This week’s list features Mizuiraza, Wax Owls, Exnations, Emily Vu, and Ria Marie!
ほとんど、空 (almost empty) by 水いらず (Mizuirazu)
Whether you know the language or not, you’ll love Mizuirazu’s latest single “almost empty”. That’s the beauty of music, really; the ability to feel the emotions of the artist despite barriers. Such as the title of the track, this song personifies the feeling of emptiness. It’s the breakdown at the halfway mark that allows you to feel this emotion, or lack thereof, surrounding the singer. In their words,
“This song expresses my almost empty feelings. I think that the expression ‘almost empty’ is the closest expression to my emptiness.”
Mizuirazu is a Japanese indie rock band who approaches their music from all directions including movies and philosophy to produce a unique sound. Listen to the new track below.
“Light Up The Way” by Wax Owls and Lincoln Mendell
The build-up and subsequent listening of the chorus replicate the feeling of finally reaching the top of a mountain and looking out to a beautiful landscape. Both fill you with awe. This is the 3rd release of the indie-folk band. Their first ever single “Set It Free” is featured in the upcoming film What She Said, the premise inspired by the #MeToo movement.
“Twin Flame” by Exnation
“Twin Flame” is an 80s dream. Comprised of a groovy bassline and synth-laden instrumental, this upbeat track will get you on your feet in an instant.
“In 2020, when the only escape many of us can hope for is through the people we love + distractions all around us, we hope Twin Flame takes you somewhere.”
Composed of Sal Mastrocola, Taylor Hughes, and John O’Niell, the Brooklyn and Jersey City based trio create catchy tunes that are a “fitting metaphor for our modern world. It’s sad, but we’re still dancing.” Stream the full track by clicking here or listen below.
“Your Ex” by Emily Vu
“Your Ex” is Emily Vu’s latest single from her EP “FOUND”. After listening to this song, the chorus was stuck in my head for the rest of the day. It’s an incredibly catchy, guitar-heavy track that allows Emily Vu’s stunning vocals to shine through. Directed by Ian Dooley, the colorful yet simplistic music video is a super fun watch. While the lyrics center a relatable story of a potential partner’s ex ruining the moment, you can’t help but smile when watching the video.
Stream the full EP by clicking here. And read our previous feature on the artist by clicking here.
“90’s Baby” by Ria Marie
I was born in the tail end of the 90s, but this single still makes me nostalgic for that decade. Filled with remnants of the past set to a jazz instrumental, Ria Marie’s sultry voice takes us on a journey through this iconic period of time.
“’90’s Baby’ has a nostalgic feel that takes me back to my childhood. So many incredible shows and artists came out of the 90s and they created a new path for how the music and entertainment industry has evolved.”
To get the full experience, you can listen/watch the live version of “90’s Baby” below or stream the original version on your preferred streaming service.
“Zoom” by $avvy
Tennessee-based artist $avvy has created a new classic with his new track “Zoom”, the first single of his upcoming album “boys wear pearls”. An easy yet tantalizing listen, this less than 2-minute track is a refreshing spin on the hip-hop genre.
The multi-talented artist has dipped his toes into the fashion world modeling for some of Nashville’s well-known streetwear and high-end fashion brands. At just 19 years old, $avvy is already gaining prominence within the art world.
Stream “Zoom” on your preferred platform
Cover image by Mathias P.R. Reding
