In The Spotlight

Saff Juno – “Since You Left”

Hailing from Bovey Tracey in Devon, this British singer and songwriter was raised by musician parents and grew up listening to a wide variety of music. Bar the odd school concert, she’s been performing publicly since she was 14. She’s also a self-taught guitarist and began writing her own songs aged 17. She’s performed at festivals like Reclaim and Boardmasters as well as the BBC Music Showcase in Exeter. Inspired by AURORA and Wolf Alice, she debuted with “December Daisies” in 2020.

Singing about the painful period after a breakup in which hope for reconciliation still exists, her new single is wrapped in a bright, sunlit melodic radiance. Taken from her recently released EP “Escaped The Box”, this lustrous song is an ear-stroking fusion of the bouncy rhythm, warm and inviting guitars and fresh keys. Slowly adding a bit more oomph adds another pleasing layer and with her enchanting vocals and a touch of nostalgia, this yearning folk-pop tune is a bittersweet gem.

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In The Spotlight

Jordan Astra – “Famous”

Born to an Indonesian father and German mother, this Toronto-based Canadian singer, songwriter and producer grew up listening to his parents’ music ranging from jazz to classic rock and gangster rap. He began his own musical journey after moving to Melbourne, Australia, where he lived for 8,5 years. Since returning to Canada, he’s played venues like The Dance Cave and festivals like NXNE. Inspired by Pharrell, Jamiroquai and SG Lewis, he debuted with his album “Astro” in 2018.

Despite what the title might make us think, his new single is actually not about chasing fame, but about the fleeting moments that emphasise the sheer beauty of life. Taken from his upcoming album “Time Will Tell”, expected on September 19th, this song was created with live instrumentation of a Steinway piano, vintage drums and live guitars. And with his sleek vocals recorded in a single take, this soulful, funkalicious groove is deftly crafted with raw, authentic sonic swagger.

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In The Spotlight

Talk In Code – “More Than Friends”

Hailing from Swindon, this British four-some consists of Chris Stevens, Al Sneddon, Mark Turner and Jamie O’Sullivan. The band initially formed in 2007 and self-released the EP “Friends Close, Enemies Closer”. A few line-up changes later, they reinvented themselves in 2012. Since then they’ve performed a plethora of live shows and festivals and shared the stage with Years & Years and Marc Almond. Inspired by Jeff Buckley, Oasis and Keane, they released their debut “Face To Face” in 2012.

Exploring relatable topics such as love and relationships, their new single highlights that moment where you’re both waiting for the other to make the first move. Blending a 90s sound with an impressive dollop of neon 80s new-wave synth-pop, the song is very skilfully layered. From the mellow piano in the beginning, via riotous rock drums to a howling guitar solo, the melody absolutely soars. And with polished vocals navigating every layer with ease, this tune is a rousing groove.

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In The Spotlight

Jordan Corey – “647am”

Hailing from the Bay Area of California, this singer and songwriter has been on the music scene for 15 years. Although raised on soul, classic rock and disco, she began studying classical piano aged 6. At 14 she ventured into writing her own songs. In University she fronted the soul/funk band SoulMinded and since shared the stage with Drake and Chromeo and toured with RAC. Inspired by Alicia Keys, Amy Winehouse and Stevie Nicks, she released her debut EP Do Me Wrong” in 2012.

Written in a particularly vulnerable emotional state, her new single explores how the stories that we tell ourselves to fill a longing in our lives create a convincing fantasy that remains unfulfilled. Taken from her upcoming album “The Tunnel + The Light”, expected on September 18th, this song is a dreamy, soft R&B soundscape. Immediately casting a sonic spell with the hypnotic synths, the melody is padded with laid-back percussion. And with her silken vocals, this is a mesmerizing tune.

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In The Spotlight

Rachel Grae – “Need Your Love”

Born in Livingstone as Rachel Brooke Gorman, this singer/songwriter got enamoured by music thanks to her parents who were always playing music around the house. Dreaming about a musical career, she posted her first cover on social media aged 10. She participated in the TV show “Becoming A Popstar” in 2022 and she had her music featured on an episode of Love Island UK. Inspired by Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo and Kelly Clarkson, she released her debut single “Bad Timing” in 2021.

Singing about choosing yourself and the freeing feeling of letting go of people and things you don’t need anymore, her new single is filled with self-love and confidence. Entering a powerful and upbeat melodic soundscape, it’s the pulsating rhythm, captivating bass line and vibrant synths that give this groove a bit of an auditory bite. And with her emotionally-charged, energetic vocals reigniting ones self-esteem, this glistening slice of power-pop is celebrating a new-found freedom.

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In The Spotlight

Sean Kennedy – “Rear View”

Based in New York City, this pop-rock singer/songwriter began writing original songs aged 9. At 10 he learned guitar and keyboard and over time started honing his production and recording skills. He officially released his first single and album aged 15, while still in High School. He’s played 2 headline concerts, Tell Me: Live and What’s Left Unsaid: Live and performed at the PinkFROG Café. Inspired by Conan Gray, Troye Sivan and Lana Del Rey, he released his debut “Anyone” in 2018.

Dealing with the inevitable moment – following a period of walking on eggshells in an uncertain relationship – that you have to accept it’s definitely over, his new single both looks back at what’s lost and what the future might hold. Taken from his upcoming album “The Person In The Mirror”, expected on September 26th, this heartfelt song opens with a breezy vulnerability, before adding lively drums and riveting guitars. And with his emotive vocals, this is a nostalgia-dipped gem.

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