In The Spotlight

Chynna Lewis – “Mind And Soul”

Toronto-based, this Taiwanese-Canadian vocalist and songwriter was born in Taiwan and moved to Canada aged 10. Growing up in a musical family, she found her own singing voice through the soul and R&B of legends like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin and at 15 started writing original material. She’s performed with the likes of Ed Sheeran and July Black and opened for Bobby McFerrin.

Delicate, luscious and vulnerable, her sumptuous debut single is a honeyed hive of sheer emotion. With a mellow rhythm, ethereal synths and contrasting tambourine laying down the smooth groove, it’s her silken, angelic vocals and velvety harmonies which give your soul a comforting warmth. And with an alluring sensuality and irresistible charm, this is teeming with vintage sentiment.

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In The Spotlight

The Sensational Barnes Brothers – “Trying To Go Home”

Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, the brothers Chris and Courtney Barnes were born into a musical family. Their dad Calvin “Duke” Barnes was a solo artist, whereas their mom Deborah sang backup for Ray Charles. Combining the sounds of their youth, they managed to add a fresh touch to their late 60s-styled gospel/soul sound. They released their debut album “Nobody’s Fault But My Own” in 2019.

Taken from that eponymous album, their new single sounds like a celestial slice of spiritual splendor. Dipped in divine, sixties jubilance, they take an invigorating beat and exalted horns to tickle your soul, get you up from the pews and rejoicing in blessed euphoria. Sounding like a long lost groove and with their seraphic vocal harmonies stroking your ears, this jam deserves a glorious hallelujah.

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In The Spotlight

TOPS – “Colder And Closer”

Formed in 2011 after the disbandment of the synthpop group Silly Kissers, this Canadian quartet from Montreal has seen some line-ups changes since their inception. Currently they consist of Jane Penny, David Carriere, Riley Fleck and Marta Cikojevic. Inspired by eclectic sounds from Prefab Sprout to Sade, they debuted their vintage-touched rock on their acclaimed album “Tender Opposites” in  2012.

Splashing the soundwaves with an alluring neon shimmer, their new single feels like stepping into a crisp 80s pop shower. Released as the third single from their upcoming album “I Feel Alive”, expected on April 3rd, the scintillating synths rain down on the sleek rhythm, while the satiny, ethereal vocals enchant every single sonic drop. With a retro warmth, this is a lavish sprinkling of refreshing pop.

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In The Spotlight

The Burroughs – “Love And Unity”

Hailing from Colorado, this dynamic nine-piece band has been going from strength to strength since 2013. Primarily a live band, their electrifying show excites audiences into a revival-like frenzy. Inspired by the likes of Stevie Wonder and Parliament Funkadelic, their sweaty soul sound is steeped in classic soul and a multitude of funky grooves. They debuted with a self-titled EP in 2014.

Taking a leaf out of the book of funk from the 70s, their new single preaches the need for love and unity in this world. The acoustic instrumentation gives it a vintage feel, from the lively beat, via the classic wah-wah guitars, to the exalting blazing brass. With an invigorating, driving vibe and a salubrious vivacity, this zesty dancefloor filler creates an infectious and flamboyant funkalicious party.

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In The Spotlight

Hedda Mae – “Pride Goes Before A Fall”

Born as Hedda Grønberg in Bergen, this 21 year young Norwegian singer and songwriter was a kid who never stopped singing. With a style already likened to artists such as Zara Larsson, Anderson .Paak and Bruno Mars, she shaped an exuberant and infectious pop vibe with a touch of mild funk. Working with producer Benjamin Giørtz of Kids Astray fame, she’s now ready to take on the world.

Sprightly and colorful, her debut single splashes some high-spirited ambience all over the pop soundscape. A playful, almost cheeky melody of jaunty keys and an understated retro guitar teases the listener at the start, but its delicious pop and funk blend truly comes to life in the chorus. Mixing the vintage fusion with peppy, early 00s harmonies, this is one debut she can be very proud of.

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In The Spotlight

Callie Young – “Problematic”

This youthful pop singer and songwriter from Phoenix started writing and performing her own original songs aged 10. Over time she has fronted a rock band called Lighthouse, sang the national anthem at several hockey and baseball games and competed on talent shows like The Voice and American Idol. Likened to Billie Eilish, Lorde and Taylor Swift, she debuted with “Back-Up Plan” in 2019.

Inspired by bad relationship experiences, her new single fuses a virulent melody with impassioned lyricism. With a fervent rhythm, fiery guitars and an avid bassline creating an ear-tingling contemporary pop soundscape, it’s her fierce, Katy Perry-dipped vocals, chronicling her romantic disappointments, that draw you in. Torrid, rousing and yet emotive, this catchy pop tune will resonate in your ears.

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