MUST LISTEN 038
Every week, we’ll be bringing you Must Listen: a series that's a compilation of rising artists along with songs that must be added to your everyday playlist. This week’s playlist consists of emerging acts like Matilda Mann, Sophia Bel, and Skullcrusher. Turn up, tune in, and tune out!
Matilda Mann - “Paper Mache World”
Inspired by artists like The Staves and Fleetwood Mac, London-based singer-songwriter Matilda Mann drops her second EP of the year, Because I Wanted You To Know. The new project delves into her experiences with love and vulnerability through songs like “Happy Anniversary, Stranger” (co-written by Matt Maltese) and “Paper Mache World.” From playing tour support for Arlo Parks and Beabadoobee to garnering attention from BBC Radio and COLORS Studios, Matilda Mann is only rising from here on.
Sophia Bel - “You’re Not Real You’re Just a Ghost”
Montreal-based artist Sophia Bel charms with her unique alt-pop sound, inspired by remnants of drum ‘n’ bass and trip-hop. Following the release of her debut EP Princess of the Dead, Vol. I is the sequel to her series, an eclectic and hauntingly dark six-track project with hits like “You’re Not Real You’re Just a Ghost” and “Voyage Astrale (feat. Félix Bélisle).”
Skullcrusher - “Farm”
Skullcrusher releases her first new single “Farm” only a few months after the debut of her self-titled project via Secretly Canadian. Despite the misleading moniker, Skullcrusher delicately recounts the memories of her childhood and family, layering angelic harmonies with recordings of cicadas and the beach. “Farm” is accompanied by an equally ethereal visual, filmed by Silken Weinberg, Angela Ricciardi, and Jeremy Reynoso.
Magdalena Bay - “Sky2Fall”
Comprised of Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin, Magdalena Bay is your new favorite futuristic synthpop dream. Previously citing influences by Gwen Stefani, Grimes, and Britney Spears, their latest EP Mini Mix, Vol. 2 arrives with six new tracks, including alluring records like “Sky2Fall” and “I Don’t Want to Cry Anymore.”
BERWYN - VINYL
Trinidaddian rapper BERWYN follows up his debut album DEMOTAPE/VEGA with the release of “VINYL,” a beautifully honest single with themes of regret and remorse. In the music video, BERWYN tells listeners of his struggles while strolling through the city streets at night, a simple yet intimate look into his point of view. While the London-based artist proclaims he has more sad stories to share than happy ones, his vulnerability and authenticity make him a standout star in the making.
Miss Grit - Dark Side of the Party
New York-based artist Miss Grit unveils a distinctly resonant sound with eclectic guitar riffs and a candid delivery through her latest single, “Dark Side of the Party.” As the precursor to her debut project, she hopes to break down feelings of self-doubt growing up half-Korean in a predominantly white environment through her upcoming project titled Impostor. For fans of artists like St. Vincent, Miss Grit is a newfound treasure.
Lava La Rue - Angel (feat. Deb Never)
London-based artist Lava La Rue teams up with Deb Never on “Angel,” an unapologetic queer love song with a contemporary kick. Fusing elements of “west coast acid rock with a bit of west London R&B,” the track explores the idea of self-work and intimacy. The accompanying visual is directed and edited by Greedy Goons, pulling on whimsical 2000s cowgirl influences.
oceanfromtheblue - sherlock
oceanfromtheblue releases his third project of the year, Luv-fi 2020, a soulful and intimate look into his perspective on love and the human experience. The new album is entirely self-produced by the South Korean R&B artist, and features thoughtful and mellifluous records like “sherlock” and “flying to the moon.”
Dad Bod - My Own
Drawing on elements of funk, jazz, and other alternative sounds from the 70s and 80s, Dad Bod is a five-piece band currently based out of Salt Lake City. The group’s latest single “My Own” comes to terms with accepting newfound independence after the end of a relationship, echoing “Now that you’re gone / I can live on my own.” With a second album on the way, we’re excited to hear what the band has up its sleeve.