LITM Pop Picks this week brings vibrant hues of pop sounds from artists like SWiiMS, Cian O’Donoghue, QRIAN and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, each track is a pop universe of its own and we invite you to wander through galaxies of genre, to ultimately lose yourself in an array of sonic textures, tones and colors. Embark on a sonic odyssey featuring artists SWiiMS, The Pulltops, Jonny Westwood, Cian O’Donoghue, Ivon Roberts and QRIAN.

SWiiMS - In Puzzles

"In Puzzles" by the Canadian trio SWiiMS, is the opening track to their latest album "Into The Blue Night”. It is an artful mosaic of indie rock, shoegaze and dream pop elements. The track envelops listeners in nostalgic sounds, characterized by curling guitar riffs, energetic drums, and subtle bass notes. The reverberating vocals, reminiscent of a cold and crisp morning breeze, add a dreamy vibe to the song. Despite its relatively fast tempo, the song maintains balance through well-placed pauses, allowing the hazy and chill vocals to take over the mood. Beyond its music, "In Puzzles" thematically explores the complexities of finding one's place in a new relationship, delving into the nuanced dynamics of love. A perfect soundtrack for lively and laid-back moments, it captures the essence of slow days and introspection.

The Pulltops - Make Me Smile

Milwaukee-based duo, The Pulltops bring an enchanting new track titled "Make me Smile," with powerful pop and indie-rock sounds. The song unfolds with tranquil acoustic guitar melodies and lulling vocals, a potent mixture that churns out warm and joyous sounds. The fusion of soulful singing, orchestral piano, and vibrant guitar tones, complemented by an infectious rhythm, elevates the listener's spirit to a place of love and light. As the song nears its conclusion, soaring harmonies transition to a solitary voice before culminating in an intense chorus—a metaphorical ray of light guiding you through a dark tunnel to the world's brightness. "Make me Smile" is a sonic journey that guarantees not just smiles but perhaps even happy tears.

Jonny Westwood - Together Forever

Australian artist Jonny Westwood unveils his emotional prowess in "Together Forever," a song that blends dark and heavy piano melodies with light and flickering keyboard notes; like faint stars in the midnight sky. Infused with somber synth sounds and diverse percussive elements, including steady-paced drums and intently placed pauses, Westwood showcases his modern production flair. The singer's impressive vocal delivery resonates with sincerity and emotion, authentically presenting the highs and lows of new love, revealing its thrilling gravity and negative undertones. "Together Forever" showcases Westwood's skill, both as a composer and producer, expertly bringing together the sonic elements to create a hauntingly beautiful narrative of love's intricacies.

Cian O’Donoghue, Ivon Roberts - Better Guy

Cian O’Donoghue and Ivon Roberts deliver a sensational synth-pop number in “Better Guy”. With an array of pop, RnB and funk elements undergoing nuclear fusion, this song is lustrous with energy and emotions. Blooming synth melodies, swift percussions, and designful acoustic sounds spread across the musical background without enveloping the vocals, allowing the singers’ voices to glow bright. Cian and Ivon masterfully battle out their singing prowess in complex terrains, from baritone trenches to tenor cliffs. Influences from pop giants like Ariana Grande is evident in the singers’ dramatic and passionate delivery of the lyrics. Much like the lyrical message, where two guys are one-upping each other trying to impress the same woman, the two singers have outperformed each other in this track, probably to their amusement, leaving the listener absolutely engrossed and delightfully stunned.

QRIAN - BOSS

QRIAN's "BOSS" is a tastefully blended cocktail of electronic pop, synth-pop, and K-pop sounds that is as intoxicating as it is groovy. Grounding synth bass beats accompanied by a medley of synth percussive sounds create an enticing sonic web, trapping you willingly. The synth melodies, distorting and warbling like voices under water, takes you through a sonic wormhole. The track’s soundscape is a nod to slow trance, flashing neon lights, and club vibes. The infectious hook, "I just don't know what they mean, I just don't know what they mean, say," becomes the siren call to abandon reality and get lost in this futuristic auditory haven.

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This week's LITM Pop Picks shows off pop music as a powerful vehicle for emotional expression featuring artists like Grant Brown, DEWAR, Christian Dolan and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, embark on diverse musical journeys through love, liberation, self-discovery and more with artists Grant Brown, DEWAR, Alexa Villa, Taylor Ravenna and Christian Dolan.

Grant Brown - Low

"Low" by Grant Brown is a refreshing love ballad that delicately navigates the allure of new romance. The music unfolds with a graceful dance of moving melodies, guided by a slow-rising rhythm that builds into a euphoric swell of ambient tunes. The song grows in intensity until the very end, where the listener is met with a gently grounding acoustic guitar section, ending on a refreshing note. Grant Brown's vocals, rich and resonant akin to Sam Smith, passionately convey lyrics exploring the immersive experience of love. The song delves into the intense desire to savor every moment with a beloved, all while maintaining a discreet romance away from prying eyes. "Low" emerges as a captivating and beautifully nuanced ode to new love.

DEWAR - Influence

“Influence” by Scottish musician DEWAR is a powerful rock-pop fusion track, characterized by looping guitar riffs, bold bass rhythms, and surging melodies. The singer's powerful vocals, delivered with genuine passion, elevate the music, particularly in the soaring vocal melodies that encapsulates the angst and state of being overwhelmed by the strong hold of a lover. Exploring the profound force of attraction, the track delves into the vulnerability of succumbing to immense influence. It's a weighty, validating anthem resonating with those suffering such a fate. However, amidst the intensity, there's a subtle undercurrent—a desire for liberation from the captivating hold, a plea to break free from an influence that lacks legitimacy. “Influence” is a musically rich exploration of love's captivating yet tumultuous dynamics.

Alexa Villa - MySpace

"MySpace" by Alexa Villa is a nostalgic nod to the punk-pop sounds of the 2000s, with a fresh, contemporary touch, evoking memories of Avril Lavigne and channeling Olivia Rodrigo's spirit. Villa's arrangement skillfully incorporates wobbly piano melodies, vibrant guitar riffs, acoustic tones, robust basslines, and driving drums. Her vocals, at times textured and distorted, infuse vitality into the track. Beyond its musical gravity, the song explores themes of self-acceptance, urging listeners to embrace their journey and love every facet of themselves. In a world grappling with imposter syndrome and self-esteem issues, "MySpace" becomes a powerful anthem, proudly chanting a self-love slogan that goes like this– “trying to love this place, my body, my mind, my space”.

Taylor Ravenna - Taking My Luv

"Taking My Luv" by Taylor Ravenna immerses listeners in a dark and foreboding soundscape. With evident EDM influences in the texture and tonality of the musical ambience, this song transports the listener to a deeply emotional world that the artist has constructed. The track’s melancholic yet reassuring chorus stands out, while looping vocal melodies and heavily distorted tones intensify the emotional tension as the song progresses. Ravenna takes the audience by the hand, guiding them through a somber narrative of gaining strength through adversity. The lyrics portray a fearless individual unafraid of dark places, navigating challenges with an open heart. Ravenna artfully captures the emotional turbulence of navigating tumultuous relationships.

Christian Dolan - A Memory and Your Versace

"A Memory and Your Versace" by Boston-based musician Christian Dolan featuring Cole Blundin is a pop phenomena, pulsating with the energy, reminiscent of music from Troye Sivan and Harry Styles. The track boasts ethereal distorted melodies, pulsing drums, and noodly electronic sounds, creating a sonic experience that mirrors the feelings of euphoria that infect your being, after a tantalizing romance. The singer’s hazy voice adds glittery pops of emotion to the song, morphing into a bright swaying aurora as the vocal harmonies emerge. Lyrically, the song narrates the story of an intense, joyous chance encounter that is not bound to last long, just like meteors, which lights up the sky briefly, leaving only invisible dust. Despite the fleeting nature, the memory lingers, capturing the beauty of something transient, much like the song itself—a vivid portrayal of the ephemeral nature of love.

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LITM Pop Picks this week showcases musical gems from chill-pop, electro-pop and retro genres featuring artists like La Biche, Enitu, Darling Darling and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks we bring dreamy vocals, genius recreation of classics, timeless pop anthem, retro escapades and indie brilliance from artists La Biche, Enitu and Yul, Livi Jacobs, Darling Darling and Jesse Judies.

La Biche - Éther

French musician La Biche's "Éther" is a musical revelation, re-inventing dreamy chill-pop sounds. Through spoken word, poetic interludes, and ethereal melodies, La Biche's nonchalant vocals mimic ocean tides, rising and falling with masterful control, adding an intricate dynamism to the composition. The song's allure lies in its elusive sonic layers—featuring nether-worldly melodies, velvety piano interludes, resounding bass beats, and avant-garde sonic experimentations—that gracefully emerge and vanish, constructing a mythical staircase for listeners to ascend. Each layer invites exploration, giving the track an enigmatic quality. This track, emblematic of her unique discography, reshapes the contours of contemporary musical expression while providing the listener with an immersive experience.

Enitu and Yul- Si Maman Si

Enitu and Yul's electro-pop rendition of "Si maman si" is a stroke of genius, achieving the kind of musical quality that is rarely found. Navigating the delicate terrain of interpreting classics, the artists strike a perfect balance, infusing the track with their personal touch while preserving the essence of the original song. Gentle singing, muted bass rhythms, reverberating electronic chimes and the overall soothing ambience of the track, pack this song with a variety of flavor. The song also treats the listener to gooey saxophone tunes, soft whistling, and smooth guitar notes that are blended into the rhythm. This recreation is a testament to their artistry, achieving a perfect harmony between innovation and homage. The result is an electro-pop gem that adds a refreshing touch to a timeless French classic, exhibiting skillful musical fusion.

Livi Jacobs - Better That Way

Livi Jacobs' latest single, "Better That Way," marks her fifth release, channeling timeless pop vibes reminiscent of Taylor Swift. Exploring the aftermath of a closure-lacking separation, the lyrics navigate through angst, liberation, and bliss. Jacobs suggests that sometimes, circumstances, though challenging, lead to positive outcomes. The song features an infectious melody seamlessly looping in the background, accompanied by Jacobs' compelling vocals riding on a current of bass-heavy rhythms and warm ambience. With its varied textures and tempos, "Better That Way" maintains an engrossing quality. A definite addition to any heartbreak anthem playlist, the track offers a fresh perspective on the twists and turns in romance.

Darling Darling - Conversation Pit

Darling Darling returns with "Conversation Pit," a vibrant musical escapade that exudes warmth and color reminiscent of 70's retro aesthetics. This prismatic track fuses grandiose baroque pop sounds with nostalgic psychedelic melodies, creating an atmosphere of wonder. The song's vibey bass notes, catchy guitar hooks, swingy rhythm, and grounding vocals create an enticing and boundless musical realm. Echoing vocal melodies add a tasteful spatial dimension to the soundscape. "Conversation Pit" is more than just a musical journey; it delves into the joy and freedom of expressing oneself without inhibitions, celebrating radical self-acceptance and the embrace of love. This celebration extends to sharing the elation with close friends, making the track a tribute to uninhibited self-expression and the bonds of genuine connection. 

Jesse Judies - I’ve Been There Before

Jesse Judies, under the moniker Nick Bray, unveils his latest musical offering “I've Been There Before,” featuring Sasha March and Matthew Power. This Sydney-based indie artist's release showcases a masterful blend of silky guitar tunes, marbled bass notes, glossy distortions, and ethereal vocal harmonies. Judies' layered hazy vocals delicately sit atop a super lively rhythm composed of jazzy drumming adorned with fast-paced tempo, snappy grooves and suave solos. The track's theme delves into the courage to depart from the familiar, embracing the uncharted. Through this release, Nick Bray solidifies his standing as a noteworthy artist pushing the boundaries of indie music.

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LITM Pop Picks this week explores indulgent sounds and sensations across pop, dark-pop and electro-pop genres featuring artists Sacha Mullin, Haunts, Ro Nova and others

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, we dive into the musical nuances, signature sounds and lyrical depth of artists Liam J. Edwards, Sacha Mullin, Lucy Crisp, Haunts and Ro Nova. Explore the compelling narratives presented through their tracks, fusing elements of pop, jazz, dark-pop, and electro-pop.

Liam J. Edwards - Progress

Welsh singer-songwriter Liam J. Edwards delivers a powerful message in his latest track ‘Progress’.  True to its title, the track serves as an anthem of empowerment, celebrating personal growth, self-belief, and the pursuit of one's dreams. The song kicks off with a synth-heavy introduction, setting the stage for Liam's deep and powerful vocals to shine. As the track unfolds, the pace accelerates, featuring lush harmonies, and a catchy chorus. Lively rhythms and electro-synth elements infuse the pop track with youthful energy and vibrancy. Liam's voice bears resemblances to the likes of Sam Smith and Dan Reynolds, adding a soulful touch to the song. It's the perfect soundtrack for a rejuvenating Sunday of self-care, reminding us to overcome self-doubt and reach for greater heights in life.

Sacha Mullin - Arranging Flowers [Radio Edit]

Sacha Mullin, a Chicago-based singer-songwriter, known for his emotive singing, has delivered a musical opus, in his latest offering, ‘Arranging Flowers [Radio Edit]’.  Mullin's artistry reaches its zenith as he seamlessly merges genres in this track with absolute finesse. This song is woven with swift jazzy instrumentals, ethereal harmonies, and silk-like intricate vocal melodies that could only be stitched together by a seasoned musician. Picture the track’s progression this way— the descent of an avalanche. It commences as a mild snowslide on a towering peak; softly pulsating rhythm and the solitary yet stellar vocals of Mullin build up the tension in the track. As it accelerates, the song develops layers in instrumentation and grows in intensity, mirroring the unstoppable force and splendor of a cascading avalanche. The supporting choir, equal in sophistication as the lead vocals, elevates the song to a sensory masterpiece. Arranging Flowers [Radio Edit] engulfs the listener entirely like…you guessed it right… an avalanche. 

Lucy Crisp - One Summer’s Day

‘One Summer's Day’ by Lucy Crisp, a pop artist hailing from Nottingham, takes us on a journey through the warm, sun-soaked landscape of summer love. Crisp's songwriting and musical tonality are reminiscent of chart-topping pop sensations like Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, and Camila Cabello. Lyrically, the song delves into the magic of finding your lover during radiant summer days. It offers a refreshing perspective on new-found love, replete with promises and oozing with thrill, alongside the enduring enthusiasm it infuses into life as months slip by. The dreamy ambiance, buoyant rhythms, passionate vocals, and meticulously arranged harmonies, evoke the sense of an impulsive summer love. ‘One Summer's Day’ gets personal and real, making it a must-listen for anyone yearning for the allure of a summer affair. 

Haunts - Monster

‘Monster’ by Haunts is a dark-pop track that immerses listeners in a netherworldly sonic ambience. The song has a characteristic bass-heavy drum and synth background which reverberates deep in your heart, creating a haunting rhythm. It is perfectly contrasted by the glass-like voice of the singer, that thins and thickens as the lyrical and musical mould demands. The melodies possess a formidable yet tender quality, heightened by the chiming electronic tunes that flutter in and out of existence like elusive quantum particles. "Monster" delves into the limits of love and acceptance, questioning the extent one would go to preserve love and embrace the idiosyncrasies of their partner, especially the dark side of their psyche. It's a deep, free dive into the haunting depths of the ocean of love.

Ro Nova - Echo 

London-based producer Ro Nova, making waves with her unique discography, has a luminescent new offering titled ‘Echo’. With vocal texture and tonality reminiscent of artists like FKA Twigs, Alina Baraz, and Billie Eilish, Ro Nova’s track is an immediate mood boost, radiating empowerment and vivacity. The lyrics delve into themes of self-reliance, belief, and trust in one's abilities. Throughout the track, you'll find delicate piano chimes scattered like glitter, accompanied by a celestial synth ambiance, all set to the backdrop of steady-paced muted bass beats. This combination creates an auditory spectacle that is highly addictive. ‘Echo’ seamlessly combines synth-club influences with electro-pop aesthetics, immersing you in a world of disco lights, dancefloors, and unrestrained self-expression.

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In LITM Pop Picks this week, experience electrifying tracks with pop-rock vibes, indie emotions and mystical sounds from artists Live In Color, Chords of Indigo, Feyleryn and others

Prepare to embark on a musical adventure in this week’s LITM Pop Picks, as we dive into the eclectic soundscape of captivating tracks, ranging from pop-rock to electro, and indie pop from artists Live In Color, Stephen Lind, Chords of Indigo, Ninali and Feyleryn.

Live In Color - Letter to My Future Lover

Letter to My Future Lover is the latest release from pop-rock band, Live In Color, hailing from Sweden. After garnering international attention and airplay on BBC1 Extra, with their track “A Better Me”,  Live In Color are back with another vibrant track. This track delivers the best of both worlds, combining the lively elements of pop and intensity of rock music. The engaging rhythm holds your spirit high throughout the track and is complemented by the energetic beats, catchy verses, dreamy reverbs and indulgent synth sounds. The tonality of the music takes your mind to the sounds of Gorillaz, Fall Out Boy and the like. Lyrically, the song explores the feeling of waiting for the one and the wonder of love. This song makes you feel like sonic fireworks going off showcasing vibrant melodies and sparkly riffs. 

Stephen Lind - Nosebleeds

This electro-pop track titled “Nosebleeds”, from gay pop artist Stephen Lind, bursts with serious techno energy and is sure to make you rave. The song is about experiencing a fall out with a toxic friend and the feeling of empowerment from being liberated from their conniving presence in your life. The song roars with emphatic bass rhythms, reverberating synth horns and fast-paced techno beats. The song comes to a slowing halt to indulge the listener in a heartfelt vocal and piano section conveying the grief and fatigue of being repeatedly let down. However, the chorus instantly picks up the pace reflecting the lightness of losing bad friendships in life. 

Chords of Indigo - I Will Let It (Go)

I Will Let It (Go) is the latest release from Chords of Indigo, Manchester based singer-songwriter. This track is the artist’s latest indie pop addition to his impressive discography. The artist employs an intricate interplay between acoustic guitar and bass, coupled with well-crafted rhythmic sequences, immersing the listener in a bounteous sonic experience. The track delves into the introspection and turmoil caused by a chance encounter with romance, using poignant lyricism. The singer’s raw and textured vocals add depth to the acoustic soundscape. The music is rich and sentimental much like the sounds of artists like Ed Sheeran or James Bay.

Ninali - Daylight

Daylight by Ninali, a musician based in Spain, is a modern pop gem that effortlessly fuses indie, synth, and more. This track is a joyful, uplifting experience, driven by vibey harmonies and a cheerful rhythm that creates a sunny ambience. The song's true highlight is its sonically decadent chorus, which bursts with energy and positivity. Throughout the composition, synth elements bloom from time to time, adding vibrancy to the overall sound. Ninali's emotive vocals authentically deliver the message of hope and assurance penned in the lyrics. The track creates a genuinely uplifting and inspiring atmosphere. "Daylight" is a radiant musical journey that showcases Ninali's musical prowess.

Feyleryn - The Cathedral 

Feyleryn, Barcelona-based producer presents “The Cathedral”, a mesmerizing electronic pop track that features singer Lars Are Nedland. From the onset, the song envelops the listener in a dark, mysterious musical atmosphere. Ethereal vocal harmonies set a mystical tone, eventually converging to create a haunting yet inviting aura. As the track progresses, it picks up a pulsing rhythm, blending intricate synth elements and unique electronic sounds. Strong bass tunes and driving drums intensify the experience, all while layered voices and mushrooming chimes add depth to the composition. "The Cathedral" is an auditory voyage, its soothing riffs drawing you into a sonic realm that's as enigmatic as it is compelling.

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