Weekly Discover #42

Welcome to Weekly Discover 42—a vibrant journey through the ever-evolving world of music. This isn’t just a playlist; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that brings the heartbeat of contemporary sound to life.

Step into a world of stirring melodies and electrifying rhythms. From calming harmonies that soothe the soul to high-energy beats that ignite your spirit, each track is handpicked to inspire, uplift, and connect on a deeper level.

Explore an eclectic mix of rising stars and groundbreaking compositions. Here, timeless influences meet cutting-edge innovation, showcasing artists who are redefining the boundaries of musical expression.

Weekly Discover 42 is more than a collection of songs—it’s a celebration of creativity, evolution, and the endless potential of music. Whether you’re an avid music enthusiast or searching for your next favorite track, this experience will captivate and surprise you.

Join us in embracing the magic of sound, where every note tells a story, and every rhythm leaves an impression. Welcome to 1111CR3W—your portal to the future of music.

Wilhelm’s Lo-Fi Folk Journey: Wake Me in the Sunrise

Wilhelm, the solo project helmed by the frontman of Murnau and The House Flies, is poised to make a significant impact with the upcoming release of his lo-fi folk album, Wake Me in the Sunrise. This highly anticipated record is a testament to Wilhelm’s artistry, blending introspection with raw, minimalist production. Following the success of his 2023 single "The Creek," this nine-track offering continues Wilhelm’s journey into the heart of emotional storytelling through music.

Crafted over the past year and a half, Wake Me in the Sunrise was recorded entirely on a 4-track Tascam multitracker, using its built-in condenser microphones to preserve an organic and intimate sound. This stripped-back approach captures the essence of Wilhelm’s creative vision—a deliberate retreat from the intricate arrangements of his earlier works. The result is a collection of songs that feel deeply personal, almost as if the listener has stumbled upon a box of private audio diaries.

The album opens with the evocative track “Midnight Caller on the Moon,” where fragile vocals and haunting melodies set the tone for the journey ahead. A reed organ subtly underscores the acoustic guitar, enveloping listeners in an atmosphere of quiet yearning. Each subsequent track continues to build this sense of raw authenticity, guiding listeners through a landscape of emotions and memories. By the time the closing track, “Hold Your Head Now, Baby,” delivers its final delicate harmonics, the album leaves an indelible mark, lingering like the faint echo of a whispered secret.

Wake Me in the Sunrise represents Wilhelm’s third full-length album, following Lace in 2019 and Sugarcane in 2020. While Sugarcane was marked by its elaborate and complex compositions, this latest effort strips away the layers, relying on acoustic storytelling to carry the emotional weight. It is a return to basics that feels both refreshing and profound.

This record is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a journey into the core of Wilhelm’s artistry. His ability to evoke such potent imagery and emotion with minimalist tools is a hallmark of his unique style. As the solo project of a musician already known for his work with Murnau and The House Flies, Wilhelm’s lo-fi folk explorations offer a distinct contrast, revealing another facet of his creative identity.

For fans of intimate and evocative music, Wake Me in the Sunrise is a must-listen. With its release, Wilhelm invites us all to sit quietly, listen deeply, and immerse ourselves in the tender beauty of his acoustic world.

Cat Cork’s New Musical Chapter: “Promise Me” and the Start of a Bright 2025

As the sun sets on 2024, Australian singer-songwriter Cat Cork has delivered a radiant gift to her listeners with her latest single, “Promise Me.” Released on December 21, this track marks the dawn of an exciting new phase in Cat’s career. Known for weaving positivity and sentimentality into her music, Cat has set the tone for a series of releases planned for 2025, promising a year filled with wisdom, hope, and feel-good vibes.

The creation of “Promise Me” is a testament to the power of global collaboration and modern technology. Recorded primarily in Cat’s home studio in Woy Woy, Australia, the track features contributions from a roster of international talent. Longtime collaborator Cameron Taylor played a pivotal role in the production, while musicians from Musiversal—including Pablo Arruda (bass), Ben Trigg (cello), Chris Barber (drums), Horacio Paris (drums), and João Paulo Drumond (percussion)—brought their expertise to the mix.

The process was as unique as it was challenging. With contributors spanning time zones across Brazil, the UK, Ireland, and Costa Rica, late-night recording sessions became the norm. Cat embraced the flexibility of remote work, balancing her “day job” with her artistic pursuits. Taylor, living nearby, worked closely with Cat on mixing and production, adding a local touch to this global endeavor.

To complement the song, Cat teamed up with filmmakers Milo Cawthorne and Ella Hope-Higginson to create a visually stunning music video. Shot on Super 8 film, the clip carries a vintage, black-and-white aesthetic reminiscent of classic cinema. The actors’ heartfelt performances bring an added layer of emotion, turning the video into a standalone narrative that resonates with the song’s themes of hope and introspection.

Cat’s 2024 album leaned into darker, more introspective themes. “Promise Me” represents a conscious pivot toward optimism without losing the emotional depth that defines her songwriting. While the track carries the “big sonic hit” her fans have come to love, it also ushers in a lighter, more hopeful sound—a reflection of the insights and growth Cat has experienced over the past year.

“Promise Me” is more than just a song; it’s a milestone in Cat Cork’s journey as an artist. The track encapsulates her ability to blend heartfelt lyricism with uplifting melodies, offering listeners a beacon of light as they close one year and step into the next. It’s a reminder that even in the face of challenges, there’s always room for positivity and hope.

As Cat looks ahead to 2025, “Promise Me” sets the stage for what’s to come: a series of releases that will continue to explore themes of growth, resilience, and joy. For fans old and new, this latest chapter is one to watch.

Chasing The Dragon: Shaven Primates’ Cathartic New Sonic Odyssey

Oxford’s own Shaven Primates are no strangers to pushing boundaries. Since their formation in 2017, this four-piece dark-wave, art-rock, and proto/post-punk band has been on a relentless quest to redefine their genre, crafting music that resonates with raw human emotion. With their latest release, Chasing The Dragon, the band continues to evolve, delivering a gritty, high-energy EP that stands as a testament to their artistic vision.

The Shaven Primates’ sound is a bold fusion of influences, drawing from legends like The Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, and Pink Floyd, yet molded into something entirely their own. Their music is a cathartic journey, powered by grinding, rumbling basslines, wailing guitars, versatile synths, thunderous drums, and vocals that seamlessly oscillate between crooning and screaming. On Chasing The Dragon, these elements come together in a way that captures the listener’s attention and refuses to let go.

While previous releases, such as Birds Aren’t Real and Child Of Dirt, delved into alternative thinking and deeply personal themes like childhood trauma and addiction, Chasing The Dragon pivots to focus on the theme of desire. This shift in subject matter allows the band to channel a raw, unfiltered energy into their music, creating an EP that feels immediate and visceral.

For this release, Shaven Primates embraced a grittier approach, amplifying their sound to exude raw energy. The EP is a sonic powerhouse, characterized by four-part harmonies and a “big sound” that commands attention. From retro-tinged synths to modern textures, the band’s versatility shines through, creating an auditory experience that’s both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

Tracks on Chasing The Dragon are a rollercoaster of emotion, each one a piece of the broader narrative on desire. Whether it’s the soaring highs or the rumbling lows, the EP captures the essence of longing in all its forms—a testament to the band’s ability to channel universal emotions into their music.

Shaven Primates’ music has always been about connection, both within the band and with their audience. Chasing The Dragon is no exception. It’s an invitation to confront the complexities of desire, to reflect on the values that shape our lives, and to find solace in the power of music.

As they continue to carve out their niche in the music world, Shaven Primates remain driven by a relentless passion for their craft. With Chasing The Dragon, they’ve delivered a record that’s not only a triumph of sound but also a meaningful exploration of the human experience. For fans of dark-wave, art-rock, and post-punk, this EP is a must-listen—a reminder that in the chaos of life, music can be a force for connection and catharsis.

New Age Singer Aynaz Unveils an Emotional Journey with "To My Angel Friend"

Aynaz, a gifted New Age singer, has released her latest single, "To My Angel Friend," a soul-stirring tribute that combines enchanting sounds with her uniquely emotive vocals. This heartfelt release is more than just a song—it is a window into the depths of human emotion, offering listeners an intimate and profound experience.

The journey to "To My Angel Friend" was a deeply collaborative effort. Aynaz partnered with two talented individuals from Fifty Seven Studio to bring her vision to life. These "two beautiful people," as Aynaz affectionately calls them, provided both technical expertise and emotional support, helping shape the music into a polished gem.

Their warm-hearted and intelligent approach to the project was essential in translating Aynaz's ideas into a cohesive and visually stunning creation. Their shared understanding of Aynaz's artistic goals enabled the song to evolve into an authentic expression of her soul.

In addition to Celtic influences, Aynaz is drawn to the grandeur of Epic music and the timeless beauty of classical composers like Chopin. These inspirations subtly shine through in her music, where one can detect traces of classical elegance intertwined with the cinematic depth of Epic styles. "To My Angel Friend" stands as a testament to these diverse influences, blending New Age, classical, and Celtic elements into a unique, genre-defying piece.

At the heart of "To My Angel Friend" lies a deeply personal story. For many years, Aynaz struggled with anorexia, battling despair and contemplating giving up on life. During this time, a dear friend became her anchor, guiding her through the darkest moments and inspiring her to fight for her life.

"To My Angel Friend" stands out for its deeply emotional and mysterious quality. The song defies easy categorization, existing at the crossroads of New Age, classical, and Celtic music. Aynaz's voice carries an otherworldly quality, drawing listeners into a profound emotional journey.

The recording sessions took place with the team at Fifty Seven Studio, a setting that was as supportive as it was professional. The studio’s environment allowed Aynaz to delve deeply into her emotions, creating an authentic and vulnerable performance that resonates with listeners. Through her work, Aynaz reminds us of the beauty that can emerge from pain, and the enduring power of love and friendship to light even the darkest paths. "To My Angel Friend" is a gift to the world—a moving tribute that will resonate with listeners for years to come.

Zilli Henneberg: A Musical Polymath and His Album "Friede in der Welt"

Zilli Henneberg, born on December 28, 1960, in Arnstadt, is a versatile musician who has spent decades transforming the melodies of life into music. With a unique blend of boogie, ska, jazz, rock, reggae, and schlager, he not only entertains but also inspires reflection. His latest album, "Friede in der Welt," is another testament to his extraordinary ability to capture everyday moments with satirical and often sarcastic lyrics.

Zilli’s musical journey began on his 14th birthday when he received his first guitar. Self-taught, he quickly mastered the instrument and gained early experience as a bassist in the school band “Fischhaus Combo.” His passion for music continued during his army years, where he carried his guitar everywhere and began writing his own songs.

"Friede in der Welt" reflects Zilli’s life experiences and distinctive style. The lyrics, often satirical and sarcastic, are snapshots of everyday life that oscillate between humor and deep thought. His music tells stories—sometimes danceable, sometimes contemplative—and remains consistently rhythmic and club-ready.

Despite not being part of the mainstream, Zilli captivates with his authenticity and musical diversity. His nickname "Boogie-Man," earned during earlier band days, is a testament to his unmistakable groove that transcends genres.

What sets Zilli Henneberg apart is his unwavering passion for music. Whether as a guitarist, bassist, singer, or saxophonist, Zilli has continually evolved and proven himself to be a true polymath. Notably, his work with the band "Triple M," where he performed covers with his sons Max and Moritz, highlights the importance of music in his family life.

After more than two decades with "Vibration Syndicate," Zilli decided to make a fresh start during the pandemic. In November 2024, he co-founded a new reggae band. This group, characterized by its harmony and joy of playing, has brought a new spark to Zilli’s musical journey, showcasing his openness to new directions.

Zilli Henneberg is more than just a musician—he is a storyteller, a keen observer of life, and an artist who knows how to touch hearts. His album "Friede in der Welt" is a compelling testament to his talent and unique perspective. Through his music, he offers a lens on life that inspires both dancing and reflection. In a world often dominated by haste and superficiality, Zilli Henneberg creates moments of calm and joy—making him an indispensable part of the German music scene.

Energy Whores and Their Provocative Anthem "Bunker Man"

On January 9th, Energy Whores, the progressive electronic music band known for their bold narratives and innovative soundscapes, released their latest track, "Bunker Man." This provocative anthem combines pulsating beats, gripping rhythms, and poetic lyricism to craft a compelling commentary on power, greed, and humanity's obsession with survival at any cost.

At its core, "Bunker Man" unravels the story of a self-absorbed billionaire who retreats to an opulent underground bunker to escape a nuclear apocalypse—ironically, a catastrophe of his own making. As the world he exploited crumbles above, the titular Bunker Man’s descent into paranoia and isolation becomes a haunting metaphor for the consequences of unchecked greed and narcissism.

The band draws inspiration from real-world trends, particularly the increasing number of billionaires investing in luxurious survival bunkers. “It felt like stepping into a James Bond villain’s lair,” they recall, describing the surreal imagery that sparked their creative process. From this dystopian setting, they constructed a narrative steeped in irony: the Bunker Man seals himself off from the very people he once vowed to protect, descending into madness as his hubris collapses around him. Alone in his fortress, his desperation drives him to rage against his AI robot servants, only to face starvation and death—mocked by the very machines he created.

More than just a dystopian story, "Bunker Man" serves as a biting critique of society’s power structures and the excesses of the wealthy. The song’s message is clear: wealth and power cannot shield anyone from the inevitabilities of life. The band questions, “With all the power and money you have, you will still end up like everyone else. Why not use your billions to help others live healthy and peaceful lives? Then you wouldn’t need to build your bunker at all.”

This poignant reflection is emblematic of Energy Whores’ broader mission. Known for tackling themes of social injustice, greed, and authoritarianism, the band’s music often weaves narratives that force listeners to confront uncomfortable truths—all while losing themselves in irresistibly danceable beats.

Musically, "Bunker Man" showcases Energy Whores’ mastery of progressive electronic sounds. The track’s urgent and tense soundscape perfectly mirrors its themes of paranoia and impending doom. Yet, despite its heavy message, the song retains an infectious energy, blending cutting-edge electronic arrangements with poetic, narrative-driven lyricism.

With "Bunker Man," Energy Whores deliver a searing critique wrapped in a hypnotic beat. The track’s exploration of power, greed, and the absurdities of human survival offers a stark reminder of what truly matters: connection, empathy, and action. As listeners move to the infectious rhythm, they’re invited to ponder life’s deeper questions. Energy Whores have once again proven their ability to craft music that is both provocative and profoundly engaging.