This is the first thing I’ve heard from Norwegian producer Candid Oak and it makes for quite the introduction. “The Path Forward” is a delightfully complex electronic tune with an energetic, but mellow, vibe. Rubbery synths and warped vocal samples cascade alongside a sturdy beat, creating an emotionally charged tune that just feels right. From start to finish it’s an auditory adventure, and this guy’s talent is immediately made apparent. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Candid Oak, and I suggest you do the same. Follow him on SoundCloud and listen to “The Path Forward” below.
Cozway – Expedition EP
I’ve been looking forward to Cozway‘s debut EP for some time now and I’m pleased to say it was well worth the wait. The Expedition EP finds the young producer at the top of his game, with 4 hard hitting tracks shining a spotlight on his unique style. Growling bass and dark, tribal vibes permeate the entire project, and the percussion on every song is utterly insane. You won’t find any filler tracks here—each song packs a serious punch. Words really don’t do this one justice, so check out the full EP below along with stand out track “Expedition” featuring DJ Ride. Read More
MEMBA – What’s your temperature (feat. EVAN GIIA)
If you’re a fan of edm you have to hop on board the MEMBA train. Everything they put out freaks me out in the best way. Their stuff ranges from weird tribal trap to super accessible pop music and often blends the lines between the two. Needless to say, I get pretty excited when MEMBA drops new music and this time is no different. “What’s Your Temperature” features vocals from long-time collaborator Evan Giia along with sky scraping synths and incredible drum patterns. Even though it’s a song about quarantining and covid-19, the vibe is so warm and uplifting that it makes it feel like everything is going to be alright. I’m here for it.
Whethan – So Good (feat. bülow)
Whethan enlists vocalist bülow for this bright and bass heavy new jam, “So Good.” A few of his recent releases have skewed into more traditional pop territory, but “So Good” hits the sweet spot between pop and electronic, creating an irresistible contrast between the syrupy vocals and the waves of grinding bass. It’s the best of both worlds, and that first drop caught me off guard in the best way possible. This is also the first time I’ve had the pleasure of hearing bülow and I absolutely love her voice. Definitely wouldn’t mind hearing these two work together again in the future.
Cozway – Camouflage Ft. Laura Hahn
Moody vocals lead up to a mind melting drop in Cozway‘s new song “Camouflage”. The young producer is releasing his debut EP on May 8th via Deadbeats, and judging by the lead single it’s going to be something special. “Camouflage” kicks off with ominous instrumentation that provides the perfect backdrop for Laura Hahn‘s airily crooned vocals—but it wouldn’t be a Cozway song without some wild, animalistic energy, right? Have no fear, the song absolutely explodes with a massive beat full of hard hitting percussion, deep bass, and synths that sound like nothing else out there. It feels dark and tribal, like it was crafted in the middle of the night somewhere deep in the Amazon. Pretty cool stuff. Be sure to follow Cozway and get ready for his Expedition EP coming out on May 8th.
The Weeknd – Blinding Lights (Major Lazer Remix)
There’s nothing like some new Major Lazer to brighten up your day! This time the guys remix The Weeknd‘s throwback pop single, “Blinding Lights”—revamping the song with snappy percussion and an addictive new lead synth. It creates a breezy vibe that pairs well with The Weeknd’s soaring vocals, and I especially the breakdown near the end that brings the song home. Perfect material for the warm weather ahead.
070 Shake – Guilty Conscience (Devault Remix)
Orange County producer Devault puts a high energy electro spin on 070 Shake‘s “Guilty Conscience” and it’s a ton of fun. I loved 070 Shake’s debut album Modus Vivendi from earlier this year, and I think her catchy vocals were just begging for a good electronic remix. Devault gets the job done with this one—reworking the original into a vigorous dance tune that thunders its way through the brief 2:45 minute run time. It gets the blood pumping, that’s for sure. Stream it below and listen to more from Devault on SoundCloud.
RMR – Dealer
After stirring up a massive buzz with his bizarre song and video for “Rascal”, rapper/singer/creative genius(?) RMR follows up with a new single called “Dealer”. The mysterious artist alternates between rueful vocals and rapid verses over a trap beat featuring twangy strings and a somber vibe. At first it might sound like another rapper boasting about the drug life, but in reality “Dealer” spins the depressing tale of a dealer succumbing to his own addictions. RMR’s unique approach is a breath of fresh air, and I’m beyond excited to see what he does next. Check out the cool visuals for “Dealer” and stream it below.
Silva – Orchid
Australian producer Silva has returned with a hard hitting, experimental trap tune that’s loaded with intricate details and an uneasy vibe. The young producer’s music always has an ethereal quality to it, and “Orchid” continues that trend—striking a unique balance with whimsical sounds and a dark, foreboding atmosphere. Silva manages to combine these unexpected elements to create a song that sounds well ahead of its time… If this is in fact the future of trap music, then count. me. in. Check out more from Silva on SoundCloud and stream “Orchid” below.
Just Blaze & Baauer – Higher (Ft. Jay-Z) (Cozway Edit)
After signing to RL Grime’s Sable Valley label last July, fast-rising producer Cozway is poised for a big year in 2020. He’s been playing out this monstrous edit of Just Blaze & Baauer‘s “Higher” in his live sets for a while now, so I’m beyond stoked to get an official release. Cozway’s unique sound is completely unleashed on this one, with waves of relentless, tribal-esque drops shredding through the remains of the original to create a jaw-clenching intensity that never lets up. It’s no wonder this thing drove crowds into a frenzy. Check it out below and be sure to follow Cozway on SoundCloud for more.