In this week’s edition of LITM Pop Picks, we weave a musical fabric that is vibrant and intricate with modern tunes and lyrical narratives, featuring artists Ellen Andrea Wang, Tropic, Hurricane Sam, Rohith Shaker and The Feels.
Ellen Andrea Wang - There Is A Place
Ellen Andrea Wang and Kvindelige Studenters Sangforening (KSS) craft a transcendent experience in "There Is A Place." This ethereal track unfolds as a serene musical ascension, transporting listeners into a realm of light and emotional release. The simplicity of the sounds, featuring angelic vocals, resonant double bass notes, and an orchestral choir with KSS, adds an unmatched purity to the music. Ellen's vocals, gentle yet masterful, effortlessly glide through the topography of the musical notes, like rivers on earth, showcasing a skillful artistry. The song's lyrics paint a tranquil world of peace, love, and lightness, offering an escape from the contemporary polycrisis we face. In a world overshadowed by wars, climate change, and social upheavals, this composition serves as a musical sanctuary, offering solace and an otherworldly refuge.
Tropic - Star Crossed
“Star Crossed” by Tropic, a Brooklyn-based duo, is a sultry synthesis of modern R&B and electronica sounds. The song envelops the listener in its atmospheric embrace, with sensual singing and synth melodies taking over your senses. That along with the song’s slow groove rhythm, punctuated by bassy notes, establishes a mood of allure and mystery. Tropic strikes a unique balance, infusing modern electronic elements with R&B vibes, showcasing their distinctive sound. The song's tone mirrors the intense yet inviting nature of young love, where passion overshadows problems, in pursuit of adventure and thrill. The vocals intensify, featuring dramatic runs that encapsulate the whirlwind of emotions in new and exciting love. The duo provide a fresh take on modern RnB with this fusion track, resulting in a sound that is distinct.
Hurricane Sam - LEK
“LEK” by Hurricane Sam (spelt Hurricane 5am) paints a vivid picture of late-night escapades. Hurricane Sam, a dynamic artist based out of London, narrates the tale of rounding up a squad of spirited buddies for a night out in the bustling locales of Shoreditch, Islington, and Camden. Backed by Def Starz's UK Garage influences, the track boasts an infectious instrumental made of loopy guitar riffs, harmony-infused vocals, and swift percussions. The layered vocals delivered in a hazy yet delicate style, over the club-music vibes of the song creates a mood that perfectly mirrors the pulse and atmosphere of nightlife. Fans of Supershy and Franc Moody will undoubtedly revel in the lively and lush sounds that “LEK” brings to the table.
Rohith Shaker - These Walls
In "These Walls", Rohith Shaker, Phoenix-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, delivers a kaleidoscopic sonic journey, through indie, rock, and pop landscapes. This song has a nostalgic mystique in its orchestral influences, evoking the musical soundscape of a bygone era. The song builds gradually, showcasing lively drums, raw vocals, wind instrument sections, and sustained piano melodies, that never overwhelm the listener, yet unnoticeably draws you into its immersive sonic current. Shaker's arrangement and production skills shine as the music culminates in a supernova of symphony, illuminating the senses and leading the listener into a trance. "These Walls" explores the theme of reminiscing about loved ones and yearning for past versions of oneself across time. The track echoes the grandeur of Of Monsters and Men, the subtlety of Sufjan Stevens, and the experimental flair of The Beatles.
The Feels - I’m Not That Guy
The Feels, a pop duo hailing from Long Island, NY, delivers a sonic treat with their track "I'm Not That Guy." This song seamlessly blends serious funk energy with nostalgic pop vibes, creating a sound that pays homage to legends like Michael Jackson. The song’s vocal style reflects these influences, infusing the track with suave and dynamic performances. The song boasts impressive guitar riffs, tasteful bass licks, and a pulsating rhythm that, combined, deliver serious retro-club vibes. The track's vibrant ambience and energy are infectious, making it a groove-heavy number that demands attention. Lyrically, "I'm Not That Guy" delves into the frustration of waiting for a lover, eventually empowering oneself to take a stand for self-worth. The Feels have conjured a pop gem that transports listeners back to the golden period of funk-infused pop, reviving a timeless musical style while also infusing it with their unique musical additions.
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