Julia Thomsen, ‘Walking In A Dream Guitar’

Julia Thomsen

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

Julia Thomsen and Strings of Light are proving to be the perfect musical collab with new release, “Walking In A Dream Guitar”. This new cover version is an acoustic guitar escape with all the hallmarks of a standout release.

Award-winning Julia first brought this track to the forefront of neo-classical back in 2022 and the new work by Strings of Light reminds us of its beauty. The track is easy to listen to as the guitar tones lead us on a relaxing trip.

You can take a listen below.

Photo Credit: Julia Thomsen.

B.U.d! Excites With ‘No More’

B.U.d!

Words By Max Jordan.

U.S based R’n’B star B.U.d! is flying the flag for top quality soul with his new release ‘No More’.

I first came across this fresh track having being sent it by his promoter, and I have to say, I have found myself hooked ever since. It is infectious with a vocal charm which is challenging to keep at bay. Vocally, B.U.d! sounds delightful with him providing a performance which is massively piercing. He sings with his heart on his jacket, and he takes a no prisoner approach to songwriting with a message which leaves no room for ambiguity.

Musically, ‘No More’ is exciting, and it has a Prince style vibe popping out of it at times. Nevertheless, there is still plenty of unique qualities which makes it stand out truly on its own with a radiance which many will find hard to fault.

You can take a listen to the ‘No More’ below.

Aswad Announces Limited Edition “Live In London” Vinyl, Featuring Exclusive Red, Gold & Green Splatter

Aswad

Due to high demand, legendary British reggae group Aswad is excited to unveil the limited edition release of their live album, “Live In London,” available in physical format for the first time. This exclusive release, featuring only one thousand copies of Red, Gold & Green splatter vinyl, will launch on August 30, 2024, and can be purchased only through SMC Records, a division of The Spaine Music Company.

“Live In London” is Aswad’s first major release in over a decade, capturing a key moment in their remarkable career. This album serves as a tribute to the late Angus “Drummie Zeb” Gaye, celebrating his enduring spirit and legacy. Recorded live at the renowned Jazz Cafe in May 2024, it represents the pinnacle of the British reggae movement.

Produced with care by core members Tony Gad and Soloman, and mixed by Christian Cowlin of The Wailers, each track—from classics like “Babylon” to fan favorites like “Just A Little Herb”—showcases Aswad’s exceptional artistry. The album has been meticulously mastered by Mark Gittins at Sensound Studios for an outstanding listening experience.

Seize this chance to own a piece of reggae history and experience Aswad in a whole new light. This limited edition release is both a collector’s gem and a celebration of Aswad’s lasting impact on music.

Cloud, ‘Overdrive’

Cloud

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

Cloud, the modern-day guitar hero, is back with a bang, delighting fans and newcomers alike with his electrifying new track, “Overdrive.” This latest release from the rising star in the rock scene is a breath of fresh air, perfectly timed for the summer season. With its high-energy vibe and infectious melodies, “Overdrive” promises to be a standout hit.

“Overdrive” is an anthem for those who crave edgy and powerful sounds. Bursting with explosive guitar riffs and dynamic rhythms, the track is pure ear candy for rock enthusiasts. Cloud’s masterful play and distinctive style shine through, making every note and chord resonate with intensity.

You can stream below.

Photo Credit: Cloud

Accept Cookies, The Interview Series.

Accept Cookies

A recent interview with Accept Cookies.

Hello, Accept Cookies, Let’s talk about your new release, ‘Why Are Hearts So Cold’, what is the meaning? 

Why are hearts so cold is about the unknowable feelings hidden in another’s heart and how we navigate the distance between our wants and theirs.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

Kendrick Lamar, Christone Ingram and the smile

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2024?

The access to digital recording equipment, it’s wonderful to be able to just experiment on a level that wouldn’t have been possible 30 years ago. It gives a freedom to the ability to try new ideas by being so flexible without loosing quality in comparison to a medium like tape, I still use tape though.

Is there a certain place you often go to write?

Mostly the living room or the bedroom, just those kind of spaces that are comfortable to me, I own the space and that has a sort of protection in it I think.

What is your first memory of music? 

Listening to an old Woodie Guthrie tape that my dad put on on a boom box. That was magical I’d definitely heard music before but this is what I remember. The whole experience of getting the tape out, its colour, placing it in to tray and clicking the go button into place and just sitting there listening to a whole album cover to cover

Photo Credit: Accept Cookies.

Jejune, ‘Have A Nice Day’

Jejune

Words By Joey Rochert.

Jejune are back and mighty with new song ‘Have A Nice Day’. The band known for their ‘Boogie Juice’ release are on top form here, proving that good old indie is as alive as ever! Although, could we call this indie? It is in a world of its own this release, there are vibes which could be compared to many genres.

‘Have A Nice Day’, is perfect for the summer! There is a warm quality to it which makes it ideal for those late summer evenings sat in the garden. Although, personally, I could envision this one echoing out of indie halls for a long time to come, even long after the sun has gone down!

You can stream below.

Photo Credit: North Ship

Julia Thomsen, ‘Sweet Aurora’

Julia Thomsen

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

Julia Thomsen, the composer with the magic piano hands greets us to her new summer offering, ‘Sweet Aurora’. Charming and elegant as you would expect if you are aware of Julia Thomsen, this new track is blossom for the ears, perfect in texture and amazing to witness.

‘Sweet Aurora’ is one of the many releases we have reviewed here by Julia Thomsen and one thing is true about her as a composer, she is constantly innovating. Yes, she does not sound a million miles away from what others are doing in the current neo-classical scene, but she still finds new ways to be creative and she does that once again.

You can take a listen below.

Photo Credit: Julia Thomsen.

Marsha Swanson, ‘Homeward Bound’

Marsha Swanson

Words By Joey Rochert.

Marsha Swanson, the progressive-pop artist with countless stand-out releases now under her belt charms us again with new single ‘Homeward Bound’. As a fan of Marsha’s it has been refreshing to witness her growth as an artist over the last few years and her new album, ‘Near Life Experience’ just keeps on giving.

‘Homeward Bound’ is highly narrative driven as are a lot of Marsha’s songs. This is one of her trademark qualities now as an artist because you know with each one there will be a message within it which has a prevalent factor. Moreover the way she manages to incorporate real-life experiences into her music is inspiring.

You can take a listen below.

Photo Credit: Marsha Swanson.

Ervin Munir, ‘Felixstowe’

Ervin Munir

Words By Joey Rochert.

Ervin Munir, Norfolk’s very own folk trailblazer welcomes us to his new release, ‘Felixstowe’. Well, Ervin, you have us gripping to this one! Gifted with an ability to tell stories through his music, Ervin’s heartfelt message sends shivers down my spine as he speaks about breakups and the realities of losing a loved one; his storyline really hits me deep!

The music is slightly different to what we have heard before from Ervin. The press release states that this track actually came to life after Ervin was inspired by the chords of ‘Old Man’ by Neil Young. Yes, I can hear that slightly, but this has ended up a very unique piece in its own right. The music here is really really good! In fact, I would be brave enough to say that it may be my favourite song from Ervin Munir.

You can take a listen below.

Photo Credit: Ervin Munir.

North Ship, ‘It Looked Like Rain’

North Ship

Words By Joey Rochert.

Bold as you like, North Ship from Copenhagen rock up with new album, ‘It Looked Like Rain’. From the first spin, this album proves to be one to keep close. The album starts with the title track, a massive stadium filling overture fills our ears ahead of a catchy verse driven by contagious vocal melodies.

Into ‘Scent’, a single the band had previously released and here we come to realise that this two piece are not giving half measures. They have their talents synergising with a sound which could easily be compared to that of those towering at the top of the charts. ‘Good and Gone’ is a personal favourite of mine. It has a quirky edge to it with syncopated drum strikes and a bold instrumental.

The album wraps up with ‘From the Living’, a track which sums the record up perfectly with its silky-smooth guitar riffs and thought-provoking storyline.

You can stream below.

Photo Credit: North Ship