In this week’s edition of LITM Pop Picks, we curate an eclectic mix of pop music with bedroom pop, reggae-pop, country, synth, noise-pop elements and more featuring artists Maddie Hanna, Samora, Shaela Miller, Alice Gift and To Kill A King.
Maddie Hanna - do you like what you see?
"do you like what you see?" by Maddie Hanna delicately captures the essence of bedroom pop, lofi, and chill pop. The Chicago-based artist channels sensual vibes reminiscent of Kali Uchis, Alina Baraz, and SZA. The song draws you in with Hanna's intimate and fragile vocal delivery, which is charaterized by a heightened reverb, making it subtle yet effective. The down-tempo beat, coupled with pitched-down bass-like melodies, creates a velvety ambiance that feels as cozy as satin pajamas. The track artfully displays feelings of vulnerability and affection. “do you like what you see?” is a sublime journey into the artist’s musical world giving us a glimpse of the sonic influences and emotions at play.
Samora - Born In Suriname (Work)
Samora's "Born In Suriname (Work)" is a potent musical narration that chronicles her journey. The Switzerland based artist, originally from Suriname and the Netherlands, delivers a sincere ode to her heritage, and vividly celebrates the people and life experiences that shaped her. Reggae-pop, Afrobeat and Dancehall influences echo throughout the instrumentation of this track. The song has an infectious energy thanks to the upbeat rhythm, vibrant synth, and magnetic vocals, making the song feel like an adrenaline shot. The track is an empowering call to "work hard and move smart" defying all the naysayers. Her voice intensifies the impact of the uplifting lyrics.
Shaela Miller - After The Masquerade
Shaela Miller’s "After The Masquerade" is a breath of fresh air in the country-folk scene. This is not your usual country meets folk song, it is a unique tasteful blend of elements from many genres— not ones you’d expect to hear together. There are modern synth sounds, classic country-style guitar hooks and a gentle yet lively tempo. The experimental use of synth adds a rare, fresh dimension, keeping the listener anticipating what’s coming next. There is a mature sonic quality to Miller’s voice that is hard to ignore. Miller's mastery over her skills is evident, as her voice quivers and deepens in texture on command. Lyrically, it navigates the narrative of unsettling memories from a slumber party. The song's richness lies in its innovative use of a metallic and fluid melody in the backdrop, woven skilfully into the composition.
Alice Gift - To Live And Die In L.A.
Alice Gift, the alter ego of Berlin-based singer-songwriter Nicolas Isner, conjures up a potent blend of Chanson-Noir and Dark-Pop in "To Live And Die In L.A." Opening with an ominous ambiance and brooding vocals, the track transforms into a hazy, mystical vibe, mirroring the allure of the City of Angels. The lyrics "To live and die in L.A." and "you have to be there to know it" add an enigmatic quality to the song heightening the feel of dark sounds. As the rhythm intensifies, beaming synth backgrounds, flickering electronic melodies, and a foreboding bass-heavy loop emerge, creating a personal take on alternative and dark music with an artful touch. For enthusiasts of noir aesthetics, Alice Gift's music is a must-listen.
To Kill A King - The Problem of Evil - Live
To Kill A King's "The Problem of Evil - Live'' plunges into the depths of existential turmoil. The British Indie Rock band impress right from the start with raw and passionate vocals complemented by gentle acoustic melodies. The track gradually grows in intensity with resounding guitar riffs, subtle keys, and swelling drum beats, exuding a seriousness and power, that will deeply move you. The vocalist skillfully channels the emotions embedded in the lyrics, conveying anger, sadness, and faithlessness with authenticity. The song lyrically explores the struggles of a disillusioned preacher in a world plagued by pain and evil. In the context of today's global crises, the track is highly relatable, questioning one’s faith in the face of multiplying adversity.
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