Lose yourself in the smooth, soulful and funky Jamiroquai-meets Frank Ocean meets Miguel vocals-led vibes of “80’s” from B3 featured Berhana (discussed here in November for his A+ debut jam “Janet”). “80’s” (quite a timeless track with its impressive standout-talent vocals and artfully simplistic fine-tuned mosh of percussion) earns Berhana another A+ on the style meter. Awesome. Reviewed by Erin Shay.
We’re entranced with the uniquely stellar calm and centered vocal style, minimalist percussion, and catchy bass-line grooves of UK producer collaborative newcomer-act Tender (who are immensely talented and in our pool of consideration of artists to watch in 2016). We like the group’s latest cover of ubiquitous remix-friendly 2015 Drake hit “Hotline Bling”; a track which you may recall Marian Hill producer Jeremy (1/2 of the act) remixed beautifully back in September (he chose a twist on the Kehlani/Charlie version). Even though we have only showcased two tracks from Tender their style is so quietly appealing (especially strong Beck-vibe vocals) we think the group is potentially unstoppable. We look forward to more of Tender’s graciously simple brand of music. Superb cover. Reviewed by Erin Shay.
B3 recent feature KAYLOO remixes B3 fave LA trend-setter music collective The Internet to quite a stunning result. We’re enjoying the French artist’s subtle yet robust trap-accented French-touch-permeated late night dance spin on “Get Away” the poetic-sexy vocals-led Ego Death album gem which features The Internet’s uniquely-gifted hip-hop soul songstress Syd. KAYLOO endeavors to go dynamic (with bass, trap beats and synth) yet remain surprisingly subtle and in doing so beautifully highlights Syd’s delicate ultra-female classic-vibe vocals (modern Gwen Stefani-vibes all around) while also creating a fresh and interesting spin on the track. Very cool remix. Reviewed by Erin Shay.
B3 2015-favorite production artist Flamingosis, who’s eclectic well-balanced blend of hip-hop, soul, jazz and funk first caught our attentions back in June, creates a light and vivacious lounge-y 70‘s/80‘s-vintage vibe ambiance on his new technicolor brass-tinged tune “Saturday Night Fever”; a superbly tantalizing, bright and lively funk-infused vocal-loop-enhanced instrumentals-led track which has us very much looking forward to Flamingosis’ much anticipated soon-to-release album. We love everything you touch Flamingosis! Another great track. Reviewed by Erin Shay.
Another day, another new R&B act shrouded in a vacuum of information. That aside, Two Another (we do know they’re originally Aussie now residing in London) mark out a strong B3 debut here on the coolly infectious “Higher” which excels on its neat mix of unexpected swerves in production and good melodic writing.
Sevdaliza’s new one is a minimalist R&B track awash with abstract production textures and a cool juxtaposition between its striking visceral vocal and an overall vacant far-off feel. “One Armed Lullaby” is a component part of Red Bull’s ongoing 20 for 16 series.
Auckland-born Australia-based WALLACE impresses again on new one “Negroni Eyes”. The track, laced with jazzy piano-driven grooves (the song samples Miles’ “Nardis”) and creative rhythmic production from Sampha collaborator Godriguez, sets a cool pace for WALLACE’s richly toned alto (we absolutely love the young NZ’er voice). Sample the great “Negroni Eyes” below.
