[Indie-Electronic] Close To Monday – First Class

Close To Monday, a European indie electronic duo, has a knack for crafting music that resonates deeply with the soul. Composed of the talented producer Alexander and the expressive singer/songwriter Ann, they’ve been making waves in the electronic music scene. Their work, which includes chart-toppers on the Deutsche Alternative Charts and accolades from international film festivals, showcases their ability to blend deep emotional narratives with captivating soundscapes.

Entering 2024, Close To Monday releases “First Class,” a track that marks a delightful shift in their musical style. It’s a piece that stands out, not just for its inclusion in Uproxx’s ‘Favorite Hotel Stays In 2023’, but for its distinct departure from the energetic design of their previous songs. “First Class” slows things down, inviting listeners on a more introspective journey. The track is a fascinating exploration of ambition and the pitfalls of luxury, wrapped up in a metaphor about a man’s transformation into a monster amid the lavishness of first-class travel.

The accompanying music video for “First Class” is a minimalist work of art. Filmed in an art space by their dedicated team, it shows the duo’s commitment to their artistic vision. The video emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow, sound and silence, drawing viewers into the emotional core of the song. It’s a visual narrative that complements the song’s thematic exploration, ensuring the focus remains on the melody and the core essence of the sound.

“First Class” shows off Close To Monday’s musical evolution. It’s a track that displays their ability to weave complex narratives into their music, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond just listening. The song’s slower tempo and introspective feel offer a fresh perspective, highlighting the duo’s versatility and depth.

In essence, “First Class” is a vivid illustration of Close To Monday’s musical capabilities and creativity. It’s about storytelling, emotional exploration, and the connection between artist and audience. With this latest release, Close To Monday invites listeners to dive deeper into their world, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human emotions that they so skillfully depict in their music.

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[House / Breaks] hypernaut – promise

When you tune into “promise” by hypernaut, you’re entering a world full of creativity and boundless imagination. Behind this fresh hit is David Stefanowicz, a guy who’s journeyed from indie rock and pop punk to the electornic music. But let’s focus on the track itself – “promise” is where Stefanowicz’s diverse background really comes to life.

“Promise” is like a sonic cocktail, blending the energetic vibes of Bass House, the sleekness of Tech House, and the rhythmic pulse of UK Garage. It’s set to a lively 135BPM, a tempo that gets your body dancing instantly. This track shows off Stefanowicz’s skill in fusing different genres into something that feels both familiar and entirely new.

The inspiration for this track can be traced back to Stefanowicz’s encounter with the UK music scene, specifically Sammy Virji’s DJ Mag set in 2023. You can hear the influence – there’s a distinct UK flavor in the mix that adds an extra layer of depth to the track. Produced in Ableton, “promise” has this organic feel to it, like it’s been crafted with care and a keen ear for what makes people tick.

While it’s cool to note that “promise” landed Stefanowicz a spot at the EDC Orlando Discovery Project, and some well-deserved recognition from Dillion Francis and the Insomniac team, the real star here is the track itself. “Promise” is a statement of innovation and a glimpse into the future of what Stefanowicz, as hypernaut, has in store for us.

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[House] Close To Monday – Religion (DJ Slevin Remix)

The indie electronic scene has always been a melting pot of innovation and artistic expression, and Close To Monday stands as a beautiful example of just this. Their recent collaboration with DJ Slevin on a remix of their single “Religion” exemplifies this spirit of exploration and creativity.

DJ Slevin’s creates a bold reimagining that pushes the boundaries of electronic music. He melds the pulsating energy of Close To Monday’s original sound with his own unique style, putting something together that’s a great blend of his own sound while maintain the core of the integrity of the original. The fusion of synthesizers and robust bass lines in this remix creates a solid emotional journey. Listeners are invited to dive into a world where freedom and choice are not just concepts, but palpable experiences.

The track unravels like a revelation, urging hearts to sync with its frenetic rhythm. This remix is a confluence of diverse electronic elements, each contributing to a distinctive atmosphere.

Close To Monday, an European Electronic Rock band, has been a notable name in the indie scene. With albums like Interference and Secret Wishes clinching top spots in the Deutsche Alternative Charts, they’ve proved their mettle. Their music videos, such as “Guns” and “Split,” have been lauded at international film festivals, further cementing their reputation.

Their collaborations with icons of the electronic music world — AKA AKA, Biicla, Dirty Doering, Mollono.Bass, Ron Flatter — dot their story with great milestone and prove their longevity and talent.

The essence of Close to Monday’s music is encapsulated in their philosophy – it’s a guide for those on a journey, either within themselves or through the world around them. Each track is a ‘photo of feelings’, capturing moments and emotions that resonate universally. The band’s name itself is symbolic, evoking the fleeting serenity of the last moments of weekend bliss, just before the reality of Monday dawns.

Close to Monday goes above and beyond the call of duty. It takes listeners across borders, through a spectrum of emotions, offering a sanctuary where serenity and reality coalesce.

 

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[House] MATRODA – The Funk You Want

2023 has been another banner year for MATRODA, a name that’s become synonymous with energy and innovation in the electronic music scene. His calendar was packed with performances at major festivals like Lollapalooza, Veld Fest, Tomorrowland, EDC Las Vegas, and Splash House. In addition to his hectic touring schedule, MATRODA also runs his own label, Terminal Underground, and continues to release new music.

His latest offering, “The Funk You Want,” released on December 15th, is a collaboration with up-and-coming artist POLOVICH. This track is a blend of MATRODA’s unique style, combining funky vocals, a bass-heavy melody, and tech-house rhythms, showcasing his ability to create fresh and engaging music.

MATRODA’s impact on the electronic music world is significant. He was named the Top 19 producer in the world in 2022 by 1001tracklists.com and has achieved over 100 million streams across various digital platforms. His journey over the past decade is marked by numerous successes and a growing global fanbase.

Originally from Croatia, MATRODA’s music is influenced by a variety of genres and artists, including Led Zeppelin, Frank Sinatra, and The Beatles. His classical training in violin, drums, and keyboard adds depth to his electronic compositions, making his sound distinctive and globally appealing.

Some key moments in MATRODA’s career include remixing SNBRN’s ‘California’ with Chris Lake, which received acclaim from top DJs like Diplo and Calvin Harris. His album ‘THE RED TAPE’ and collaborations like ‘Lose Control’ with Wax Motif have further established his reputation in the industry.

As 2023 draws to a close, MATRODA continues to tour North America and is gearing up for the first Terminal Underground showcase in Los Angeles. His dedication and innovative approach to music make him a standout figure in the digital music era, with a ever-growing presence within the EDM scene.

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[Tech House] Bleu Clair – Boom Boom

Bleu Clair, a renowned tech-house maestro beloved around the world, caps off a bustling year filled with international tours and notable stage appearances with his latest single, “Boom Boom.” After a year of performing at major events like Parookaville Festival and Tomorrowland in 2023, Bleu Clair is setting the stage for even grander plans in 2024.

“Boom Boom,” set for release on Terminal Underground, Matroda’s label, represents a bold step in Bleu Clair’s artistic journey. This track melds his signature tech-house style with a unique Latin twist, a fresh direction for the artist. The single adds a new dimension to his repertoire, featuring Spanish-vocal samples and vibrant basslines, paying tribute to the diverse origins of house music.

With over 70 million streams to his name, Bleu Clair has become a staple in the electronic music scene. His collaborations with artists like Kyle Watson, Matroda, and Martin Garrix (under the Ytram moniker) have significantly shaped his sound and reputation. His presence at festivals like EDC Las Vegas and Ubbi Dubbi, coupled with his music being featured in the FIFA 23 Official Soundtrack, underscores his wide-reaching influence.

Bleu Clair’s career highlights, including “Make You Mine” as Ytram and “Green Light” with AC Slater, showcase his rapid rise in the music world. His latest release, “Boom Boom,” is a stark example of his continuous effort to innovate and explore new soundscapes within tech house. This approach not only cements his status as a leading figure in the house genre but also as a prominent name in the global EDM culture.

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[Bass House] Jimmy Pe – Blip Blop [Music Video]

In Blip Blop, Jimmy Pé’s latest EP, there’s a refreshing vibe that goes beyond the usual electronic music fare. It’s a mix of tech house, bass house, and mid-tempo, but all with a twist that’s all Jimmy. This EP feels laid-back, yet also a sophisticated step in a new direction, taking in different styles and pushing out something that is uniquely his.

On top of this, fans have something special to look forward to with the upcoming music video for the title track, “Blip Blop.” Knowing Jimmy’s flair for creating visually engaging content, this video is expected to be as dynamic and inventive as the track itself.

Kicking off this adventure is, “Big PaPa,” a bit of a departure from the norm. Jimmy Pé adds a personal touch by using his own voice, weaving in elements of his Slovak roots into this one. It’s a neat blend of genres that smash the realms of bass house and mid-tempo together.

As one gets deeper into this experience, the song in the EP brings its own flavor. The title track “Blip Blop” hits you with an energy that’s perfect for the club scene. “Electric” takes a dive into the deeper, more nuanced side of tech house, creating an atmosphere that’s a bit mysterious and totally chilling. And then there’s “Hot For You,” a showcase of Jimmy’s skill in bass house, wrapping up the EP with a sound that’s both powerful and polished.

This EP, Blip Blop, is a collection of tracks that brings you through various twists and turns within the brackets of electronic music, all given a unique spin by Jimmy Pé.

Check out the EP and video below.

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[House] Martial Simon – Turn Down The Lights

2023 has been an extraordinary year for Martial Simon, unlike DJ/producers who are more like a flash in the pan, Simon has carved out a niche for himself as someone who sticks around, having developed a model which fulfills a need within the greater dance scene. This year has seen him add a slew of strong achievements to his already impressive career.

Simon’s, “Turn Down The Lights,” an extension of his larger story. It’s a track that showcases his flair for blending catchy pop vocal melodies and classic electro-pop together in a refreshing manner – a nod to his roots and a glance towards what’s next, striking a balance between the familiar and the future.

Having razzed more than 1.5 million streams just this year, via tunes like “Have A Good Time” and “Go Bezerk,” the one-man show has immortalized one part of a soundtrack to many lives.

Enjoying the fruits of his labor he’s compounded through grinding for years, cultivating his craft, and staying true to his vision, he seems to show no signs of slowing down as 2023 begins to come to a close.

Martial Simon’s has many highlights of the career worth sharing, including gaining a boost via playout on BBC Radio 1 Dance Anthems as well as ascending to the top of the Beatport Dance Electro Pop chart through his music. Stand out singles like “High In July” and “Lost” have not only amassed millions of streams but also secured him airplay on over 200 radio stations. From launching his own label, GET SET Records, to his early days as a New York City DJ, Simon has grown year after year, both behind the decks and in the studio, marking an extraordinary narrative that’s stranger, and more exciting, than fiction.

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