7 songs: Liam McClair

8th January 2020 //

Hey everyone!

With this post we welcome you to 2020 at house in the sand.

We are excited to have another 12 months of music discovery ahead of us.
Just imagining how much fantastic music we will be hearing this year is getting us all giddy - and we hope you feel the same.

We promise you to find even more unique and exciting ways to showcase music for you this year, so all we ask is that you stay tuned and enjoy the process with us.

To kick off the year, we are thrilled to share Liam McClair's selection of seven songs.

We've featured Liam multiple times and always get excited to hear new music. With his at times calming, at times rumbling folk pop sound, Liam has found his signature sound with ease.

Hailing in from Manchester, UK, it's no surprise he has been a big part of the music scene up there. But he's not only an essential in the local giging scene, Liam has also won over fans all over Europe with his thoughtful lyrics, warm vocals and comforting instrumentals. He also played support slots for Newton Faulkner and Echo & The Bunnymen, showcasing his talents to bigger audiences.

To share his latest single, "Nice Guy" with you, we've asked Liam to talk us through seven songs he enjoys for different reasons and at the end of this post he even told us more about the new single.

Let's check out Liam's selection!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Superstition" by Stevie Wonder

When I was a student in Liverpool, I'm sure I annoyed a lot of the DJs in the bars I'd go to by asking them to play this, then forgetting when they said no as I was a little drunk and asking them again!
I love it and it always makes me want to dance.


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2) a song that calms you down
"Something So Right" by Paul Simon

This song is really soothing and we used to listen to it in the car when my mum was driving.
There is something about the feel of the song I find so relaxing and the older I get, the more I can relate with the lyrics.


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3) a song that means a lot to you
"American Pie" by Don McLean

I think I'll go with "American Pie" by Don McLean.
Every Easter as a kid or as many I can remember, my family and I would visit the Isle Of Arran of the coast of Scotland and this would be our song we would all sing along to as we winded our way around the island via the narrow country lanes. It always makes me smile.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Bongo Bong" by Manu Chao

When I was 19, I travelled around Asia, Australia and America with four friends from home.
We had an amazing time and this song always reminds me of that trip. One of my friends made a photo slideshow and used the song as the soundtrack, so I've always been transported to the freedom of travelling whenever I hear it.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"So Fresh" by Will Smith, Biz Markie, Slick Rick

When I was 10 or 11 I borrowed "Willenium" by Will Smith from my sister and I don't think I ever gave it back!
This track is one that I always find myself singing and I just loved it so much as a kid. I'd never heard four or five artists on one track before and I thought it was amazing.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"The Man In Me" by Bob Dylan

I love singer/songwriter music. If that counts as a genre, I'm not sure.
But Bob Dylan is one of my favourites and this is one of my favourites of his.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"Teeth White" by The Staves

I'd heard The Staves doing acoustic music and their harmonies blew me away, but I always thought they were predominately folky, when Spotify sent me "Teeth White" I loved it pretty much from the start and then the video just confirmed it's one of my favourite songs!


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What do you hope listeners will feel when listening to your new single "Nice Guy"?

Hopefully they can relate to the sense of wanting to feel like you have to be liked all the time and that being nice is a pressure that is prevalent in society.

Liam McClair online: Website | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram

And that was Liam's selection!
What did you think? Did he feature any tracks you love?



Previous 7 songs features: The Rose Affair | Ava Rae Heatley | John Thacker | Racoon Racoon







Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (intro + outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Image + Words (about songs): Liam McClair

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7 songs: The Rose Affair

Hey everyone!

Oh wow, it's been quiet here, eh?

If you follow us on social media, you might've seen that we can explain it.
We are currently working on something that takes up more time than the days have to offer, 

so unfortunately HITS is a bit on the backburner.

It's a shame, but we truly think that it's going to be worth it and hope you stick around for the big reveal on February 28th.


But we took some time to still present you the music we love and invite you to get to know The Rose Affair.


The Rose Affair are a four piece from Cambridge, UK.

Over the past few years the band has built a loyal fanbase and found support from BBC Introducing, DJ Huw Stephens who got their track "Napoli" BBC 1 airplay and music fans from all around the globe.

With their home being the indie scene, you can expect high class live sets,
relatable songs and vivid storytelling through their visuals. 

In 2018 the band released their second EP, played a set at Secret Garden Party, did a live session for ITV news and supported acts such Natty, Itch and Fickle Friends.

The Rose Affair are:
Lucas Jones
Matt Jones
Jacob Pett
Tom Brown

We are super excited to see what The Rose Affair are up to next,
but for now we're thrilled to share their brand new music video along with their 7 songs playlist which they created exclusively for HITS.


Watch the video for their new single "Blush" right here:




The Rose Affair online: Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram


Let's check out Lucas' playlist!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"5 dollars" by Christine and the Queens

She just kills everything she touches and this song in particular is just the BEST kind of pop.
Makes you want to backflip with excitement, but also super profound, lyrically.


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2) a song that calms you down
"Melt" by Big Red Machine

Firstly, it's Justin Vernon.
So there's that.
And then with Aaron Dessner from The National, so it's a dream.
It's not exactly a peaceful song, but it calms me down in a soul expanding, life is a miracle kind of way.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Morning Theft" by Jeff Buckley

When I was like 16, this song was literally my crutch for about a year whilst I was going through some shit.
Jeff Buckley in general has always been that for me. And with this being on his unfinished second album, released after he died, I don't know, man.. This whole record is just very important to me.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"You and Me" by The Cranberries

For some reason, every time I hear this song, I think of how New York feels in films from the 90s.
And that's like my favourite thing in the world.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Nightswimming" by R.E.M.

This song is the last track on the first album I ever got.
My Dad got it for me for Christmas circa 2003.
Strange Christmas present for a 7 year old looking back, but I fucking loved it.
I listened to this song on repeat all day and still do pretty regularly.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"I Get Overwhelmed" by Dark Rooms

I'm not very good at distinguishing what different genres are.
Everything is so influenced by everything else that my head gets all fuzzy when I try to split music into simple categories.
Other than reggae 'cos it's like "Oh, there's an upstroke guitar rhythm, cool, we know where we are."
So the closest thing to my favourite genre would be film soundtrack (which is kind of cheating).
And this song is from a beautiful film called A Ghost Story.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"When The Party's Over" by Billie Eilish

My little sister sent me this and I'd heard the artist's name, but avoided her for some reason.
And then this blew me into some next realm.
She's amazing - this live performance is sick. Lighting, stage design too.


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And that was The Rose Affair's selection!
What do you think? Are there any tracks feature you love?



Previous 7 songs features: Ava Rae Heatley | John Thacker | Racoon Racoon | Jackson Dyer





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words: Vanessa Jetwash | Image & Song Selection: The Rose Affair

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7 songs: Ava Rae Heatley

Hey guys!

How many times do you really think about what certain songs make you feel?

I'm sure we are all aware of the power of music and the way it influences our mood,
and how it can bring up memories of places and people.
But I admit, I wasn't always aware of how many emotions you can connect to music.

Well, that was until I started the 7 songs feature and really started celebrating the variety of emotions in music.

And luckily a lot of the musicians we feature are joining us by sharing their selection of songs.


Today the fabulous Ava Rae Heatley chats us through her playlist.


Ava Rae Heatley is a singer/songwriter from Warwick (New York), USA.

Her sound is influenced by artists such as Sara Bareilles, Ben Folds and Elton John - creating a Pop/Rock meets Acoustic sound.

Ava started out playing at local coffee shops such as Caffe A La Mode in Warwick and Music at the Mission in New Jersey, where she's the winner of the open mic competition.

She has also been 95.3 DNH's "Discovered Artist of the month" in June 2017 which led to her song "Good For You" being played on their station for the entire month.

Her debut EP "The Drive" won us over by storm and we've been loving Ava's sound ever since.

Ava's follow-up single, "Grin And Bear It" speaks for itself but convinces even more with a relatable and expressive music video, which we think you need to watch today.
It represents struggles which I'm pretty sure you can relate to at one point or another.

And now Ava is here with her second EP, "Beautiful / Terrifying", which you definitely need to check out.


Listen to Ava's latest single, "All These Boys", right here:




Ava Rae Heatley online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram


Let's check out Ava's playlist!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"September" by Earth, Wind and Fire

I don't remember a time when I didn't know this song.
It is everywhere, it is perfect and it leaves you with no choice but to dance. I've danced to this song alone in my room, in front of 20 people at a bar or with hundreds at a wedding - and if you wanna get moving, just put this song on.


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2) a song that calms you down
"The Tiger Inside Will Eat The Child" by Kate Miller-Heidke

The meandering melody, beautiful guitar lines, and poetic lyrics of this song always send a wave of calm along.
For me, this song is all about becoming content with discontentment and I have found there is nothing more relieving than that.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"When You're Ready" by Tina Arena

I don't even entirely remember how I stumbled upon this song, but I was put under it's spell on the first listen. 
In this song a woman singing to her friend in an abusive relationship about leaving the abuse relationship.
The chorus mantra, "I know who you really are, nobody can steal your spark. When you're to leave, when you're ready to leave, I'll be there." is so simple, empowering and beautiful.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Thunder Road" by Bruce Springsteen

My Dad is a huge Bruce Springsteen fan and anytime I hear his icon opening piano lines, it reminds me of listening to my dad play them on the piano when I was little.
I definitely get more emotional than the average person while listening to Bruce Springsteen and it's because his music is so tightly linked with my family and my childhood.
 It always makes me feel nostalgic when I hear it.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Love Song" by Sara Bareilles

This is the first song I ever performed plying piano and singing in front of people when I was 12 years old.
It made me want to be a singer-songwriter and for a while I was referred to as "Love Song Girl" because of it. I've brought this song with me and still like to throw it in at a show as cover every once and a while.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"All The Small Things" by Blink 182

Growing up in the early 2000s, I became very obsessed with that era of pop punk music.
This song is probably my favorite of that genre. It has crazy catchy melodies and some of my favorite lyrics.
 I always found the simple sentiment of a huge rock band saying they would "turn off the lights" and be "carried home" from a show because the person they loved wasn't there watching to be very romantic.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"White Wine In The Sun" by Tim Minchin

This song surprised me because Tim Minchin is a great comedian and this song while humorous is definitely more serious than I would have expected.
It highlights a relatable feeling of what it means to be with people you love, friends and family and growing up all while pocking fun and making valid points at the commercialization of the Christmas season. It's fun, it's silly, it's poignant and it's one of my favorites.


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And that was Ava's selection! 
What do you think? Did you find any new favourites?


Previous 7 songs features: John Thacker | Racoon Racoon | Jackson Dyer | Simon Alexander




Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro & Outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Words (About Songs) & Image: Ava Rae Heatley

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7 songs: John Thacker

Hey guys!

You know, I'm having a lot of fun writing posts for you.

It's so cool that I get to share the music I love and that people are actually interested in hearing it.
We're all playing a huge part in music by caring about independent artists and sharing the art they create.

So let's all continue to be cool, shall we?
(I know, I know - why couldn't even stop if we tried.)

Today I'm super thrilled for two reasons;

1) the 7 songs feature is back: I love love love this feature, because I love finding out which songs people connect with.
2) because today we've got the fabulous John Thacker here to do a little playlist take-over.

He'll be sharing his selection of 7 songs with us and I can't wait for you to check it out.

But before you do, please make sure to check out John's music and follow his socials.


Listen to John's latest collaboration with Pet Planes:




John Thacker online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram


Let's check out John's playlist!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Perfect Places" by Lorde

Now, this song doesn't make me dance like I'm at a festival jumping up and down to the latest EDM DJ, but it makes me jump around in my house like a crazy person with my headphones on.
Not a care in the world, and it just makes me feel so happy and free! My happy dance song.


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2) a song that calms you down
"Mystery Of Love" by Sufjan Stevens

I think this is one of the most beautiful and captivating movie soundtrack songs ever.
When I need to relax before a show, or when I'm feeling like I need inspiration, I'll play this.

The song takes me on a journey that I could listen to on repeat for hours.
It matches so well with the equally beautiful "Call Me By Your Name".


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Samson" by Regina Spektor

My all time favourite song by my all time favourite artist!

Now these are big statements, I know, but couldn't be more true when it comes to this song.
Regina has always influenced me more than anyone else when it comes to lyrics.

This song has been with me through so many heartbreaks and feelings, the story of the lyrics just stand out to me so much, so powerful, and I connect with this song and Regina like no other.
This song for me is what heartbreak, love, loss, hope, all feel like, all in one beautiful song.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Foundations" by Kate Nash

Oh man, I love this song still to this day!

It reminds me of so many things, but mainly reminds me of sitting on the kerb with my childhood friends with our singles from HMV and playing this song on repeat without a care in the world.

Oh - and looking at each other and shouting "LEMONS" every time. Weird that now, nine years later, the song has a completely different feeling for me - nostalgia, yes, but also a new meaning.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Time Is Dancing" by Ben Howard

I listen to this song on a every other day basis.

Ben just has magic, doesn't he?
This song is just so subtly epic, it's my perfect "stare out of the window and think into my future song".


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"Hoppipolla" by Sigur Ros

So, I don't have a favourite genre.

But I love love Icelandic music! 
Sigur Ros and Jonsi have been big influences in all my work, not just my music but my acting, my writing and my life!


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"What You Waiting For?" by Lily Allen

Lily is another artist who I've been so inspired by.

But her latest album, "No Shame", was such a pleasant surprise; the entire album brought me back to the mid 00's, the lyrics are punchy but honest. Lily isn't trying to be anyone else here.
Unexpectedly the best album of the year so far!

Lily was one of the first artists who insipred me to write my early songs, her lyrics stood out to me.


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And that was John's selection!
What do you think? Did you find any new favourites?


Previous 7 songs features: Racoon Racoon | Jackson Dyer | Simon Alexander | GOUX






Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro): Vanessa Jetwash | Words (about songs) & Image: John Thacker

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7 songs: Racoon Racoon

Hey guys!

Okay, I have this routine whenever I edit photos.
I sit at my desk, have my vinyl player about two metres away from me and listen to my "Simon & Garfunkel's Greatest Hits" record.

I do that because I'm usually a very active person - I don't really enjoy sitting still for long (which is why I am terrified of long-haul flights and bus journeys to Berlin).

So, Simon & Garfunkel do the one thing usually only yoga does for me, they calm me down and allow me to focus on whatever task I might be tackling.
Not only does it mean that they can take credit for most of the edited photos you can see on my Instagram, it also means that I enjoy their music a lot.


Today I get to introduce you to a band who has covered one of my favourite S&G songs (is that even the official abbreviation?) and I can't wait for you to listen to it.


Raccon Racoon is a chamber folk duo from France.

Léa and Léonard, who have been a couple for seven years, started writing music together in 2016, while they were living in Belgium.
They soon had enough material and released their debut EP, "Our Love's Funeral", in February 2017 via the German label Majestic Casual Records.

Their second EP, "Dawn Chrous", was written in the heart of the Italian Alps and released earlier this year.
Racoon Racoon recorded in Belgium, and together with musicians from Brussels' Philharmonic Orchestra such as Thomas Fiorini (double bass) and Emile Verstraeten (violin, mandolin) which Léo had met while working as a set-up engineer for Ramin Djawadi.

On July 13th, they've released their beautiful cover of "The Sound Of Silence", an iconic song by the ever so brilliant Simon & Garfunkel.

Most of us acoustic fans probably adore the track.
We might've grown up with it or we found the track later on in life.

Either way, most of us know it - and if you don't, this doesn't make you any less cool. You've got all the time in the world to discover the classics, so please don't let anyone shame you for not knowing them all just yet.

Wheew, that got deep.

Let's let the music take over and let's all dive headfirst into this beautiful cover.


Listen to "The Sound Of Silence" performed by Racoon Racoon right here:



Racoon Racoon online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram | Spotify


Now, let's check out Racoon Racoon's personal playlist!
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1) a song which makes you dance

"Soup For Brains" by David Whoolhouse

This song triggers something I can't quite grasp, but anytime I listen to it I feel like dancing in my living room with a glass of Martini and a pyjama on. Absolutely sexy.


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2) a song that calms you down
"The Chopin Project" by Ólafur Arnalds & Alice Sara Ott

Particularly the first track, "Verses", and "Reminiscence", but I usually listen to the whole album almost each day in the morning when I do yoga. I think I'll never get bored of it.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Cold Water" by Damien Rice

This song is historic for Léo and I. It echoes to the first moment we were together. (Cheesy.)


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Veridis Quo" by Daft Punk

Don't know why, but this song is deeply nostalgic to me.
When I listen to it, I feel overwhelmed by something beautiful and sad. It has a touch of classic combined with a rhythm that goes on and on and never stops, as if life would, and will, continue whether or not you're on board.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Bunker" by Balthazar

We discovered Balthazar going to an Editors concert years ago in Paris.
They were their support band and we fell in love with them that day. I've been listening to their songs since then, especially their last album, "Thin Walls", and this track, "Bunker". We're also huge fans of their recent solo projects.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"Life In Vain" by Daniel Johnston

I discovered Daniel thanks to NPR tiny desk.
This track is legendary.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"Feels Like Home" by Marti West

This song is really cool, I like it very much.
It is really cool and sounds warm. Marti produced it alone, I was really impressed when I first heard it.


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And that's it!
Did you enjoy Racoon Racoon's selection? Did you discover a new track?
Let us know!



Previous 7 songs features: Jackson Dyer | Simon Alexander | GOUX | Meadowlark





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro & Outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Words (Song Selection): Racoon Racoon | Image: Julien Fourcade

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7 songs: Jackson Dyer

Hey guys!

It's a Monday and I'm super stoked!
I've had some juicy pineapple for breakfast, the sun is shining, I'm blasting my favourite songs AND (drum roll, please!) the "7 songs" are back.

It's been a while and I've just realised how much I've missed the feature.
I love love love finding out what everyone listens to, but combining that with finding out why they love the songs and what they connect with them just takes things to another level.

So I'm not going to waste any more time - because we've got tunes to listen to!


Today our guest Jackson Dyer treats us to a brilliant playlist, so let's get to know him!


Jackson Dyer is a singer/songwriter originally from Sydney (AUS), now based in Berlin (GER).

His sound intertwines the classic singer/songwriter elements, Soul and Alternative with such grace.
He spent years playing his music on the streets and stages of Europe, played tons of festivals and supported acts such as Hozier, Hiatus Kaiyote, Mighty Oaks and Alice Phoebe Lou.

After all of that, he went back home to Australia to write and record his debut album. In a calming town in Northern NSW, he produced and created what we are about to hear - so buckle up and prepare for some Australian landscape inspired sounds.


In case you are Berlin based, lucky you - you've got the chance to see Jackson live at Baumhaus Bar on July 26th - here's the event.


Check out Jackson's performance of his song "Steal Away" here:




Jackson Dyer online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | Instagram


Let's check out Jackson's selection!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Pull Up To The Bumper" by Grace Jones

When I was a kid, my family would go on holidays to a small beachside town north of Sydney.
My Aunty and my Mum would often sing this song at the top of their voices and my cousins and I would think it is incredibly embarrassing.
 Now, whenever I hear this song, I am the one embarrassing whoever is close by with my "dancing".


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2) a song that calms you down
"Canto de Xangô" by Fabiano do Nascimento

This man makes some incredibly beautiful music and this whole album, "Tempo Dos Mestres", is one of my favourites at the moment. One of those timeless releases that speak directly to the soul.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"re: Stacks" by Bon Iver

This song has accompanied me through many hard and also incredibly positive times.
Every time I listen to it, I can hear something different in the lyrics and production.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"If You Got The Money" by Jamie T

Reminds me of simpler times when I was younger and had just discovered the joys and pitfalls of an ice cold beer, haha.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Velvet Gloves & Spit" by Timber Timbre

This song has only been out for about a year, but it has been on high rotation at home and I think it will be a favourite for a long time to come.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"Wililé" by Fatoumata Diawara

I don't really have a particular "favourite genre", but I've really been enjoying Malian and West African folky/blues music for a while. I remember seeing Fatoumata Diawara perform a while ago and it sparked an intense interest in the beautiful music from this part of the world.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"If You Need To, Keep Time On Me" by Fleet Foxes

When Fleet Foxes announced that they were releasing a new album after a 6 year hiatus, I was super surprised and excited, as I thought that they'd never release any music again and that I'd never get to see them play live.
I was over the moon when I was able to see them last year for the first time!


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And that's it!
Did you enjoy Jackson's playlist?
Let us know in the comment or our social media channels.



Previous 7 songs features: Simon Alexander | GOUX | Meadowlark | Arlissa




Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro & Outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Words (about songs) & Image: Jackson Dyer

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7 songs: Simon Alexander

Hey guys!

We've already completed the first week of May 2018 - 

isn't that crazy?

I mean, I know, we all say it all the time - but time flies and we genuinely hope that you're making the most of your time.
And just to clarify, "making the most of your time" doesn't always mean constanly working hard and never taking any breaks- no. In fact, I think in order to make the most of the time we have,

we also need to relax and make sure we're actually living in the moment.

And in order to do that, we will continue to find the coolest playlists for you guys - so lean back and enjoy the music.


Today we have another guest DJ taking over and it's Simon Alexander!


Simon Alexander is a singer/songwriter from Göteborg, Sweden. 
 
His sound walks on the fine line between Folk and Indie and combines those key elements seemingly effortlessly, creating a sound that sweeps you off your feet, while still keeping you grounded with honest and storytelling lyrics.

Influenced by the early day heroes such as Jeff Buckley and Neil Young, it's no surprise that nowadays he's drawn to the sounds of Hozier and Matt Corby.

Simon has always had a big interest in music and spent the majority of his time as a drummer in multiple constellations, all while also working on his own material.

In 2015 the project Distant City Light released "Cold Shiver", which marked Simon's first release as a songwriter.
He then moved to Malmö, where he continued his music studies and kept on working on his solo music.

In Summer of 2016 he met up with Tobias Ekqvist and started working on his debut EP "Won't Be Found", which then got self-released on February 15th 2017.
 
This EP got him signed by Rehn Music Group which recently celebrated the release of his single "Slide".


Listen to "Slide" right here:




Simon Alexander online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram



Let's check out Simon's selection!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Bad Bad News" by Leon Bridges

I loved Leon's previous record and had been waiting for some new music when he released this one a couple of weeks ago.
I've been jammin' to it ever since. I really can't help myself when I walk around with it in my headphones, the groove is just too good. In the music video he's even dancing to it himself!


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2) a song that calms you down
"Shepherd" by Anais Mitchell

Before I knew anything about her, someone compared me to her in a YouTube comment, so obviously I had to check her out. In my search I stumbled across a live video of her performing on NPR Tiny Desk Concert and I just fell for this lovely song.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Death With Dignity" by Sufjan Stevens

If someone asks me for a singer/songwriter that can convey true emotions, then Sufjan is my go-to-guy.
This song centers around the death of his mother, and he fully grabs your attention and tells his story. If you're not moved by this, then you're just cold.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Going To California" by Led Zeppelin

With several Zeppelin tattoos on my body I can't deny that this band has meant a lot to me.
My dad got me hooked on them from an early age and they've kept me company for as long as I can remember. "Going To California" always stood out for me and was constantly played on my vinyl player during my late teens and early twenties.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Old Man" by Neil Young

The same goes for "Old Man" as above.
I remember it from when I was young, but started listening to it more when I heard it in the film "Lords Of Dogtown" from 2005. From there on it has stayed as one of my favorite songs, even to this day.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"Angela" by The Lumineers

Their "Cleopatra" record must be one of the best folk records of this decade.
Every song offers some seriously good songwriting, and to me singer Wesley Schultz defines what is a perfect vocallist for this genre.
I find myself playing "Angela" way too often, but it's just such a good song.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"33 "God"" by Bon Iver

I can't make a list like this and not mention Justin Vernon.
I mean, I've been a rabid fan for years but weirdly enough not yet been able to go and see him live. No matter what record he could've put out as a follow-up to his sophomore album, I knew I'd love it. But sure did he surprise me with the direction he went, creating something completely different from what fans were expecting. And to no suprise... I totally loved it.


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And that was Simon Alexander's playlist - did you enjoy it?



Previous 7 songs features: GOUX | Meadowlark | Arlissa | Marion Harper





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro & Outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Words (7 songs): Simon Alexandder | Image: Ian Moloney via PR kit

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7 songs: GOUX

Hey guys!

I've recently been asked why this feature is called "7 songs".

Well, if you were expecting a super deep answer for it - I'm sorry to disappoint you.
The reason is that I like the number 7 and it turned out to work so well because I found seven emotions I wanted to cover.

So, things don't always need to have a deeper meaning in order to make sense, right?
Anyways, let's dive into today's post.


Today our guest DJ is GOUX, so let's get to know her!


GOUX is the project of a singer/songwriter and producer based in Manchester, UK.
She's spent the past year locked in her bedroom to work on her music, experimenting with different synthesizers and drum machines.

Inspired by artists like Lapsley and HONNE, combined with her love for the sounds of the 80s, GOUX has created her very own Electro-Pop sound.

So far she released three singles, before then dropping her debut EP, a selftitled four-track, just last week on April 27th. 


Listen to her latest single "Red Light" here:




GOUX online: Website | Facebook | Soundcloud | Instagram


Let's check out GOUX's selection!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Higher" by Groove Junkies x Scott K ft. Indeya

So pleased that Spotify discovery churned out this belter of a tune a few months back.
Groove Junkies have a knack at making people want to move their feet and keep the party going, this would definitely be my essential party tune.


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2) a song that calms you down
"Only You" by Satin Jackets

I would say this tune gets played at least once every bus journey I take, it just never gets old.
The thing about this track is that it fits in any scenario, whether it be sat on the bus, at home in bed with a cuppa or even on a night out, it's just so chilled and feel good with a bouncy beat that keeps things pushing along nicely.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Always" by Shook

I wouldn't say this tune has a specific memory or meaning attached to it for me, however I do remember when I first heard it, feeling choked over the arrangement and melodies, the piano can convey so much emotion and the vocals aren't overdone. Sometimes less is more!


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Makes Me Wonder" by Maroon 5

This tune.
Oh wow, this song sends me straight back to 2007, I absolutely LOVED this band all round to be honest and still listen to the first three albums on odd occasions, it's kind of a shame the way that they have progressed since but hey, at least we still have the memoires!


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"DX7" by Dabeull ft. Holybrune

Again I would say that this tune gets played at least once every time I'm on the go.
This song was the turning point for me in electronic music, it inspired me to swap out my guitar for hardware synthesizers and also to approach songwriting in a completely different way.
Dabeull has a natural gift when it comes to melody and synthesis, I haven't heard one bad tune from him yet.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"Ya Just Need 2 Believe in Yaself" by Folamour

This is a recent find if I'm honest, but by god did it leave an impression.
I absolutely love chilled, feel good, melodic house tracks and this tune ticks every box.
Trying to pin down specific 'stand out' elements of this song is difficult as it is an absolute all round banger.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"Hard Times" by Paramore

I wasn't following Paramore at the time when this single came out, but I stumbled upon it shortly after its release and was pleasantly surprised to hear how a band I once loved as a kid had progressed and grown with its audience. I was immediately on board with their new sound!


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And that was GOUX playlist - what do you think?



Previous 7 songs features: Meadowlark | Arlissa | Marion Harper | Jalen N'Gonda





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro & Outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Image & Words (7 songs): GOUX

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7 songs: Meadowlark

Hey guys!

Have you ever thought about how powerful music really is?

I mean, think about it.
A song can be enough to get you on your feet to dance.
A song can be the reminder of a memory you've stored in the back if your mind.
A song can be what makes you feel understood.

The list could go on forever, but you get the point.

We love the power of music and our "7 songs" feature is here to celebrate the different emotions caused by music.

Today we have the fantastic duo Meadowlark here to chat about their choices of songs.


But first, let's get to know them.


Meadowlark are an Alternative duo based in Bristol, UK consisting of Kate McGill and Dan Broadley.

Both members had a musical background and career before starting the band

Kate had tens of millions of views on her YouTube channel for her broad variety of covers.
She released an alubm, had her tracks featured on Radio 2 and spent time in Los Angeles to write with renowned hitmakers.

Dan played in various rockbands and was earning a reputation as a great director who has worked with the likes of Don Broco, Lower Than Atlantis and Mallory Knox.

Kate didn't want to be known for covering other peoples' songs and had plenty of material on her own. Meanwhile Dan's musical taste changed and the struggle to find like-minded band mates was too much.

They had known of each other, Kate reached out and soon after a jam session the band was born.
Before they even had a band name or any finished songs recorded, they got asked to support Bastille.

Since then they've released multiple EPs, ("Dual" in 2015, "Paraffin" in 2016, "Nocturnes" in 2017) and their debut album "Postscards" in June of 2017.


Check out Meadowlark's music video for "Postcards" here:




Meadowlark online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram


Now, let's check out Meadowlark's selection!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Do It" by Rae Morris

There is something so infectious about this song, we can't help but dance to it whenever we hear it.


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2) a song that calms you down
"On The Nature Of Daylight" by Max Richter

This is such a soothing song, it will always leave me feeling tranquil.


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Daydreaming" by Radiohead

There is loads of speculation on the meaning behind this song, I'll let you all dig around to see what you make of it.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes" by Paul Simon

This just takes me back to growing up with my dad.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Danger Signs" by Polyenso

This has been with us since the start of Meadowlark.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"Moona Festival" by Polyenso

It's hard not to put a Polyenso song for every answer, but in regards to genre, these guys do Indie Alt. Pop beautifully.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"In My View" by Young Fathers

I never had myself down as a Young Fathers fan, but this song is really addictive.


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And those were Meadowlark's picks!
What did you think? Make sure to let us know!



Previous 7 songs features: Arlissa | Marion Harper | Jalen N'Gonda | Hannah Slavin






Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro & Outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Image & Words (song selection): Meadowlark

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7 songs: Arlissa

Hey guys!

What have you been listening to lately?
And what have you been listening to when you were younger?
Which song has a deeper meaning to you?

Which track makes you boogie?
And which song calms you down?

Those are just a few questions we ask our guest DJs who join us for our 7 songs features.

Today we are thrilled to listen to Arlissa's playlist, which is definitely going to make you boogie at one point.


But first, let's get to know today's playlist curator!


Arlissa is a German and American singer/songwriter based in London, UK.

Born in Hanau, Germany, the young musician knew she wanted to write and record her own music ever since she was a kid.
When her father, who played in a Prince cover band, introduce her to Prince's famous song "Purple Rain", she realised how much she wanted to make music and quickly began writing her own material at the age of 14.

Just a year later she found herself in the studio for the first time and continued to work on her vocals and performance.
At just 19 she signed her first record deal and released "Hard To Love Somebody" with NAS and "Sticks and Stones" - both song did very well.

But Arlissa didn't enjoy the restrictions that came with her contract and felt like she was losing control over her music and identity.
So she took it upon herself and published her own songs online. 
 
The acoustic version of her song "Hearts Ain't Gonna Lie" reached 1 million streams in less than a week without Arlissa having a management or following.
By now the song has been streamed almost 50 million times. 

DJ and producer Jonas Blue discovered the song and immediately knew that he wanted to be involved. And so the two artists worked on the rhythmic dance version of the track which is a first taste of Arlissa's upcoming debut album.


Check out the music video for "Hearts Ain't Gonna Lie" featuring Jonas Blue:




Arlissa online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram


Let's check out Arlissa's playlist!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Lemon" by N.E.R.D & Rihanna


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2) a song that calms you down
"Lilac Wine" by Nina Simone


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3) a song with a deep meaning
"Evergreen" by YEBBA


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Check On It" by Beyoncé ft. Bun B & Slim Thug


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Lover, You Should've Come Over" by Jeff Buckley


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6) a song from your favourite genre
- I don't have a favourite genre!!! -
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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"Hot Shit" by Towkio


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And that was Arlissa's selection - let us know what you think!


Previous 7 songs features: Marion Harper | Jalen N'Gonda | Hannah Slavin | Violetta Zironi





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words: Vanessa Jetwash | Image: via MCS Presse | Playlist: Arlissa

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