In The Spotlight

Island Club – “Irresistible”

Based in Brighton, UK, this five-piece band graduated from BIMM music school, following artists like George Ezra, Tom Odell and The Kooks. The band was founded in 2015 and found their first three singles already highly acclaimed. Their 2016 single “Let Go” even managed to hit over 1 million listens on Spotify. Their style mixes psychedelia, dance and rock and wraps it in a multi-layered pop coat.

On their latest single they show off the infectious indie pop side of their musical stylings. It’s a contemporary sounding track, but with an underlay of 80s pop with a rock twist. With addictive hooks, buoyant percussion, sweltering synth action, glitzy electric guitar riffs and spellbinding vocals, it’s an exuberantly upbeat pop/rock song, which will make the sun shine on a rainy day.

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In The Spotlight

Fox In Oil – “Rise And Fall”

Although the band name sounds like it was taken from a medieval cook book, their music is definitely a recipe for success. Based in Saint Petersburg, this Russian quartet released their debut EP “Flowers Bloom In Atacama Desert” in 2016 and showcases their amazing amalgamation of neo-soul, jazz and R&B, all drizzled with pure 80s reminiscent pop.

Their latest single has an atmospheric, slightly haunting melody, which carries the lush voice of teenage lead-singer Daria Manakova like it’s floating on waves. With polished piano, lustrous percussion and fluid guitar riffs it sets a hypnotizing soundscape for her masterful, alluring vocals, all gelling together in an enchanting tour de force.

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In The Spotlight

Soul Messengers – “Whiplash”

This Sidney-based Australian soul band is formed around singer Rich Aljinovic, aka Chich, who is a blues/soul revivalist. Following in the footsteps of his influences like Bill Withers, Otis Redding and Donny Hathaway, he went back to basics and let songs develop organically. They love to play live and are intent on spreading their soul manifesto.

Their latest single is a wonderful, laid-back, soul drenched masterpiece, which is blended seamlessly with impassioned blues guitar. With a lively rhythm section, exhilarating horns and gutsy, gripping and dynamic vocals, this song is a riveting piece of modern soul with plenty of 70s grooviness, which gives you a warm feeling all over.

From their album “Vision & Faith” (2017):

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In The Spotlight

Sarah Ragsdale – “Next Time”

Hailing from New Jersey, this songstress is the definition of multi-talented, being a singer, pianist, songwriter and composer. Drawing inspiration from a mixture of genres, like pop, jazz, folk and even a touch of ragtime, she’s created a unique sound she calls “Ragstime”. Her album is a musical journey through her life, telling the story of the ups and downs of love and romance.

Her latest single is a whimsical and very infectious delight, which shows off her exquisite piano playing skills. Although it’s a song about heartbreak, it has an uptempo, perky melody, buoyant percussion and her sumptuous and yet powerful voice, which shows her to be an accomplished story-teller too. Impossible not to bob along, this song captivates and sparkles throughout.

From her album “Whimsical Romance” (2017):

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In The Spotlight

Blinkie – “Halfway”

This London-based DJ/producer has been making music since he was 15 years old. Not limiting himself to a specific genre, he is influenced by greats, such as Quincy Jones and Kanye West. His passion for music is deeply infused in all his work, which is innovative and fresh. He established himself firmly on to the dance scene with his last single “Don’t Give Up (On Love)” back in 2015.

Released on his own label Edendale Road his new single is a catchy amalgamation of his varied musical influences. Joyous finger snaps set the tone for an impressive, anthemic powerhouse. Build on a slight house beat, it has full-bodied pop orchestration and soulful R&B vocals, creating an exceptional energetic atmosphere, which is bound to surpass all previous successes.

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In The Spotlight

Tyne – “I’m Down”

At only 19 years of age, Cambridgeshire-based chill-pop songstress Grace Shelley aka Tyne is well on her way to making her unique mark on the music scene. Her music is a multi-faceted blend of atmospheric orchestration and meaningful lyrics. Previous singles “Crawl” and “Girly” were very well received, the latter even having been supported on BBC Radio 1 as their ‘Track Of The Week’.

Her new single delivers on her trademark ambient sound, with a laid-back feel, smooth guitar riffs and captivating electronic hooks, but what sets this song apart are her incredible serene and polished vocals. It’s a sleek, rhythmic and refined gem, which breathes tranquility while enthralling the listener throughout with a bewitching melody and empowering lyrics.

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