You take one weekend off, and what do you get? Another week older — and nearly 80 new submissions from Groover, a platform that connects artists with critics like me for a small fee. You can (and should) follow me on Spotify HERE, check out my Top 200 playlist HERE, or listen to it via the widget at the lower right of every page on this site. If you want to be in an upcoming playlist, go HERE. But first let’s get right down to business:
Ezra Brooks | Cherry Shirt
HOME BASE: Canada.
GENRE: Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “A relatively new singer-songwriter to the Canadian music industry, Étienne Bélanger, who goes by Ezra Brooks, has been pumping out quality music since summer of 2021 and is continuing this trajectory with Cherry Shirt. It’s hard to pigeonhole Ezra’s sound. Cherry Shirt begins as more of a folk-pop number and then slowly morphs into an indie pop/rock anthem about the mixed and confusing emotions felt while falling in love. “I could have written a soft sad love song that emits the same meaning, but my goal was to make a song you could scream in your car and let go of all your frustration,” Ezra says. He is still exploring his own sonic vision, drawing inspiration from the classic rock of bands like Queen and Fleetwood Mac or the contemporary pop of Harry Styles. Either way, Ezra Brooks sound feels completely authentic and he knows how to hook you in.”
Deo | My Letter To You (World Cup)
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “I have created a song for the Fifa World Cup 2022 in Qatar. This song also highlights the importance of mental health and awakens us to be appreciative of the people in our lives and their importance, especially in our dark times. Composing the song made me feel safe, connected to someone/something greater, and secured.”
Philippe Iskandar | La Bataille De Mon Boisé
HOME BASE: Canada.
GENRE: Folk.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Philippe Iskandar started playing music at age 16. Between 2007 and 2011, he played drums for the band Metembiose. In 2012, Philippe stop playing music until 2018. In 2022, he released his frist album Le Catamaran, Le Début… with 16 tracks. In the small district of Auteuil in Laval, a few citizens took up arms to defend a wooded area threatened with clearcutting.”
Sambox | Liar In Love
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: Electronica.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “After studying classical music, Samuel Pineau aka Sambox moved towards lounge music, chillout, ambient and jazz. His songs have appeared on 65 different compilations, in television shows and in luxury hotels and spas.”
Old Foes | Glass + Appetite
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Metal.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Formed in 2021, Old Foes is the stage name and brainchild of American artist Kyle Rigsby, based in Baltimore. Old Foes runs the spectrum of metal, hard rock, progressive rock, and soft rock with compelling tunes, thundering melodies and cuttingly beautiful songwriting. Prepare to head bang, waltz, scream, and shout “hallelujah” to the undeniable newcomer.”
Adrien Bocksruth | Ruby
HOME BASE: Belgium.
GENRE: Neo Classical.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “While piano has always had a place in my life, I can’t say the same about its practice. I was only a student at the conservatory from 10 to 12; the strict codes of the institution put me off and drove me away from the music world, stopping me from pursuing this experience. It was only in 2020, after a 10-year break, that I decided to get back to practising this instrument of infinite sounds — this time in my own way, and with my own rules. I’m not a pianist like the others; I’m just a random guy who shares what’s on my mind.”
Alexa Cabral | Need To Know
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Pop/indie-soul artist Alexa Cabral’s song Need To Know was written during the pandemic on a day she questioned what the future would bring. She confronted the emotions and thoughts of her future as she wrote down the lyrics that reflected the overwhelming feeling and desperation to “need to know” the answers at that moment. She asked herself if she was a disappointment to those around her, and if she was trying her best. Alexa’s fluid sultry voice pulls you in a wraps itself around you wishing you could reach out and help provide the answers. The song wastes no time bringing the listener in with its extremely smooth piano work and soft, yet extremely emotive singing which is reminiscent of artists such as Alicia Keys and Adele. Rhythmic arrangements glide smoothly alongside lyrics that seem to unravel and reveal as they are sung, with stinging sincerity that cuts to the core. Alexa Cabral is a 16-year-old singer-songwriter and indie/soul-pop artist from Boston.”
Trick Of The Trade | I Drink At Work
HOME BASE: Canada.
GENRE: Punk.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Have you ever had a boss/supervisor that was so annoying you had to take a drink not to hurt them? Well, this song is for you! Trick Of The Trade pay tribute to people who get up every day and get shit done — no bullshit, no excuses and without getting a special reward. We all have to work. Might as well enjoy it and have a good time. Cheers!”
Aisa Spade | Touch Up
HOME BASE: United States
GENRE: R&B / Soul.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Bryan (Aisa Spade) Washington Jr. is an American hip-hop, rap and R&B artist, producer and songwriter from Louisiana. Coming from the Big Easy, Aisa was influenced by artists such as Soulja Slim, Mystikal, Ugk The Hot Boys and No Limit. Touch Up is from his new album Rhythm & Greatness. My influences include Chris Brown, Drake and Travis Scott. I use my authentic, unique and melodic style and ideas to spread good vibes for my fans.”
Des Boheme | Home To That Place
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Indie-Folk.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Des Boheme is a Kiwi-American singer-songwriter and producer in Minneapolis-St. Paul. Des B is Bohemianism morphed for a modern day, finding his path in the pursuit of artistic, musical, and literary expressions. His musical influences range from classical symphonies to early rock ‘n’ Roll, and contemporary hits from all genres. His melodic signature resonates across folk, adult contemporary and indie-pop. Born Anton Desmond Ryan in New Zealand and previously known as Anton Ryan, Des Boheme has amassed a large catalogue of material. Home To That Place is about finding your way back after an emotional rollercoaster ride. It’s upbeat, with layered harmonies driving the chorus and acoustic guitar textures throughout.”
Ian Roller | Rise
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: R&B / Soul.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “L.A. producer and saxophonist Ian Roller continues to fan the flame of groundbreaking original music coming out of his hometown with the release of the digital single Rise. Roller enlisted the talents of vocalist/trumpeter Kyla Moscovich on the silky, ethereal track. Roller had already established roots as a seasoned woodwind player and arranger collaborating with the likes of Portugal. The Man, Drugdealer, Elusive, Bryson Tiller, Yung Gravy, Adam Deitch, DJ Quik and more. Rise speaks to how we process ups and downs and reckons with tumultuous internal dialogs to stand up to the challenges that life presents and get honest with ourselves. “We all go through struggles and in those times it’s important to remind yourself that you’ve been through this before (or if you haven’t, you probably will again). It’s important to reaffirm the struggle and stand up to the voice inside your head that sheds doubt over your progress and makes excuses for repeating those same patterns. Rise is about flipping the narrative and seeing the other side.”
Ryal | Best Friend
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Synth-Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Ryal is a collaboration between singer-keyboardist Jacque Ryal and producer Aaron Nevezie. Influenced by Bonobo, Thom Yorke, Sbtrkt, Tame Impala and Damon Albarn, Ryal make music embedded with stories and soundscapes. Previous releases have led to comparisons with Little Dragon and Portishead. With Best Friend, the search for your pet’s favorite song is over. Dedicated to you and your furry friend and written as a lullaby for singer Ryal’s late pup, it morphed into a dreamy synth anthem interlaced with puppy noises. It’s being released just in time for National Pet Day on April 11.”
Fash | Dancin’
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: EDM.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “DJ and producer Fash is a well-known entertainer in the south of France, with big stages and festivals to his credit. He confirms his status as a talented producer with his new single Dancin’, featuring the soul singer Samanify.”
Nina Deiana | Another Place
HOME BASE: Italy.
GENRE: R&B / Soul.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Nina Deiana is a London singer-songwriter. Another Place is her third release. Her inspiration and knowledge of great musicians past and present — including Dave Matthews, Nina Simone, Norah Jones, Joni Mitchell, Lana del Rey, David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, Fiona Apple and Ben Harper — have shaped her sound and formed her soulful side. In Nina’s music her Mediterranean roots melt with the British world, creating a sound that it’s hard to label but will take you on a cinematic journey across different genres as a manifestation of her so many influences. “This is a song that I wrote in a moment of deep connection and inspiration,” she says. “Music, lyrics and melody came together in a flow of emotions. It’s an invitation to embrace the obstacles of our journey as part of our process of growth. It comes straight from my heart to yours and I do hope you feel the love!”
KinG-Drive | We Should Be Keeping In Mind
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: Synth-Folk.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “I’m a singer, songwriter and producer from Lyon. My musical universe and inspiration goes from the realms of soul, hip-hop and R&B to the horizon of jazz and classical. The motivation which leads my path to your door is my deep desire to share the music I do.”
Danielle Patoir | Waking Up
HOME BASE: United Stated.
GENRE: Electronica.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “I am constantly writing and releasing material. I live for music. I just released another Waking Up, which features female vocals, alternative rock elements and danceable electronics.”
Songs For The Apocalypse | Shadow
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Indie-Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Shadow is the most poppy single from our band’s first EP A Strange Strangeness Has Occurred. Dancey drums, catchy melodies and hooks, and an original story about a man’s lover being jealous of his affair with the ghost of his widow — until she begins to develop feelings for her as well.”
Groove Park | Island In The Sea
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: R&B / Soul.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Groove Park is the soul, R&B and funk project of Oren Levine, a pianist and songwriter from D.C. “Hope you enjoy this musical story about escaping the city with the one you love to get away and find some peace on a tropical island. The song delivers the soul of an 1980s R&B hit while still bringing a contemporary energy, influenced by soul, R&B and jazz classics of the 1970s and ’80s, including The Crusaders, Nancy Wilson and others. The musicians are some of the finest jazz and blues artists in the Washington area.”
Haga187 | One Of Us Must Die
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: Indie-Rock.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Haga187 is a one-man band and improvised songwriter. This is my new song — this one has vocals. I’m not a very good singer.”
Malone | Sunrise
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: Rap.
THE TRANSLATED & EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Mixing, sharing, love: Three words to define Malone’s music. Imbued with spirituality and literary references, his lyrics convey positive values. Partly introspective, his music transcribes his evolution as a man: each of his projects reflects a change or a progression in his life, his relationship with others, his perception of things… Malone has performed alongside Disiz, Rocé, Youssou N’Dour, Amadou & Mariam, Dilated Peoples, Eloquence, Souleymane Diamanka… Malone is one of those who move the music forward, participate in building it, and giving it meaning.”
Filligar | Angel On Earth
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Indie-Rock.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Filligar has a prolific catalog heralded by some of the most influential musicians, journalists, and cultural outposts of our times. For two presidential administrations, the U.S. State Department has delegated the band cultural ambassadors, sending them everywhere from Russia to Central Asia, the Middle East and South America as emissaries representing American arts, values and aspirations. Filligar is Casey Gibson (piano/keys) and Mathias brothers Johnny (guitar/vocals), Teddy (bass) and Pete (drums). “Here’s another one we just put out: Angel on Earth,” they say. “Some songs are easier to write than others. This was one that came quickly. It lived in a notebook for a while before we were able to put music to the words. We went through a few different versions in the studio and had a great time putting it together.”
Peter Lake | Stay Baby Stay (Like A Lullaby)
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Dance-Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Peter Lake is a New York City singer-songwriter who revels in anonymity. His musical influences include Curtis Mayfield, Motown, Billie Eilish and Rüfüs Du Sol. Therefore, it’s no surprise that he has not stuck to one genre, dabbling in rock, pop, indie and house. Lake’s philosophy of music making is that by combining genres, the range of song creation has increased. A song that successfully incorporates and connects the positive aspects of different musical styles has the potential to be more universally appealing than any song in history. Stay Baby Stay (Like a Lullaby) is his first dance hit. It combines two songs with different melodies — after the original song was ready, Lake ripped up the script and wrote a hip-hop song with the same tempo and key, then mixed the two melodies to create a house/dance song. As a result, he made a single that “might suck or might be good.” The rest is a story yet to be told.”
Flashboy | Shibuya
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: EDM.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Hailing from Paris, Flashboy has dedicated his life to bridging the gap between funk and modern house and techno. As a teenage aspiring musician, he was fond of Motown-infused grooves and couldn’t help but spend sleepless nights in search of the perfect guitar and bass riff. Eventually, in a midsummer night’s dream, he witnessed Prince jamming with Jeff Mills: this Telecaster-TR909 duet blew his mind away. This was the turning point of his project, and Flashboy was born. As a producer, DJ and live performer, he shakes the crowds spinning energetic records he loves, playing fierce guitar licks and messing with vintage hardware.”
dRy A | Versant Est
HOME BASE: France.
GENRE: Alt-Rock.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “After a few thousand plays and very fruitful and rewarding contacts with my album Time For What in 2021, here is my new track Versant Est, from the EP L’Utopie du Juste Milieu.”
Unknown Official Artist | Vera
HOME BASE: Italy.
GENRE: Indie-Rock.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: Unknown Official Artist lets his music do the talking.
Lias | Hide & Seek
HOME BASE: Germany.
GENRE: Synth-Pop.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Lias takes an unsparing look into his own soul. His songs delve into the fear of failure, the pain of separation, his fight for mental health and a young man’s search for meaning as he flips his entire life upside-down to make music. His debut EP is set for release this summer. With spherical melancholy and an empowering drive, his newest single Hide and Seek pulls us out of the darkness of heartbreak and depression and into a space of hope, light and ease. He takes an unsparing look into his own soul. Hiding from ourselves is an exhausting, unrelenting game of chase. But as soon as we recognise and surrender to who and what we’re running from — and why — the anchor is released, and we’re finally free.”
Saint Kevin the Third | Nunchuk
HOME BASE: United States.
GENRE: Rap.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: “Saint Kevin The Third is a gender-fluid artist coming out from Orlando —a 25-year-old Afrospanic / Cuban singer, songwriter, producer and composer. “My stuff is not for the faint of heart — this music is dark, challenging and one hell of a ride! Nunchuk is an off-kilter pop banger that deserves its light in the underground. As an artist, my goal right now is to collaborate with other artists and put my production and vocal skills to good use. I am a performer/born hustler trying to change the indie rap game with experimental trip-inspired beats, dope rhymes and orchestral melodies from the future.”
Grabbz | Nasty
HOME BASE: Canada.
GENRE: Rap.
THE EDITED BIO & PRESS RELEASE: Donovan Campbell (aka Grabbz) is a Toronto artist. Nasty is his debut single. It is short, direct, straight, cadenced and would be considered strong hip-hop, with heavy arrangements, perfectly combined with Grabbz’ super bass tone. Lyrically, he invites listeners to try to discover a little of his personality. It’s filled with lyrical gymnastics and punchlines that you have to listen carefully to catch.”
