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:

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

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:

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Dynamos – “Knowledge”

The sound of this Los Angeles-based rock band is built around the raw, energetic and emotional vocals of Nadia E who, at a young age, started taking opera lessons, which contributed to her captivating storytelling ability. She discovered rock after hearing Nirvana’s Bleach” and, inspired by the vocal talents of  Otis Redding and Amy Winehouse,  developed a powerful and diverse style.

Their latest single takes their rock ‘n’ roll roots and dips them in pure smoldering blues on this expressive piece of guitar-ladened heaven. A bracing rhythm and bass allow the exhilarating electric guitar riffs to howl and jangle their way into your soul. Nadia’s fierce vocalization narrating this emotive musical story, adds a vibrant passion to this ear-catching piece of strong, spirited rock.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

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.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

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.

Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

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.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes