In The Spotlight

Charmplay – “Rush”

Formed in 2017 in Hilversum, this Dutch indie-pop quartet consists of Robert Been, Sergei Christian, Kaj van Hooijdonk and Gio Sliwa. They initially achieved success as a touring band in 2018, playing across Europe and the Dutch Antilles. Drawing inspiration from bands like The Killers, Bastille and The 1975, they debuted with “In The Mood” in 2020 and performed as support act for Sheppard.

With a sophisticated production blending indie-pop with sunlit tropical tones, their new single gives the intricate melody some summery island vibes. Kicking off with a mellow indie pop foundation, they soon shower it with sunshiny luminescence. With lively drums, joyous guitars and exuberant vocals tugging at your dancing feet, this zesty, high-spirited tune will rush you straight to paradise.

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In The Spotlight

Mabes – “Radio”

Hailing from Billericay, this British singer and songwriter grew up with music-loving parents. She learnt to play guitar and started writing her own songs aged 15, after listening to the folk poetry of Laura Marling. Drawing inspiration from wide-ranging artists such as John Mayer, Carole King and Kings Of Leon, she debuted her authentic and honest folk-pop sound on her single “Free” in 2019.

Her inimitable songwriting skills truly take centre stage on her latest single. Effortlessly blending her familiar folk-pop sound with a bit of a country twang and oodles of charm, she packs the refined tune full of relatable lyrics about hearing a song that transports you back in time to fond memories. With easy-going guitars, crisp piano and her carefree voice, this mellow gem is ready for the radio.

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In The Spotlight

Cool Company – “Aqua Girl”

Consisting of vocalist Yannick Hughes and producer Matt Fishman, this Brooklyn-based duo met in a choir in high school. While Yannick was always singing as a kid, Matt started playing the trombone and plays several others. Drawing inspiration from Motown to The Weeknd (Yannick) and Stevie Wonder to The Beatles (Matt), they debuted their hiphop/soul blend on their self-titled album in 2013.

Fusing contemporary sounds and effects with buttery-smooth, soul-dripping R&B, their new single is a refreshing splash in a sonic pool. While the modern beats keeps the track in the here and now, it’s the 90s-infused R&B melody, the retro rap and soul-dipped vocals that showers you in a time-traveling drizzle. Arousing and infectious, this lush jam is drenched in vintage R&B vibes.

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In The Spotlight

Sophia Fracassi – “Somebody”

Hailing from a small town called Everett, this youthful Canadian singer and songwriter began performing at the age of 5 and wrote her first song aged 9. She’s had eleven years of voice training, honing her impressive mezzo soprano range. Inspired by the music of Joni Mitchell, Taylor Swift and Alessia Cara, she debuted her emotive and rich pop sound on “Wish I Never Met You” earlier this year.

Creating intricate melodies and honest lyrics with a skill well beyond her years, her new single draws listeners into her musical world. Starting the song with a lavish and emotive acoustic piano is instantly spellbinding, while her seasoned vocals deal with the overwhelming feelings of loneliness. With the imposing tune ascending to a mighty crescendo in the chorus, this is a multi-layered sensation.

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In The Spotlight

Dani Kristina – “Gambler”

Born and raised around Toronto, this Canadian singer and songwriter spent her whole life experimenting with wide-ranging styles in order to curate her own unique pop sound. She’s trained as a classical pianist and vocalist and has written over 600 songs as a teenager. Inspired by the retro-pop sounds of Taylor Swift, Lennon Stella and Halsey, she released her debut single “I Wanna Belong” in 2019.

Dipping her toe in neon disco-pop vibes, her new single is pure energy, generated by a slew of various influences. With an invigorating 80s beat and scintillating vintage synths taking you back to the era of the Rubik’s Cube and shoulder pads, it narrates the true lyrical story of a failed relationship when one person is more invested in the other and makes this a tune you want to take a gamble on.

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In The Spotlight

Fox Jackson – “Like You In Every Way”

Enamored by music from a young age, this London-based singer and songwriter started his career in entertainment aged 11 playing the lead role in “Billy Elliot The Musical” in the West End. Since he’s played multiple roles on both stage and TV, but chose his first love, music. Influenced by the funky tones of Earth, Wind & Fire, Prince and Pharrell Williams, he debuted with “Behind Closed Doors” in 2020.

Emitting a sunlit, foot-stompin’ funkalicious feel, his new single blows past like a refreshing summer breeze, while embracing a sugar-coated groovy vibe. With a thirst-quenching shot of jaunty guitars, a nice dip in a pool of funky riffs and a convertible roadtrip of catchy rhythms, this jam glows with joyous positivity. And with his smooth, slick and lustrous vocals, you’ll love this tune in every way.

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