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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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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In LITM Pop Picks this week, Lapenzi, Kärma Sounds, Joe Lington and others deliver emotionally charged ballads, soulful melodies, and dancefloor hits

In this edition of LITM Pop Picks, we take you on a musical journey from heartfelt love songs to club hits from artists Lapenzi, Johnaé Elease, NEO & NEO, Kärma Sounds, and Joe Lington.

Lapenzi - Pretend

Australian singer-songwriter Lapenzi’s latest release titled “Pretend” is an emotive musical outpour of a dejected lover. The penetrative tonality of the singer’s voice shines bright over soothing piano melodies. It immediately reminds you of the vocal texture and writing style of artists like Miley Cyrus. Lyrically, the track is a hymn for broken hearts; traversing topics of loss, yearning and attachment. The song has a tendency to wring your heart strings, emanating a sense of melancholy and emotional release. Towards the end, the song beautifully culminates into pure and raw singing and solitary piano keys that linger in your mind long after the song’s over. 

Johnaé Elease - Headphones

Singer-songwriter and mental health advocate, Johnaé Elease’s new track titled “Headphones”  provides a musical companion to all those feeling overwhelmed by society, burnt out and experiencing the anxiety of infinite choices. Her heart-felt vocal rendition of the lyrics convey the beauty and power of music to offer a safe haven to anybody feeling anxious. She draws from her own experience of finding immense joy in “never-ending playlists” on an unsettling day. With vibrant peppy guitars, bubbly rhythm and soft harmonies this song feels like the gentle morning sun hitting your skin. If you’re having a not-so-okay day and are in need of a mood-lifter, then this is the song you need.

NEO & NEO - Stone In My Heart (Live At Hardstudios)

Stone In My Heart is NEO & NEO’s new indie release. With emotive chords, grounding beats and grunge vocals that deepen and soften in waves emphasizing the lyrical narrative, this song is meant for those times when you find yourself drawn into the current of introspection. As the song takes shape, sustained piano sounds surround the track driving feelings of melancholy and separation deep into your heart. This track’s musical expression is reminiscent of sounds from Coldplay, Kodaline and others. The lyrics allude to gloomy days that bring an air of contemplation. It addresses the weight of one’s inner chasm and explores concepts of attachment and absence. 

Karmä Sounds - Mysterious

Mysterious is a high-energy club-banger type of a song released by Kärma Sounds, the moniker of Karina Morin, a Vancouver based artist. The electro-pop track is a shot of adrenaline packed with dance beats, funk and synth elements. The singer’s emphatic voice and sonic range clearly exhibits her vocal influences by artists like Erykah Badu, Sade and Chaka Khan. Through the lyrics we hear a story about being curious, impulsive and free in love.   As the song progresses, slinky guitar riffs, squiggly bass notes and electronic pulses merge together, creating a dreamy cosmic soundscape. This song sonically paints a picture of what it might feel like to be transported to a dance-club in another planet, where you have just locked eyes with a potential beau. Because why not, “Life’s too serious” and you want to “Keep it mysterious”.

Joe Lington - You & Me 

With “You & Me” Joe Lington renders a groovy sonic narrative on love. The song’s twangy acoustics, bass notes, passionately husky vocals, and soft rock beats draws listeners in and never loses their attention. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of love and togetherness, while the music's suave melodies and unhurried tempo enhances the song's nostalgic charm. If you enjoy the French language, then you’re in for a treat– a French verse in the second half vocally delivered with raw authenticity. The instrumental arrangement is tastefully understated, allowing the vocals and lyrics to shine. This track is sure to strike a chord with anyone who's ever been in love.

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LITM Pop Picks this week brings you energetic beats, diverse vocal textures and futuristic sounds from artists Yael Lanciano, Duncan Spencer, Balloon Shed and others

This edition of LITM Pop Picks covers a wide range of musical expression ranging from peppy love songs, festive carols, moody tunes to otherworldly soundscapes from artists Yael Lanciano, D’Artagnan, H. Kink, Duncan Spencer and Balloon Shed.

Yael Lanciano - Runnin’ Away

With “Runnin’ Away” singer-songwriter Yael Lanciano takes us back to 2010’s pop music era. Using refreshing melodies and lively rhythm, she makes music that is reminiscent of Carly Rae Jepsen or Selena Gomez. The lyrics describe the singer’s sweet persuasion to her beloved who is in two minds about their connection. Yael’s lyrical prowess ensures that the vocals complement the musical background like hot chocolate to croissant. The song’s electric keys, dance beats and silvery vocals make it stand out. It’s also hard not to mention the praise-worthy production on this track. Send this to your crush and they might just inch a little closer to you.

D’Artagnan - Merry Christmas Darling

Christmas comes early this year with D’Artagnan’s new release titled “Merry Christmas Darling”. This track is a musical manifestation of gratitude, celebration and love. With tender vocals laid gently on jolly tunes and festive chimes, this track makes you want to open that xmas decorations box and get to work. The celebratory sounds of the chorus invokes feelings of love and joy that will spill on to your loved ones…through a phone call in case you’re home alone. This song will instantly transport you to snowy days, warm chocolate drinks and gift wrappers. A compulsory track for your Christmas party this year.

H. Kink - Once In A While

“Once In a While” is the opening track of H.Kink’s latest album “Karate”. A pensive and moody soundscape envelops the entirety of this track, setting the stage for the formidable auditory journey that is to come. Sharp pulsating beats, shifting vocal display, and dark melodies make this powerful pop-rock track one of a kind. H.Kink explores concepts of longing, emptiness and outrage through the lyrics. As the song progresses, it gets more entropic with increasing emotional tension, distorting melodies, dark electric notes and high-intensity vocals. This track aptly conveys the turmoil in a person’s mind caused by the bitter aftermath of bad love.  

Duncan Spencer - Paradise

Duncan Spencer soothes the listener with sentimental sounds and inspiring lyrical display in the likes of Coldplay or One Republic with his latest track “Paradise”. This track’s lulling piano notes, tranquil guitar riffs and relaxing rhythm will ease your aching soul. With empowering lyrics, this song will penetrate the layers of your mind and awaken powerful hope. Duncan’s deep voice gives off a feeling as though the singer is personally reaching out to you, especially during the lines “I know you’ll figure it out…” and “tell me honey, tell me honey, are you feeling alright…” This song is a sonic paradise for the ones feeling lost and in need of emotional strength and redirection.

Balloon Shed - Frank Says

Singer-songwriter Rowan Davies’ bedroom-pop and garage-rock project named “Balloon Shed” methodically blends genres in this new track titled “Frank Says”. There’s a nostalgic alt rock sound about this track with pop elements embedded in the musical crevices. The lyrics weave a futuristic story of a pioneer guiding his people to other worlds in search of life sustaining forces. Frank’s message is made loud and clear in this song- Each of these worlds suffer the same fate; of bloom and ruin. Ultimately, the souls that inhabit these worlds inherit the same fate. With soaring orchestral melodies, classic rock beats and energetic guitar riffs, Balloon Shed conjures up an animate musical backdrop for this prophetic space-age tale.

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