LITM Pop Picks this week showcases pop wonders with minimalistic, electronic and synth-heavy soundscapes featuring artists Rosina Buck, Toby Tesla, Dame Zina and others

In this week’s edition of LITM Pop Picks, we bring a variety of musical experiences, ranging from intimate revelations, synth-pop indulgences, to emotional electronica from artists Rosina Buck, Toby Tesla, Izzy Pingrey, ARADIA and Dame Zina.

Rosina Buck - Like A Lion

Rosina Buck's “Like a Lion” delicately intertwines gentle melodies, cradling the listener like leaves drifting down a serene stream. The singer's voice exudes honesty and intimacy, making you feel like a witness to a personal revelation. The slow-paced music, characterized by thoughtful sonic minimalism, allows the emotional singing, sustained piano melodies, and purposeful emptiness to invite the listener to absorb the profound energy and emotion conveyed. As the song progresses, a crescendo of intensity emerges, introducing harmonies, strings, and trumpets, crafting a majestic finale. This musical progression mirrors the song's thematic journey of enduring the final stages of a tumultuous relationship, capturing the weight of borrowed love and culminating in a cathartic release and freedom. "Like a Lion" paints a vivid picture of a deeply emotional and personal experience with utmost sincerity.

Toby Tesla - Red Flags

Toby Tesla's "Red Flags" sonically traverses the complexities of twenty-first century love. The Arizona-based artist craftily intertwines raw, reverberating guitar melodies with an infectious, upbeat rhythm reminiscent of Mac Miller's later works. Tesla's vocals are processed for a warbly and echoey vibe, adding an ultra-modernist aesthetic, enhancing the song's character. The composition tinkers around with a fusion of R&B and pop vocal styles, delivering a fresh and idiosyncratic sound. The lyrics serve as a modern-day cautionary tale, exploring the challenges of juggling multiple love interests in a world infected with choices. "Red Flags" is a reminder that while we can have anything, we can't have everything, forcing us to confront the ultimatum: talk to me or him.

Izzy Pingrey - perfume

Izzy Pingrey's "perfume" is a breath of fresh air with its energetic guitar rhythms and groovy beats. Hailing from New York, this young artist's vocals are a revelation—emphatic and voluminous, and is the perfect medium to paint her story. Found in the album 'Junior,' the track beautifully explores the nuances of adolescence, capturing the essence of a coming-of-age narrative. The pop song, reminiscent of early 2010s sounds, carries a timeless quality. The artist’s musical creativity is most evident in her vocal melodies, cohesively stringing together words and the musical backdrop. “perfume” is a celebration of close friendships and the adventures shared, transporting listeners to the nostalgic realms of high school and university. Pingrey eloquently encapsulates the magic of enduring connections and youthful escapades.

ARADIA - Slow Yer Roll

ARADIA's "Slow Yer Roll" is a rich and flavorful synth-pop indulgence, cooked up by the NYC-based alt-pop electronica artist. The track is a kaleidoscope of different synth textures, arranged with colorful precision. The simple yet catchy beat invites involuntary nods and foot taps. Creative vocal effects infuse the voice with vibrancy, creating a warm and euphoric atmosphere. The combination of elaborate synth melodies adds an otherworldly ambience, showcasing ARADIA's imaginative and unique blend of influences. The song's optimistic sounds resonate, and it's earwormy hook lingers long after the music stops. "Slow Yer Roll" is a testament to ARADIA's artistry, delivering a compelling sonic experience that transcends typical genre boundaries.

Dame Zina - La Nuit

Father-daughter alt-pop duo Dame Zina’s “La Nuit”, is part of their latest album “Fairytales”, which immerses the listeners in a bottomless pool of electronica, synth, and pop sounds. The vocalist's glass-like vocal tone, simultaneously delicate and malleable, carries a rawness that truthfully conveys the emotions that are being explored in the song. The intricate musical backdrop unveils layers of sounds and meanings, with each attentive listen. The steady pulsing rhythm, enhanced by deep, sharply distorting synth sounds, that rhythmically implodes and explodes, creates an enigmatic inescapable atmosphere for the listener. The song's mysterious and foreboding air, punctuated by moments of wonder, prompts introspection into neglected corners of the mind. "La Nuit" is a sonic journey, where mystical sounds and truthful vocals intertwine, urging listeners to delve into the depths of concealed emotions and concepts.

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LITM Pop Picks this week brings vibrant hues of pop sounds from artists like SWiiMS, Cian O’Donoghue, QRIAN and others

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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This week's LITM Pop Picks shows off pop music as a powerful vehicle for emotional expression featuring artists like Grant Brown, DEWAR, Christian Dolan and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, embark on diverse musical journeys through love, liberation, self-discovery and more with artists Grant Brown, DEWAR, Alexa Villa, Taylor Ravenna and Christian Dolan.

Grant Brown - Low

"Low" by Grant Brown is a refreshing love ballad that delicately navigates the allure of new romance. The music unfolds with a graceful dance of moving melodies, guided by a slow-rising rhythm that builds into a euphoric swell of ambient tunes. The song grows in intensity until the very end, where the listener is met with a gently grounding acoustic guitar section, ending on a refreshing note. Grant Brown's vocals, rich and resonant akin to Sam Smith, passionately convey lyrics exploring the immersive experience of love. The song delves into the intense desire to savor every moment with a beloved, all while maintaining a discreet romance away from prying eyes. "Low" emerges as a captivating and beautifully nuanced ode to new love.

DEWAR - Influence

“Influence” by Scottish musician DEWAR is a powerful rock-pop fusion track, characterized by looping guitar riffs, bold bass rhythms, and surging melodies. The singer's powerful vocals, delivered with genuine passion, elevate the music, particularly in the soaring vocal melodies that encapsulates the angst and state of being overwhelmed by the strong hold of a lover. Exploring the profound force of attraction, the track delves into the vulnerability of succumbing to immense influence. It's a weighty, validating anthem resonating with those suffering such a fate. However, amidst the intensity, there's a subtle undercurrent—a desire for liberation from the captivating hold, a plea to break free from an influence that lacks legitimacy. “Influence” is a musically rich exploration of love's captivating yet tumultuous dynamics.

Alexa Villa - MySpace

"MySpace" by Alexa Villa is a nostalgic nod to the punk-pop sounds of the 2000s, with a fresh, contemporary touch, evoking memories of Avril Lavigne and channeling Olivia Rodrigo's spirit. Villa's arrangement skillfully incorporates wobbly piano melodies, vibrant guitar riffs, acoustic tones, robust basslines, and driving drums. Her vocals, at times textured and distorted, infuse vitality into the track. Beyond its musical gravity, the song explores themes of self-acceptance, urging listeners to embrace their journey and love every facet of themselves. In a world grappling with imposter syndrome and self-esteem issues, "MySpace" becomes a powerful anthem, proudly chanting a self-love slogan that goes like this– “trying to love this place, my body, my mind, my space”.

Taylor Ravenna - Taking My Luv

"Taking My Luv" by Taylor Ravenna immerses listeners in a dark and foreboding soundscape. With evident EDM influences in the texture and tonality of the musical ambience, this song transports the listener to a deeply emotional world that the artist has constructed. The track’s melancholic yet reassuring chorus stands out, while looping vocal melodies and heavily distorted tones intensify the emotional tension as the song progresses. Ravenna takes the audience by the hand, guiding them through a somber narrative of gaining strength through adversity. The lyrics portray a fearless individual unafraid of dark places, navigating challenges with an open heart. Ravenna artfully captures the emotional turbulence of navigating tumultuous relationships.

Christian Dolan - A Memory and Your Versace

"A Memory and Your Versace" by Boston-based musician Christian Dolan featuring Cole Blundin is a pop phenomena, pulsating with the energy, reminiscent of music from Troye Sivan and Harry Styles. The track boasts ethereal distorted melodies, pulsing drums, and noodly electronic sounds, creating a sonic experience that mirrors the feelings of euphoria that infect your being, after a tantalizing romance. The singer’s hazy voice adds glittery pops of emotion to the song, morphing into a bright swaying aurora as the vocal harmonies emerge. Lyrically, the song narrates the story of an intense, joyous chance encounter that is not bound to last long, just like meteors, which lights up the sky briefly, leaving only invisible dust. Despite the fleeting nature, the memory lingers, capturing the beauty of something transient, much like the song itself—a vivid portrayal of the ephemeral nature of love.

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LITM Pop Picks this week showcases musical gems from chill-pop, electro-pop and retro genres featuring artists like La Biche, Enitu, Darling Darling and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks we bring dreamy vocals, genius recreation of classics, timeless pop anthem, retro escapades and indie brilliance from artists La Biche, Enitu and Yul, Livi Jacobs, Darling Darling and Jesse Judies.

La Biche - Éther

French musician La Biche's "Éther" is a musical revelation, re-inventing dreamy chill-pop sounds. Through spoken word, poetic interludes, and ethereal melodies, La Biche's nonchalant vocals mimic ocean tides, rising and falling with masterful control, adding an intricate dynamism to the composition. The song's allure lies in its elusive sonic layers—featuring nether-worldly melodies, velvety piano interludes, resounding bass beats, and avant-garde sonic experimentations—that gracefully emerge and vanish, constructing a mythical staircase for listeners to ascend. Each layer invites exploration, giving the track an enigmatic quality. This track, emblematic of her unique discography, reshapes the contours of contemporary musical expression while providing the listener with an immersive experience.

Enitu and Yul- Si Maman Si

Enitu and Yul's electro-pop rendition of "Si maman si" is a stroke of genius, achieving the kind of musical quality that is rarely found. Navigating the delicate terrain of interpreting classics, the artists strike a perfect balance, infusing the track with their personal touch while preserving the essence of the original song. Gentle singing, muted bass rhythms, reverberating electronic chimes and the overall soothing ambience of the track, pack this song with a variety of flavor. The song also treats the listener to gooey saxophone tunes, soft whistling, and smooth guitar notes that are blended into the rhythm. This recreation is a testament to their artistry, achieving a perfect harmony between innovation and homage. The result is an electro-pop gem that adds a refreshing touch to a timeless French classic, exhibiting skillful musical fusion.

Livi Jacobs - Better That Way

Livi Jacobs' latest single, "Better That Way," marks her fifth release, channeling timeless pop vibes reminiscent of Taylor Swift. Exploring the aftermath of a closure-lacking separation, the lyrics navigate through angst, liberation, and bliss. Jacobs suggests that sometimes, circumstances, though challenging, lead to positive outcomes. The song features an infectious melody seamlessly looping in the background, accompanied by Jacobs' compelling vocals riding on a current of bass-heavy rhythms and warm ambience. With its varied textures and tempos, "Better That Way" maintains an engrossing quality. A definite addition to any heartbreak anthem playlist, the track offers a fresh perspective on the twists and turns in romance.

Darling Darling - Conversation Pit

Darling Darling returns with "Conversation Pit," a vibrant musical escapade that exudes warmth and color reminiscent of 70's retro aesthetics. This prismatic track fuses grandiose baroque pop sounds with nostalgic psychedelic melodies, creating an atmosphere of wonder. The song's vibey bass notes, catchy guitar hooks, swingy rhythm, and grounding vocals create an enticing and boundless musical realm. Echoing vocal melodies add a tasteful spatial dimension to the soundscape. "Conversation Pit" is more than just a musical journey; it delves into the joy and freedom of expressing oneself without inhibitions, celebrating radical self-acceptance and the embrace of love. This celebration extends to sharing the elation with close friends, making the track a tribute to uninhibited self-expression and the bonds of genuine connection. 

Jesse Judies - I’ve Been There Before

Jesse Judies, under the moniker Nick Bray, unveils his latest musical offering “I've Been There Before,” featuring Sasha March and Matthew Power. This Sydney-based indie artist's release showcases a masterful blend of silky guitar tunes, marbled bass notes, glossy distortions, and ethereal vocal harmonies. Judies' layered hazy vocals delicately sit atop a super lively rhythm composed of jazzy drumming adorned with fast-paced tempo, snappy grooves and suave solos. The track's theme delves into the courage to depart from the familiar, embracing the uncharted. Through this release, Nick Bray solidifies his standing as a noteworthy artist pushing the boundaries of indie music.

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LITM Pop Picks this week serves a strong brew of dance-pop, indie, blues and scandipop sounds featuring artists John Conlin, Dani Hagan, Army of Lovers and others

In this week’s edition of LITM Pop Picks we bring you an eclectic pop mix with music that spans across dance-pop, indie, blues and Scandinavian pop genres from artists John Conlin, Dani Hagan, Jack  Droppers & the Best Intentions, Mick J Clark and Army of Lovers.

John Conlin - Months and Months

‘Months and Months’ by Toronto-based musician John Conlin blends pop with dance, electro, and synth elements, evoking the infectious energy of 2000s pop music icons like Enrique Iglesias and Justin Timberlake. Lyrically, the song delves into the emotional journey of post-breakup healing, offering reassurance and empowerment to those who habitually extend unwarranted second chances.  The track boasts a sonic landscape with vivid synthesizer music,  layered vocal harmonies, emphatic singing, and groovy rhythms. The chorus radiates energy, the kind that is needed to move on to better things in life. "Months and Months" is lively and compelling in expressing the narrative of resilience and self-affirmation.

Dani Hagan - Kissing You

‘Kissing You’ by Los Angeles based musician, Dani Hagan is the title-track of her upcoming album. It is a lyrical journey about being tantalized by forbidden love and the battle against succumbing to desire. Hagan's voice, reminiscent of Christina Aguilera and P!nk, adds a compelling dimension to the song. The track itself is a fusion of rock n roll and blues, characterized by sultry singing, driving drumming and suave guitar riffs. Blooming piano notes are embroidered throughout the musical fabric adding texture to the track. This track gives off a dingy rock-music bar, whiskey glasses and regrettable choices vibe. 

Jack Droppers & the Best Intentions - Scooter

‘Scooter’ by Grand Rapids-based band, Jack Droppers & The Best Intention, is the title track of their latest album. It offers a unique listening experience, by being simple yet stratified. It delivers a riveting musical experience, in the likes of artists like Of Monsters & Men and The Lumineers. Lyrically, it delves into themes of self-discovery and self-realization, making it a song that resonates personally on multiple levels. The song begins with cheerful guitar strums, light percussion, and slender vocals, gradually building up to an explosive finale with wind instruments, harmonic choir, atmospheric synths, flickering xylophone, and thumping percussion. It’s the sonic equivalent of  witnessing a majestic and vibrant sunset, setting off goosebumps all over your skin. 

Mick J Clark - At Last

Singer song-writer Mick J Clark’s song ‘At Last’ is a narrative-driven musical gem. This track, released back in 2010, is making a well-deserved comeback, especially in the present context of Israel's war on Palestine. It spreads one critical message- love; love for all humankind. Lyrically, the artist conveys loud and clear— that the killing and injuring of women and children in wars must stop. It is outright cruel and cowardly, and more than anything it’s wrong. Allowing the doleful yet passionate vocals to take center-stage, the artist places soft guitar melodies, emotive piano notes and gentle percussion in the musical backdrop. This indie track mixes country, rock and soulful elements to give us an emotional rendition of the lyrical narrative.

Army Of Lovers - Love Is Blue

After a 10-year hiatus, Army of Lovers is back with ‘Love Is Blue,’ a flamboyant dance-pop track. The Swedish dance-pop sensation has teamed up with Ukrainian star-singer Olya Polyakova to deliver a blast from the past, with their authentic dance-pop sounds. The song's musical arrangement pays homage to legends like ABBA, offering a genius blend of orchestral choirs that soar and dip, pulsar percussion that beats with your heart, celestial synth melodies that serenade, and an infectious rhythm. Dramatic singing gracefully traverses the safe plains all the way up to tall dangerous cliffs of vocal range. This song is a vivid and exhilarating musical journey. Army of Lovers effortlessly marries their nostalgic dance-pop sounds with modern sensibilities. It's a testament to their enduring talent and a welcome return for fans of the scandipop genre.

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LITM Pop Picks this week explores indulgent sounds and sensations across pop, dark-pop and electro-pop genres featuring artists Sacha Mullin, Haunts, Ro Nova and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, we dive into the musical nuances, signature sounds and lyrical depth of artists Liam J. Edwards, Sacha Mullin, Lucy Crisp, Haunts and Ro Nova. Explore the compelling narratives presented through their tracks, fusing elements of pop, jazz, dark-pop, and electro-pop.

Liam J. Edwards - Progress

Welsh singer-songwriter Liam J. Edwards delivers a powerful message in his latest track ‘Progress’.  True to its title, the track serves as an anthem of empowerment, celebrating personal growth, self-belief, and the pursuit of one's dreams. The song kicks off with a synth-heavy introduction, setting the stage for Liam's deep and powerful vocals to shine. As the track unfolds, the pace accelerates, featuring lush harmonies, and a catchy chorus. Lively rhythms and electro-synth elements infuse the pop track with youthful energy and vibrancy. Liam's voice bears resemblances to the likes of Sam Smith and Dan Reynolds, adding a soulful touch to the song. It's the perfect soundtrack for a rejuvenating Sunday of self-care, reminding us to overcome self-doubt and reach for greater heights in life.

Sacha Mullin - Arranging Flowers [Radio Edit]

Sacha Mullin, a Chicago-based singer-songwriter, known for his emotive singing, has delivered a musical opus, in his latest offering, ‘Arranging Flowers [Radio Edit]’.  Mullin's artistry reaches its zenith as he seamlessly merges genres in this track with absolute finesse. This song is woven with swift jazzy instrumentals, ethereal harmonies, and silk-like intricate vocal melodies that could only be stitched together by a seasoned musician. Picture the track’s progression this way— the descent of an avalanche. It commences as a mild snowslide on a towering peak; softly pulsating rhythm and the solitary yet stellar vocals of Mullin build up the tension in the track. As it accelerates, the song develops layers in instrumentation and grows in intensity, mirroring the unstoppable force and splendor of a cascading avalanche. The supporting choir, equal in sophistication as the lead vocals, elevates the song to a sensory masterpiece. Arranging Flowers [Radio Edit] engulfs the listener entirely like…you guessed it right… an avalanche. 

Lucy Crisp - One Summer’s Day

‘One Summer's Day’ by Lucy Crisp, a pop artist hailing from Nottingham, takes us on a journey through the warm, sun-soaked landscape of summer love. Crisp's songwriting and musical tonality are reminiscent of chart-topping pop sensations like Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, and Camila Cabello. Lyrically, the song delves into the magic of finding your lover during radiant summer days. It offers a refreshing perspective on new-found love, replete with promises and oozing with thrill, alongside the enduring enthusiasm it infuses into life as months slip by. The dreamy ambiance, buoyant rhythms, passionate vocals, and meticulously arranged harmonies, evoke the sense of an impulsive summer love. ‘One Summer's Day’ gets personal and real, making it a must-listen for anyone yearning for the allure of a summer affair. 

Haunts - Monster

‘Monster’ by Haunts is a dark-pop track that immerses listeners in a netherworldly sonic ambience. The song has a characteristic bass-heavy drum and synth background which reverberates deep in your heart, creating a haunting rhythm. It is perfectly contrasted by the glass-like voice of the singer, that thins and thickens as the lyrical and musical mould demands. The melodies possess a formidable yet tender quality, heightened by the chiming electronic tunes that flutter in and out of existence like elusive quantum particles. "Monster" delves into the limits of love and acceptance, questioning the extent one would go to preserve love and embrace the idiosyncrasies of their partner, especially the dark side of their psyche. It's a deep, free dive into the haunting depths of the ocean of love.

Ro Nova - Echo 

London-based producer Ro Nova, making waves with her unique discography, has a luminescent new offering titled ‘Echo’. With vocal texture and tonality reminiscent of artists like FKA Twigs, Alina Baraz, and Billie Eilish, Ro Nova’s track is an immediate mood boost, radiating empowerment and vivacity. The lyrics delve into themes of self-reliance, belief, and trust in one's abilities. Throughout the track, you'll find delicate piano chimes scattered like glitter, accompanied by a celestial synth ambiance, all set to the backdrop of steady-paced muted bass beats. This combination creates an auditory spectacle that is highly addictive. ‘Echo’ seamlessly combines synth-club influences with electro-pop aesthetics, immersing you in a world of disco lights, dancefloors, and unrestrained self-expression.

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