This edition of LITM Pop Picks brings to you retro and modern pop blends to blues inspired pop tracks, and more. The list features artists Ferdinand Rennie, MatAre, Blackstate, and more.
Ferdinand Rennie - Unbelieving Eyes
Synth and piano layered beats starting off the track, ‘Unbelieving Eyes’ by Ferdinand Rennie brings to you a blend of retro and contemporary sound. The instrumentation takes on a classic modern pop soundscape which is tuned towards a reflective, melancholic sound. It starts off slow and then takes on a powerful sound through its emotive, raw chorus sections. Rennie’s vocals bring about the yesteryear charm, with its operatic and theatrical style, which adds a grandiosity to the song. The song reflects on the pain of the past and focuses on the hope and joy of tomorrow, making it a song through which everyone will see their story being told.
MatAre - When Alone
Retro synths and reverb drenched guitars setting the stage up for the song, ‘When Alone’ by Matare will put you on a bandwagon to the golden 80s. The instrumentation is bright, vibrant and upbeat without being overwhelming, with their shimmering synths, gentle and steady percussion, and reverbed guitars. It will make you want to get in your car and drive towards the sunset with the windows down. The vocals perfectly complement the overall sound of the song with their smooth, relaxed, unhurried style. If soft retro-style synthpop is your jam, then this song must be a definite addition to your playlist.
Blackstate - #FollowMe
A cyberpunk soundscape inviting you to the track, ‘#FollowMe’ by Blackstate is a sharp and fun commentary on the internet culture of today. Considering the thematics of the track, the instrumentation is perfectly apt. It takes on a slightly monotonous sound which reflects the monotony that is spread far and wide over the internet. It also has sharp interventions which come off as chaotic, which once again brilliantly captures the chaos that we’ve subjected ourselves to in the name of the net. The lyrics are fun while being real, as it constantly alludes to the ‘follow’ culture that is predominant and synonymous with the internet culture where everyone is busy portraying a life that is far from their reality.
Olina - Newspaper Smell
Starting off with a sharp guitar riff, ‘Newspaper Smell’ by Olina is a brilliant reflection and commentary on the money chasing culture of today, where nothing ever feels enough. Genre wise the song stands in the pop rock genre, and brings to you an intensity filled groove. Tension and restraint characterise the track’s sound, which reflects the back and forth contemplation in the lyrics and vocals. The lyrics questions the current economy where even hard-earned degrees do not guarantee you a stable livelihood, and the resulting panic and anxiety that we find ourselves drowning in. Sharp, direct, and effective, alongside being a brilliant piece of musical genius, this song is an absolute must-listen.
Bill Barlow - No Stopping Me Now
Gentle and slow building guitars starting off the track, ‘No Stopping Me Now’ by Bill Barlow brings to you a groove that you simply cannot escape. The song binds and blends the blues and the modern pop sound, offering you textures that feel like such a treat to the auditory senses. The guitar solo sections that embody the blues in the song simply elevate the song to a whole another level. Barlow’s vocals are smooth, confident, and bring about a laid-back feeling, which perfectly complements the essence of the song. If you find yourself missing the blues in contemporary music, then look no further than here.
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