Each Friday, Atwood Journal’s workers share what they’ve been listening to that week – a music, an album, an artist – no matter’s been having an impression on them, within the second.
This week’s weekly roundup options music by Dylan Cartlidge, Phoebe Inexperienced, Father John Misty, leo, Cooper Phillip, Polly Cash, Woman Subsequent Door, Blair, Dennis Ellsworth, Chloe Slater, Jean-Loup Pinson, Elizma, Fitasha, FAT SALAD, Martin Luke Brown, Terra Twin, half•alive, Dryadic, Ace Rose, and Hannah McKittrick!
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observe WEEKLY ROUNDUP on Spotify 
:: “New Day” – Dylan Cartlidge ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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:: “Valuable Issues” – Phoebe Inexperienced ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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:: “Psychological Well being” – Father John Misty ::
Josh Bloom, Peekskill, New York
“Mental Well being” appears very broad so far as music titles go, however with solely seven minutes to work it out, Father John Misty does it justice, or as is the case on this music, psychological well being does Misty.
I needed to lookup the third phrase of the lyrics.
“Panopticon” is a jail design that permits a single guard to look at all prisoners with out them understanding if they’re being watched. Are all of us watched by God this manner on this “jail” we name life, and is the thought of being watched by God a psychological sickness within the first place?
I’m glad I do know this phrase now.
Strings are one of many stars of Misty’s new Mahashmashana, and right here they get extremely syrupy, virtually to the Phil Spector normal that brought about Paul McCartney to fireside off an offended letter about “The Lengthy and Winding Highway.” On this music, they distinction successfully with the subject material of precise insanity vs. perceived insanity. It feels just like the sonic equal of the preliminary heat rush introduced on by psychedelic understanding.
There’s no increased advantage held on this loopy world
It’s greater than a bit of bit absurd
I agree that it’s absurd to worth psychological well being so extremely with the premise that “existence” is merely notion within the offing; nonetheless, “no increased advantage,” ain’t it. We people love our nutters an excessive amount of, Mr. Misty. That’s why this music is so good.
Oh, madness babe it’s indispensable
For the true endeavour of your soul
Sure. For essentially the most half, we’re on the identical web page right here. As soon as faraway from the extra esoteric and hallucinogenic elements of “Psychological Well being,” it may be loved whereas cleansing the condominium as gentle streams within the window, illuminating every droplet of inordinately costly product bearing claims of environmental security because it lands.
:: “december blues” – leo. ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
If Winter had a soundtrack, leo.’s “december blues” can be its coziest anthem. The rising singer-songwriter masterfully blends acoustic heat, indie appeal, and a splash of classic vacation aptitude on this heartfelt ballad. Teaming up with Chevy, leo. delivers a duet that appears like sipping sizzling cocoa by a roaring hearth – comforting, wealthy, and just a bit bittersweet. The music’s lush string preparations by Alistair Kerley and jazzy piano touches from Nico Widdowson transport listeners to a ‘40s winter soirée, whereas producer Ed Allen’s fashionable polish retains it feeling contemporary. It’s the right mix of nostalgia and modern cool, making you wish to wrap your self in a blanket and hit “repeat.”
However it’s not simply the music that shines – leo.’s storytelling is as endearing as ever. Impressed by his transfer from Portugal’s gentle winters to the UK’s frigid Decembers, he makes use of “december blues” to seize the season’s melancholy and the best way love can soften even the iciest moments. Chevy’s harmonies add an additional layer of emotional depth, making a duet that appears like a heartfelt dialog. Whether or not you’re feeling the nippiness or the romance, this observe delivers a bit of heat to everybody’s winter.
:: “One Candy December Evening” – Cooper Phillip ::
Chloe Robinson, California
The holidays could be a magical time the place something appears potential. Cooper Phillip’s “One Candy December Evening” evokes that sense of enchantment and surprise. From the opening jingling bells to the remainder of the observe’s cheerful instrumentation, it’s going to immediately put anybody within the Christmas spirit. The soulful pop vocals soar as she sings of eager for her love throughout this festive season. “One Candy December Evening” outcomes from the ISINA Improvement Deal, a possibility for artists whose profiles and rankings attain the highest 10 of their style and division after holding prime positions for 4 weeks. This may end up in a possible growth deal.
Phillip has been identified to craft music that’s assured and daring. Her mom toured as a violinist so a love for the humanities runs in her household. From a younger age she picked up piano and harp. Later additionally honing in on her abilities with choir. Impressed by musical greats Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, you possibly can hear that affect even on this new launch. The providing emits an air of Mariah Carey’s “All I Need For Christmas Is You” whereas nonetheless remaining uniquely her personal.
:: “i’m not proud” – Polly Cash ::
Rachel Leong, France
Previously touring as a tour vocalist/guitarist for The 1975, indie pop artist Polly Cash has simply launched her new single, “i’m not proud” – an intimate play on emotions of guilt and want in relationships. Boldly weak and effortlessly easy, the observe is backed by driving acoustic guitar and playful keys, with Cash’s ethereal vocals laid atop.
Toeing the road of affection and temptation, Cash beckons you into her inner back-and-forth. “i’m not proud” is a testomony to choices and fleeting wishes, rapidly coated by the burden of what’s already been constructed. On the observe, Cash shares, “‘I’m not proud’ is all about enjoying round with the concept that music and lyrics can convey two totally different feelings and I really like that. it’s bouncy and joyful sonically, but in addition about having a naughty lil crush. It doesn’t take itself too significantly and we had a whole lot of enjoyable recording it. It simply sounds playful and out of all of my music it has a few of my favorite moments in it.”
Rising from her stint as The 1975’s bandmate, Cash makes waves of her personal, most lately opening a present for Dora Jar at London’s Omeara. Garnering the utmost reward from her former band members, Cash is about to take the stage – this time main the cost on the forefront of her personal artistry.
:: Darling I Noticed The Approach You Seemed At Me Tonight – Woman Subsequent Door ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Girl Subsequent Door’s newest EP Darling I Noticed The Approach You Seemed At Me Tonight is an exhilarating launch. The 5 songs have a superb mix of heartfelt songwriting and experimental digital components showcasing her easy inventive facet. Along with being a show of Carton’s extraordinary ability, this assortment of songs is a celebration of self-discovery with its intensely private but extensively relatable themes.
Each music looks as if a definite chapter within the story of hedonism, heartache, and self-discovery, from the ethereal simplicity of “If Dance Flooring Had been Silent” to the shimmering, experimental title observe and the driving rhythms of “CTRL.” Sarah’s transferring vocals are layered with whirling synthesisers, delicate guitar tones, and ambient rain sounds within the lead music, “Causeway,” which is a lush, sorrowful spotlight that aptly captures the brittle feelings of being “trapped within the house between collectively and aside.”
The EP’s advanced thematic examination of the murky journey into maturity, exploring themes reminiscent of lack of innocence, societal strain, and the sophisticated navigation of relationships, goes past its progressive sound.
:: “Late to the Get together” – Blair ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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:: “I Can’t Impress You” – Dennis Ellsworth ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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:: “Fig Tree” – Chloe Slater ::
Bárbara Martínez Campuzano, Mexico
21-year-old singer/songwriter Chloe Slater has simply launched “Fig Tree,” touching the topic of a lady’s growing older with the fragile and intelligent use of metaphors and analogies to discover it in a significant manner. Paying shut consideration to the music, Slater tries to empathize and connect with those that fear about staying or trying youthful whereas confronting the system that pushes girls to do, put on, or take issues that can give them extra youth, on the expense of their freedom to resolve or do as they need.
Lyrics like “Higher to have creases than to by no means have laughed” or “Your life is greater than their obsession” factors a finger on the beliefs and pressures pressured by a society that’s fastened on youth and sweetness requirements. “Slave to a patriarch” is the road that claims nearly the whole lot about this music, and might make the listener surprise if they’re beneath that authority as effectively. Together with a paced and indie rock-like instrumentation, this music certainly conveys an vital message.
:: A Second of Deathlessness – Jean-Loup Pinson ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Jean-Loup Pinson’s newest EP A Second of Deathlessness is an exhilarating exploration of Emily Dickinson’s iconic poetry by way of the lens of contemporary music. The French-British composer, identified for his genre-blending work, combines classical choral components, modern rap, and digital beats right into a soundscape that feels each timeless and futuristic. That includes performances from the acclaimed Carice Singers and London-based poets Armanious and Tanaka Fuego, the EP reimagines Dickinson’s themes of reality, mortality, and want with a recent twist. The result’s a seamless fusion of previous and new, bridging two centuries of inventive expression and providing a contemporary perspective on the celebrated poet’s work.
What actually units A Second of Deathlessness aside is the best way Pinson brings collectively such numerous voices. The plush, classical choral preparations meet the rhythmic depth of hip-hop, making a dynamic interaction that feels each intimate and expansive. As Pinson himself notes, the collaboration between classical and modern artists provides a singular lens by way of which to look at Dickinson’s poetry, making these age-old themes resonate in immediately’s world. Along with his deep understanding of composition and a profession that spans movie, theatre, and dance, Pinson continues to push boundaries, and this EP proves that his inventive imaginative and prescient is aware of no limits. A Second of Deathlessness is an bold and emotional journey that invitations listeners to expertise poetry in an entire new manner.
:: “Secrets and techniques” – Elizma ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Elizma’s “Secrets and techniques” is a sonic and emotional tour de pressure, combining intricate musicality with uncooked, unflinching honesty. The fast-paced observe pulls listeners into the chaos of dependancy and restoration, its layered rhythms and haunting melodies mirroring the turbulence of the artist’s private journey. Lyrically impressed by the Alcoholics Nameless mantra “Secrets and techniques preserve me sick,” the music masterfully navigates the disgrace and isolation of substance abuse, providing an unvarnished glimpse into the struggles that many face in silence. Elizma’s highly effective vocal efficiency strikes a fragile steadiness between vulnerability and defiance, making each phrase resonate with emotional weight.
What units “Secrets and techniques” aside is its twin goal: it’s each a deeply private confession and a scathing critique of popular culture’s normalization of drug use. Elizma challenges the music business’s tendency to glorify substances with out acknowledging their devastating penalties, delivering her message with urgency and precision. The observe’s intricate manufacturing—equal elements frenetic and melodic—calls for consideration, driving house the significance of its message. “Secrets and techniques” is a rallying cry for accountability, compassion, and alter, proving that music could be as thought-provoking as it’s fascinating.
:: RUSH – Fitasha ::
Rachel Leong, France
Fitasha returns along with her third file, RUSH, an embodiment of the singer in all layers of her dynamic artistry. Main the cost is Fitasha’s highly effective declaration of company, energy, and authenticity. An impartial singer-songwriter primarily based in Madrid, Fitasha orbits – however not strictly to – the genres of hip-hop, neo-soul and R&B. She blends nodes of conventional and modern, creating soundscapes of lush preparations topped with powerhouse vocals.
Fitasha makes clear by way of this file that to outline her is to restrict her, and strives to make music that authentically displays her soul. Her ambition and forthrightness is clear in RUSH, the 15-track robust challenge the place the singer took the reins on all writing, manufacturing and recording components. The file represents a transparent path for Fitasha, signalling her singular concentrate on her profession, emotions and goals. Fitasha’s new file is a definitive breakdown of the place her thoughts is at the moment at, the place self-love, self-improvement, belief in intuition and escapist love work together on the forefront. Combining versatility and playful contrasts, Fitasha delves into each English and Spanish lyricism, and genre-bending musicalities, elevating not simply her musical skill, however her energy as a lady.
:: “Ecstasy” – FAT SALAD ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
FAT SALAD’s newest single “Ecstasy” is an exhilarating rollercoaster of sound that completely balances atmospheric indie vibes with uncooked, emotive power. Produced by the famend Natan Sterenfeld (who’s labored with Usher, Diplo, and Faithless), the observe kicks off with shimmering digital textures and rippling guitar chords earlier than unfolding right into a fiery, fuzzy guitar solo that units the stage for the energetic drums and deep, grounding bass that observe. The observe ebbs and flows with a hypnotic construct, sweeping listeners right into a euphoric wave that feels each expansive and intimate – like a reside present captured in a second of pure sonic bliss.
With lead vocalist Aydan Godden’s smoky, fascinating voice taking middle stage “Ecstasy” reaches new heights because it strikes into its swaying verses and anthemic choruses. The observe picks up tempo and elevates into an excellent burst of emotion, earlier than dialing again to a stripped-down shut that leaves you breathless. Drawing comparisons to My Morning Jacket and early Kings of Leon, “Ecstasy”’ is a standout second for FAT SALAD, showcasing their simple potential. Since their debut in 2023, the band has been making waves on the UK reside circuit, and this single—full with its vibrant mixture of glassy guitars and infectious bass traces—proves they’re prepared for even greater issues forward.
:: “hi there !” – Martin Luke Brown ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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:: “Once more and Once more” – Terra Twin ::
Bárbara Martínez Campuzano, Mexico
“Aachieve and Once more” is a brand new single from the English band Terra Twin. Their different rock sound has been performed once more on this music, which begins with a nostalgic 2000s nature that turns into a collection of questions and phrases that sum as much as remembrance, the sentiments and reminiscence of separation or battle from somebody. The repetition of the phrase “time and again” factors to the struggles that emerge from the worry and psychological unrest from recalling.
The London quartet has used components of Americana to mix with their indie/rock fashion, which additionally comes together with nostalgia, one thing that the band has talked about as a kind of transportation into sure instances or locations, subsequently being fascinating to pour into the creativity of their music. With this music, they’ve used this theme as soon as extra.
:: “Songs” – half•alive ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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:: “Smiling within the Darkish” – Dryadic ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Bristol folks artist Dryadic new single “Smiling within the Darkish” is a radiant love music that blends rootsy folks with a catchy pop sensibility. Led by the charismatic Zora McDonald, who delivers effortlessly partaking vocals, the observe options Aly Rainey’s fiddle and George Pearson’s double bass, making a energetic and natural sound. Produced by Jake Skinner, this single marks Dryadic’s first launch since 2021, showcasing a joyful, effervescent power that’s each heartfelt and upbeat. The music tells the story of falling head-over-heels in love, with lyrics that seize that blissful, sleepless pleasure of newfound romance. A playful shift to an offbeat rhythm and an expressive fiddle solo drive the observe to a euphoric climax, whereas its infectious refrain is certain to have listeners grinning lengthy after the music ends. Celebrating love with unapologetically queer themes, “Smiling within the Darkish” is a feel-good anthem that highlights Dryadic’s knack for crafting vibrant, memorable folk-pop tunes.
:: “Robust” – Ace Rose ::
Danielle Holian, Galway, Eire
Ace Rose’s new single “Robust” and it’s clear that this rising star is able to dominate the hip-hop scene. The observe kicks off with a gritty, uncooked beat that hooks you in instantly, setting the stage for Ace’s fearless lyricism. With roots in each Europe and Los Angeles, his sound is a mix of hip-hop’s high-energy vibe and distinctive European influences, making a contemporary tackle the style. Lyrically, Ace pours his coronary heart into the music weaving introspective verses with a relentless drive that echoes the voices of hip-hop legends like Nas and Kendrick Lamar. This isn’t only a music; it’s an anthem for anybody who’s ever pushed by way of adversity to rise to the highest.
What actually units the music aside, although, is its genre-defying manufacturing. Co-produced by Ace himself, the observe’s unpredictable shifts in power mirror the artist’s ambition. Midway by way of, the beat takes an electrifying flip, lifting the music from introspective to anthemic instantly. It’s the form of change that makes you wish to hit replay again and again. With influences from rock and the electrifying performances of artists like Travis Scott, Ace has created a observe that’s not solely successful however an expertise. And together with his contemporary perspective, unyielding fashion, and daring imaginative and prescient, his rise is simply getting began, and “Robust” is the right introduction to a future full of hits.
:: “Utensil” – Hannah McKittrick ::
Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York
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