Dua Lipa – Last Dance

With the success of her debut single ‘Be The One’ and earning a spot in the BBC’s coveted Sound of 2016 poll, Dua Lipa is back with her latest single ‘Last Dance’.

Co-written with Talay RIley (Jess Glynn, Iggy Azalea, Ellie Goulding) and produced by Koz (Kendrick Lamar, Madonna), Last Dance serves up a synth-infused, electro-pop banger, showcasing Lipa’s captivating and husky vocals.

The single premiered with Annie Mac as her Hottest Record. Speaking with Annie, Lipa commented:

“It was third studio session of the day and I was absolutely knackered. I was writing about how I felt at that moment – a lot about being homesick. It was just a really honest moment and it’s one of my favourite songs that I’ve written.”

Upcoming dates for Lipa include a headline gig at London’s Heaven. (March 31)  In the meantime, check out her recent performance in the Radio 1 Live Lounge with her cover of The Weeknd’s The Hill’s.

January Selections 2015

2014 proved to be an exceptional year for music. Judging by January’s selections, 2015 is going to be no exception. With January Blues thankfully out of the way, Summer Festivals are just around the corner. Well maybe not just around the corner, but all this talk of Festival Headliners is certainly getting me excited for the summer. Avicii, David Guetta and Drake are set to headline New Look Wireless Festival, while festival favourites Disclosure and Rudimental have teamed together to curate their own Wild Life Festival at Brighton City Airport. Radio 1’s Big Weekend announced Taylor Swift as their first headliner, with T In the Park welcoming The Libertines. Isle Of Wight announced Groove Armada and Fleetwood Mac, while Field Day have lined up FKA Twigs, Caribou and Hudson Mohawke amongst others.

As you know, good weather is never a guarantee here in the UK, so if you prefer a sunnier climate (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?) then you might want to check out some of the following: Legendary US Coachella Festival announced ACDC, Drake and Jack White as their headliners, while Sónar Festival in Spain announced Duran Duran, Skrillex and FKA Twigs. Elsewhere in Spain, Benicassim have secured The Prodigy, Florence + the Machine, Bastille and Portishead, while unfortunately for some, Sonisphere and Rockness Festivals were cancelled. However, there’s still so much choice so start planning your summer musical adventures.

With January being the longest month of the year, it paved the way for plenty of new music. The Prodigy debuted their massive new single ‘The Day Is My Enemy‘, while Jimmy Napes, the creative genius behind much loved tracks from Disclosure, Sam Smith and Clean Bandit, unveiled his solo EP and single ‘Give It Up‘. Another Disclosure affiliate, Lxury, debuted his new single ‘Square 1‘ ft Deptford Goth, while Martin Solveig made his long awaited return and collaborated with GTA on ‘Intoxicated‘. Speaking of collaborations, Kanye unveiled his new single ‘Only One‘ with Paul McCartney and a further single with McCartney and Rihanna titled ‘FourFiveSeconds‘, leading to some interesting tweets congratulating Kanye on ‘Shining a light on new artists’… ‘This Paul McCartney guy gonna be huge‘! Lana del Ray confirmed she has nine songs ready for her forthcoming album ‘Honeymoon’, while The Prodigy announced their sixth studio album ‘The Day Is My Enemy’ is set for release March 30th.

The BBC Unveiled their coveted ‘Sound Of 2015’ poll with dance-pop trio Years and Years topping the list. James Bay and Stormzy came in 2nd and 3rd place respectively, with Raury and George the Poet completing the top 5 shortlist. The Brits Nominations were announced, which saw Sam Smith take the lead with 5 nominations, shortly followed by Ed Sheeran and George Ezra with 4 nominations each. Noticeably absent from the nominees include artists such as Jungle, Ben Howard, Kasabian, Jessie J, Katy B, Jamie T and Bombaby Bicycle Club, with Clean Bandit highlighting the lack of black or female nominees this year. This year’s awards ceremony will take place at London’s O2 on February 25, hosted by Ant&Dec. Here’s hoping for a trip down memory lane with PJ and Duncan’s ‘Let’s Get Ready To Rumble‘. Don’t forget you can vote for the ‘Best British Breakthrough‘ and ‘Best British Video‘. Pharrell Williams unveiled his plans for Live Earth 2015; a Global event, featuring 100 artists performing across all seven continents to raise awareness about climate change. Live Earth 2015 will take place on June 18th. Last but not least, the worlds highest paid DJ Calvin Harris, has signed a three-year Las Vegas residency with Hakkasan Group, which will see him perform at Hakkasan Nightclub, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino’s Wet Republic and Omnia Nightclub at Caesars Palace. *Books trip to Vegas.* Ok, on with the music, check out my selections below:

1) Axwell Λ Ingrosso – Something New (Robin Schulz Remix)

With newly formed duo Axwell Λ Ingrosso recently unveiling their melodic big room single ‘Something New‘, German Producer Robin Schulz makes his mark on the official remix. Schulz’s edit premiered with Pete Tong on Radio1 and delivers a smooth and mellow remix with hypnotic beats. Schulz has a long list of popular remixes to his name such as Lilly Wood & The Prick’s ‘Prayer in C’ and Mr Probz’s ‘Waves’, the latter of which Schulz was nominated for a Grammy. Upcoming dates from Robin Schulz include Future Music Festival in Australia and Coronet Theatre in London. The ‘Something New‘ remix is available now in the US, with a UK release via Virgin EMI TBC.

 2) Joey Bada$$ – Teach Me ft Kiesza

Joey Bada$$ has teamed up with Canadian pop artist Kiesza for his new single ‘Teach Me‘, produced by Chuck Strangers and ASTR. The duo recently collaborated on ‘Bad Thing‘ from Kiesza’s album ‘Sound of a Woman’, so it’s only natural she return the favour. The most prominent feature on the single sees Joey step up the pace and go double time with the beats; not your typical pace to rap over but nonetheless works in his favour, once again showing his versatility as an artist. With Joey continually asking ‘Won’t you teach me how to dance’, who better then Canadian popstar come dancer Kiesza, who brings a fresh vocal hook to the single. ‘Teach Me’ is a bonus track taken from Joeys debut album B4.DA.$$ which is availab5 now.

 

3) Wilkinson & TC – Hit The Floor

Ready for an absolute beast of a dnb banger? Then look no further than London based Wilkinson (Afterglow) and Bristols TC (Get Down Low). The two drum n bass producers have collaborated on their new single ‘Hit The Floor‘ and serves up a high energy track packed with throttling basslines, grungy vibes and snarling sirens. ‘Hit the Floor’ is available now via Andy C’s Ram Records. Upcoming dates for Wilkinson include Elextric Brixton in April, followed by Reading & Leeds.

 

4) Purity Ring – Push Pull

Time for a change of pass with Canadian synth-pop duo Purity Ring and their new single ‘Push Pull’. Megan James and Corin Roddick once again deliver pure synth serenity with this utterly amospheric track. Roddick’s bubbling deep synths and multilayered textures give weight to the track, while Megans dreamy vocals soar effortlessly above, much like their transcendent and hypnotic video. The single is taken from their forthcoming album ‘Another Eternity’ and follow up to 2012’s ‘Shrines’. ‘Another Eternity’ is set for release March 3rd via 4AD while ‘Push Pull’ is available now. Upcoming dates for the duo include Concorde 2 in Brighton and O2 Shepherds Bush Empire in London.

 

5) Years and Years – King

Having kicked off the year winning the BBC’s coveted Sound Of 2015 award, synth-pop trio Years and Years continue with their trademark futuristic synths and hard-hitting pop hooks with their new single ‘King‘. Made up of bassist Mikey Goldsworthy, Emre Turkmen on keys and vocalist Olly Alexander, Years and Years continue to push the boundaries of dance music and deliver another infectious single as a follow up to ‘Desire’. Upcoming dates include Concorde 2 and Wild Life in Brighton, with London dates at Heaven and O2 Shepherds Bush. ‘King’ is set for release March 1st via Polydor Records. Pre-order your copy here. In the meantime check out Manchesters TCTS remix.

6) Sigma ft Labrinth – Higher

Drum n bass duo Sigma (Cameron Edwards and Joe Lenzie ) continue their stream of hits with their latest single ‘Higher‘. The singles serves as the follow up to the powerhouse record ‘Changing’ ft Paloma Faith and one of the top tracks of 2014 ‘Nobody To love’. For ‘Higher’, Sigma have enlisted the creative vocal talents of Labrinth to deliver yet another euphoric record thats just waiting to storm the charts. Having recently been nominated for two Brit Awards,  be sure to catch the duo at Concorde 2, Electric Brixton and Electric Daisy Carnival. ‘Higher’ is set for release March 22nd via 3Beat and is taken from their forthcoming debut album ‘Life’. Also check out the brilliant remix from Grades below.

 

7) Tor Miller – Midnight

Brooklyn based Tor Miller has unveiled ‘Midnight‘ from his debut EP ‘Headlights‘. The talented twenty-year-old delivers a powerful piano ballad that gradually builds in momentum with percussion, strings and guitar, while Miller’s distinct and powerful vocals hold its own out in front, bringing artists like Billy Joel to mind. ‘Headlights’ is available now via Glassnote Records. Upcoming performances for Miller include his headline show at London’s Servant Jazz Quarters on Thursday 5th March.

 

8) Benga – Shut It Down

Benga is back and this is one single that deserves a major oooof! After taking some time out last year to start a family and stepping down from his co-hosting with Skream on Radio1, the Dubstep pioneering producer/dj is back stronger than ever. His new single ‘Shut It Down’ ft Artwork and Sam Frank premiered as Zane Lowes ‘Future Exclusive’ and serves up a darker techno vibe with vocals from Sam Frank keeping it fresh. Having been working on his album for the past ten years, expect an album to drop sometime this year as we thankfully welcome Benga back from early retirement.

 

9) The Wombats – Greek Tragedy (Bastille Remix)

Indie rock back The Wombats unveiled their long awaited new single ‘Greek Tragedy’, which premiered as Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record. The single is taken from their forthcoming third studio album ‘Glitterbug’ due April 6th, and follows 2013’s ‘Your Body Is  A Weapon’. While the original delivers the catchy pop hooks you’d expect from the trio, Bastille’s remix gives the track new depth and focuses on the raw emotive vocals with majestic brass and strings. Bastille’s slick production gives the track an edge that the original lacked. Having recently remixes Imagine Dragon’s ‘I’d Bet My Life’ Bastille are currently working on their new album due later this year.

 

10) Jess Glynn – Hold My Hand

Looking for a song guaranteed to put you in a good mood? Check out the latest single from Jess Glynn with its immediate feel-good summer vibes and smooth house piano. ‘Hold My Hand’ serves as the follow up to arguably one of the biggest tracks last year, Clean Bandit’s ‘Rather Be’, followed by Route 94’s ‘My Love’ and her first solo single ‘Right Here’. Glynn has proved she can hold her own and continues with her electro-pop stylings and infectious soulful vocals. ‘Hold My Hand’ is set for release via Atlantic on March 23rd. Upcoming dates for Jess include Alexandra Palace, Wild Life and Isle of Wight Festival.

11) Pep and Rash – Rumors

DJs from Tiesto to Martin Garrix and The Magician have been playing this mystery house track for a while now, without realising where it actually came from. With an aptly titled single called ‘Rumor’, the rumour mill was in full speed with many associating it with Oliver Heldens style, who had to set the record straight on Twitter. Dutch label Spinnin’ Records finally unveiled the Dutch duo Pep & Rash as the producers responsible for this infectious house smash. ‘Rumors’ features a distorted vocal line that’s highly hypnotic before the throttling bass kicks in with its percussive stylings. 2015 is going to be a big year for the dutch duo.

 

12) LA Priest – Oino

Sam Dust, formerly of Late Of The Pier, has unveiled his new single ‘Oino’ under the Moniker LA Priest (Lah Pree-st). ‘Oino’ is a funky alt-pop gem filled with melodic and playful psychedelic synth stabs, warped guitar riffs and falsetto vocals. ‘Oino’ delivers a unique piece of experimental funk and a refreshing and compelling view into this new project from LA Priest. Currently working on his debut album, ‘Oino’ is available March 30th via Domino Records.

13) EXGF – We Are The Hearts

Indie pop act EXGF made quite the impact last year with their debut single ‘Idle Hands’. Their second single, ‘We Are The Hearts’ delivers a rousing and anthemic number that strikes a balance between sounding dreamy yet industrial with its hard hitting beats.  Though very little is known about the French and US collective EXGF, we can only go by their edgy and artistic instagram pics to paint some sort of picture. Other than that, the music clearly speaks for itself and delivers a defiant track and shines a light on inner strength. Here’s to a promising 2015 for EXGF.

Check out the full playlist below with over an hour for your listening pleasure.

 

Stromae – Meltdown Ft Lorde, Pusha T, Q Tip and Haim

With Grammy award winner Lorde curating the latest soundtrack for The Hunger Games – Mockingjay Part 1, multiple tracks have surfaced online, from Lorde’s lead single ‘Yellow Flicker Beat‘ and recent Kanye West remix, The Chemical Brothers collaboration with Miguel and Lorde on ‘This Is Not A Game‘, to Major Lazer and Ariana Grande’s ‘All My Love‘ – Quite a random but exciting mix of artists.

The latest single to drop comes from Belgian artist Stromae, with yet a further list of impressive featured artists including the curator herself Lorde, GOOD Music signee and rapper Pusha T, Hip hop legend Q-Tip and Californian sister act Haim. The collaborative single delivers an ecclectic mix of styles with its driving synth-pop beats, slick hip hop rhymes and infectious rousing vocals.

While ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise may not be everyones cup of tea, Lorde has certainly curated an impressive and diverse album that’s sure to spark your musical interest.  The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 Soundtrack is set for release November 17th and is available to pre-order now.

June Selections

What a month June has been for music. We had the wonderful return of Jessie Ware with her new single ‘Tough Love‘, not to mention new music from Duke Dumont, Jamie xx, Porter Robinson and the reworking of Yogi’s ‘Christian Bale’. Festival season got well under way with Parklife and Isle of Wight but it was Glastonbury Festival that took center stage this month, with headliners Arcade Fire, Metallica and Kasabian thrilling audiences, not to mention fan favourite Dolly Parton. It’s safe to say Glastonbury Festival went down a ‘storm’ … excuse the pun. Yes even the weather took center stage which interrupted Rudimental’s set and briefly closed the Pyramid stage. What would a festival be without a bit of rain, mud and an electrical storm? Roll on next year! Catch up on the highlights here.

The official charts saw a bit of a shake up with streaming sites such as Spotify, Deezer and Napster to count towards Official Chart rankings for the first time. The home of the Official Chart, yes Radio 1, has also seen a bit of a shake up. Longtime broadcaster Edith Boman,  Rob Da Bank, Jen Long and Ally McCrae are among some of the presenters axed from the schedule (Sad times!). This has paved the way for exciting new changes, such as an evening new music show with Huw Stevens, B Traits joining the Friday night dance lineup, while Annie Mac and Pete Tong’s shows have been increased by an hour. #Raving. Read the rest of the changes here.  The BBC also announced details of their new BBC Music Awards, set to take place in Earls Court Dec 11th and hosted by Chris Evans and Fearne Cotton.

Itunes UK celebrated their 10th anniversary this month. To mark the occasion, they released the all time best selling albums and singles, which included Adele’s ’21’, Ed Sheeran and Emeli Sande, while Robin Thicke’s ‘Blurred Lines’ topped the best selling single. When Zane Lowe isn’t conducting incredible interviews on Radio 1, such as the recent Rick Rubin feature interview, he’s announcing an exciting new music show on MTV called ‘Soundchain’, which is set to feature artists from Ed Sheeran, Queens Of The Stoneage, Chase and Status and Kasbian. Speaking of which, Kasabian announced their UK and Ireland tour starting this Autumn. If that wasn’t enough, there’s plenty of new music releases lined up such as new music from Rudimental tipped by end of the year, Florence and the Machines third album, new Snow Patrol in 2015, a debut album from Hozier in September and even more Haim greatness in the pipeline. Oh and incase you’re not aware, June 10th has officially being named ‘Drake Day’ by the Mayor of Houston ….put it in the diary!

July surely has to be dubbed ‘Festival Month’ with a whole host of Festivals lined up including, Wireless, Festibelly, British Summer Time Festival, Latitude, Longitude, LoveBox, Eminem at Wembley, T In The Park and even G In the Park. Last but not least, don’t forget the continuation of Annie Mac’s Superstar Djs on Channel 4.

Ok, now on with the music. Check out my selections below:

1) Calvin Harris – Summer (Diplo & Grandtheft remix)

What better way to kick off June favourites than with the aptly titled track ‘Summer‘ from Calvin Harris with Diplo and Grandtheft  on the remix. This is the second collaboration from the duo having previously remixed Calvin’s ‘Sweet Nothing‘ ft Florence. While retaining Calvin’s original idea, the two drops allow the heavyweights trademarks to shine from their tantalising trap vibes, grime-heavy bass lines, defined percussive beats and some intermittent bed squeaks … always keeping it interesting. Be sure to catch Diplo pretty much touring everywhere this summer, while Grandtheft is currently on his ‘Keep it 100’ tour. The ‘Summer‘ remixes are available here.

 

2) Jack Garratt – Worry

London singer songwriter Jack Garratt unveiled his new single ‘Worry‘, taken from his debut EP ‘Remnants‘. The single serves as the follow up to ‘Water’, where Garret delivers moments of pure chilled out R&B before hitting us with some heavy synth drops and a fuzzy infectious hook. Garratt’s soulful vocals has great range highlighting his impressive falsetto ability. Currently in the middle if his UK tour, upcoming dates for Garratt include Secret Garden Party and In The Woods. ‘Remnants‘ is due July 14th and is available now.

 

3) HRLY & Bosey – Take Me

Brighton based producer/ DJ’s HRLY & Bosey have collaborated on an exciting new trap banger. ‘Take Me‘ serves up some infectious trap stylings and an incredible drop that takes the track to the next level with its trap infused horns, bass heavy beats and echoed/distorted vocals. ‘Take Me’ is packed with plenty of edge and attitude and marks an impressive effort from the duo.

 

4) Keaton Henson – Elevator Song

When London singer/songwriter Keaton Henson unveiled his debut album four years ago, he presented a personal and stunning selection of folk ballads. Despite Heatons crippling anxiety with performing, Henson has since unveiled his new body of work, which presents a vast change of direction for him; a classical piece titled ‘Romantic works’. Recorded in his bedroom, ‘Elevator Song’ opens the collection of work. The purely instrumental track takes us away for 3 minutes to a place of pure tranquility with simple piano and strings. If only all elevator rides were as blissful as as this. ‘Elevator Song’ is available now from his ‘Romantic Works‘ album.

 

5) Isaiah Dreads – You See Me (Prod. Preditah) Make way for some serious rising talent in the form of 16 year old Grime artist Isaiah Dreads.  His new single ‘You See Me‘ sees Dreads going in on the Preditah produced banger. Dreads delivers some serious skills and spitting over the impeccably produced beats from Preditah. You might remember Preditah from some of his incredible remixes from Danny Brown’s ‘Dip‘ to Disclosure’s ‘Stimulation‘, and now he’s done it again with the infectious trap-hop hooks dominating ‘You See Me‘. Dreads and Preditah prove to be an exciting collaboration. ‘You See Me’ is set for release July 21st and is available to pre order now.

 

6) Crystal Fighters – Love Alight

Time for some sun-drenched music from electro pop quartet Crystal Fighters.  ‘Love Alight‘ is the first new material to surface since their 2013’s ‘Cave Rave‘ album and what better way than with this uptempo track, filled with soaring melodies, flamenco style guitars, euphoric vocals and hypnotic beats. No surprise it featured as Zane Lowe’s ‘Hottest Record’, as it will no doubt be the summer soundtrack for many this summer. Upcoming dates for Crystal Fighters include Lattitude Festival and Lovebox. ‘Love Alight’ is available now.

 

7) Kwabs – Into You

Kwabs has unveiled his new single ‘Into You‘, taken from his ‘Pray for Love’ EP. The single serves as the follow up to ‘Last Stand’ and ‘Wrong Or Right’ produced by SOHN. Now Kwabs has teamed up with producer Chris Loco to deliver yet another impressive single with some infectious production from Loco. Kwabs sure knows how to pick his producers. Kwabs stunningly emotive and soulful vocals are delivered with such passion, especially the rousing hook with defined, tribal percussive beats. Upcoming dates from Kwabs include Latitude and a headline date at London’s Koko this October. ‘Pray for Love‘ EP is available now.

 

8) Redlight – Cure Me ft Lolo

Bristol based Producer Redlight (aka Hugh Pescod) has unveiled his new single ‘Cure Me‘, featuring the sultry vocals of Brooklyn singer Lolo. With deep house dominating the music scene, ‘Cure Me‘ is set to follow in the same path as Redlight’s previous singles from ‘36‘ to ‘Lost In Your Love‘ and ‘Get Out My Head‘. ‘Cure Me‘ delivers some punchy deep house vibes, signature house piano and an infectious hook you’ll be singing all day. Having recently signed to Polydor Records, the Bristol producer is currently working on his debut album due later this year. Upcoming dates for Redlight include Creamfields and Jersey Live. The ‘Cure Me’ EP is set for release August 17th via Polydor Records, featuring remixes from Actress, New York Transit Authority and DJ Die. Pre order your copy here.

 

9) Apexape & Chris Lorenzo – Got To Give

Apexape, aka Benny Kane and Dr Specs have teamed up with Chris Lorenzo of Cause and Affect, to deliver their monstrous bass heavy single ‘Got To Give‘. With its pulsating basslines, eerie synths and suspenseful descending riffs and rolling drops, ‘Got To Give‘ delivers on all fronts. The single is available now via MistaJam’s Speakerbox Records. Upcoming dates for Apexape include Ibiza and Mallorca rocks this July.

 

10) Broods – Mother and Father

New Zealand siblings Broods, aka Georgia and Caleb Nott, unveiled their new single ‘Mother and Father’, which serves as the follow up to the successful ‘Bridges’ EP. The single is taken from their forthcoming debut album ‘Evergreen‘, and delivers a soothing synth driven track. Georgia’s light, airy vocals and heartfelt lyrics are effortless and provide a nice contrast to the defined percussive beats throughout. Set to support Sam Smith on tour this autumn, further dates for Broods include Hoxton Square Bar and Longitude in Dublin. ‘Mother And Father‘ is available now, while their debut album is set for release August 22nd via Polydor.

 

11) My Nu Leng – Knowing (Break remix)

Time for some epic drum n bass from Symmetry Recordings owner Break, as he takes on My Nu Leng’s ‘Knowing‘.  The remix serves as the followup to his ‘Moving On’ EP and delivers a beast of a track with its bass heavy vibes, glitchy production and growling bass lines. Break retains My Nu Leng’s original charm, from the serene piano motif and ambient effects throughout, before ramping up the tempo to delivery a high energy drum n bass monster. Break’s ‘Knowing‘ remix is set to feature on My Nu Leng’s ‘The Masterplan Remixes EP‘, which includes remixes from Lorenzo and Zed Bias. ‘Knowing’ is available now via Black Butter Records.

 

12) Méron – Somebody Like Me

Prepare yourself for some epic progressive dance beauty. Rising producer Méron has has unveiled his latest offerings ‘Somebody Like Me‘, which serves as the follow up to ‘Along With The Stars‘. The track delivers with such force and impact, from its soaring house piano vibes, stirring strings and rousing builds throughout. A definite hands in the air track that you wish would never, ever end. Presenting a stunning vibe and drawing comparisons to Prydz, Méron is one producer to keep a close eye on. In the meantime, check out his soundcloud here. Somebody Like Me is available now via Spinnin’ Records.

 

13) Avan Lava – Last Night (Copy Paste Soul Remix)

Having recently released his ‘Like This’ EP, Copy Paste Soul has since remixed ‘Last Night‘ from Brooklyn trio Avan Lava. With his infectious whomping bass line, soulful vocals and feel good vibes infused throughout, Copy Paste Soul has already received great support from the likes of Annie Mac, Scream and Disclosure. Check out his soundcloud page here to hear ‘deep things growl and whompy things warm’. Upcoming dates for Copy Paste Soul include Lost Records at Fire London.

 

14) Grimes – Go ft Blood Diamonds

Yes, Grimes is back after almost two years and has unveiled her new single ‘Go’, ft producer Blood Diamond. Originally written for and thankfully rejected by Rihanna, ‘Go‘ paves the way for her highly anticipated return and serves up the first new material since 2012’s album ‘Visions‘, and the remarkable single ‘Oblivion’. With its moody, atmospheric vibe, and trap infused stylings, Grimes has certainly peaked our interest for what’s yet to come. Currently working on her new album, ‘Go’ is available now. Upcoming datea for Grimes can be found here.

 

15) X Ambassadors & Jamie N Commons – Jungle remix ft Jay Z

American rock band X Ambassadors and British artist Jamie N Commons, have made quite the impact with their single ‘Jungle’, which featured in the World Cup inspired ‘Beats By Dre‘ campaign. Giving the single a reworking is n one other than Hov, yes Jay Z now features in the remix, bringing ‘Jungle‘ to a whole new level of epic proportions. The hard hitting track serves up a sense of empowerment with some ferocious skills and lyrics from Jay Z ‘If your god is bigger than my god up there, and my god is bigger than your god down here, whom shall I fear?’. The new jungle remix is available now.

 

16) Pharrell – Frontin’ ft Jay Z (Disclosure remix)

Brotherly duo Disclosure recently reworked on of their favourite songs ever. Yes Pharrell’s ‘Frontin‘ ft Jay Z has been given the Disclosure remix which sees the boys breath new life into the 2003 classic. The duo deliver an upbeat garage infused remix, with Pharrell’s infectious vocals mixed seamlessly throughout. Even better, the track was offered as a free download as a result of reaching 1 million likes on Facebook. Be sure to catch Disclosure touring everywhere this summer including Ibiza, Reading & Leeds and Bestival as well as featuring on Annie Mac’s ‘Superstar DJ’ programme on Channel 4.

 

Check out the full playlist below with over 90 minutes for your listening pleasure.

Porter Robinson – Lionhearted ft Urban Cone

Porter Robinson has unveiled his new single ‘Lionhearted‘, taken from his highly anticipated album ‘Worlds‘.

The single premiered as Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record, and features Swedish indie-pop group Urban Cone. ‘Lionhearted‘, serves as the follow up to ‘Sad Machine‘ and perfectly captures Robinsons masterful electro-house and synth-pop style. Bringing artists like M83 and Passion Pit to mind, Robinson is on track in delivering one exciting album.

With Robinson previously featuring in my March Selections with the single ‘Sea Of Voices‘, his forthcoming album ‘Worlds‘ is set for release August 11th. The single ‘Lionhearted‘ is available Aug 3rd featuring official remixes from Arty, The Alexanders (aka Alex Metric and Yuksek) and Giraffage.

Upcoming EU dates for Porter Robinson can be found here.

Banks – Drowning

LA singer Banks unveiled her new single ‘Drowning‘, which serves as the follow up to tracks such as  ‘Brain‘, ‘Waiting Game’ and ‘This Is What It Feels Like‘. Having working with producers from Shlohmo to Sohn and TEED, Banks has enlisted the help of Grammy award winning Al Shux (Jay Z, Plan B, Lana Del Ray).

With her unique and emotionally charged vocals, ’Drowning’ presents progressive pop at its finest. Filled with Banks’ trademark sultry vibes, glitchy production and pulsing hip hop beats, ‘Drowning’ perfectly captures that sense of vulnerability.

The single premiered as Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record where Banks commented:

“I created the idea of relationship where you feel unheard, like you’re trapped in a box. You know you love this person, but don’t know if they’re right. It’s not a healthy situation. It doesn’t make you feel powerful. You’re a powerful person inside but you feel trapped. You feel weak.”

Banks’ highly anticipated debut album ‘Goddess‘ is set for release September 8th via Good Years and is available to pre-order now. Be sure to catch Banks during her forthcoming tour as well as festival performances from Lovebox to Longitude.

 

Kiesza – What Is Love

Canadian singer Kiesza has unveiled her cover of Haddaways 90s classic ‘What Is Love‘.

Fresh from the success of her number 1 debut single ‘Hideaway‘, Kiesza breathes new life into the previously synth driven Eurodance classic, with some simple piano accompaniment, soothing strings and Kieszas emotive vocals soaring above – a really stripped back version showcasing Kieszas exceptional vocal talent.

The self directed video premiered on NME yesterday. From the complex choreography of ‘Hideaway’ to the literally ‘stripped’ back ‘What is Love’, Kiesa certainly knows how to make a creative impression. Upcoming performances include Lovebox and Bestival.

September Selections

So many great tracks dropped the past month, so here are some of my ‘September Selections‘.

First up is James Blake ft Chance The Rapper with ‘Life Round Here‘. The London based producer & singer/songwriter, has teamed up with rising Chicago based artist ‘Chance The Rapper‘ for a reworked version of ‘Life Round Here‘, taken from his Mercury Prize nominated album ‘Overgrown‘. The track featured as Zane Lowe’s Hottest record where Blake spoke about the collaboration: ‘I really liked his mix-tape (Acid Rap) and saw him at South by Southwest. I just thought his voice would work really well. I never felt the track was finished, even when it went on the album, I always thought there was space for something else’. Blake has certainly found that missing element and the duo deliver a fresh and exciting outlook with Chances’s raw energy and Blakes melodic and atmospheric vocals. Check back soon for their forthcoming video, set to feature ‘Everything from Somalian horses to pirates and Chevy Impalas‘.

http://soundcloud.com/3detailsofmylife/james-blake-life-round-here

A while back I posted about rising New Zealand songstress Lorde (Aka Ella Yellich-O’Connor) and her infectious track ‘Tennis Court’, from her free ‘Love Club‘ EP. Her latest offerings, taken from her debut LP ‘Pure Heroine’, is another exceptional track titled ‘Team , where the 16 year old presents a very mature sound with her upbeat yet bittersweet melodic vocals, that is captivating audiences worldwide. Having recently performed on ‘Later with Jools Holland‘ Lorde is set to embark upon a sold out Australian tour but will first play ‘Vevo’s 2013 Halloween Party’ in Oval Space, London. Lorde also features on the forthcoming ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ Soundtrack with a cover of Tear For Fears 1985 hit song ‘Everybody Wants To Rule The World‘.

http://soundcloud.com/mmmusic/lorde-team

Is it Gangsta (Yes yes yes) is the first single to be taken from South London rapper Giggs‘ forthcoming album ‘When WIll It Stop‘. Produced by Mark Ronson and Tone P, this is the first new material to surface since his 2010 album ‘Let Em Ave It‘ and delivers a strong return to form from the SN1 frontmnan. Be sure to check out the 9 minute short film video, directed by Reg Traviss, that even had it’s own trailer released. You can also catch Giggs perform at Londons ‘Under The Bridge‘ on October 15th, while ‘Is It Gangsta‘ drops October 6th.

LA singer Banks has unveiled her new single ‘The Is What It Feels Like‘, taken from her recent 4 track ‘London’ EP. Produced by Lil Silva and Jamie Woon, the single serves as the follow up to ‘Before I Ever Met You’ from the ‘Fall Over‘ EP and the recent Teed collaboration ‘Warm Water‘. Banks has such a unique sound and delivers haunting vocals amidst deep sultry beats and eerie electronic production. Currently supporting The Weeknd on tour in the US, Banks will also support The Weekend in London’s O2 on November 26th.

Danny Brown returns with a new single ‘Dip‘ taken from his highly anticipated album ‘Old’. Produced by Skywlkr, ‘Dip‘ samples Freak Nasty’s 1996 single ‘Da‘ as well as references to Jay Z and Kanye’s Paris‘ throughout. The MDMA fueled video, shot during his European tour, showcases Browns rapid rap skills with some trippy animations to match. ‘Old‘ is set for release Oct 8th through A-Trak’s Fools Gold Records and features artists such as A$AP Rocky, Purity Ring and Charlie XCX.

http://soundcloud.com/bertram-f-b-hooligan/danny-brown-dip

Sia’s new single ‘Elastic Heart‘ ft The Weeknd and Diplo, is set to feature on the forthcoming ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ soundtrack, alongside previously announced artists such as Coldplay, Lorde, Of Monsters and Men and Ellie Goulding. The sombre synt-driven track, which featured as Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record, highlights Sia and Abel Tesfaye’s enthralling and haunting vocals with slick production as always from Diplo.

http://soundcloud.com/siamusic/sia-elastic-heart-ft-the

Having delivered one of the summers biggest anthems ‘Jack‘, Breach (aka Ben Westbeech) has unveiled his follow-up single ‘Everything You Never Had‘ featuring the infectious and soulful vocals from Andreya Triana. Sure to be a dance floor filler with it’s classic house vibes and 90’s rave influences, the Bristolian dj and producer is constantly raising him game with each new release. Be sure to check out the Joe Goddard remix, who once again works his magic on delivering a fresh new remix. ‘Everything You Never Had‘ is set for release October 20th.

http://soundcloud.com/breach-uk/everything-you-never-had-we
http://soundcloud.com/3detailsofmylife/breach-everything-you-never

Back in May, ‘What Love Is Made Of‘ provided us with the first look from Katy B’s highly anticipated sophomore album and follow up to 2011’s ‘On A Mission‘. Katy has since dropped her latest single ‘5AM‘, which serves as a worthy successor with it’s big room house vibes, infectious hooks and Katy’s smooth garage infused pop vocals. Set for release Oct 28th through Rinse and Columbia, expect her second album sometime in 2014.

http://soundcloud.com/katyb/5am

‘Blood Runs Wild‘ is the latest release from Brotherly duo Ruen Brothers (Rupert and Henry Stansall). Having already released their retro inspired ‘Aces’ and ‘Walk Like A Man‘ to high praise, ‘Blood Runs Wild‘ follows the same suit with it’s vintage rock n roll vibes, sweeping vocals and upbeat melodies. The duo deliver such a mature and accomplished sound far beyond their years. With big support from Radio 1, Zane Lowe featured the track as his Hottest Record. Be sure to check out Ruen Brothers headline the Q Awards gig on Oct 19th at London’s Jazz Cafe, before supporting Tom Odell on his UK tour. Having signed a major record deal during the summer, ‘Blood Runs Wild‘ is set for release November 4th via Island Records (UK) and Universal/Republic (US).

http://soundcloud.com/ruenbrothers/blood-runs-wild-ruen-brothers

Phantogram – Black Out Days

NY based electro-pop duo Phantogram (Sarah Barthel & Josh Carter) have unveiled their new single ‘Black out Days’.

This is the first new material to surface since their 2011 EP ‘Nightlife’, featuring the single ‘Don’t Move’, as well as previous collaborations with Big Boi and The Flaming Lips.

‘Black Out Days’ presents a gritty synth-driven track with deep sultry beats, while Sarah Barthel’s captivating and eerie vocals, give the track that extra edge. With its skittering synths, infectious soaring chorus and hip-hop influences throughout; ‘Black Out Days’ marks a confident return for the NY duo.

Currently working on their second album and follow up to 2009’s ‘Eyelid Movies’, Phantogram are set to embark upon their US tour – here’s hoping we get some UK and EU dates soon!