The Music Ninja

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[Indie-Electronic] Close To Monday – First Class

Posted by Marcus Daly - January 22, 2024

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.

Indie-Dance/Nu-Disco

[House / Breaks] hypernaut – promise

Posted by Marcus Daly - January 12, 2024

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.

House

[Event] Meduza and James Hype Present: ‘Our House’ Drumsheds 2024

Posted by Marcus Daly - January 10, 2024

On April 27th, 2024, the Drumsheds will witness the culmination of the Spring/Summer season with a show that’s shaping up to be a monumental event in the music world. Meduza and James Hype, two titans of the DJ realm, are set to present “Our House,” a collaborative venture that’s been the talk of the town. Born from a shared vision of innovation and a flair for the dramatic, “Our House” will be an immersive journey into the darker, more electric aspects of their musical personas.

The significance of this event is multi-faceted. Not only is it the biggest “Our House” show in London to date, but it also marks the first time this concept has been brought to the city. This venture comes on the heels of their resounding success at Hi Ibiza during the summer of 2023, where the duo’s chemistry and shared musical vision were on full display. At the Drumsheds, fans can expect a similar electrifying synergy, but with a unique twist tailored to the London audience.

The structure of the event is equally exciting. Both Meduza and James Hype will perform solo sets, allowing each artist to showcase their individual styles. However, the pinnacle of the night will undoubtedly be their back-to-back set – a rare opportunity to see two masters of their craft blend their skills in real-time. Adding to the anticipation, the event will feature a stellar lineup of supporting acts, details of which are eagerly awaited by fans.

Tickets for this groundbreaking show are now available. As the date approaches, the buzz is palpable, with fans and critics alike predicting “Our House” at the Drumsheds to be an unforgettable chapter that simply cannot be missed.

Get Tickets Here.

Event

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

Posted by Marcus Daly - January 8, 2024

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.

House

[Hip-Hop/Rap] GhostThaKid – ICEMANE

Posted by Tyler Trew - December 22, 2023

In the underground rap scene, there’s a new track that’s turning heads – “ICEMANE” by GhostThaKid. This single isn’t just music; it’s a journey into a world where beats and lyrics intertwine to tell a story. GhostThaKid’s approach is raw and real, and it shines through in this latest release.

“ICEMANE” stands out for its deep exploration of emotional desensitization, a theme that many can relate to. It’s about how life’s continuous challenges can numb us. But GhostThaKid doesn’t just tell you about it; he makes you feel it with every beat and word.

The musicality in “ICEMANE” is something special. It blends melancholic, sad-type beats with haunting piano melodies, all set against a backdrop of a deep, trap-style bass. This mix is captivating – it’s like GhostThaKid is painting a picture with sounds. His voice adds to this canvas, gritty and raw, fitting perfectly with the atmospheric beats. It’s a throwback to classic rap styles but with a modern twist that keeps it fresh and exciting.

What’s cool about “ICEMANE” is how it takes you on a narrative journey. It’s more than just catchy hooks; there’s a story in each line, a glimpse into deeper themes and emotions. It’s this storytelling ability that makes the track stand out in the crowded rap scene.

Listening to “ICEMANE” is an experience. It’s not just about the lyrics or the beat; it’s about feeling the music and connecting with the emotions it conveys. GhostThaKid has a way of pulling you into his world, making you part of the story he’s telling. This track is definitely a must-listen for anyone who loves rap that’s not just heard, but felt.

Hip/Hop

[Future Rave] Revaeon – Feels Like

Posted by Tyler Trew - December 19, 2023

The electronic dance music scene is buzzing with anticipation for Revaeon’s newest single, “Feels Like,” set to be released on December 15 by Seal Network label. This release follows his successful tracks “Flashback” and “Fell Into You,” which have already made a mark in the music industry.

Revaeon has done it again with this December 2023 release, blending different styles to create something fresh and exciting. His new track “Feels Like” combines elements of electro house and future rave, promising to be a hit among fans of electronic music. This song is expected to continue his trend of creating stand out electronic dance music with a powerful edge.

“Shine,” Revaeon’s debut track, was released under Peak Hour Music, and his subsequent release, “Breathe,” showcased his evolving sound and complex production skills. His collaboration on “Flashback” has been a significant success, with over 230,000 streams on Spotify. His music has received support from well-known artists like Matoma, Ship Wrek, Morgan Page, and coverage from major dance music outlets like We Rave You, EARMILK, and CULTR.

Revaeon’s live performances are known for their energy and diversity, blending progressive, electro, and bass house music. He has opened for artists like Haliene, Vavo, Gattüso, and Autograf, demonstrating his ability satisfy a wide-array of audience types. With “Feels Like” and more music on the way, Revaeon keeps making his mark on the scene in a positive way.

Electronica

[Dance-Pop] Martial Simon & MarzVille – Break My Stride

Posted by Tyler Trew - December 15, 2023

Martial Simon, a New York-based DJ and producer, has recently collaborated with Soca artist MarzVille, putting a new twist on Matthew Wilder’s classic, “Break My Stride.” This collaboration is a natural step in Martial Simon’s career, which spans over two decades and often includes covers, interpolations, alongside originals and remixes.

A long-standing and popular figure in the dance music scene, he’s having yet another outstanding year in 2023, with millions of streams, showcasing his widespread appeal.

Martial Simon’s journey in the music industry is marked by several successful tracks. His work includes popular songs like “High In July,” “Don’t You Forget About Me,” “Lost,” and “Go Bezerk.” These tracks have collectively garnered over 8 million streams and received airplay on numerous radio stations. His single “Where My Girls At?” achieved the number one spot on the Beatport Dance Electro Pop chart and was featured on BBC Radio 1 Dance Anthems. The man knows the formula for success and isn’t shy about sharing it.

The “Break My Stride” collaboration with MarzVille is an example of Simon’s innovative approach to music. The track is a fusion of electronic music sensabilities and the style of Soca, offering a new take on a well-known song, highlighting both Martial Simon’s and MarzVille’s artistic strengths.

Martial Simon’s career is multi-faceted. From the label, to other business ventures, his personal career, his live events, and beyond. This is a name that carries the weight of professionalism and hard-work along with it. Many could learn from the work-ethic and cleverness that Martial Simon boasts, embodying the analogy of ‘you reap what you sew’ to it’s fullest extent.

Electronic