, The Edge 96.1FM, triple j, Rolling Stone, NME, MTV, RAGE and clamour to the local music industry alike, including appearances at the Sydney Kings half-time show at Qudos Bank Arena and the Mulubinba / Newcastle Entertainment Centre supporting Midnight Oil last month. Earlier this year, ‘5FT FREESTYLE‘ accumulated fever from Complex, Billboard, The Guardian, NBN News, Acclaim, Sniffers, Life Without Andy, Pilerats and many more. Plus this April, Tasman will embark on a series of regional tour dates around the East Coast of so-called Australia. To find peace at COLOUR LIVE: THE ALBUM EXPERIENCE, see all tour routing details + ticket links BELOW.

Tasman Keith‘s debut album A Colour Undone carries itself with a self-assured sense of its own gravity, ambition and purpose. Granted the full canvas of the album format, experimentation and emotional nuance find room to thrive, and Tasman‘s stylistic horizons move outwards while his lyricism narrows. With the majority recorded over six days and executive produced by Tasman and Kwame, A Colour Undone is the product of an irreproducible mind space, deft in its embrace of imperfection and devoid of overthinking.

Through metaphor and his lived experience, A Colour Undone ruminates on love, loss, trauma, healing and ego; as dexterous, clever and linguistically adventurous as it is moving. Tasman pulls himself apart, atomising the sensitive and difficult terrain of his undoing and the subsequent piecing back together again. As he unspools the threads of his own self, Tasman uncovers an emotionality and a sense of openness that has previously lain dormant within his work. At its centre, A Colour Undone revolves around a doomed romance, one that slows and, ultimately, brings low the unhealthy ego that defines the record’s opening stanza, propelling Tasman Keith toward self-reflection, reconciliation and, at last, clarity.

‘CHEQUE ft. Genesis Owusu‘ is out now via AWAL, buy/stream it here.

A COLOUR UNDONE
The Debut Album from Tasman Keith
Out July 8 via AWAL
PRE-ORDER / PRE-SAVE HERE

A COLOUR UNDONE TRACKLIST
WATCH UR STEP
SHARKS
CHEQUE (feat. Genesis Owusu)
POLITICS AS USUAL
FIND U
LOVE TOO SOON
HOW 2 LEAVE (feat. Thandi Phoenix)
IDK (feat. Phil Fresh)
PROUD
NOT 4 SAFETY (feat. Kwame)
5FT FREESTYLE
WELCOME HOME
HEAVEN WITH U (feat. Jessica Mauboy)
TREAD LIGHT

COLOUR LIVE TOUR DATES
Thu 21 Apr – Transit Bar – Ngunnawal Land / Canberra, ACT (TIX)
Fri 22 Apr – La La La’s – Dharawal Land / Wollongong, NSW (TIX)
Sun 24 Apr – Cambridge Hotel – Mulubinba / Newcastle, NSW (FREE)
Thu 28 Apr – Mo’s Desert Clubhouse – Ngarang-wal Land / Gold Coast, QLD (TIX)
Fri 29 Apr – Eleven Dive Bar – Gubbi Gubbi Land / Maroochydoore, QLD (TIX)
Sat 30 Apr – Thirsty Chiefs Brewery – Yugarabul Land / North Lakes, QLD (TIX)

All tickets available via tasmankeith.com/shows

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Music News

BIG SKEEZ ENTERS 2022 WITH DULCET NEW SINGLE ‘BANG’ OUT NOW VIA NLV RECORDS + EAST COAST TOUR THIS APRIL

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Photo by Billy Zamit

PRAISE FOR BIG SKEEZ

“Big Skeez’s wavy, mellow and smooth releases are forcing the Australian music guard
to take notice. We won’t be shocked when he achieves this and more”
Vogue Australia

“A melting pot of style, resulting in a party-ready anthem”
Acclaim Magazine

“A thrilling ode to culture”
Life Without Andy

“They break down cultural barriers with their collaborations”
Purple Sneakers

“An absolute moment”
MTV Australia

Rising afro swing vocalist Big Skeez ushers in 2022 with his latest offering, ‘Bang‘, out today via NLV Records. LISTEN + WATCH HERE.

Through ‘Bang‘, Big Skeez continues to conquer new frontiers of sound. Looming through smooth, deep in the mix bass and sub, ‘Bang’ bridges his melodic afrobeat sound with soft and sensual RNB. Vocally, the release sees Skeez sing in a higher register than before, experimenting with autotune – here he trades the bright kineticism of ‘No Trace‘, ‘Where Yuh From‘ and ‘Up‘, for a darker club mystique. With frequent collaborator Swick (Capo Lee, Big Zuu, Kamakaze, Merky Ace, Tkay Maidza) returning to the production fold, the two illustrate Skeez‘s ability to foreshadow the path of afro-beat giants like Wizkid and Popcaan, with the enduring nostalgia of The Neptunes and Timbaland.

In his own words, Big Skeez shares “The song Bang is about expressing your confidence in whatever you do and letting people know that you’re the shit! Never listening to what anyone says and owning up and shining! The vibe of the song is chill, sexy and groovy and at the same time makes you wanna dance your ass off or could be somewhere in the club.”

Following his breakthrough in 2021, Big Skeez continues to excel – be it finding fans and support across tastemakers triple j and Unearthed, FBi Radio, Acclaim, Life Without Andy and others, including Spotify‘s A1 Hip Hop, The Flavour, Hybrid and Local Hype, alongside Apple Music‘s Fresh Finds, The New Australia and The Dotty Show amongst others. His features in Vogue Australia‘s Sound of Now and GQ Magazine‘s recent Dior B30 sneaker campaign affirm Big Skeez‘s position as an ascendant figure in the local scene and member of the nation’s next generation of artists, praised for his ability to support and uplift likewise African-Australian kids to reach into the rich histories and legacies of their cultures; shining a light on the triumphs of Dharawal Land / Western Sydney and encourage his peers to set triumphant examples of their own making.

Big Skeez‘s music is in constant conversation with his roots, whether they lay in Africa or in Dharawal Land / Western Sydney. This proud sense of being simultaneously from and for a community still pulses tangibly through every aspect of his music, offering a decidedly different light to the surfeit of music that is currently emanating from his hometown. With a childhood deeply immersed in the sounds of Africa, Afrobeat, Dancehall, Reggae and R&B, studied from his parents and “borrowed” from older siblings; the result is a wavy, melodically-driven Afro Swing iteration entirely his own, livelier, more vibrant and upbeat, standing alongside global stars J Hus, Pa Salieu, Burna Boy and others.

Following his recent live show debut for Phoenix HALO, Big Skeez has also announced a string of tour dates around the country’s East Coast this April. For all tour routing info + ticket links, see BELOW.

‘Bang‘ is out now via NLV Records, buy/stream it here.

TOUR DATES
Thu 28 Apr – Mary’s Underground w/ Kota Banks – Eora / Sydney
Thu 9 Jun- Acclaim x Gum Records x Jackson St present Link Up w/ 3K, Agung Mango, Gold Fang, Secret Headliners, Mulalo, + more @Glass Island – Eora / Sydney

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Festival News Music News

NSW SOUTH COAST MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST JOE MUNGOVAN ANNOUNCES RESCHEDULED EAST COAST TOUR APRIL – MAY 2022

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

DEBUT ALBUM ‘A FLOWER IN THE WEEDS’ OUT NOW

Photo credit: Mikey Conlon (Conlon Creative)

NSW South Coast multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter, producer and APRA award nominee Joe Mungovan is thrilled to announce his rescheduled tour dates across the East Coast of Australia in April and May.

Joe will be performing songs from his debut album ‘A Flower In The Weeds’ with his full band.

“Well, we could never have imagined the postponements would keep coming… but nothing will stop us trying to get to you and play these shows. We’ve rescheduled the Brisbane, Byron and Milton dates and have added in an extra special home-town show. Excited to get at y’all, hopefully in dryer conditions this time!” Joe Mungovan

Produced by Joe Mungovan, ‘A Flower In The Weeds’ features the singles ‘You + Me’, ‘Lemon + Lime’, ‘Soaking Up The Sunshine’, ‘Give Me Your Love’ and ‘Like That’. It was released on November 10 and mixed by ARIA Award winning producer/engineer Tim Carr (Matt Corby, Julia Stone) and mastered by long term collaborator Joe Carra (Courtney Barnett, The Teskey Brothers).

Joe’s debut album is one that has endured fires, floods, a global pandemic and love across international borders “December came and the fires started. I woke up one morning and could barely breathe as the smoke was so thick. I evacuated for a week and fortunately the fires just missed the house. I moved back down and then the valley flooded. I lost power for 5 days and lived by candlelight. Summer passed and autumn arrived and the girl I met in Berlin flew to Australia to visit me. She arrived one day before they closed the borders due to Covid. We went on a road-trip up and down the East Coast and spent our days soaking up the sun-rays by day and drinking wine around the fire at night. Unfortunately our time together was cut short when we found out that the pandemic was getting quite serious – the German borders were closing. We turned the van around and headed back to Sydney Airport to get her on a flight home“ Joe Mungovan

Don’t miss your chance to see Joe Mungovan performing songs from his highly acclaimed album

‘A Flower In The Weeds’.

Joe’s added an extra special show “The Joe Mungovan Mum-lovin Special” on Mothers Day at a Spiegeltent in Kiama Harbour on May 8!

JOE MUNGOVAN ‘A FLOWER IN THE WEEDS’ ALBUM TOUR

Tickets on sale now

Thursday, April 14 – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney, NSW

Saturday, April 23 – Port Kembla – Port Kembla Festival

Friday, April 29 – Stag and Hunter, Newcastle, NSW

Saturday, April 30 – Felons Barrel Hall, Brisbane, QLD

Sunday, May 1 -Beach Hotel, Byron Bay, NSW

Sunday, 8 May – The Kazador, Kiama, NSW

Friday, 27 May – Milton Hotel, Milton, NSW

PRAISE FOR JOE MUNGOVAN

Re debut album: “The result is a collection of songs that elevate the earnest, introspective songwriting that threads Mungovan’s earlier work, with tons of warmth and infectious indie-pop sensibilities throughout.”

Music Feeds

“Song You Need to Know: Joe Mungovan continues his reputation as a fine purveyor of summer vibes with his latest breezy cut ‘Lemon + Lime”.

Rolling Stone

“Over the last few years, the musician has come forward as one of Australia’s most talented and remarkable, with a run of brilliant singles forming an exciting path to his second EP, Way Down South, in 2016, followed by his third, Another Night, A Distance From Here, in 2017.”

Pilerats

‘His warm lilting vocals coupled with catchy guitar riffs transport you to somewhere warm and tropical. The layered guitars are extremely effective, and it has a recurring bass guitar line that keeps the party going from beginning to end. “You + Me” has a wonderful optimistic feel to it”

AU Review

“South Coast singer-songwriter Joe Mungovan’s newest release is the delicious sounding ‘Like That’ – a track infused with Mungovan’s indie rock-roots vibes as well as pop melodies to brighten your day.”

Scenestr

“Set to appear on his long awaited debut album A Flower In The Weeds, the song (Like That) brings the musicians staple slicked back production and captivating vocals, with catchy guitar riffs that will remain in your head all day long.”

Milky

Soaking Up The Sunshine: “Joe taking me far away, specifically to a tropical island with a cocktail served in a coconut and endless refills. ooooh yes thank you sir! 4 stars”

Declan Byrne, Triple j

Soaking Up The Sunshine: “Joe’s transported us somewhere tropical and breezy with this infectious new track. 4 stars”

Dave Ruby Howe, Triple j Unearthed

Give Me Your Love: “The rasp and passion in “come lay your limbs next to miiiIIIIINE…” gets me every time! Agree with Perko, that sax! Sax = Swoon. You had me on first listen with this one Joe, very much here for it! 4 stars”

Tyrone Pynor, Triple j

Give Me Your Love: “When your vocals come in at the 10 second mark, you well and truly had my attention. I agree with Declan and Dave, I can hear some Rubens vibes here, but those roots influences shine through a lot. The sax? Ooff. Great stuff, love this! 4 stars”

Jess Perkins, Triple j

“This is an absolute triumph of a cruisy indie pop song. You’ve folded all these gorgeous elements and it’s all tied up with your lovely raspy voice. Love it man. 4.5stars”

Pip Rasmussen, Triple j

Joe’s debut Album: A FLOWER IN THE WEEDS is out now.

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Festival News Music News

Sónar Lisboa 2022 announces the final line-up of Sónar +D, an exploration of creative technologies within the festival’s framework

by the partae April 7, 2022

written by the partae

Three days with conferences, exhibitions, and AV shows

On the 8, 9 and 10 of April, starting at 12:00 PM until 10:00 PM, Hub Criativo Do Beato, in Lisbon, will host Sonar+D – a daytime extension of Sónar Lisboa 2022 – dedicated to creative technologies that gathers conferences, exhibitions, and AV shows. A programme curated by Antónia Folguera in collaboration with researchers, scientists, and artists from different digital fields, exploring creativity as one of the leading forces transforming reality in the 21st Century. Check out the full line-up and set times here.

Sónar+D Conferences take place from 12:00 PM until 06:30 PM in Factory Lisbon, with the central idea revolving around Sustainability and Human Rights. From there, three subthemes unfold: Artificial Intelligence and Algorithms; the Intersections of Art, Science, Ecology, Sustainability and Climate Change; and Creative Technologies and Digital Economy: from Metaverse to Web3. Some of the featured speakers are Bas Grasmayer, leader of the community platform COLORS and founder of Music x, which addresses, among other things, NFTs in the context of the constantly evolving web3; Canadian DJ and producer Jayda G, whose background in Environmental Toxicology allows for an in- depth analysis of the music/sustainability dichotomy; artist Tupac Mártir, founder of the renowned multidisciplinary Satore Studio, which uses cutting-edge technologies to create immersive experiences for brands, tracks, stages and audiences around the world and whose latest work takes on medical neuroscience technology to materialize pioneering visual work; and researcher and biologist Filipa Bessa, winner of the United Nations Oceans Day Oceanic Photo Competition in 2018, specializes in marine plastic pollution and the effects of human activities on marine and coastal ecosystems. Opening the Sónar+D Conferences are artist Trevor Paglen and academic Kate Crawford, leading figures in researching and disseminating artificial intelligence’s social and political implications, who will explore current issues in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and politics of new technologies.

Climate change, natural resources conservation, artificial intelligence and its ethical implications, misinformation, algorithms, and the media are also brought together at the Sónar+D Exhibitions shown in multiple parts of Fábrica Lisboa. The festival welcomes many options during the three days, justifying more than one visit. The immersive sound art “Nati Infiniti”, curated by Joana Seguro and authored by the musician Alessandro Cortini (known for his work in Nine Inch Nails), will bring to life the perfectly preserved machinery found in the different floors of the Moagem building. Sonar+D will showcase works specially conceived for the festival, a commission of three Portuguese artists: INDUCED THEOREMS & WORLDLY CONJECTURES OR HOW TO GET TRAPPED IN A LOOP by André Gonçalves – musician, visual artist, and graphic designer – who converts loop (a building block of electronic music production) into mechanical sculptures as a reflection of the sometimes-wasteful nature of technology; CASULO – STILL FREE by the painter Francisco Vidal, surrounds the audience with a bold and colourful universe, using VR technology; and WETLAND by Cláudia Martinho, presenting an immersive listening experience of the Tagus river wetland ecosystem, the most important in Portugal, a natural sanctuary for migratory birds, threatened by the construction plan of a new airport, which could destroy the delicate balance of one of the most important ecosystems in Europe.

The ten digital pieces by international and Portuguese artists, the large-scale installation by Artworks and the artistic collective based in Porto berru complete the highlights of the Sónar+D Exhibitions. Startup Lisboa Beato – Fábrica do Pão will be the stage for the third and final segment of Sónar+D: which includes AV shows, live music experiences oriented towards the confluence between creativity, music, technology, and innovation. From hurricanes to unicellular organisms and dying stars, reflecting on societal concerns such as climate change or data surveillance while exploring the synergy of sound and image. A format deeply related to the audiovisual and technological field, connecting artists who are exploring the intersections between science and technology using digital tools.

From artificial intelligence to virtual reality, from blockchain to computer-generated imagery breakthroughs – presentations like the one by pianist Marco Mezquida (April 9, from 7:00 PM until 7:45 PM) dialoguing with an AI system or the collaborative process in real-time between a DJ and the audience, mediated by AI, in the Awwz AI B2B DJ set (April 9, from 6:00 PM until 6:45 PM). These are some of the proposals that invite everyone into an immersive reflection.

Between April 8 and 10, the first edition of Sónar Lisboa 2022 will bring together more than 100 artists in the Portuguese capital, divided into Sónar +D and the musical variants Sónar by Day and Sónar by Night, with more than 70 concerts and performances by artists and DJs, such as Arca, Bicep (live), The Blaze.

Tickets: https://sonarlisboa.pt

DJ, Charlotte de Witte, Dixon, DJ Shadow, Polo & Pan, Enchufada Na Zona, Honey Dijon, Floating Points, Pongo, Leon Vynehall, Partiboi69, Nicola Cruz, Richie Hawtin and Thundercat, in four emblematic Lisbon venues: Centro de Congressos de Lisboa, Coliseu dos Recreios, Pavilhão Carlos Lopes, and Hub Criativo do Beato.

Tickets are available on the official website SonarLisboa.pt and authorized ticket partners, with a limited number of General and VIP passes being back on sale. There are different ticket types that allow the audience to create their own experience – day and/or night – centred on a single venue or throughout the various locations of Sónar Lisboa 2022.

Sónar by Night
Pavilhão Carlos Lopes
April 8
dixon, elkka dj, switchdance, thundercat live, trikk
April 9
enchufada na zona
dengue dengue dengue live, dj shadow, kampire, pongo, shaka lion
Coliseu dos Recreios
April 8
arca, dj lycox, dj marfox, dj nigga fox live, nídia, total freedom
April 9
bicep live, chloé robinson, floating points, helena guedes, leon vynehall live, rroxymore live, rui vargas
Congressos Lisboa
April 8
aril brikha live, bleid, charlotte de witte, héctor oaks, imogen, marum, nkisi, phoebe, photonz, richie hawtin,
stingray 313 live, vil b2b cravo, violet live, yen sung
April 9
acid alice, dj lynce, dj stingray 313, dust devices live, ellen allien b2b dr. rubinstein, fjaak live, lewis fautzi,
nina kraviz, otsoa, partiboi69, valody

Sónar by Day
Pavilhão Carlos Lopes
April 9
ana pacheco, the blaze dj, discos extendes crew, honey dijon, iamddb live, india jordan, ka§par live, nicola
cruz live, percebes cru djs, poté dj
April 10
anah, cruz, eu.clides live, evan baggs, jayda g, moullinex, noia, overmono dj, pedro da linha b2b riot, polo &
pan live, tiago marques, torres, xinobi, zé salvador

April 7, 2022 0 comments

Music News

RAGEFLOWER releases irresistible power pop debut ‘STILL CALLING’

by the partae April 6, 2022

written by the partae

Photo credit: Nicodemo Scali

Sydney based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist RAGEFLOWER (aka Madeleine Powers) releases her debut indie pop -inspired single ‘Still Calling’ today. The track showcases her emotive songwriting, and is marked by its diversity of themes from self-reflection, destructive human behaviour and healing. It will delight fans of the modern indie style of Jess Day, Phoebe Bridgers, Amy Shark, and mid 2000’s crossover darlings Avril Lavigne and Tonight Alive.

“Essentially, Still Calling is about the journey back to self and healing the inner child. It’s also about the consequences of suppressing trauma with destructive coping mechanisms. When I wrote the song I was in a dark place, I really felt that I had let myself down and that I had wasted my potential on temporary highs. At the time I was listening to a lot of music from my emo high school years (Bright Eyes, Tonight Alive, Sum 41) and connecting with the person I used to be, which really inspired the sound. I wanted to write a hyper dualistic song with verses that felt confessional and vulnerable but choruses that felt destructive and nihilistic.” RAGEFLOWER

On ‘Still Calling’, RAGEFLOWER’S impressive vocals soar over an infectious chorus that comforts the listener with a sprinkle of vulnerability. It’s an earworm tune that stays with the listener long after it stops playing. The track was recorded at Studios 301, Casa Studios and Sunset Magnolia Studios with production credits from some of her closest friends Max Jacobs, Daryl Chin and Nicodemo Scali, with mixing by Nicolas Mendoza (Lime Cordiale, Loretta), and one of Australia’s most respected mastering engineers Steve Smart (Ocean Alley, Vance Joy, Lisa Mitchell, Dean Lewis).

“I have been really lucky to make this music with some of my best friends in the world who also happen to be really great producers and musicians (Max Jacobs and Nicodemo Scali). When I showed Max the beginnings of the song he got really excited and immediately started mapping out a basic demo with just midi drums and some guitars. Max really arranged the whole thing, he’s a phenomenal guitarist and so he was able to understand this project as guitar music. From there we took the demo to Nico in his home studio, and that’s when all the magic started to happen.

We tracked drums with our incredible friend Daryl Chin at 301 because recording drums is a whole ordeal, but then from there the rest of the song was recorded in our home studios, our mate Grace Labrum tracked bass at Nicos house sitting on the edge of a couch in one or two takes. I am really grateful to be surrounded by a community of unbelievable musicians who were all keen to work on this with me.” RAGEFLOWER

This is the first of many exciting releases to come from RAGEFLOWER.

facebook |Instagram| Youtube | Triple j Unearthed

April 6, 2022 0 comments

Music Interviews Music News

Taylor B-W

by the partae April 6, 2022

written by the partae

What’s been happening recently?

My business hat is on at the moment, so I haven’t been as creative lately, unfortunately. I’ve mainly just been focusing on planning, promoting and performing. It is hard when you’re your own boss – time management and organisational skills are key!

Your latest single ‘In Ur Net’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

The sound of ‘In Ur Net’ is influenced by Reggaeton’s prominent influence in Pop at the moment. I wanted to hop on the trend, so I came into the studio with a playlist of references to help guide the musical production of this song.

In terms of songwriting, I often like to contrast my vibrant, upbeat music with deeper, more introspective lyrics. It makes the song more interesting and layered.

How did you go about writing In Ur Net?

This song is about my manic passion for someone who treated me poorly. It’s a long story, but, basically, I became obsessed with this guy who had me locked in limbo: not really committing, but not really being uncommitted. This drove me insane, obsessing over every detail of his life, wondering why???

I ended up writing the lyrics of ‘In Ur Net’ towards the end of this unhealthy relationship, as I was coming out of the grip it had on me. I had finally taken off the rose-coloured glasses I was wearing and could observe my delusional experience with a fresh, outside perspective.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who with?

I recorded and produced this song with producer, Quinn, back in early 2021, at his studio in Alexandria, Sydney.

How did the concept for the music video come about?

I approached Desmond Hoo to direct my music video back in October 2021. I sent him the song, a Pinterest mood board, and a bunch of music video references for him to use as a jumping board and inspire a fresh concept. He came back with a beautifully simple vision, really delving into the sentiment behind my lyrics. Although we never actually see the opposite actor’s face in the whole music video, Des used carefully composed frames to create a very relatable storyline, where I am in a claustrophobic relationship, desperate to let go, but am unable to because I am caught in his net.

Where did you film and who did you work with?

I worked with a bunch of legends! And we shot in the Inner West of Sydney – particularly Sydney Park in St Peters, and the coolest arcade-themed bar in Newtown, 1989.

Please tell us about any new music that’s on the way:

There is an EP on the horizon… that is all I’ll say for now!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Rosalia’s latest album MOTOMAMI. It is on repeat!

What do you like to do away from music?

What does that mean?… Just joking… kinda…

I like to exercise and walk dogs, besides my own. Dogs are my happy pill – I just feel so calm and happy around them! Also, when I actually have a moment to stop and chill out, I go to the cinema or just couch potato it and stream a trashy TV show.

What’s planned for 2022?

More releases and a regional tour!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Fave cuisine is Japanese, fave snack is a bowl of sweet potato fries, fave dessert is gelato, and fave place to hangout is wherever there are heaps of dogs and/or cocktails and/or live music!

TAYLOR B-W LIVE

Friday 8th April Cooper’s Hotel Newtown
Free Entry

PLAY/LISTEN

April 6, 2022 0 comments

Festival News Music News

SARAH YAGKI PRESENTS HER MOST PERSONAL SINGLE YET IN ‘WANTED MORE’

by the partae April 4, 2022

written by the partae

Returning to fans and newcomers alike with her first single release for 2022, Sarah Yagki offers up some of her most defining material to date in ‘Wanted More’.

As with the music we saw Sarah debut through 2021, ‘Wanted More’ continues to showcase the Sydney artist’s natural songwriting talent and vocal flair.

Bringing together open and honest lyricism with primo production and R&B arrangements, this new single operates in a lane inhibited by the likes of BANKS, Alessia Cara and more recently, artists like FKA twigs.

On ‘Wanted More’, Sarah reconnected with frequent collaborators James Guido and Klaus Hill, recording the track at Obseen Recordings in St. Leonards, NSW. Of the new song, Sarah describes feelings of insecurity and emotional unease as she navigates territory unknown in a new relationship.

“‘Wanted More’ is a song about the fear of repeating toxic habits in a relationship, both from the new partner and yourself. It explores the uncertainty of diving into a new relationship, whilst past trauma, experiences and fears still linger.

The process of making music started with me creating a chord progression that I then put a melody over. The melody for ‘Wanted More’ came from me trying to communicate in the simplest way to a partner how I am feeling throughout the journey of this new relationship. “I wanted more, I wanted more” is both me saying that to myself and my partner. The lyrics are narrative-based, with the Verse 1 exploring what I fear I will do, and the Verse 2 exploring what I fear the partner won’t do. Overall, ‘Wanted More’ is a song to help bring to light uncertainty.”
SARAH YAGKI

PRAISE FOR SARAH YAGKI

“Her music is simultaneously raw and explorative; it’s rooted in pop, but reaches far wider.”
Happy Magazine

“It’s a warm dose of pure indie pop, opening with some deep but powerful building ballad style vocals with some rich and lush production.”
AAA Backstage

“Emotional vibes on this one from Sarah. It’s put together pretty solidly with a steady-cruising production and some rich and lush production.”
Triple J Unearthed, Dave Ruby Howe

“Melding pop melodies with heartfelt lyricism, her ethereal voice soars enticingly over experimental electronic beats.”
Little Indie Blogs

To celebrate the release of ‘Wanted More’, Sarah will perform a special hometown show at The Vanguard in Sydney this April.

SARAH YAGKI SINGLE LAUNCH

Thursday, April 7th The Vanguard Sydney
with Mel Ertler, Nic DC
Tickets

‘Wanted More’ is out now.
Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed

April 4, 2022 0 comments

Music News

SOFT POWDER TEASES DEBUT ALBUM SOMEWHERE LIKE PARADISE WITH NEW SINGLE ‘CLOSE YOUR EYES’

by the partae April 4, 2022

written by the partae

Photo by: Megan Li

Conjuring up ethereal soundscapes is a natural element of Soft Powder’s creative process that never fails to land with emotional impact.

Fans heard it on his recent single ‘Running Through The Dark’ and now, the Melbourne producer returns with another sublime cut in ‘Close Your Eyes’, taken from his anticipated debut album Somewhere Like Paradise.

As with his previous works, ‘Close Your Eyes’ draws the listener into a liminal space; one where the mind can wander and experience everything from relief to euphoria and release. This song in particular focuses on feelings of tension and uncertainty.

“The song is about finding yourself at a crossroads where you could either surrender to the temptation of wallowing in negative thoughts and memories, or you could embrace the positivity and beauty around you, allowing yourself to become consumed by these feelings of bliss. It’s about ‘closing your eyes’ and momentarily escaping this negative headspace and letting go of the tension.”
SOFT POWDER

It’s a trademark of the way Soft Powder (aka producer Andy Szetho) injects his own perspectives into the music.

Unafraid of embracing vulnerability and openness in his songwriting, Soft Powder’s output is equal parts emotive, immersive and wrapped up in a constant level of intrigue. A strong throughline of the wider Somewhere Like Paradise record.

Teaming up again with filmmaker and collaborator David Tse, Soft Powder’s latest single comes paired with another striking video. As with ‘Running Through The Dark’, inspiration for the ‘Close Your Eyes’ visuals came from Asian Cinema auteurs like Wong Kar Wai and Hou Hsiao-hsien.

“David and I really wanted the video to convey the melancholic and somber mood of the song, whilst also capturing the nostalgic and sentimental atmosphere created in the Hong Kong and Taiwanese New Wave cinema we love.

We really wanted to film in an airport because airports conjure up all of these moods due to being a place where some people leave past lives behind whilst some people begin new chapters. There’s a lot of sentimental energy associated with airports, and they’re a place that conjures up all of these feelings of nostalgia, hope, excitement, but also regret and sadness.”
SOFT POWDER

he release of Somewhere Like Paradise marks the beginning of a new chapter for Soft Powder, who has cultivated a strong body of work in recent years, thanks to the release of EPs Shangri-La (2018) and Faber Ria (2019). Szetho’s career prior to developing his solo music brought him success domestically and internationally, creating and touring as part of Australian alt-rock group Storm The Sky.

PRAISE FOR SOFT POWDER

“Andy aka Soft Powder creates this sense of tension that you can almost reach out and touch thanks to the dark and dingey atmosphere, punctuated by snapping snares and coiling guitars.”
Triple J Unearthed, Dave Ruby Howe (‘Running Through The Dark’, 2022)

“…there is something otherworldly and grand about his ability to craft gorgeous songs.”
Purple Sneakers (‘Running Through The Dark’, 2022)

“Neon-soaked, gritty, and steeped in a sense of urban loneliness, the Melbourne of Soft Powder‘s dream-pop night-time has rarely looked more cinematic.”
RAGE (‘Running Through The Dark’, 2022)

April 4, 2022 0 comments

Music News

CIRCLE releases single ‘HELEN’ ahead of forthcoming album. Earnest heart-rendering indie-folk at its absolute best.

by the partae April 2, 2022

written by the partae

Photo credit: Tania Safi

‘Helen’ is a lightly orchestrated acoustic tune that feels more like a fond memory than a song. Sufjan Stevens-esque whispered vocals adorn ambient and delicately plucked guitar. The result is an expansive and shimmery spectral that is disarming in its honesty.

Circle writes intimately, weaving what feels like a personal narrative into an easily relatable song, possessing enough innate beauty to soften even the hardest of critiques.

‘Helen’ is plucked from Circle’s forthcoming album Coco and Charlie and provides a small taste of what is to come. “Coco and Charlie started as a collection of love songs about the people in my life who’ve made an indelible mark in one way or another. As the material progressed over the course of demos and a natural whittling down process, the songs started to be more like archetypes. With that development came a deeper freedom to expand on the lyrical content and not be too constrained to a corporeal truth about an individual.”

The softly spoken lyrics from Radi Safi are instantly enchanting. Reminiscent of former front-runners Mount Eerie, The Middle East, and Sufjan Stevans. A talent of ‘Helen’ is that it avoids the trappings of kitsch nostalgia – instead, it is unquestionably rooted in the present.

Circle honors the artistry of music and a special aspect of their work is the unique recording processes. This ultimately imparts a special quality that elevates the song into music for the soul.

“We decided that we’d push classic four track demos to the absolute limit and record everything to our old Tascam tape machine. The process of a great condenser mic going through a world class preamp only to all end up on a $200 tape machine (with a ridiculously worn out tape inside) had a huge allure.” Circle

The accompanying video for Helen was produced by Gabby Dadgostar, a veteran in the Sydney music video scene. Aligning with the thematic strengths of the music, that being rooted in the tender memory for loved ones. Gabby had the idea to collect and use iPhone footage in a unique way. “It’s obviously a very simple concept but it marries beautifully with the aesthetic of the recording and lyrical content. Suffice to say we were all pleasantly surprised!” Circle

Watch Here.

PRAISE FOR CIRCLE

“It’s heartache indie rock at its best”
Rave Magazine

“Shimmering and peddling in with the prettiest pulsing, cheery verging on melancholy tune I have heard in a while”
IMN

“Oh, Australia, you never let me down!“
1146 MILES

“I really love records like this. The ones that throw unexpected things in there and the ones that seem to create new sounds out of thin air.”
Of Reckless Abandon

“Thanks for bearing the torch for sweet, charming indie pop”
Triple J Unearthed

“Known for their love of analog equipment and their fun synth-pop sensibilities [Circle] deliver once again on their latest single.”
STGS

Helen is out 16th March
Triple J Unearthed | Facebook | Youtube

April 2, 2022 0 comments

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Sónar Lisboa 2022 announces the final line-up of Sónar +D, an exploration of creative technologies within the festival’s framework

RAGEFLOWER releases irresistible power pop debut ‘STILL CALLING’

Taylor B-W

PLAY/LISTEN

SARAH YAGKI PRESENTS HER MOST PERSONAL SINGLE YET IN ‘WANTED MORE’

SOFT POWDER TEASES DEBUT ALBUM SOMEWHERE LIKE PARADISE WITH NEW SINGLE ‘CLOSE YOUR EYES’

CIRCLE releases single ‘HELEN’ ahead of forthcoming album. Earnest heart-rendering indie-folk at its absolute best.