In The Spotlight

Sunset Neon – “Tonight”

Sunset Neon is a side-project by Detroit-based eclectic producer/instrumentalist Bret Autrey, better known as Blue Stahli, to explore all the different musical styles of the 80s. He has used tidbits of 80s vibes in his previous releases, but decided to explore them more in a new project, which he describes as “80s VHS music and glitchy nostalgic pop”.

His new single is brimming with pure 80s rock which would not look out of place on a movie soundtrack. It has anthemic electric guitar throughout, glorious sweltering synths and invigorating beats, giving this track a heroic quality as well as an uncontrollable urge to put on sweat bands on long permed hair and shamelessly play air-guitar.

From his upcoming debut album “Starlight”, to be released on 1 December 2017:

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Minor Majority – “Napkin Poetry”

Formed by Pål Angelskår and Andreas Berczelly in the year 2000, this now five-piece Norwegian pop/rock/folk band rose to stardom in their country, having scored gold records and spending 24 weeks on the Norwegian albums chart with their album “Up For You & I” in 2003. In 2010 they put their professional careers on pause, but they returned triumphantly in 2016 with the aptly named song “I’ve Been Here Before”.

Their latest single is a tribute to the music you grew up with as well as to the people in your life who introduce you to good music. Reminiscent of The Eagles, America and Boston, the song feels familiar, yet fresh. With 70s style jangling rock guitar, wonderful laid-back piano, infectious rhythm and smooth-as-butter harmonized vocals, this song has all the ingredients to become an instant classic.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Royaume – “If We”

Consisting of singer Yumi Aoki and producer/instrumentalist Moon Boy, this Paris-based duo met at an after-party and discovered they musically clicked. They set to work on creating their own distinctive dream-pop sound, combining Yumi’s extraordinarily dynamic voice and Moon Boy’s digital synth mastery. Their music has earned them rave reviews from the blogosphere as well as over 500,000 online streams.

Their new single is themed around feminism and empowerment, denouncing a society that gives pride of place to stereotypes. With infectious hand claps, gripping and upbeat percussion, soaring synths and compelling, blissful vocals, it’s an anthemic musical journey which captivates and mesmerizes, while conveying their message of positivity and acceptance for all.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Angela Hunte – “Runaway Love”

Born in Brooklyn and raised in Trinidad & Tobego, this singer/songwriter was exposed to an abundance of eclectic musical styles from birth. She is certainly no stranger to the music scene, having written songs for major artists, such as the Grammy winning “Empire State Of Mind” by Jay Z featuring Alicia Keys and also writing for Nas, Britney Spears and Amy Winhouse.

The first single of her debut solo album is a wonderful mix of soca, reggae and pop. It’s a laid-back track which, despite telling the story about a love gone wrong, still feels cheerful and happy. With bright piano, catchy reggae beat and her scintillating vocals, it’s a bubbly and exciting song which sparkles from beginning to end.

From her album “R.A.W.” (2017):

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Rachel & The Ruckus – “Water & Oil”

Described as probably the best band you’ve not yet heard, this Denver, Colorado-based quintet produces a very distinctive and vibrant blues/rock sound, made up of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, soul and country. Powerful vocalist Rachel Alena grew up in Los Angeles and was born with music in her blood, as both her parents played in a band. That deep infused love for music is clearly noticeable when this multi-faceted band takes to the stage.

Their latest single showcases their signature musical blend with gusto. With fierce electric blues guitar, gripping percussion, smoking sax bridge and forceful, passionate and rugged vocals, this is a beautifully crafted piece of energetic rock ‘n’ roll, with boot-stompin’ country running through its veins. It’s an infectious, raucous and gritty country/rock experience.

Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Pin Up – “Everything Could Change”

Hailing from Montreal, this Canadian quartet is based around married couple Collin Steinz on bass and singer Samantha Martel. Both suffering from anxiety and panic disorders from a young age, they channel their fears through their music and by creating fun, cheerful pop tunes, they hope to give some happiness and encouragement to their listeners as much as themselves.

Their latest single delivers generously on both fronts. Its joyous exhuberance is an intoxicating delight and the rousing 80s-inspired synths and catchy hooks are riveting. An addictive rhythm and the spellbinding, energetic and electrifying vocals of Sam Martel, make this a rip-roaring piece of pop which is memorable and exciting.

From their upcoming second EP, due to be released in 2018:

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes