In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, each track is a pop universe of its own and we invite you to wander through galaxies of genre, to ultimately lose yourself in an array of sonic textures, tones and colors. Embark on a sonic odyssey featuring artists SWiiMS, The Pulltops, Jonny Westwood, Cian O’Donoghue, Ivon Roberts and QRIAN.
SWiiMS - In Puzzles
"In Puzzles" by the Canadian trio SWiiMS, is the opening track to their latest album "Into The Blue Night”. It is an artful mosaic of indie rock, shoegaze and dream pop elements. The track envelops listeners in nostalgic sounds, characterized by curling guitar riffs, energetic drums, and subtle bass notes. The reverberating vocals, reminiscent of a cold and crisp morning breeze, add a dreamy vibe to the song. Despite its relatively fast tempo, the song maintains balance through well-placed pauses, allowing the hazy and chill vocals to take over the mood. Beyond its music, "In Puzzles" thematically explores the complexities of finding one's place in a new relationship, delving into the nuanced dynamics of love. A perfect soundtrack for lively and laid-back moments, it captures the essence of slow days and introspection.
The Pulltops - Make Me Smile
Milwaukee-based duo, The Pulltops bring an enchanting new track titled "Make me Smile," with powerful pop and indie-rock sounds. The song unfolds with tranquil acoustic guitar melodies and lulling vocals, a potent mixture that churns out warm and joyous sounds. The fusion of soulful singing, orchestral piano, and vibrant guitar tones, complemented by an infectious rhythm, elevates the listener's spirit to a place of love and light. As the song nears its conclusion, soaring harmonies transition to a solitary voice before culminating in an intense chorus—a metaphorical ray of light guiding you through a dark tunnel to the world's brightness. "Make me Smile" is a sonic journey that guarantees not just smiles but perhaps even happy tears.
Jonny Westwood - Together Forever
Australian artist Jonny Westwood unveils his emotional prowess in "Together Forever," a song that blends dark and heavy piano melodies with light and flickering keyboard notes; like faint stars in the midnight sky. Infused with somber synth sounds and diverse percussive elements, including steady-paced drums and intently placed pauses, Westwood showcases his modern production flair. The singer's impressive vocal delivery resonates with sincerity and emotion, authentically presenting the highs and lows of new love, revealing its thrilling gravity and negative undertones. "Together Forever" showcases Westwood's skill, both as a composer and producer, expertly bringing together the sonic elements to create a hauntingly beautiful narrative of love's intricacies.
Cian O’Donoghue, Ivon Roberts - Better Guy
Cian O’Donoghue and Ivon Roberts deliver a sensational synth-pop number in “Better Guy”. With an array of pop, RnB and funk elements undergoing nuclear fusion, this song is lustrous with energy and emotions. Blooming synth melodies, swift percussions, and designful acoustic sounds spread across the musical background without enveloping the vocals, allowing the singers’ voices to glow bright. Cian and Ivon masterfully battle out their singing prowess in complex terrains, from baritone trenches to tenor cliffs. Influences from pop giants like Ariana Grande is evident in the singers’ dramatic and passionate delivery of the lyrics. Much like the lyrical message, where two guys are one-upping each other trying to impress the same woman, the two singers have outperformed each other in this track, probably to their amusement, leaving the listener absolutely engrossed and delightfully stunned.
QRIAN - BOSS
QRIAN's "BOSS" is a tastefully blended cocktail of electronic pop, synth-pop, and K-pop sounds that is as intoxicating as it is groovy. Grounding synth bass beats accompanied by a medley of synth percussive sounds create an enticing sonic web, trapping you willingly. The synth melodies, distorting and warbling like voices under water, takes you through a sonic wormhole. The track’s soundscape is a nod to slow trance, flashing neon lights, and club vibes. The infectious hook, "I just don't know what they mean, I just don't know what they mean, say," becomes the siren call to abandon reality and get lost in this futuristic auditory haven.
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