In The Spotlight

Chantelle du Toit – “Stuck In The Middle”

Originally from South Africa, this powerhouse singer and songwriter moved to London, UK aged 19 to study music. During her University years she was in several different bands, performing in local pubs, but eventually decided on a solo path. Inspired by bands such as Queen, The Pretty Reckless and Foo Fighters, she debuted her potent rock and blues sound and rich lyrics with “November Rain” in 2019.

Highlighting anxiety and feeling overwhelmed by emotions, she offers her new single as a sonic punching bag. Giving some fierce blues a raw rock edge, you’re instantly blasted with a vigorous beat and howling blues guitars, brightened by a mild tambourine. And with her commanding and tempestuous vocals riding the mighty melody, this rugged groove will hit you like a steamroller.

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In The Spotlight

Silk Tonic – “A Second Of Your Time”

Comprising of two childhood friends, who’ve been making music as long as they can remember, this Canadian indie-pop duo grew up near Montreal. With Matthew Brouillet being the lead singer/drummer and Mark Hodges the lead guitarist/bassist, they started the band OneFortySeven in 2017 and debuted with “Let Me Go” in 2018. Changing names in 2020, they released their single “Summer Time”.

Narrating the relatable situation of seeing someone you like when walking into a bar or club and hoping they will acknowledge you, their new single has a cheerful bounce in its step. With a funky beat and groovy wah-wah guitars lighting up the dancefloor, it’s the sensuous, multi-layered vocals which add sexiness and style. Steamy and highly danceable, this hot jam is well worth the full 2 minutes 45.

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In The Spotlight

Charlotte Lansman – “The Cage”

Born in Bristol, this British singer and songwriter had a multi-cultural upbringing thanks to her American father, English mother and secondary schooling in Wales. She’s been surrounded by genre-spanning music from a young age, ranging from Garth Brooks and The Eagles to Nina Simone and Nirvana. She debuted her distinctive jazz, soul and blues sound and poetic lyricism with “Water” in 2020.

Introducing a misty jazz atmosphere to mellow pop, her new single is more an auditory experience than simply a song. Expertly layering the smooth rhythm, enchanting strings and jazzy brass, she forges a scrumptious, slightly shimmering soundscape. And by adding a touch of soul with her rich, contralto voice singing about resentment in relationships, she has created a fresh, one-of-a-kind jam.

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Theo Tams – “Fixable”

As so often the case growing up in a strict Christian household, this Canadian singer and songwriter found his musical abilities singing in church. At 16 he started writing original songs, influenced by 90s songbirds Sarah McLachlan and Alanis Morisette. In 2008 he won the sixth season of Canadian Idol and released the winners single “Sing”. His debut album “Give It All Away” dropped in 2009.

Applying the concept of fixing what’s broken to matters of the heart, his new single wraps the lyrical content in smooth 90s R&B vibes. Driven by a mellow rhythm and understated synths, it’s his mesmerizing, soulful vocals which truly steal the show. Adding a delicious fullness with layered voices and a joyous upbeat sonic surge in the chorus, this is an alluring, sultry tune that needs no fixing.

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In The Spotlight

Nia Wyn – “Come Home To You”

Having grown up in a small town in Wales, this eclectic singer and songwriter found solace in old blues and soul records she found in junk shops. Finding inspiration from Amy Winehouse, Isaac Hayes and Billie Holiday, she gave blues and soul her own special sauce and combined it with social conscious lyricism. She debuted with her self-titled EP in 2019 and is due to open on Paul Weller’s tour.

Giving an upbeat and contemporary pop vibe a vintage soulful layer, her new single effortlessly marries a wide spectrum of sonic influences into one, unbreakable bond. Taken from her upcoming album “Take A Seat”, expected to drop on March 19th, it’s the EDM beat, retro synths, lively bass and cheeky bells, as well as her crisp vocals and the jazzy sax solo, that makes this an exceptional groove.

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In The Spotlight

Shallow Pools – “Glow”

Hailing from Boston, three of the four band members started playing music together back in 2012. Consisting of Jess Gromada, Glynnis Brennan, Ali Ajemian and now enriched with bassist Haley Senft, they soak modern indie-pop in a generous bath of 80s synths and sprinkle it with empowerment. Compared to HAIM, The Aces and Alanis Morisette, they debuted the song “It’s A You Thing” in 2018.

Choosing shimmering synth chords and a bright beat from their sonic palette to paint the initial auditory strokes on their musical canvas, their new single gives off an 80s, pastel vibe, while keeping a foothold in the here-and-now. Bursting to life in the colorful chorus, the decennary influences can be felt simultaneously. Artfully intertwined, this resplendent groove is positively glowing.

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