In The Spotlight

Harts – “Ain’t Nothin’ On Me”

Melbourne-based Darren Hart, better known as Harts, is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer. His music is a plethora of different genres, fusing elements of funk, disco, psychedelic rock, soul, jazz and blues into one multi-dynamic style. He released his debut EP “Offtime” in 2013 and gained praise from both the music press as artists such as Prince.

On this track he’s letting his guitar virtuosity take center-stage. There is a distinct Prince vibe and a Kravitz-like feel to the song, but his unique musical touches elevate the tune to a standout sound. Lyrically inspiring, singing about self-confidence and self-belief and musically riveting, with a ferocious beat, funky keys and a howling guitar bridge, it’s an enthralling slice of pure funkiness.

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In The Spotlight

Re:Funk – “The Harder We Try”

This band from Switzerland got started in 2015 by Dario Milan and Maqs Rossi, but has since grown into an eight-piece powerhouse. After many years of electrifying live performances, such as at the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Jazz Ascona Festival and touring with saxophonist and James Brown collaborator Pee Wee Ellis, they’ve headed to the studio to start recording their first full-length album.

The initial funkalicious taster of that album pays tribute to 70s blaxploitation soundtracks with some rip-roaring cinematic funk. An exhilarating rhythm, jangling guitars and vigorous horns take you back to the glory days of 70s movies and disco-esque hooks make you want to stay. With Maqs’ enigmatic, soul-dripping vocals completing this rousing romp, it’s a masterful debut indeed.

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In The Spotlight

Adée – “Wasted On You”

This Swedish songstress and producer always had music in her blood. She started playing classical flute aged 9, but she was drawn to different styles. At 15 she started to concentrate on singing and discovered her unique vocal talents. She developed a soul, hip hop and pop blend, which lead to the release of her debut EP “One Step Closer” in 2013 and her debut album “Addicted” in 2016.

Although her usual sound is closer to soul and hip hop, her latest single is covered in triumphantly anthemic pop tones. Singing about unrequited love, her intense and powerful vocals have a heart-wrenching quality. With a dramatic, cinematic feel and creative, multi-layered production, it’s an enchanted piece of pop genius which visits every emotional corner of its musical soundscape.

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In The Spotlight

Sam Wills – “Kool Aid”

Hastings is mostly known for its historic battle in 1066, but has since become a bustling seaside destination, as well as the birthplace of this 25-year old classically trained British singer. He debuted on the neo-soul music scene with the release of his EP “So Bright” back in 2016. Also an accomplished songwriter, he penned the Jorja Smith song “Where Did I Go” among many others.

His new single is a vibrant future-soul sparkler brimming with funky vibes. Dipped in some Bruno Mars reminiscent beats, slick guitar riffs and added contemporary synths, he’s created a smooth, neo-soul sound which brings the retro funk tones into the modern age. With silky, soulful vocals, which channel a touch of Stevie Wonder, it’s infectious, distinctively groovy and above all very kool.

From his upcoming EP “Walking Underwater”, to be released on 16 March 2018:

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In The Spotlight

Bellhouse – “On A Night Like This”

That Scandinavia is a breeding ground for catchy pop music is proved once again by Swedish singer/songwriter Emma-Lee Andersson aka Bellhouse. Although trained as a truck driver, her talents drew her into the world of music. She effortlessly combines being a multi-instrumentalist – playing piano, guitar and drums – with a poetic flair for lyricism to create an one-of-a-kind electro-pop sound.

With her scrumptious debut single she’s instantly made her mark on an otherwise congested music scene. The skillful production and electronic instrumentation takes you from a smooth, ear-stroking vibe to a robust burst of energetic tones, but it’s her radiant and rousing vocals which make this song truly stand out. Oozing with pop yumminess, it’s the fresh sound your ears were craving.

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In The Spotlight

Ruth Koléva – “I Don’t Know Why”

Born into the turbulent tides of a transient post-communist Eastern-Europe, this Bulgarian artist found her escape of the harsh times in the soul classics of Marvin Gaye and Nat King Cole. She started to immerse herself in everything music had to offer, ranging from soul to hip hop and adopting a sultry soul/jazz style. This lead to the release of her debut album “RUTH” in 2014.

Her latest musical morsel is an opulent synthesis of vintage jazzy tones and touches of modern R&B. The smooth instrumentation of soft percussion, velvety violins and polished horns radiates a sensuality and warmth, welcoming her seductive, creamy vocals into its musical arms. Singing about the uncertainties of love, it’s a lavishly rhythmic gem with an alluring flirtatious side.

From her upcoming album “Confidence. Truth”, to be released on 30 March 2018:

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