Tennyson confidently updates their charming, crossover style on new single “Cry Bird”

When Tennyson put out their Like What EP in 2015, they gave the rising “squeaky bed springs” productions, à la Cashmere Cat and Lido, a snazzy facelift: crazier samples, eccentric jazz instrumentation, and quirky as can be. Two years later, the Canadian siblings gives us a new single, “Cry Bird,” for their upcoming Uh Oh! EP. It’s certainly not as unpredictable as many of the duo’s previous tracks. But their attempt at a more organic and ear-grabbing sound isn’t just successful, it’s breathtaking in its glow. Besides, there’s still a nostalgic, whack-a-mole breakdown in the final minute—you know they still got it.

Written by Eugene Cheng

Festival vibes rolling deep on SNBRN's "ELE"

What song will define the summer of 2017? The Beatles’ “All You Need Is Love” was an appropriate anthem for the college-educated, politically-unmotivated flower children of the Vietnam War era. So what about now? Undeterred by a slew of fantastic tracks that have occupied the first half of the festival season, Los Angeles-based producer SNBRN throws his hat into the ring with a free release on his SoundCloud. “ELE” is nu-disco and indie dance, relentlessly driven by a successful tandem of a punchy piano riff and synths so bright it’ll give you, well, a sunburn. And of course, no summer song would be just without the pitched vocal samples we know and love so well. Be on the lookout for a few iterations of this track at your next festival event.

Written by Eugene Cheng

hundred waters - currency ep

If you haven't heard of American band Hundred Waters yet, you're in for a treat. Hailing from Gainesville, Florida, the group brings a fascinating take on contemporary music by combining elements of indie rock, folk, and electronic music. Their focus on creating a surreal ambiance is executed brilliantly by arranging a variety of organic and synthetic sounds, with each part combining magnificently to create a psychedelic effect. It is also surprising to note that Hundred Waters is signed to OWSLA, a clear indication that Skrillex's affinity for rock has not diminished. The group consists of Nicole Miglis on vocals, piano, flute; Trayer Tryon on production, electronics, bass; and Zach Tetreault on drums, percussion, trumpet. My favorite song off the EP is "Everywhere," a blissful tune reminiscent of sweet dreams through the usage of mellow drums, ethereal vocal synths, and flawless production. Keep on the lookout for a live set by Hundred Waters, a performance sure to take you on a journey. 

Written by Raghav Thirumulu    

nick murphy - missing link ep

Nick Murphy, formerly known as Chet Faker, just dropped an EP after a 6 month hiatus, his first major project since switching over to his birth name. The EP blends an interesting combination of indie electronic and rock influences, with Murphy's magical voice flowing like butter throughout the five-song project. Missing Link mainly focuses on two major moods, with the songs "Your TIme", "I'm Read", and "Weak Education" carrying a more groove-based tone with electronic-heavy production and the songs "Bye" and "Forget About Me" displaying stronger rock tones with a more frantic headbanging style. The first song also features Kaytranada on the production, as noticed in the drum samples and retro synth design. Overall, Nick Murphy does an excellent job of providing us with that classic Chet Faker touch while pushing the boundaries of genres with various production styles to accompany his vocals. Be sure to take a listen!

Written by Raghav Thirumulu