In The Spotlight

Jean Castel – “What Happened To Us”

Originally from Bordeaux in France, this Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter was born with a love of music. He started learning the violin and guitar at a young age. While attending the National Conservatory in Bordeaux he discovered a passion for songwriting, which he developed further at Berklee College Of Music in Boston. His debut single “In The Late Night” was first released late 2017.

His second single is a delightful, upbeat pop song, with touches of R&B. Despite singing about a dwindling love affair, the song has a very positive vibe. A catchy rhythmic beat, slick harmonies, gentle guitar plucks and his smooth, emotive and slightly falsetto vocals gel together into an infectious pop tune with light reggae undertones, which will definitely keep your head bobbing along throughout.

From his upcoming debut EP “Orange & Yellow”, to be released Spring 2018:

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In The Spotlight

Superwalkers – “Don’t Wanna Leave”

Swedish duo A & J were acclaimed producers in their own right, when they met in Stockholms underground club scene in 2010. They took their different musical backgrounds, their mutual love for vintage synths and, with the addition of observational, meaningful lyrics, mixed it into a retro-fitted electronic pop sound. This lead to the release of their debut single “Not Like Us” in 2015.

Their new single is oozing with deliciously mellow 80s throwback flair, created by the use of authentic synthesizers of the decade. They wrap their lyrical story about personal insecurities in serene and tranquil 80s tones, which they slightly dipped in modern indie gloss. With a catchy electro-beat and velvety, soothing vocals, it’s a polished slice of their signature futuretro sound.

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In The Spotlight

Kristen – “Therapy”

Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, this indie-rock band was formed back in 2012 around the vocal diversity of front-woman Kristen Bales. She has her roots in jazz, but added blues, folk and soul to her sound, which ranges from smooth and pristine to raw and soul-filled. A short stint in Nashville added yet another layer of roaring rock into the mix, making her sound truly unequaled.

A laid-back funky beat and plucky guitar start her new single off with a groovy, vintage vibe, but it soon leads to an energetic chorus, in which the rock influences can be felt. Her varied vocal spectrum is gloriously showcased, as it effortlessly takes it from sweet and jazzy to rough and rocky. Being both retro-sounding as contemporary and fresh, it’s a song you won’t get out of your head.

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In The Spotlight

Joel Sarakula – “In Trouble”

Born in Sydney, Australia, this singer and songwriter submerged himself in the extensive 60s and 70s pop/rock vinyl collection of his parents. He traveled the world in search of his own muse, which he found in the multi-cultural musical potpourri of London. He writes his own blend of music, seen through his large, 70s-tinged glasses; it’s Northern Soul, Motown, pop and so much more.

Launching into the song with rambunctious brass, his latest single serves as a time-capsule from the 70s, while keeping a foothold in the present thanks to a sleek modern production. Touches of Northern Soul, Motown horns, singing guitars and an infectious funky beat converge into a flamboyant groove for his soul-dipped vocals to weave through, creating a rousing retro tune.

From his upcoming album “Love Club”, to be released on 20 April 2018:

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In The Spotlight

Steffen Morrison – “Takin’ Me Higher”

This Dutch soulman grew up in Suriname, lived in Los Angeles for a few years, but has now found his base in Amsterdam. Influenced by soul legends such as James Brown, Otis Redding and Marvin Gaye, he discovered his own soul-infused identity. After performing live with Joss Stone and Raphael Saadiq and releasing a few singles, his debut EP “Just Another Man” saw the light in 2016.

He is one of the front-runners of artists who can take you back to the time of Motown and Stax with a pure retro soul sound, but make it sound fresh and exciting at the same time. His new single is drenched in those vintage grooves. With an infectious rhythm, inspiring choir-style harmonies, sexy horns and his vibrant, edgy vocals, you just want to soak yourself in these uplifting, soulful tones.

From his upcoming album “Movin’ On”, to be released 30 March 2018:

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In The Spotlight

Natalie Prass – “Short Court Style”

Hailing from Richmond, Virginia this American singer/songwriter started writing songs when she was in the first grade. With a genre-spanning style and exquisitely versatile vocals, she feels right at home with opulent, orchestral R&B and pop, as well as more placid, soulful textures. Her self-titled debut album was released in 2015, which was received with rave reviews.

The first taster of her forthcoming sophomore album is a lush sounding ballad with a summery feel. It has an 90’s R&B reminiscent beat, 70s style keys, infectious hand claps and an overall airy texture allowing her deliciously smooth vocals to sparkle. Reminding us that love does conquer all, the alluring lyricism and sumptuous harmonies make this a joyous summertime groove.

From her upcoming album “The Future And The Past”, to be released on 1 June 2018:

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