COVER IMAGE: METTE BY PASCALE ARNAUD

SKREAM X TRIM “FUNKY SAILOR”

Recognized as one of the most beloved selectors in the UK, Skream has maintained an extraordinary level of consistency throughout his career. By the time he was fifteen, he was already creating music, and he played a pivotal role in the emergence of dubstep as one of its key innovators, quickly achieving cult status thanks to his iconic self-titled debut album and the legendary track « Midnight Request Line ». He has harnessed his own platform to share a diverse array of techno tracks, exploring a wide spectrum of textures that range from the raw and rugged to the deeply emotive. His latest feat, “Funky Sailor” featuring Trim is a nostalgic look back to early British funky and grime, featuring riff beats that will take any early 2000’s teenager back to a smoked out garage circa 2008 (bottle of Frosty Jack’s in hand optional, not obligatory). Featuring an equally nostalgic and quintessentially British music video to boot it’s an instant club banger written for remixing. 

LORD APEX ft FREDDIE GIBBS “PHOENIX”

Lord Apex’s latest release, « Phoenix, » signals a fresh chapter in the swift ascent of the London-based talent. The track, produced by Argov, features an upbeat yet mellowness that provides a soulful backdrop for AP’s signature flow. Notably, he shares the mic with one of America’s most sought-after rappers, Freddie Gibbs, adding a steamy edginess to the mix. Apex oversees every facet of his artistic output, from selecting his producers to crafting his vocals and shaping the art direction. Since his breakthrough projects « Bamboo Forest » and « Interplanetary Funk, » Apex has blazed a charismatic and vibrant path. He’s had the privilege of sharing the stage with some of America’s rap heavyweights, including tours alongside Freddie Gibbs and Action Bronson last year. He stands as one of the most sought-after rising rap talents, collaborating with brands like Supreme, Carhartt, and New Balance. His presence extends to a cameo in the year’s most significant shoe collaboration, the Nike Air Max 95 X Corteiz drop.

SAMES “PHONESEX”

Berlin-based experimental electronic artist Sames dropped his highly anticipated EP, « Phonesex, » on September 29th. The EP is a fusion of emotionally charged, dance-ready electronic tracks, featuring Sames’ distinctive and distorted vocals that create an intimate atmosphere. Starting with « All I Know, » a hypnotic groove with intricate percussion and inventive synth pads, « Why You Trippin' » follows, offering a smooth and mellow house vibe with stream-of-consciousness vocals and delicate keys. The title track, « Phonesex, » takes the spotlight as an upbeat, reverb-soaked instrumental with Sames’ sensually rhythmic vocal hook. Accompanying the EP is an atmospheric music video bathed in neon lighting, depicting a chaotic nighttime scene. The EP concludes with « Control » and its « Afterhours Mix, » leaving a lasting impression with their cat-and-mouse lyrics and minimalist grooves. The seductive lead vocal line, « I’m the one that never wanna let you go / you the one that always wanna keep control / I’m the one that always wanna take you home, » is irresistibly catchy. Sames is redefining contemporary electronic music with his Berlin-inspired soundscapes and original vocals. With performances across Europe and support from prominent artists, he’s a rising star in the electronic music scene. « Phonesex » introduces Sames’ enigmatic electronic soundscape, establishing him as a significant new talent in the music world.

LEWIS OFMAN “FRISCO BLUES”

The young French pop prodigy Lewis OfMan is back with his latest single “Frisco Blues”, (the second drop from his highly anticipated album) and a European tour announcement. This latest track is an unexpected blend of an acoustic guitar sample with a sample of a children’s choir, discovered by accident at a record store bazar during a trip to New York. Accompanied by a short documentary realized in spring of this year during his American tour “Frisco Blues” sets the scene for chapter two of Lewis OfMan.

METTE “FOR THE PEOPLE”

Mette, the multi-hyphenate British-born artist, has just unveiled her highly anticipated debut EP ‘METTENARRATIVE’ under Since ’93/RCA Records. Accompanying this release is her infectious new single ‘For The People.’ This seven-track project brilliantly showcases Mette’s unfiltered vocal prowess, her trademark catchy hooks, introspective songwriting, and her multifaceted artistic expression that delves into themes of softness, power, honesty, nobility, and vulnerability. The EP solidifies her standing as one of the most captivating artists around right now with a promising trajectory extending into 2024. The electrifying EP features previously successful singles like ‘MAMA’S EYES,’ which reached #1 on the UK Club Chart and garnered over 5 million streams, along with ‘VAN GOGH.’ The EP also boasts an introductory track, ‘METTE INTRO,’ and introduces four fresh compositions: ‘FOR THE PEOPLE,’ ‘CHOCOLATE CITY,’ ‘PSYCHO,’ and ‘ACID RAIN.

MIX OF THE WEEK: TDJ LIVE : SPF INFINI 3

Montreal-based producer TDJ presents her latest audiovisual venture, « SPF Infini 3, » directed by Quebec filmmaker Laurence ‘Baz’ Morais. This chapter in TDJ’s ongoing saga sees a group of influencers embarking on a spiritual retreat, promising a journey that will reconnect them with life’s essentials. The soundtrack is a blend of exclusive tracks, handpicked and performed by TDJ herself. « SPF INFINI 3 » is more than just an album; it’s a fusion of art, music, and storytelling that transcends traditional boundaries. As TDJ delves into uncharted territories, audiences can anticipate an expansion of their sonic experiences, seamlessly transitioning between dark, serene melodies and ethereally textured rave tracks. With live performances scheduled across Canada and Europe in 2023, TDJ possesses a unique talent for forging emotional connections through music, leaving a lasting impact on her fans and making each concert an unforgettable journey.