For a song rife with self-deprecation and melancholy, "The Avenue" is oddly comforting comparable to a cozy coffee shop where your ex works, or to a slow-swinging hammock in a graveyard. Though lyrically uncomplicated, Zane Penny's new track more than does itself justice in delivering raw emotion that exists just outside of being easily definable; the nuanced spirit lends the song a versatility that would see it be a welcome addition to any music lover's repertoire. "The Avenue" pairs fleshed-out acoustic guitar and understated, crooning vocals to instill a soundscape of emotional balladry. The uncomplicated lyricism is rife with relatability, crafting silver pools of reminiscent nostalgia for you to sink into. The track finds a welcome, rich depth in the layering of bass, twanged six-string, and misty backing vocals. The track exists at the curious intersection of haunting and comforting as its poignant lyricism details the emotional tale. Zane Penny is based in Anchorage, Alaska where he crafts his indie daydream folk-pop, referring to himself not as a singer-songwriter but rather as simply a "sound maker". I have been known to make a sound or two, but I wouldn't be so bold as to equate my ramblings to what Zane produces. That being said, I really don't mind what title he gives himself so long as he continues to craft these ephemeral bursts of melodic medicine. Written By George McSherry FOLLOW ZANE:

Alessia Labate and Emdey just dropped this EDM beat with the perfect summer vibe that also takes a twist on traditional romance and relationships. Paired with Emdey's fresh beats that he always brings with his pieces, Labate sings about how she is reassuring her lover of her feelings for them but how she also wishes to explore what others have to offer her. This idea aligns well with the freedom and relaxation people tend to interact with in the summer. In summer, people tend to let loose and look for a good time whenever the offer is presented to them. Labate's lyrics are paired with the lively beat and melody that Emdey brings to the table to create this wonderful EDM track. Even from the beginning, this track starts out with such a powerful sound which is perfect for an EMD song. The beat is very prominent from the second the song is played, and is perfectly in balance with Labate's vocals. The melody, the beat, and Labate's vocals compliment one another extremely well. There are times when Labate's voice is given the spotlight and others when the electric beat is given more attention creating a good balance between all aspects of this piece. Emdey takes listeners on a ride with his work by creating anticipation before the beat drops during the chorus, times when the beat mellows out a bit, and a perfect entry and exit for the beat. Overall, Labate and Emdey created a successfull colab when they dropped this song and is perfect to add to your summer party tracklist. Alessia Labate is an Italian singer, songwriter, producer, and independent Pop artist based in Milano. Labate was first discovered as a contestant on an Italian talent show at age 12, where she duetted with Peter Cincotti and James Blunt and won a scholarship to “CET – Scuola di Mogol”, a prestigious Italian songwriting school. Right after the show she toured Italy’s arenas, started writing, and at 17 she participated in The Voice of Italy. After graduating high school, Labate moved to Rome and then to Milan to make music full-time. She signed to a NY-based management company and started traveling to collaborate with producers and songwriters from around the world while simultaneously launching a steady stream of releases, mostly EDM and Pop, with labels such as Universal German / France / Netherlands, Selected, NCS, STMPD, Loudkult, Protocol, etc. Emdey is a new EDM project run by artist Marvin D örsam. Growing up, he was always interested in making music and picked up a few instruments throughout his time growing up. He released his first remix at the age of 17 and since then has signed music over to Armin van Buuren's label, Armada Music, and has been DJing. Whether it's Tropical, House or Deep music, Dörsam will always bring beats that are sure to electrify a dance floor. Written By Melina Darlas FOLLOW ALESSIA LABATE: FOLLOW EMDEY:

CATTY's new release, "Maybe All The Rumours Are True" addresses her feelings about being queer when she was younger. While the topic isn't easy to talk about, the acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community is a more recent development that still isn't fully ingrained. Being young, feeling confused about your interests, and only seeing hate and denial surrounding the topic is never healthy-- and this is something that a majority of LGBTQ+ children have experienced as they're trying to figure out who they are. "Maybe All The Rumours Are True" describes this, talking about how we feel like an outcast about not fitting into the norm, having qualities that some people demean, and how others say we should be ashamed of it. The song "Maybe All The Rumours Are True" takes on an alt-pop sound, and with its energetic melody, guitar, and drums, CATTY gives the meaning of not feeling accepted an intensity sure to leave imprints in the listener's heads. The lyrics say, "I wanna love him but I'm looking at her" because as young people, we just want to be like everyone else as being different gets you shunned, and no one wants to feel like an outcast. CATTY then goes on to sing, "They tell me I should feel ashamed/But I don't feel ashamed" because while being part of the community isn't wholly accepted, we grow to understand that it's not something that we can control. It doesn't make us any less deserving of acceptance. It's never something we should be ashamed of, no matter how many people try to tell us otherwise. CATTY is an alt-pop singer/songwriter who started her solo career in 2021. She started off in a pop duo named "Dusky Grey" in 2016 before pursuing music alone and developing more of a rock-inspired sound. She's established herself as someone who talks about her life experiences through her music, usually delving into life and love as a queer woman. She's relatable, vulnerable, and honest with her songs, and we can clearly see those traits emphasizing her vocal and songwriting talent. "Maybe All The Rumours Are True" marks her fourth solo single, and the artist stands to be an influential icon sure to gain immense traction with her authenticity. Written by Jane Katryn FOLLOW CATTY:

Do you remember the pulsing nightlife of the 90s? I mean I don't. I was 3 when Y2K rolled through. But from my incessant consumption of media, I just know this song would have aggressively warped the minds of dehydrated, neon polo-clad clubgoers in the best way possible. They would have all had a collective aneurysm and then said thank you to the crown creator, AZSH . The fresh, upbeat track, EW2GO (Everybody Wants To Go Outside) is designed with a single purpose: to instill in you the incredible amount of energy that went into its production. The message is repeated well beyond the point that you will have comprehended it; but the repetition ad nauseam is more than justifiable, as we have all endured the monotonous cage of Covid regulations that have kept us confined to the predictability of life behind closed doors. Layered, warped vocals pull throbbing electronic production together, featuring booming drum loops and synthesizers that bolster the infectious rhythm that will quickly clear your neck of any kinks. The dance-hall energy comes in part thanks to AZSH's collaborator, OIAM (One In A Million). AZSH is a Miami-based artist who often blends her foundations in pop/soul with electronic production to produce some unique and vibrant tracks. These collaborations and remixes saw her tracks added to DJ playlists with serious international reach, bolstering her growing fandom, She has been in the industry since her early recording work in 2007 and continues to record in Miami Beach, where she has resided since 2012. Stay tuned for her upcoming EP featuring production from Grammy-nominated Luis Salazar. Written By George McSherry FOLLOW AZSH:

The understated production of this new Emmrose track, "The Gallows", allows the precision of the core elements to craft an intimacy in the sonic space. The vibe exists at the intriguing intersection of haunting and uplifting, letting you indulge in your paranoia-adjacent sorrows, regrets, and self-doubts all with a cheeky little smile on your face. Ambient footsteps set the scene on Park Avenue, NYC as organ-inspired keyboard chords define the path for Emmrose's emotionally tightened lead vocals, slightly-strained and hazy, reminiscent of some tracks by Oh Wonder. Pulsed acoustic guitar and muted bass bring us into the song's refreshing chorus, enriched with the textures of rich, layered, gospel hums that intertwine like ivy over the track's floral frame for a satisfying, cool blue/grey depth. Though aged just seventeen, Manhattan native Emmrose displays a maturity and finesse in her music that she has honed fastidiously since her journey began almost a decade ago with her defining encounter with a solitary piano at Sunday School. Having started recording music aged fourteen, Emmrose is currently under the management umbrella of Secret Road, releasing a steady stream of infectious indie pop-rock to the delight of her diverse, international fanbase. Written By George McSherry FOLLOW EMMROSE:

"faster" is a post-breakup piece about watching your partner move on from the relationship. Penny sings about how she's noticing how they're bouncing between hookups, making a big show of how they have "moved on" when she knows for a fact that they're just trying to prove something that isn't true. It's clear that they haven't moved on from the relationship, but they're going to such great lengths to make it seem as if they're the one that's better off. Penny decides that she will take her time and move on from the relationship peacefully because it doesn't matter who moves on from the situation faster. This song looks at both perspectives of the breakup and compares the two different paths that people can take to move on from a relationship. The first word that popped up in my head to describe this song was "smooth." The way Penny sings in time with the beat and melody, especially during the chorus, is at a quicker pace but also feels as if it's moving slowly making the sound very time-altering. Her voice is nothing short of soothing and her vocals beautifully express the emotions associated with the topic of this piece. The melody and beat of this song are so clear and clean and give this song a dream-like sound. As for her lyrics, they cut to the chase and make it evident how Penny feels that "it doesn't matter who moves on faster" and that this entire thing is "just a stupid game." Overall this piece is an empowering song about being comfortable with where you are at personally with the breakup even though the other person is going to such extremes to make you jelous. Penny is an independent singer/songwriter who is based in Berlin. She makes international pop music with some Alternative, Rock, and Indie influences. She makes music as a type of therapy and heavily enjoys the creative process of making her pieces. Her sound is similar to artists such as Fletcher, Tate McRae, Lennon Stella, and Olivia Rodrigo. "faster" is her debut single to kick off the stream of songs that she will release in the future. This single is an incredible start to what is sure to be a successful line of pieces from Penny and nothing but the best of luck to her and her future endeavors in the music industry. Written By Melina Darlas FOLLOW PENNY X:

An immediate mood lifter “Never Together” by GT_Ofice, brings together electronic beats to boost your mood. Following the storyline of a couple after a break up, and the realization that they will not be getting back together, this song relays what many would consider to be a sad time in an uplifting way. He has created a song with infectious beats as well as a constantly uplifting vibe for listeners to enjoy. While the lyrics tell a story of an individual realizing that the couple won't unite again, the upbeat melodies counter the sad feelings of the lyrics. Structured with some areas of the song focusing on lyrics, while others on breaks to accentuate the electronic dance melodies of the song. The introduction of the song starts with icy tones reflecting the beginning lyrics, “too hard, too cold, couldn't meet in the middle ''. The breakdown follows a crescendo with a beat that ticks, creating anticipation for what's to come. As the lyrics start to speed up so does the underlying beats of the song, with a peaking moment in the drop of the song. The song ends with a fade out with accentuated piano notes, tying in the various tones within the song. GT_Ofice is a Miami based producer that has quickly risen up through his career within EDM music. In just a few short years since 2019, he has reached over 15 million streams on Spotify, alongside over 3.5 hundred thousand monthly listeners. Although an artist from the United States, he has amassed a large international following, with listeners in Australia, the UK, and Latin America. With the infectious dance music he has produced, it's no surprise that his music has grown worldwide. Written By Gillian Mena FOLLOW GT_Ofice:

"Modern Romance" by NEVE takes the topic of how relationships aren't how they used to be and turns it into a robust pop-rock conversation. NEVE wrote "Modern Romance" after many a discussion with her friends about their thoughts on how love and romance have changed with the times. There's this lack of sentiment that comes with this new age of dating--the normalization of meeting people online, the ease of access to virtual dates/conversation, and everything else that makes the importance of being face-to-face a little less critical. There's a lack of intimacy and sincerity that romance has now--the movie romance trope of spending days wooing a potential lover fading away. When talking about this disconnect with modern romance in "Modern Romance" NEVE sings, "I don't know how to love like this/Intimate but through the phone" talking about how this new age of technology might connect us all but removes the intimacy that romance is supposed to have. We're detached yet together, and NEVE perfectly describes that with her lyrics. The pop-rock track is fun, meshing the meaning with drums, guitar, and an electric feel. The track captivates listeners with her vocals and fiery melody, making "Modern Romance" a song fans can dance and relate to. NEVE is from a small town in the north of Ireland called Holywood, moving to Reading when she started university. The talented singer/songwriter establishes her third single with this release, "Modern Romance". Surprisingly, NEVE started her journey into music by studying musical theatre and going through classical training before finding her way into the pop genre. She's inspired by prominent powerhouse vocalists such as Katy Perry and Lady Gaga--shown within her lyrical prowess and how she's establishing herself as someone to speak out about authentic and hard-hitting topics. Written by Jane Katryn FOLLOW NEVE:

Sometimes, we all need to just get up and dance around to let go of detrimental blues and persistent worries. It's no wonder dancing is constantly listed as a regiment when it comes to self-care routines; it's proven to be effective and lift one's spirit! Son Savage's "Just Keep Dancing" is just that: a regimental summer banger that promotes getting down and busting a move! Not only is this track infectious, but it also highlights positivity through anthemic lyrics. This anthemic track is imbued with infectious 80s elements from sizzling synthesizers to robotic background vocals. In a word, it's almost intergalactic and has the incredible potency to transport the listener into a groove-infused universe. Much of the lyricism focuses on being an intimately groovy space with a special someone. The chorus swells tremendously as Son Savage croons, "Forget the world with me and just keep dancing." It's a summery, shimmering tune that could easily fit on any dance-pop playlist. Lebanese Dubai-based Son Savage spent most of his life working in the corporate world before deciding to set his heart on music after the August 4 Beirut Blast which destroyed his hometown. Since that travesty, he found comfort in music and began pursuing a music career. Much of his music centers on dance-pop and infectious electronica, developing his own eccentric style. His 2021 debut album "Folie À Deux" was his tremendous debut into the music realm, embracing dance-pop elements and discussing themes of love and madness. Written By Fatimah Bouri FOLLOW SON SAVAGE:

There's something addictive about rollercoasters--the ups, the downs, the loops, and the fast pace of it all. We're addicted to the thrill it gives, the feeling in our stomachs that makes us want to seek out more. But sometimes, we find ourselves finding this same feeling in our relationships, the highs and lows describing the toxicity of it all-- the goods feeling so good but having to go through the worst of lows. It feels inescapable like you're stuck for the ride. "Rollercoaster" by Charlotte Sands describes just this, the ways we seek the thrills of a relationship and end up realizing that the lack of constancy might drive us insane. But there's always that lingering thought that since we've gone through so much together that getting off that ride seems impossible. With this alternative pop track, we see the dizzying feeling that comes with a turbulent relationship. "Rollercoaster" is mesmerizing. Charlotte Sands starts the song with this buildup of instruments, the guitar, her voice, and then the drums. It slowly lets us climb up this hill until we find ourselves sitting at the top, waiting for the drop. Sands sings the lyrics, "You change but never tell me when/I don't know who I'm up against" and brings us on this rollercoaster, anticipating the rises and falls associated with this ride. Sands' vocals are powerful, striking this harmony with the melody and setting our feelings on fire with an unmatched intensity that drags us in. The song truly feels like a rollercoaster in the best of ways, our hearts moving with the track and our minds fixated on the meaning. Charlotte Sands is authentic, fiery, and phenomenal. The singer/songwriter has captured hearts and minds with her relatable and vulnerable music. Over this lockdown, she dropped seven singles and amassed a large crowd of fans, passionately inspired and welcomed by her words and talent. Sands is based in Nashville, TN, but starting on September 6th is going to be traveling around the US for her headlining tour, "Love and Other Lies" where she can connect with her fans on a more intimate level, giving them a space to feel free and express themselves with her music and performances. Written by Jane Katryn FOLLOW CHARLOTTE SANDS:

Why does everything look more desirable when we know it’s not good for us? It could have to do with the rush of adrenaline we feel. Maybe we just think that if we hold onto that thing for long enough, we just might turn it into something positive. Whatever the reason, we can all agree that we are often times tempted into danger and risk. In “Follow,” Joakim Lundell and JHN team up on an upbeat dance track about staying in an unhealthy relationship. I enjoyed the structure of the song. In the verses, the lyrics tell the listener how unhappy the two lovers are in their relationship. Once the chorus comes around, they start second guessing themselves. It builds and builds until the words, “take that leap and go, and I will follow down the darkest road ‘cause I need you close.” This line makes all the negative things in the lyrics irrelevant. In other words, the two lovers would rather be in each other’s lives with all the struggles than not at all. As for the music and instrumentation, I like how it builds with the lyrics. In verses, the music is upbeat but calm. On the other hand, the chorus has a brighter dance beat. It is almost as if this beat is illustrating the happiness of not ending the relationship. Joakim Lundell is a Swedish singer that began his musical career in 2017. Since then, his work has acquired over 50 million streams and has been certified Platinum five times in Sweden. Moreover, many of Lundell’s singles have shot up to the top spots of Spotify Sweden’s Top 50 Playlist. The other mastermind behind this song is JHN. His Spotify bio really caught me eye. It says, “I write songs about people and hope they take the hint.” With that being said, I would not be surprised if the events in “Follow” are based on a real-life experience. Written By Kelli Dixon FOLLOW JOAKIM: FOLLOW JHN:

If you had ever felt 'Blue' at 3 AM and need some music to help guide your thoughts "Small Town Blues," by About Gorillas and Vampires would be the perfect choice. A song that highlights the emotions, sorrow, and restriction that one may feel when their life is not going the way they had wished, wanting to just drop everything, seeing themselves "getting out of here." With the song's dark and melancholic tone combined with the wonderful and catchy electric beat and lyrics, "Small Town Blues," truly captures the listeners attention. The song tells a story to the listener, expressing unfulfilled dreams, about leaving everything behind to start all over. About Gorillas and Vampires also emphasizes within their song is the fact that no matter what you dream/wish to do or whatever actions you dare to take, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. "About Gorillas and Vampires," formed on the outskirts of Cologne Germany, in 2010, when two people fell in love not only for each other but also with their musical capabilities. One (he) being a professional audio engineer and musician and the other (she) being always interested in writing and singing, came together to work on different demo tracks thus creating the Indie Synth Pop Duo we know of today as, "About Gorillas and Vampires." They both wear LED masks to preserve their anonymity but be sure to keep up with their journey by following their socials down below! Written By Troy Sica FOLLOW ABOUT GORILLAS AND VAMPIRES: