Heimlich – stella.
stella. keeps to a low pitch on Heimlich – his third single ahead of his EP release – aiding the emotional trance we get wrapped up on the hook I’m choking on you, you, you. The feeling of being unable to fully apologise is conveyed stunningly through the artist’s control of his vocals.
You can listen to Heimlich here:
MIDHEAVEN – Friendship Commanders
MIDHEAVEN from Nashville-based heavy duo Friendship Commanders makes quite the entrance with a bold, energising instrumental. The melody in itself can ascend and descend so rapidly yet so smoothly, whilst the vocals are crucial in building this grand soundscape.
You can listen to MIDHEAVEN here:
Villains – ah-Na
Rising K-pop artist ah-Na establishes a melodious confidence on her track Villains. The lyrics are satisfyingly imperative such as Stop wasting all your breath on words I wish you never said. As for the vocals, the control ah-Na has over them is admirable considering the fast pace of this fun, upbeat melody.
You can listen to Villains here:
ghosted me – Nastya Eif
Latvian-born, London-based Nastya Eif dives straight into her new single ghosted me with well it ended, of course it ended. And this is only the start of her anecdotal flair, as she interweaves moments of wit and soothing production, showcasing soulful vocals to craft a relatable anthem many will enjoy.
You can listen to ghosted me here:
Grey & Old – English Weather
English Weather, made up of songwriting duo Jack March and Aidan Petrie, have released their enchanting new melody Grey & Old. Featuring irresistible harmonies, the pair provide a focus on the concept of unconditional love. The unique way in which they unveil this meaning is expressed so earnestly, like poetry, with a minimalist instrumental playing alongside.
You can listen to Grey & Old here:
Never Better – Night Teacher
The lead single Never Better – from the upcoming October album of indie project Night Teacher – possesses an unorthodox melody that allows for an eccentric lyrical delivery. The production techniques are subtle yet effective, with often subdued vocals perfect for storytelling and smoothly executed instrumental breaks.
You can listen to Never Better here:
Poisonous Bay – Lung’s Poetry
Multilingual multi-instrumentalist Lung’s Poetry conducts a theatrical kind of grace on her single Poisonous Bay. Piano chords alternating beautifully in pitch are a notable part of this. The vocal enunciation is pristine with a solemn quality as the artist addresses the theme of femicide.
You can listen to Poisonous Bay here:
Cut Slack – Still Blank
UK-based duo Still Blank have dropped their third single Cut Slack, a hazy track with a predominantly classic soft vocal but adapts to intensity when needed most (Take the reins, you’re in control, let it out, let it out from the inside). The soothing production works alongside a steady pace, decided by the hook during the intro.
You can listen to Cut Slack here:
POV – DACEY
Vancouver-based band DACEY introduce us to the blissful contrast of a deep rock bassline and the sweet sound of the vocals on POV. The lyrics side with the vocals on this one – My favourite cup of tea t-two sugars and some cream. An instrumental interlude marks a shift in the production where the lyrical repetition dominates, before we return to the original hook.
You can listen to POV here:
American Legion – Bedside Kites
American Legion by Florida-based Bedside Kites has this grungy feel right from the start. Led by a gentle guitar sequence that raises pitch and adds texture during instrumental breaks, the melody is reminiscent of classic indie, tied together by the consistently mellow tones of the vocals.
You can listen to American Legion here:
Cider – Wetsuit
Brooklyn indie rock band Wetsuit deliver charismatic vocals that soar with the melody on their latest single Cider, giving listeners a taste of their second album just released titled Yarn For Future Scarves. A reliable beat and fun melody cross paths to create an exciting track!
You can listen to Cider here:
Red – Dustin O’Halloran
Emmy Award-winning American composer and pianist Dustin O’Halloran articulates a stunning arrangement on his piano solo single Red. He has a clear talent in paying attention to detail, since each note feels so elaborate. O’Halloran carves an atmosphere tainted with delicacy and charm.
You can listen to Red here: