Curious crunchy claps crackle above a droning atmosphere at on the onset of Seraphim, the new single from Aether Glacier. An intoxicating, dreamy voice enhances the contrast, as a more aggressive beat propels the energy forward. The vocal adapts with a dark, suggestive affect. It’s somewhere between desire and seduction, reflecting a semblance of how they might respond to pleasure.
The production is innovative and the rare vocal supports its creative flex. Altogether it resonates with projects like Massive Attack or Grimes.
Hear Seraphim now on our Women of Trip Hop Playlist.
We were drawn to the unique melodic magnetism of Phantom, the new single from Close to Monday. The progression is rare, with some catchy contrast to illuminate the innovative essence. It’s a sonic treat too, embracing elements of hyper pop and blending them into a classic synth based aesthetic.
The downtempo groove adds to the dark trip hop appeal, and cites an influence of experimental artists known for innovation and genre blending. In that manner we think it connects with the works of Grimes, Perfume Genius, and Bjork. Hear for yourself.
Phantom is featured on our Women of Trip Hop Playlist.
We dig the dark sparkle of Neon Vinyl, the new single from Arum. Featuring Terena of Cymatica on vocals, the collaboration elegantly blends a dark melodic progression with a bright retro pop vocal. In that way it cleverly blends the influence of Madonna and Kate Bush.
Neon Vinyl is guaranteed to connect with synthwave fans drawn to the works of Dana Jean Phoenix and Kristine.
Hear Neon Vinyl now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
Tiger La Flor caught our attention with the video for their new single rope bunny. Featuring a sporadic nostalgic collage of images that span the throes of emotion and experience, rope bunny is more complicated than you might think. In that way it reflects the retro pop that influenced it, the undervalued legacies of artists like Madonna.
This is smart pop that takes incredible attention and an understanding of the tools and how to use them. Tiger La Flor honors that legacy with an inspired performance of her own, full of sensuality and seductive hush. There’s also some modern psych pop reverence mixed in. We hear an influence of MGMT and Dayglow in addition to the classic pop appeal. We can dig it.
Hear rope bunny now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 