Weekly Discover #14

Venture into the fourteenth edition of "Weekly Discover" with us! This episode pledges to transport you on a mesmerizing musical journey, transcending conventional boundaries. Explore a vibrant tapestry of auditory escapades, as we curate the freshest tunes meticulously to compose the perfect soundtrack for your daily adventures.

Our mission? To craft a sonic experience where you can carve your sonorous trail, discover emerging talents, revisit overlooked virtuosos, and unearth hidden gems. Music, the universal language, binds us all. It acts as our compass, stirring emotions, rekindling memories, and inspiring dreams. Whether it's infectious rhythms or poetic lyrics that captivate you, "Weekly Discover" stands as your steadfast companion in the vast realm of music.

Join us on this rhythmic journey, where genres seamlessly blend. Discover the week's most exquisite musical treasures, and let the exploration commence. Brace yourself for an insatiable craving for more musical enchantment, as your harmonious odyssey unfolds!

"Fantastic Mr. Marcel Unleashes Sensational Vibes with 'Fire Fingers'"

Are you ready for a musical journey that's recklessly crazy, impulsive, and shamelessly unapologetic of the night? Look no further than Fantastic Mr. Marcel and his latest record, "Fire Fingers." This Pop/R&B masterpiece with a touch of electronic flair promises to take you on a sultry, passionate, and fun-filled ride.

Marcel, with his smooth raspy tones, has crafted a song that embodies self-discovery in all things sexy and bad. The lyrics confidently express the desire to know exactly what you want and the determination to go after it. "Fire Fingers" isn't just a song; it's an emotional need, a hunger, and a yearning for satisfaction.

At its core, the track is a holistic adoration and a focused attention on the art form of affection. Marcel's eloquent use of words paints a vivid picture that teases the imagination into a soothing submission, accompanied by the sweet sounds of the production by the talented Colin Lanz. The song becomes a meditation on love, carving out precisely what one wants and desires in an elegant musical expression.

Marcel's vocals, displaying a calm sensibility, are a reflection of his single, '9-5,' showcasing his versatility. The dreamy drippy sound, processed synth loops, growling guitar bass, and flawlessly produced instrumentals mark a step into a new sound for Mr. Fantastic. This track boldly blends his pop exploits with something more, creating a unique sonic experience.

In essence, "Fire Fingers" is a stellar track that speaks for itself. Bold and slick, it captures the essence of Fantastic Mr. Marcel's artistic prowess. Get ready to be swept away by the enchanting vibes of "Fire Fingers" as you immerse yourself in the captivating world of Fantastic Mr. Marcel.

"Anne Bennett Unleashes Gothic Magic with 'Second Death'"

Get ready to embark on a mesmerizing journey into the dark and enchanting world of Anne Bennett and her spellbinding record, "Second Death." Drawing inspiration from the iconic allure of The Lost Boys, this composition weaves a sonic tapestry that mirrors the haunting melodies of The Cure and the ethereal beauty of the Cocteau Twins, capturing the very soul of 80s goth with a modern twist.

Anne Bennett, the soul behind the magic, takes on the roles of vocalist and guitarist, hailing from the bewitching city of Salem, Massachusetts, USA. The band draws its influences from the dark, alternative sounds of the 80s and 90s, creating a musical atmosphere that is both nostalgic and contemporary.

Notably, two of Anne's songs have been nominated for "Best Alternative Song" in the World Entertainment Awards, showcasing the undeniable impact of her music. An interesting tidbit for fans: Ben Christo of the Sisters of Mercy serves as Anne's mentor, adding a touch of gothic royalty to her artistic journey.

"Second Death" was brought to life in Anne's attic recording studio on a cold evening in England, surrounded by the flickering glow of black candles. The production was handled by Jon Winterstein in Germany, adding an international touch to the dark allure of the track.

The ethos behind "Second Death" is dark, haunting, ethereal, and seductive, creating an immersive experience that transports listeners to a realm where emotions are heightened, and the music becomes a conduit for self-discovery. The song delves into the intimate psychosis between sexual pleasure and death, offering a unique and provocative perspective.

In Anne's own words, "'Second Death' is not just a song; it's an immersive experience that transports you to a realm where emotions are heightened, and the music becomes a conduit for self-discovery." Brace yourself for a gothic magic carpet ride with Anne Bennett's "Second Death" as you explore the shadows of a bygone era, reimagined for the modern age.

"Lily Pierce Unleashes Emotion with 'Rogue': A Tragically Beautiful Crime Scene"

Dive into the evocative world of singer/songwriter Lily Pierce as she unveils her latest musical creation, "Rogue." Described as a "tragically beautiful crime scene," this song is not just a piece of music; it's an emotional journey that listeners can find solace in, whether through laughter, tears, or even screaming—internally or externally.

"Rogue" encapsulates the heart-wrenching experience of realizing that the person you never expected to hurt you ends up causing the most pain. It's a poignant exploration of relationships ending unfairly and not in the way you anticipated. Lily Pierce masterfully weaves together poetic yet blatant lyrical writing with subtle melodic piano and a bold contrast of dramatic cello to create a visual of a tragically beautiful crime scene.

Lily Pierce, a solo artist, draws inspiration from artists like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Gracie Abrams, infusing her music with simple melodic and instrumental elements coupled with emotional vocal power.

In Lily's words, "hey let's freak out about life together, I have music to go with it." This catchphrase captures the essence of her music—an invitation to experience life's highs and lows through the emotional rollercoaster of her melodies and lyrics.

Recorded at Engine Sound and produced by Matt Anthony, "Rogue" is a testament to Lily Pierce's ability to blend various influences and create a musical masterpiece that resonates with the soul. As she works on her first EP and continues to book shows, Lily Pierce invites you to join her in the exploration of life's emotional complexities through the lens of her music.

"BLAME CLUB Unleashes DIY Magic with 'Spooked': A Sonic Journey of Survival and Dreams"

Step into the world of BLAME CLUB, a musical trio comprising Mike on piano and synthesizers, James on drums, guitar, and bass, and Toby on guitar, piano, synthesizers, and vocals. Their latest record, "Spooked," is a testament to their enduring musical journey, rooted in survival and dreams.

The band's origins trace back 20 years when they formed The Dead Lovers in Bristol, a chapter that eventually led to the birth of BLAME CLUB. Influenced by the likes of Radiohead and Depeche Mode, their sound weaves a tapestry of piano-driven melodies, synths, and a blend of instruments that creates a unique sonic experience.

BLAME CLUB has graced notable gigs, festivals, and events, supporting the likes of Gravenhurst, Snow Patrol, Lowgold, and Ed Harcourt. Despite a series of near misses, the band has thrived, embracing the challenges that come with the music industry.

"Spooked" is a result of the band's DIY ethos, recorded by the members themselves. The single reflects a continuous musical exploration, with no intention of stopping. The band invites listeners to experience the sonic landscape they've crafted, a journey that echoes the survival of a kid who once dreamt of fame but finds solace in living in obscurity.

In the words of the band, "We’ve just released 'Spooked.' It’s good, I promise. Would you be kind enough to have a listen? That would be enough." The simplicity of this request captures the essence of BLAME CLUB—authentic, unpretentious, and driven by the sheer love of creating music. Take a dive into the DIY magic of BLAME CLUB's "Spooked," and join them on a sonic journey that transcends time, survival, and dreams.

"Santa Claws Unveils 'Grain of Sand': A Melancholic Odyssey Through Uniqueness and Survival"

Santa Claws, a resilient and independent French band, emerges from the depths of their musical journey with the release of their latest single, "Grain of Sand." This hauntingly beautiful track serves as the second extract from their upcoming album, "...So live and let lie," marking a significant chapter in their almost decade-long musical odyssey.

Comprising Antoine on guitars, drums, piano and synthesizers, Greg on guitars, piano and vocals, and teddy on bass and vocals, Santa Claws brings a unique blend of influences to the table, drawing inspiration from Radiohead and Depeche Mode. As an independent band without a label, their musical journey has been a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft.

"Grain of Sand" is a contemplative piece that delves into the human experience of feeling like just a speck in the vast universe. The song explores the societal pressure to conform and the constant pursuit of recognition, urging listeners to embrace their uniqueness rather than succumbing to conformity.

Santa Claws has faced numerous challenges, including navigating the impact of the lockdown, but their resilience shines through. They have celebrated milestones such as opening for Negresses Vertes at the Saint-Loup festival in 2023 and opening for the Flesh Tones at La Grande Ourse. As they approach their 10th anniversary in 2024, Santa Claws continues to evolve, adapt, and overcome obstacles, demonstrating their dedication to their craft.

The journey to their upcoming album was marked by years of hard work, writing, erasures, corrections, doubts, and uncertainties. Despite facing canceled concerts, postponed partnerships, lost funding, and changes in the lineup, Santa Claws prevailed. The result is a highly anticipated second album that promises to be more produced and "slick" than their raw and wild debut, reflecting a 90-degree turn in their musical evolution.

"Grain of Sand" is not just a song; it's a melancholic odyssey through uniqueness and survival. Santa Claws invites you to explore their musical universe and be part of the cosmic symphony they've crafted with authenticity, resilience, and a touch of melancholy.

"Pau Crego Walters Unveils Avant Garde vol.1: A Multilingual Musical Odyssey"

Dive into the unique and diverse world of Pau Crego Walters, an artist born in Mallorca with a multicultural background, who effortlessly crafts music in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Celebrating the new year, Pau has released his mixtape, "Avant Garde vol.1," inviting the world to join him on a musical journey that transcends language and genre boundaries.

Inspired by the European vanguard movement of the XX century, "Avant Garde" is the first installment of Pau's mixtape saga, drawing influence from classic Hip Hop tapes like Lil Wayne's "The Carter" and Jay-Z's "The Blueprint." The mixtape explores themes ranging from fascism and spirituality to re-telling classic mythology and delving into the complexities of sexuality.

Pau Walters brings a refreshing blend of subgenres to "Avant Garde vol.1," incorporating elements of cloud rap, classic Hip Hop, Trap, and experimental sounds. The mixtape is a testament to his versatility as an artist, composer, and music producer.

"Chicken Steak" is a flavorful musical dish served up by Pau Crego Walters, blending an eclectic mix of sounds and influences into a unique sonic experience. The track, like its name, is a delightful fusion of diverse elements, showcasing Pau's ability to seamlessly incorporate various genres and styles. With its catchy beats, infectious rhythms, and clever wordplay, "Chicken Steak" is a musical feast that leaves listeners craving more. Walters' playful approach to the song mirrors the joyous spirit of savoring a delectable meal, making "Chicken Steak" a standout piece in his musical repertoire.

Pau's multicultural and multilingual background shines through in his performances, effortlessly switching between Spanish, Portuguese, and English. His ability to seamlessly transition from a hard Portuguese Rap flow to a commercial Spanish-spoken afrobeats/reggaeton song showcases his versatility. With successful releases like "Cnidaria" and "Grate," Pau Walters has achieved significant recognition, garnering thousands of streams.

"Avant Garde vol.1" is just the beginning of the musical journey Pau Crego Walters has embarked upon. Drawing inspiration from visual artists like Picasso, Dali, Basquiat, and Warhol, as well as legendary hip hop sagas, Pau invites you to explore the boundaries of creativity and expression in this multilingual musical odyssey. Click here to listen to his most successful release, "Cnidaria," and immerse yourself in the diverse soundscape created by Pau Crego Walters.

Todd James Unveils the Heartfelt Symphony: "Imperfect Love"

In the bustling hip-hop scene of Chicago, where the city's heartbeat resonates through the beats and rhymes, Todd James emerges as a unique force. With a musical journey spanning 8 years and 5 EPs, his latest record, "Imperfect Love," stands as a testament to both his artistic evolution and personal resilience.

Sometimes, the most beautiful creations emerge from the depths of personal challenges. Todd James, in a courageous endeavor to mend the rough patches in his relationship, poured his emotions into the creation of "Imperfect Love." This record is not just a collection of tracks; it's a love letter set to beats, a sonic journey through the highs and lows of a relationship.

With a career that spans over half a decade, Todd James has honed his craft and carved his niche in the hip-hop landscape. Having opened for notable artists such as Caskey from Young Money Records, Spice1, Jarren Benton, Montana Of 300, Skippa Da Flippa, Sid Wilson (#0 from Slipknot/DJSTARSCREAM), and The Kottonmouth Kings, Todd has shared stages with diverse talents, proving the versatility of his sound.

One cannot talk about Todd James without acknowledging the palpable energy he brings to every live performance. Onstage, he becomes a conduit for raw emotion, laying bare his soul for the audience. The connection between artist and crowd is electric, as each track unfolds like a chapter in Todd's life story.

The record "Imperfect Love" serves as a canvas where Todd James paints his emotions with lyrical finesse and beats that resonate. The authenticity in his voice is a hallmark of Todd's style, creating an intimate experience for the listener. From the euphoria of love to the struggles that make it imperfect, each track tells a piece of Todd's personal narrative.

Todd James is not just a hip-hop artist; he is a storyteller, a poet, and a maestro orchestrating the symphony of his own life. "Imperfect Love" is not just an album; it's a cathartic journey through the complexities of love and relationships. With Todd's unparalleled energy, passion, and authenticity, this record is set to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners, offering solace and companionship in the shared imperfections of love.

Wishpenny's "Day After Dark": A Sonic Journey Through Love, Hope, and Realism

Wishpenny, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo consisting of Brian and Regina Russell, unveils their latest musical masterpiece, "Day After Dark." With a rich history spanning three decades, the Nashville-based creatives have crafted an album that seamlessly weaves together love, hope, and realism, inviting listeners into a 2-sided vinyl experience that transcends boundaries.

Wishpenny's original music has graced stages at iconic venues like Quitman Preservation Music Hall in Georgia, Tennessee Music Tree Festivals, and the Hippie Chick Twang Show. Their magnetic performances have left an indelible mark on the Nashville music scene, captivating audiences with their soul-stirring melodies.

Recorded over several years at the Russell's home studio, "Day After Dark" is a Wishpenny Art Factory Production released by Lucky Well Records LLC of Nashville, Tennessee. Two guest musicians, Dan Seymour and Mario Davidson, lent their talents to the album, enriching the sonic landscape with bass and trombone.

"Day After Dark" is a sonic journey that explores love, hope, and realism. The A side, representing the day, features foot-tapping love songs, dancing instrumentals, and reflective compositions. The B side, delving into the dark, explores themes beyond love, tracing the life of an adventurer's wife, grappling with illness, and concluding with a poignant call to believe in the unseen.

In "better than we found" Wishpenny crafts a dreamy musical escape, blending Regina's mesmerizing vocals and Brian's skilled guitar work. The track effortlessly glides between folk and rock, creating a weightless and serene atmosphere. Sandy Carter's enchanting cover art complements the song's essence, visually capturing the fluidity and grace found in the music. Together, better than we found invite listeners on a tranquil journey through Wishpenny's unique sonic landscape.

"Day After Dark" is not just an album; it's an immersive experience. Wishpenny's musical journey, marked by love, hope, and realism, invites listeners to flip the record and embrace the duality of life. In the enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics, audiences will discover echoes of their own stories, making "Day After Dark" a timeless addition to Wishpenny's illustrious musical legacy.

Tracy Eckstrand's Emotional Odyssey: Unveiling "Come Around" from the EP "Who Is Gonna Rescue You"

New York's folk-rock gem, Tracy Eckstrand, graces the music scene once again with her latest offering, "Come Around," extracted from her soul-stirring debut EP, "Who Is Gonna Rescue You." Tracy's musical prowess, enriched by her poignant lyrics and classic sound, takes listeners on an energetic and touching journey that transcends genres.

"Come Around" stands as a pivotal track within Tracy Eckstrand's masterful debut EP, showcasing her versatility and emotional depth. The Americana, acoustic, rock, and pop influences blend seamlessly in this composition, employing vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, bass guitar, drums, keyboard, and percussion to craft a rich sonic tapestry.

Tracy Eckstrand's vulnerability as a songwriter shines through in "Come Around," a song that emerged from a period of emotional turmoil. Facing challenges in her role as a school psychologist, coping with the loss of her mother in a nursing home, and navigating a failing marriage, Tracy found solace in her guitar. The lyrics explore the weight of societal expectations and the internal struggle of holding it together while grappling with personal crises.

"Everybody's got their expectations. Everybody's got their point of view. They think that you can help them, pick up their pieces, but they don't know what you've been through," Tracy sings, capturing the universal struggle of managing external pressures and internal battles. The second-person point of view adds a layer of intimacy, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a personal level.

The haunting question, "Who's gonna come around," echoes throughout the track, encapsulating Tracy's plea for understanding and support during a challenging emotional period. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience required when facing life's tribulations, questioning the availability of a comforting presence during times of need.

Tracy Eckstrand's "Come Around" is not just a song; it's an emotional odyssey that resonates with anyone who has faced the complexities of life. With her lush vocals, classic sound, and evocative storytelling, Tracy invites listeners to explore the depths of vulnerability and the search for solace in the face of adversity. As she continues to carve her path in the music scene, Tracy Eckstrand's promising sound is undoubtedly leaving an indelible mark on hearts and souls. Stay tuned for more from this folk-rock storyteller on her website, social media, and streaming platforms.

Andy Smythe's Sonic and Visual Journey: "Out of My Mind" Leading the Way

Step into the vibrant world of singer/songwriter Andy Smythe as he unveils his latest masterpiece, "Out of My Mind." This soulful anthem takes listeners on a journey through the cycle of life, exploring the quest for a 'soul partner' against the cinematic backdrop of London. The single serves as a precursor to Andy's upcoming album, "Poetry in Exile," set to release on March 1st, promising a symphony of 13 meticulously crafted songs that showcase Andy's lyrical prowess and musical finesse.

"Out of My Mind" delves into the conflict of making the right choices in life, beautifully set against London's dynamic landscape. The song captures the essence of the search for a 'soul partner' and the realization that they were always there, subtly hidden in the subconscious. The track builds upon the success of Andy's previous release, "Prodigal Son," which garnered critical acclaim for its lavish arrangement and attention to detail.

Andy Smythe is not just a singer; he is a musical craftsman, recording and arranging his own songs at home. With a fluency in guitars, bass, and piano, Andy has developed a lyrical and musical craft that draws favorable comparisons to his heroes, Lennon and McCartney. His unique British voice, boasting a remarkable four-octave range, leaves live audiences yearning for more.

"Out of My Mind" showcases the collaborative brilliance of Andy Smythe's artistic vision. Teaming up with American composer Chris Payne, trumpeter Hank Zorn, producer Dave Palmer, and backing vocalist Chloe Payne, Andy crafts a big brass sound that elevates the sonic landscape of the track. The fusion of Beatles and Bowie art rock with innovative key modulations reaffirms that Andy is a genre-defying artist, confidently standing on his own musical ground.

Complementing the sonic brilliance of "Out of My Mind" is a visually captivating music video featuring AI actors, bringing Andy's script to life. Visual artist Gary Brady, Andy's longtime collaborator since the early 2000s, weaves a visual narrative that adds an extra layer of depth to the song's meaning.

"Out of My Mind" is not just a song; it's a sonic and visual journey through the intricate mind of Andy Smythe. With its soul-stirring lyrics, innovative arrangements, and collaborative brilliance, the single paves the way for the upcoming album, promising an immersive experience into the musical world of a true artist. As Andy Smythe continues to push boundaries and carve his own path, "Out of My Mind" stands as a testament to his unique talent and unwavering artistic vision. Stay tuned for the release of "Poetry in Exile" on March 1st, as Andy Smythe invites you into his world of poetic musical exploration.