Richardine Bartee
ROA – Ushism (Submission)
We don’t always need to understand the words of a song for it to be considered a good song. It’s far more technical than that. If you don’t believe me, take a trip to your nearest Barnes & Noble. You’ll find literature on the topic; learn that my claim is accurate. In verity, Japanese band ROA understands that there is a formula and they’ve used it to their advantage. It’s the only way I’d be able to feel the music. There’s a familiar pattern, concept. According to the text I received with the submission, the Punk band’s sound for this record is a blend of traditional Japanese sounds and Western Rock. Check it out below.
Remi – Telephone Call (Submission)
Deep, creepy voices are a thing. We’ve only been hearing them since we’ve started watching horror films from the eighties. ‘Telephone Call’ makes me think about the moment when an innocent person receives their last phone. Your murderer, who is a psychopathic serial killer, is on the other line. He or she has marked their next target. It is six months since they’ve satisfied that itch. It’s time for you to meet your maker.
Chronixx – Skankin’ Sweet (Submission)
Whenever I tune into to a Jamaican artist’s music, I learn the permissible jargon. Jamaicans, based on what I’ve seen and experienced, are one of the most influential groups on this planet when it comes to pop culture, Black culture, and musical linguistics, period. If you weren’t able to draw direct connections when you read the last sentence, either your lost or you aren’t looking hard enough. However, at times, we see things, but we are ignorant of its origin. I don’t want to be that person to leave you in the dark when you’re reading what I write. So, let’s start at the beginning. What is skankin’, you may ask. It is a vibrant dance associated with the musical style and Rastafarianism. It involves all members of your body; your arms, legs, head, and your core.
When you watch the young artist’s new music video, you will see people of different ages, skanking. The elder woman is who hooked me. I think she has the best spirit, on-camera.
Jen Awad – Break a Man (Submission)
Inspired by an Esquire Magazine article that she read, singer-songwriter Jen Awad took it upon herself to expound on the messaging through her creativity. According to the Soul singer, when she came to terms with the fragility of the male species, she found that it is easy to break a man. I’m no certified expert, but I can offer a statement for her train of thinking. Based on what I’ve seen myself, I believe that we (as a society/human race) spend more time consoling our girls, ladies, and women, emotionally than we do our boys, gentlemen, and men. In my mind, it’s the cause of fragility.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t locate the article online, but I am sure it is worth the read—most especially if it is capable of making someone make a song.
Runabay – Blink of an Eye (Submission)
There’s nothing more beautiful than hearing a song like ‘Blink of an Eye’ when you’re falling deeply in love. Being treated by the vocals that come from his throat on a warm Summer day is like my vision of being pregnant on an island, swaying in a hammock. It’s been my projective thought of myself entering motherhood since I was a little girl. There is a sense of tranquillity that comes over me when I think about those images. But, first must come love as the theme song of ‘Married with Children’ suggests. It’s so important, and as an adult, I finally understand what that means. I don’t know if I’m going or coming right now, but it feels good. I’m anxious, but not because it’s wrong. The anxiety covers me when I think about ideas of perfection and presentation and my stark barometer of affection. Hey, I’m not perfect. Nor have I tried to be, but this time, the person is so perfect for me, that I want to make sure that I am doing my part.
I am in love. Like any creative person with a knack or gift of writing, it sits on the sleeves, my smile, eyes, face, work and aura. Runabay’s song reactivates those emotions. In what felt like a blink of an eye, he was there—for me. I must admit. I am afraid too, but I deserve this. For the first time in a very long time, I am terrified. I’m game for the challenge, the permissible changes, and any possible outcome. Life is life. We should all enjoy every day that God allows us to explore if we are physically and mentally capable. Enjoy life as it unfolds.
Thank God for music. It helps us get through our toughest times, and most of the time, the artists won’t ever know how many people’s lives they’ve changed or affected. I’m glad that I have the gift and privilege to share what I feel.
Tobtok & Adrian Lux – As I Sleep featuring Charlee (Gramercy Remix) (Submission)
Deep House is my go-to when I don’t want to be disappointed by what other musical styles have to offer. With millions of people loving this song, it’s hard to deny it’s infectious and vivacious contribution the world. Check out the Gramercy remix to ‘As I Sleep’ originally by the Swedish producers Tobtok & Adrian Lux now, featuring Charlee.
Oli Hannaford – Considering Both Sides featuring Marna (Submission)
Not only is the cover art for the song lovely, the vocals and the production for the record feeds the soul. There’s always a debate amongst music lovers that this sort of music doesn’t get enough promotion in the mainstream markets. People have the power to make anything possible, so how about we start with spreading the news about what we like, together, so the artists that make this kind of music can get to the top of the totem pole without having to compromise their creativity. About the track, Oli Hannaford says it is an “emotional account of the acceptance of being mistreated, but realising that hate is the wrong thing to do and instead step back and try to be friends.” No wonder it is close to his heart. Listen to the smooth musical composition below by the young British Electro-Soul producer, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.
Tepr – Taste of Love featuring D Woods (Submission)
We’re in the nineteen eighties. It’s night time. We’re heading to the club. ‘Taste of Love’ comes on the car radio. It’s giving us the life we wanted. Its anthemic vibe paired with D Woods’ vocals are so good that it could follow us to the afterlife if it tried. Additionally, if you listen when you’re sick, the French producer Tepr’s high-energy track may cure a common cold. Play it loud from the speakers stacked in your linen closet, more than once.
The Shakes – With Every Moment (Submission)
When thinking about what makes me like songs by one person, and not the other, I believe it has to do with the strength of the vocalist. Whether it is the vocal used as a sample, or if it is a live person, it ought to command my attention. Next, what the person says out of their mouths is of importance. When it comes to ‘With Every Moment’ by The Shakes, every human who has the opportunity to hear it is asked to cherish every moment. Not all of us have the know-how, but we can try.
Winter & Triptides – Amiga (Submission)
Yes, you might not understand every word that Samira Winter (Winter) and Glenn Brigman (Triptides) sing, but a good song is a good song. When you know the formula, you know the formula. It’s from their forthcoming album titled ‘Estrela Magica’, which translates to Magic Star in English.
