Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Music artists the W91 release new vintage-toned single 'Paysage'


The musicians of vintage-toned, French contemporary pop known as the W91 have released their second single, “Paysage.” The track is the second teaser single to be released from their upcoming full-length album, “Memories from '900.” Both nostalgic and timeless, reaching out to people who lived through some of the most evocative events of the twentieth century, “Paysage” from the W91 is already climbing music charts worldwide.

The W91 are a European duo, songwriter/instrumentalist Massimo and lead chanteuse Jacqueline. Massimo cites as music inspirations such artists as De Andrè, Leonard Cohen, Dire Straits, J.S Bach, J. Du Prè, and poets Charles Baudelaire and Walt Whitman.

Music aficionados will liken W91 songs like “Paysage” to French pop of the 1960s by legends like Astrud Gilberto, Francoise Hardy, and Serge Gainsbourg. These comparisons are absolutely justified in terms of instrumentation, lyrical poetry and an emphasis on striking, arresting vocals. Fans may also hear similarities between the W91 and modern French groups like Air, and Phoenix.

Asked to describe the themes of “Paysage” (“Landscape” in English) Massimo discusses the larger picture of which “Paysage” is just a part.

“'Memories from '900' is a collection of 11 short stories,” he writes of their upcoming W91 album. “These try to remember and make a point about what happened in the last century: from World War I through World War II – D-Day, the Holocaust – to the memories of the last veterans still alive today, leaving to one of the greatest poets of all time, Charles Baudelaire, the task of carrying on our hope, both opening and closing the album.”

This closing is “Paysage.” The lyrics to “Paysage” are directly from Baudelaire, whose poetry is often considered the best ever to come from France.

“Paysage” was mastered by Simon Heyworth and Andy Miles at Superaudiomastering.com (Goldfrapp, Simple Minds, King Crimson, Mike Oldfield).

The first W91 single, “The Sun Still Shines,” has been steadily moving up the pop charts from an initial position of 23,000 to 294 across all digital releases and as high as 147 globally in the pop category alone.

“Paysage” by the W91 is available online worldwide. Get in early, fans of great music everywhere. Very early.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“Paysage” by the W91 –

Website –


Friday, December 18, 2015

UK electronica crew H2SO4 releases new LP 'Under Control'


The masterminds of electronic dance music known as H2SO4 have released their new full-length album, “Under Control.” The record contains 11 original songs straight from the UK's digital dance music underground for a blend of electronica, techno and rock that explodes from subwoofers with a power that hasn't been heard since the industrial music scene. It has been released on the S16 independent music label. With elements of rock, punk, house, and much, much more, “Under Control” from H2SO4 has aggression, verve and soul in spades.

H2SO4 have been called “a band for the new dystopia,” their sound “post-apocalyptic.” A favorite rumor among fans once circulated that the trio met at a secret meeting for TNWOR, the New World Order Resistance. An old official bio from the band closes with the descriptive declaration: “In times of mass unemployment, ineffective policing and MPs' deciding to give themselves pay rises, H2SO4 aren’t here to simply distract or entertain; they’re here to take over.”

If this sounds severe, the truth is that the H2SO4's music sounds precisely so, but their revolution is much more danceable than one might detect from the above mission statement. Loaded with socially conscientious lyrics yet speaking often tongue-in-cheek, the group originally from Kent make it amusingly difficult to know when they're being facetious.

One description of their sound reads, “If there were ever an underground party taking place in the sewers of Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, H2SO4 would be the headliners – kicking off a musical rebellion while Winston Smith were having a not-so-nice time upstairs, peppered with sounds of totalitarian sirens and alarms.”

This is essentially the H2SO4 experience in a word, and the experience is good. H2SO4 being the chemical formula for sulfuric acid (historically known as oil of vitriol and as a chemical symbol of creativity) the band's music has been elsewhere described as “burning you so smoothly you may not be aware it's happening.”

True veterans of the UK underground, H2SO4 released their first official single in spring of 1998 when the European electronica scene was whirring at breakneck speeds. The track, “Little Soul,” was an instant radio favorite and by the year 2000 had broached international television. The limited release of the song led to its becoming a much sought after collector's item.

The debut album of H2SO4, “Machine-Turned Blues,” hit shelves in 1999 on the Recon music label. Its “Imitation Leather Jacket” single burned through DJ playlists all over England and received more than a thousand plays on American radio. The Gavin Alternative Juke Box Jury awarded it their No.1 position. This was followed by their sophomore record, the year 2000's “Glamtronica.” Numerous live performances commenced at home including a steady spot at Glastonbury, as well as in faraway locales like Chicago, Canada, and many more.

“Under Control” by H2SO4 is available online worldwide. Electronica fans should get in early on this one. Very early.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

Link to Music –

Tanzanian reggae hit 'Hoi Hoi' by Layla goes global


The singer and songwriter of pop music known as Layla the Voice Fairy has released her debut single, “Hoi Hoi.” The reggae track dropped in Layla's home country of Tanzania early November, where it was greeted with widespread critical and fan acclaim. It became available to the rest of the world online December 11. It has been released on the Mukibiaka International independent music label. Summery, uplifting, and full of the warm-hearted East African spirit, “Hoi Hoi” brings a beat that gets everyone dancing.

Layla (often stylized LAYLA) cites as main artistic influences Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, and Arianna Grande, as well as fellow Tanzanian singer Vanessa Mdee. Her own style takes the infectious groove and overall presentation of these great artists and adds to it the crystalline, natural vocals for which Layla herself has been called the Voice Fairy. Her songs are happier and more youthful than music by the above, but just as danceable, making songs like “Hoi Hoi” popular both in Africa and beyond.

“Hoi Hoi” and other songs by Layla are sung mainly in Swahili with phrases in English braided in. The phrase 'hoi hoi,' itself, has romantic themes at its heart.

Layla writes of this, “The whole meaning of the song, 'Hoi Hoi,' is I am in love with a person who is already in a relationship with someone else, and they love each other, but still it does not stop me from letting the person know despite the fact it might mean nothing to him. I still want him to know.”

She goes on to relate that the tale is not autobiographical.

“[It] is not really based on my true life story, but what inspired me to sing such a song is that the situation is common to everyday life, and I wanted my song to mean something to listeners.”

Layla's music is well known for meaning something to her listeners, in fact. Her most prominent songs previous to “Hoi Hoi” were released under her Voice Fairy name and bear the distinction of being presidential campaign songs. They are “Hapa Kazi Tu” and “Tanzania Ringa.” Both remain available for listening online.

Layla the Voice Fairy dreams of singing with such artists as Nigerian singer Koredebello, American sensation Taylor Swift, Brandon “B” Howard, and many more. She is a singer for whom dreams are an integral part of her music.

She writes of this, “Dreams are valid. All it takes is trying, and who knows? It just might be your lucky day. Always believe in yourself.”

As anyone who has heard “Hoi Hoi” can tell you, Layla is a singer with much conviction.

“I want my music to be loved internationally,” she writes. “So sing my breath out, I shall.”

“Hoi Hoi” by Layla the Voice Fairy is available online worldwide. An official video for “Hoi Hoi” is also expected.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“Hoi Hoi” by Layla (the Voice Fairy) –

Monday, December 14, 2015

UK electronica artist Vaughty releases debut LP 'Love and Industry'


The long-awaited debut LP album from electronica artist Vaughty has finally arrived. Appropriately titled “Love and Industry,” the electropop record sports 40 minutes of Vaughty music almost entirely comprised of prominent singles, each having fans all their own. It comes from the Aggro Monkey Records independent music label. Shadowy, passionate, sharp as razors and bringing the synth sound in ways not realized since bands like Depeche Mode, New Order and Erasure, “Love and Industry” by Vaughty is an honest-to-God reason to celebrate for fans of electronic music everywhere.

Fans of Vaughty since his earliest hit single, “Warm Inside,” have been anxiously waiting to hear what a full-length “V” record might sound like for about three years. While his fan base could be excused for simply wanting more of that early Vaughty sound, the truth is that “Love and Industry” has much more scope than this. Expect a steady influx of V's trademark bass and backbeats bedecked with unstoppable synth melodies, yes. Expect haunting chord progressions and irresistible hooks, yes. But expect more.

Vaughty's dark and foreboding vocal style appears in a variety of incarnations, including a pared-down version of himself on “Cold” that is largely unaltered by effects, resulting in one of his more intimate performances. The record also contains a complete instrumental track, “Neon Views,” which stands as proof that V doesn't need lyrics to make a moving and evocative song. His natural talents as a composer of danceable electronica and postmodern pop music speak for themselves. At 4:30 long, the listener is shocked to find the instrumental ended after what feels like a mere moment spinning in time.

“Love and Industry” has lyrical clout, too. His “One Way to Nowhere,” which after a haunting intro track opens the record proper, is a cold rebuke of the same futuristic urban lifestyle and atmosphere so many of us call home, the same bleak yet awe-inspiring technotropolis that characterizes so much of the LP's sonic ghost. Many of his tracks have romantic inspirations. Uncaring city streets and roads in general are also recurring themes. Vaughty's first full-length is full of poetry bespeaking the pains and loves of the new millennium.

Additionally, Vaughty's LP boasts excellent guest vocals by Kairit Saaremael and longtime collaborator Jenny Palmer. It closes with a titanic cover of “Endless Road” by the oft overlooked Dutch synthpop group, Time Bandits, originally penned by Alides Hidding and included with the singer's personal blessing.

At its heart, however, Vaughty's “Love and Industry” is a dance record that belongs in the repertoire of nightclub DJs everywhere, one which will surely inspire plenty of “Who is this? What song was that?” Audiophiles much more at home between their earbuds will likewise be enthusiastic to go around town with the LP as their personal soundtrack. A limited edition vinyl has been rumored, also.

In short, “Love and Industry” is an electropop wonder every fan of the synth sound needs to experience. Every track seems over too soon, every track lingers in the mind long after having been heard. Every listen through justifies another press of the 'repeat' button, just as Track 8 puts it: “Once Is Not Enough.”

“Love and Industry” by Vaughty is available worldwide now. Get in early, lovers of sound, of loud music on night drives through towering cityscapes under the blue of streetlamps. It's Vaughty Day.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“Love and Industry” by Vaughty –

Websites –


Howard Maple releases new album 'The Lucid Dreamer'


The producer of digital music known as Howard Maple has released his latest full-length record album, “The Lucid Dreamer.” The LP is composed of 12 original tracks for an approximate total listening time of 45 minutes. It has been proudly published as an independent release without the support or influence of the corporate music industry. Sleek, sexy, classy and full of rhythm and bass, “The Lucid Dreamer” is Howard Maple's most futuristic and imaginative album to date, and a dazzling introduction to his sound for audiophiles not yet acquainted.

In addition to the considerable songwriting and production talents of Howard Maple, “The Lucid Dreamer” also boasts strong, elegant vocals by Pernille Cortado, Marlene “Marla” Hansen, and Mhyst.

A true music aficionado, himself, Howard Maple's songs bespeak an unfailing good taste that comes from his deep passion for listening. Speaking of these roots, he writes, “I listened a lot to Future Sound Of London, the ORB, the Beastie Boys, Herbert, Burial, and the Bristol trip-hop bands back in the day (Massive Attack, Portishead, Tricky, Morcheeba...).”

An enthusiastic fan of the sound, he goes on to name some favorite labels, as well: “… Labels like Ninja Tune, with artists like Amon Tobin, the Bug, Coldcut, DJ Vadim, Funki Porcini, Mr. Scruff. Warp Records artists like Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin, Hudson Mohawke, Squarepusher, Nightmare on Wax, Black Dog …”

Longtime fans of legendary digital music mixers such as these will recognize the thread of high, high quality running throughout. Beside them on that top shelf, Howard Maple's repertoire fits right in.

A polished, surgically precise album with melodies that hook and beats that drive, “The Lucid Dreamer” has elements of trance, house, ambient, and other popular postmodern music genres, but in terms of songwriting, warmth, and tone, it is all electronica, through and through. This particular brand of electronica from Howard Maple is a brilliant blend of contemporary digital styles laid down over a razor-sharp and rock-solid old-school structure. The balance of new and old makes for an infectiously enjoyable record that can easily be listened to on repeat for hours.

Howard Maple has been making digital music since he began purchasing synths and sequencers at the age of 14. His first productions were programmed in MIDI and CV/Gate. After moving to the Norwegian capital of Oslo at 19, he hooked up with some of the underground's most influential electronica artists, including Päronsode, Folk og Røvere (Flunk), Sternklang, Perculator, Palace of pleasure, Prince Thomas, DJ Strangefruit (Mungolian Jet Set), Jaga Jazzist and many more. Since that time he has played in venues across Norway in music-loving cities such as Oslo, Arendal, Kristiansand, Stavanger, and Trondheim.

Howard Maple's new “The Lucid Dreamer” is preceded by his “0313 Perspectives” LP, which appeared in 2013, his “Mapleism” full-length, published on the Beatservice Records label in 2003, and his “Inside” debut LP from C+C Records in 2001. All of these remarkable albums remain available from the artist's official website (link provided below).

“The Lucid Dreamer” by Howard Maple is available online worldwide beginning 14 December 2015. Get in early, trip hop fans. Very early.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“The Lucid Dreamer” by Howard Maple –

Website –


Saturday, December 12, 2015

Ras Bogle releases new album 'It's My Birthplace'


The mastermind of reggae known as Ras Bogle has released his latest LP album, “It's My Birthplace.” The LP is composed of 10 original tracks for an approximate total listening time of half an hour. It has been proudly published on the Mind Music Productions independent record label outside the influence of the corporate music industry. Upbeat, positive, affirming, and full of the genuine Rasta spirit of the sound, “It's My Birthplace” is one of the most prominent achievements in any music genre for 2015.

Ras Bogle cites as main artistic influences Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Jacob Miller, Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, Sizzla, Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding, and Aretha Franklin. His music cleaves closely to the reggae and roots rock traditions while adding also his own inimitable sonic character. Lyrically profound and written with the betterment of humankind as a top priority, “It's My Birthplace” by Ras Bogle is a testament to the goodness inherent in all people and a musical celebration of life itself.

Mind Music Productions says of Bogle's new record, “Ras Bogle music will lift you up and renew you with vigor and vitality. It enables you to find laughter and joy in life’s sojourn. His message to all music fans is to stay full-spirited and positive, just as how Jah love remains the same for each and every one.”

According to his current official bio, Ras Bogle (born Hemrick Troy Bogle in Kingston, Jamaica) fills his songs with sentiments of love and compassion. He has been called “a voice for the voiceless and a face for the faceless.” Bogle himself has said he sings because he has “a strong conviction for the sovereignty of human rights.”

“The divine spirituality of Ras Bogle’s songs will make you contemplative of your actions,” writes Mind Music Productions. “His message of ethical consideration for humanity will leave you motivated to do right by others.”

Besides his obvious talent for vocals, Bogle also plays trumpet. He has performed at a wide variety of dancehall and reggae shows throughout the island of Jamaica, including such popular events as the GT Taylor Christmas Reggae Extravaganza, Sting, Kingston Splash, and Spring Break.

“I want all my fans to believe in themselves and to have faith,” Ras Bogle writes. “[It is important] to love oneself and, above all, to live upright with justice and honor. Do your best at all times. One love, One heart, One spirit and remember that Jah Love Always remains the same.”

“It's My Birthplace” by Ras Bogle is available online worldwide beginning December 12. Reggae and roots rock fans should get in early. Very early.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

Link to Music –

Friday, December 11, 2015

Sin Leche releases new dance single 'Cielo Azul'


The artist of Latin pop known as Sin Leche has released his latest dance single, “Cielo Azul.” The new single is currently the most widely available material from Sin Leche, and also has the distinction of being the first Sin Leche single to be sung en español, making it their most significant debut on several levels. It has been proudly released on the American Values Latin independent record label without the direction or financial support of the corporate music industry.

Bringing plenty of ritmo Latino, rock 'n' roll and pop flavors, as well as healthy doses of social commentary, “Cielo Azul” is a prominent dance release for music fans everywhere at the end of 2015.

Sin Leche is a music project from the music producer known internationally as Septimus (usually stylized SEPTIMUS). His new “Cielo Azul,” or “Blue Sky” in English, blends many styles of music for a sound and tone that is indicative of the international roots from which Septimus and his music come.

Sin Leche originated in the Central American nation of Panama, then made a move to faraway New York before settling 1,800 miles away in Texas. With so much geography having passed under his shoes, it should come as no surprise that “Cielo Azul” doesn't sound like it came from one place or another. On the contrary, it sounds exceptionally Pan-American.

“This is a project of Latin pop music mostly with a rock flavor, but not limited to any one style of music,” Septimus writes.

With a steady back beat, lots of guitar and prominent vocals, “Cielo Azul” is a track well suited for play by nightclub DJs, private parties, headphones, and casual listening on car stereos. But it isn't all just about the music for Septimus.

American Values Latin writes of this, “Sin Leche was started by SEPTIMUS to release sociopolitical music in Spanish to help empower Latinos. It's a song about empowerment no matter who you are or what you do don't allow others to define or limit [for] you.”

“Cielo Azul” by Sin Leche is available online worldwide.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“Cielo Azul” by Sin Leche –


Thursday, December 3, 2015

Atelier-M releases 'Still and Quiet' LP album


Instrumental composer Atelier-M has released his third collection of original songs, “Still and Quiet.” The LP has been published independent of the influence of the corporate music industry. Containing fully 15 songs from Atelier-M never before heard, the colossal album brings fans new and old approximately 75 minutes of relaxing, ambient music, nearly twice the length of a traditional full-length album. This makes “Still and Quiet” the most comprehensive selection of Atelier-M music ever before published.

“Still and Quiet” is akin to Atelier-M's debut LP record, “Season,” with which the artist used his unique talent for crafting piano to describe the tones and colors of the changing seasons throughout the year. With his more ambitious “Still and Quiet” LP, which brings nearly half an hour's worth more music, Atelier-M paints sonic landscapes, scenes of nature and of peaceful life from a wide variety of perspectives.

The record has perhaps more thematic variety than either of his previous records, too, regardless of its additional length. This may be sensed from the titles of his songs, which bespeak the same gorgeous, effortless subtlety as Atelier-M's music, itself.

“Leaf,” “Winter Rain” and “Bamboo and Water” have a gentle, bucolic atmosphere that is a favorite inspiration of the artist. “Dreamy Encounter,” “Bossa Aoyama” and “Choc” are fine examples of the artist's adult-contemporary compositions. “Night Bridge,” “Sea in the Dark,” and “Holy Season” are especially narrative, evoking feelings of calm and attunement with the world.

Overall, Atelier-M's newest record communicates harmony and solace, halcyon, worry-free moments frozen in time, all of which is intimated through his music. “Still and Quiet” is perfectly titled, therefore, being a description of the pure stillness found in nature and in the hush of night. It is a highly thought-provoking, introspective work of musical art, and it can be enjoyed by fans of any music genre.

“Still and Quiet” by Atelier-M is available online worldwide beginning 27 November 2015. Don't be left out in the cold.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“Still and Quiet” by Atelier-M –

Website –



Millie releases new dance single 'What Do You See'


The singer, songwriter and music producer known as Millie has released her debut single as a solo performer, “What Do You See.” The track has been proudly published on the Taffe Music independent record label without the direction of the corporate music industry. It has been released concurrently with an official music video, available for viewing at the official Taffe Music website (link provided below) and comes in Radio Mix and Club Mix editions.

Pulsing, thumping, bumping with synth bass and bringing the house music tradition into 2016 with class and style, “What Do You See” is a sure sign that Millie is a name for DJs and music fans to watch in coming months.

The UK-based Millie cites as main artistic influences such iconic singers and songwriters as Maxwell, Diana Ross, Jennifer Holliday, Etta James, and Billie Holiday. Her own sound retains the clarity and precision of these artists while adding also the back beats and modern instrumentation that have made electronic dance music the most influential sound of the new millennium.

Speaking of the themes of her new “What Do You See” single, Millie writes, “I love to people watch and when they watch back, I always wonder what do they see? Do they see the same thing I see? So I decided to sing about it from my perspective.”

Millie describes her songwriting process as intuitive, rather than academic.

“I feel music,” she writes. “I have never learnt to play an instrument. I just go with the feel of the notes and if it feels good, then I create the sound and the words and the melody finds me.”

While Millie's “What Do You See” represents the artist's solo debut, it is preceded by her British “lover's rock” girl group, Simplicity, with whom she performed several original hits. She followed up on this success with an all-female American band, Flirtations.

“My driving ambition is to create music that connects deeply,” writes Millie, “to create sounds and melodies that are a bit strange or unique (is the word I love) which ultimately nourishes the starving soul.” She goes on to elucidate on her passion for newness in song: “I have a cavernous love of creating unconventional sounds and melodies, because for me music is powerful and healing. I believe I am a spiritual being who uses this medium to connect with others on an otherworldly plane.”

Millie's music is even more than this connection, however.

She writes of her music goals, “I want my music to touch the world, and the hearts and minds of everyone who hears my songs, because no matter how different we are, we are all the same where music is concerned. Even though the beats may differ, music is a universal language that needs expressions of love, loss, anger, hope, etc. This is how we purge ourselves of these and other emotions, and that is what connects us.”

“What Do You See” by Millie is available 4 December 2015 from Taffe Music.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“What Do You See” by Millie –

Website –


Digital musician Atelier-M releases new album 'Techno Plus'


The composer and songwriter of digital music known as Atelier-M has released his latest LP record, “Techno Plus.” The full-length album contains 12 original tracks for an approximate total listening time of just over an hour, making for a round and comprehensive showcase of material from this fresh and intriguing digital music producer from Japan. Like Atelier-M’s other official releases, “Techno Plus” has been proudly published independent of support from the corporate music industry. Textured, kaleidoscopic, and boasting some of the most elegant melody lines ever to grace electronic music, “Techno Plus” from Atelier-M is a surprise treat for fans of great music everywhere at the close of 2015.

Audiophiles have much to enjoy in “Techno Plus.” The record has laid-back moments and upbeat moments, smooth, soothing tracks and tracks which absolutely must be danced to. It recalls at times the great digital DJs of the 1990s who pioneered the art of techno music, artists like the Orb, Saint Etienne, and the Future Sound of London. Like these respected musicians, “Techno Plus” has an altogether European sound which will endear it to longtime fans of the electronica genre.

Yet Atelier-M makes music with a modern edge that is all his own. Himself being an autodidact, Atelier-M's music has an effortless flow that feels natural and intuitive from one song to the next. This is all the more enjoyable because he likes to evoke a range of emotions in his music, likes to vary his tempos and likes to write unpredictable movements which nonetheless strike the listener as exactly appropriate while at the same time remaining innovative.

An altogether warm and uplifting LP, “Techno Plus” is extremely well suited for play by professional DJs at nightclubs or house parties, and equally good listening for music fans in cars or in headphones alike.

Atelier-M is a solo music artist who specializes in composing instrumental works in his studio. A skilled multi-instrumentalist, he has spent his recent years focusing on the art of composition and studio recording. Atelier-M's “Techno Plus” is preceded by his recent worldwide debut full-length album, “Season,” a work of contemporary classical piano, released 13 November. A third Atelier-M record, “Still and Quiet” is also expected to hit online music shelves later this week. Each record has a character and life all its own, and all are marvelous representations of the creativity and good taste this musician exhibits in every song he has publicly released thus far.

“Techno Plus” by Atelier-M is available online worldwide beginning 26 November – Thanksgiving Day in the United States. “Techno Plus” and Atelier-M are reasons for which the entire music listening world can be thankful.

-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com

“Techno Plus” by Atelier-M –

Website –