In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, we bring sonic honesty, holiday cheer, lyrical vulnerability, synth-wave nostalgia and inventive intrigue from artists mia van de loo, Mick J Clark, Diana Omar, Skylark and PERESTRIOKA.
mia van de loo - fairytale
mia van de loo's debut single, "fairytale," is an acoustic exploration of the complexities of love. With lyrics such as “your touch, it gives me butterflies, but are they going to sting?” "your words are like a fairytale, but do they have a happy end?" mia contemplates the contradictions within a person and the uncertainty of love. Her vocals are fragile and honest, gracefully gliding over an ethereal soundscape that is dominated by ukulele melodies and occasionally sprinkled with piano notes that add a minimalistic charm to the track. The song builds to an atmospheric finale with the vocal harmonies and keys, mirroring the weight of the moment when the truth about someone surfaces and the admiration wanes. In crafting a sound that's both indulgent and light, mia van de loo leaves us eagerly anticipating her future releases.
Mick J Clark - It’s Getting Near Christmas
"It's Getting Near Christmas" by Mick J Clark is a festive carol that captures the joy and anticipation of the holiday season. As Christmas approaches, this cheerful track is the perfect musical companion, sending you to a warm and spirited place. With its foot-tapping beat, delightful bell tolls, chimes and lively guitars, the song is a musical celebration of fireside gatherings, choco-chip cookies, cold winter breeze, and Christmas decorations. Mick J Clark's vocals bring a welcome warmth to this song making you feel as fuzzy inside as your favorite sweater. This track is a lovely jingle that was meant to feature on your Christmas playlist.
Diana Omar - mankind
Diana Omar, hailing from Maryland, delivers "mankind" with genuine vulnerability and it hits hard with its alt-pop and bedroom pop vibes. The lo-fi beats, dreamy melodies and gentle guitar loops create an intoxicating mix. You can feel the existential struggles in the lyrics, as she explores personal battles and the journey to finding strength despite the inner turmoil. The hazy vocal tonality adds emotional dimension, making you connect with the angst, gloom and conviction that is embedded in the song’s theme. In the artist's own words, her lyrics are an honest and poetic showcase of her inner monologue, one that resonates with most of us.
Skylark - Good Liar - Radio Edit
Skylark, the Swedish musician and producer, presents "Good Liar - Radio Edit”, a blend of electronica and retro synth-pop, infusing 80s synth-wave sounds with a personal twist. The rich percussion, resonating bass, and flourishing synth hooks give off an inviting yet mysterious feel. There is an irresistible catchiness to the melody. Skylark's exploration of deception, manipulation, and the inescapable hold of a lover adds a dark and melancholic undertone that is evident in the sounds. The track transports listeners to the synth-focused sounds of the past while maintaining Skylark’s fresh and distinctive edge.
PERESTROIKA - Can See The Horizon, Can’t Take In The View
"Can See The Horizon, Can’t Take In The View” by PERESTROIKA, the brainchild of producer Duncan Silvey, is an enigmatic auditory experimentation. The track feels like stumbling upon a rare gem in a musical forest. The sounds in the song are like flowers blooming in the dark, each sonic petal unfolding one by one, leaving you captivated. A lo-fi tempo with unique musical elements, low pitched wail-like sounds, creeping melodies and powerful vocals characterize the track. There is a sense of weariness and melancholy to the singer’s voice which dynamically shifts to a powerful tone in the chorus adding intensity to the sound. The haunting echoes deserve a notable mention as it adds an ethereal layer. PERESTROIKA’s artistic approach is intriguing and leaves you wanting more of the artist’s audio-visual adventure.
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