In The Spotlight

joan – “Come Over”

Consisting of Alan Benjamin Thomas and Steven Rutherford, this Arkansas duo has been infusing the musical world with their infectious alt-pop bops since their debut EP “Portra” dropped in 2019. They spent most of their debut year on tour supporting the likes of The Aces and Jeremy Zucker, as well as headlining across Asia. They went on to play a sold-out headline tour in their native USA in 2020.

The third installment of their two upcoming EP’s “Hi” and “Bye”, expected later in the year, encapsulates the initial spark that might evolve into love, wrapped in a late 80s, early 90s retro tinge. Crystal clear synths and a neon beat instantly spark your curiosity and lead to the bubbly chorus. With added bass plucks and a generous helping of exuberant vocals, this is one dazzling, vintage-dipped jam.

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In The Spotlight

Jess Ball – “Upside Down”

Hailing from Melbourne, this emerging Australian singer and songwriter grew up in a musical family. Inspired by the music of Jack Johnson and Missy Higgins they listened to on family roadtrips, she started to explore her own musical interests aged 11. Initially pursuing a modeling career for brands like Trussardi, she became one of the most requested voices by EDM artists like EDX & NERVO.

Taking her first steps on a solo pop-laced path, her debut single dives into the relatable subject of gaslighting and relationships filled with mind games. Giving off slight Lily Allen-like vibes, she coats it in her very own, fun-filled pop finish. Instrumentally going from slick electric guitar plucks to a thumpin’ beat, stroked by her harmonic, multi-faceted vocals, this jam will turn your ears upside down.

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In The Spotlight

Cliff Beach – “I Got Soul”

Born in Washington DC and now Los Angeles-based, this singer and songwriter grew up surrounded by family members who were acapella vocalists. A lifelong student of music, he went on to attend Berklee School Of Music, while absorbing various styles ranging from Stevie Wonder and Quincy Jones, to Billie Holiday and The Beatles. He debuted with his 2013 EP “Who The Funk Is Cliff Beach?”.

Mixing a delicious cocktail of soul, R&B, jazz and funk, his new single is a funkalicious celebration of percussion. Adding a little paper umbrella of joyous gospel tones, it’s the 70s wah-wah guitars, choral harmonies and relentless pace that truly tugs at your dancing feet. And with his classic jubilant vocals infusing the melody with pure soul, this is one groove your ears will be eternally grateful for.

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In The Spotlight

Nina Luna – “Dawn To Day”

Hailing from Minneapolis, this flourishing singer and songwriter spent her teens and 20s pursuing a career in music. A move to New York City, a degree from NYU and glowing reviews later, still left her feeling unsatisfied. She returned home to regroup and reinvent herself. Inspired by Alicia Keys and Christina Aguilera, she debuted with her single “Blaze” in 2017, reaching over 100k Spotify plays.

Incorporating her new-found self-love and joy into her music, her new single is a heavenly rollercoaster of sheer emotion. Singing about the feelings that arise during new love, it’s the elegant piano tones that paint the vulnerable soundscape. Guiding you to a burst of rhythmic passion, her dulcet vocals add a touch of allure. Filled with charm and a heartfelt ambience, this is the dawn of her new self.

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In The Spotlight

Castella – “So Glad I Met You”

Born Cathy Rebecca Crowell in Long Beach, this velveteen vocalist and songwriter has been singing her entire life, be it in church choirs, in groups or a soloist. Her moniker was chosen as a tribute to her grandmother. Inspired by powerful female voices, such as Phyllis Hyman, Aretha Franklin and Minnie Riperton, she debuted her ear-stroking R&B/jazz blend on her single “No Ordinary Love” in 2020.

Fusing touches of 80s pop and 60s soul, doused in a tasty layer of infectious funkiness, her new single is an opulent, vintage-dipped smooth groove. It’s the sparkling keys, mellow guitars and gentle percussion that provide the perfect foundation for the sultry trumpet tones of Willie Bradley. And with her warm vocals singing about falling in love at first sight, you’ll definitely be glad you met her!

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In The Spotlight

Arthur Lewis – “Hello Love”

The epitome of multi-talented, this singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has firmly been in the centre of the entertainment world for a long time. Be it as a member of the rap improv comedy group Freestyle Love Supreme, a session vocalist/musician or in his live show with rapper Joél Leon, he gained respect from the likes of Lin-Manuel Miranda. He debuted with his 2008 solo EP “If We Were”.

Flaming like red-hot funkalicious lava, his first new solo single in 13 years is an exuberant brew of exultant funk and joyous classic soul. With a well-seasoned, relentless rhythm, a spicy bassline and scorching horns, he managed to crossover 60s, 70s and 80s tones into an intoxicating potpourri of funkiness. And with his jubilant vocal chops radiating infectious fun, this jam is a very welcome return.

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