Playlist: HITS magazine

To celebrate the release of our first print issues, here's a playlist featuring all artists involved.

HITS x Berlin

We hosted our very first live gig in Berlin - and this is what it looked like.

Cover The HITS

Our latest video series - covers performed by our favourite acts, exclusively for us.

Video Interview: Scenic Route To Alaska

Melting away in front of Stuttgart's castle, we had a chat about touring, band names, Toy Story and a lot more.

Find us on YouTube!

Visit us on the 'tubes for interviews, exclusive performances and outtakes.

Showing posts with label electronic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label electronic. Show all posts

Song Of The Day: "Time" by Jack Garratt

6th February 2020 //

Hey everyone!

Jack Garratt is back and team HITS is thrilled!

We have been fans of his sound since we first heard "Water", back in 2016.
Soon after we got to interview him and had a blast. His live shows are mindblowing and his tweets are hilarious.

As the cool kids say - what's not to stan?
(Note: we are not the cool kids and have no idea what that means, but let's roll with it.)

Please join us as we dive into Jack's new music.


- Track Of The Day -
"Time" by Jack Garratt



Much like we were, the world was introduced to Jack back in 2016.
He won the industry over with "Worry", "Breathe Life" and "Surprise Yourself", showcasing a huge ability for multi-tasking on stage with his mindblowing setup.

Winning awards and selling out shows globally soon became the norm for Jack, yet it came with a lot of confusion and times of feeling alone and scared. Those emotions and experiences have led the musician to writing and recording his new record.

He just announced the release date for his second album, "Love, Death & Dancing", which will be released on May 29th and is available for pre-order.

Jack says about the upcoming album: "The album was written from the point of view of someone who has a functioning sadness, who has had his day-to-day depressions and anxieties that have influenced the decisions he's made. The album is about that functionality, that day-to-day battle, conversation, tug of war."

The first installment of songs, "Vol. 1", is out now and features the first single, "Time", along with two other tracks which Jack will be playing at his upcoming live shows, you can get tickets here.

"Time" is gentle, yet lively.
It's a celebration of making it through hard times, of hope and of reflection.

His warm and soulful vocals immediately fill your ears, guiding you through the colourful instrumentals with such ease.

Jack plays with sounds much like a painter would with drops of colour.
The outcome? Delicate, yet confident art.  


Each element has its place as they all collide into a journey of discovery. As a listener there's nothing more exciting than to sit down and listen to find as many layers as you can.

It's no surprise that Jack would come back with something so powerful and expressive.



Watch the music video for "Time" right here:




- buy and/or stream "Time" here -



Jack Garratt online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram







Thank you for your visit!












Credits // Words: Vanessa Jetwash | Image: Jack Wangner (via Island Records)

Song Of The Day: "Black Hole" by JØUR



Hey guys!

Happy Monday!
Are you enjoying the week?

I read the news this morning, and besides all the absolute madness all over the planet, it also said that we're expecting a heatwave over here this week.
I am not too thrilled about that - but I'm prepared and have decided to dedicate this week to sitting at the desk, typing away.

It defintely sounds more inviting than all-day outdoor shoots.

So, prepare yourselves for hot (literally) updates this week.
Let's see what I'll get done in this heat.

We're warming up (literally) with an extremely cool (not literally, but cool as in hip) track,
which I'm super excited about.


- Song Of The Day -
"Black Hole" by JØUR


JØUR is a singer/songwriter from Minnesota, US.

We usually read the artists' bios and then sum them up to give you the quick run-down in our own words.

But this time we would love for you to read JØUR's official bio:

 
"JØUR is contrast. head vs heart. light vs dark. clear vs obscure. minimalism vs complexity. analog vs electronic. 
All of these elements, often pitted against each other, find themselves simultaneously alive and true in a beautiful paradox on JØUR’s newest releases. In the space between loud and quiet, power and serenity, JØUR dances boldly yet delicately. Her deeply contemplative lyrics are framed in accessible alt-pop sensibilities and beats.
 Songs which ask the questions of life’s purpose or express doubts about the future are yet winsome and inviting as JØUR’s vocals flit between angelic delicacy and explosive power. Pairing electronic minimalism with elegant musical composition, JØUR achieves what is both timeless and relevant."

Now why did we let you read this?
Because it's exactly what we would've written, but it's worded a lot better. 

Listening to one of JØUR's tracks is enough to fall in love with her sound;
it's exciting and it allows you to discover more.

Her latest single "Black Hole" is a statement track which we all need on our playlists.

JØUR's vocals are the one element that stays on the same level of attention-grabbing from start to finish.
While the cleverly arranged instrumental ebbs and flows, giving the track space when it's needed, the vocals draw you in with every note.

JØUR's voice gently tells the story of being in a toxic relationship in the verses, while in the chorus the catchy and relatable words almost act like a reminder to ourselves - all delivered with a soaring and controlling voice. 

To sum this up real quick for you; this track is gold and you need to hear it.



Listen to "Black Hole" right here:




- stream the song here -



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





Thank you for your visit!













Credits // Words: Vanessa Jetwash | Image: JØUR | *quote taken from JØUR's website*

Interview: Matthew Mole



Hey guys!

I remember the first time I sat down to do research for an interview.
That was in 2012 and I honestly had no clue what I was doing, so my Google search history looked a lot like this:
- how do you interview musicians?
- how to do research for interviews
- what did I get myself into?

Hundreds of interviews, intense journalism studies and six years later, I don't need Google's help anymore, but actually fell in love with the process of researching and forming interview questions.

It's interesting having to structure conversations before they even happen and it's so wonderful getting to learn more about the artists behind the music we enjoy.


Today we get to share a conversation we had with the brilliant Matthew Mole,
so please let us introduce you to this fantastic artist.


Matthew Mole is a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter from Cape Town, South Africa.

His sound combines Folk, Electronic and Pop in such seemingly effortlessly manner, delivering live sets which convince on all fronts.

In 2011 Matthew released his debut EP "You did well, kid" independently and offered multiple songs for free.
A year later he won Converse's "Get Out Of The Garage" competition along with a gig in London's 100 Club and a recording session at the Converse studio in New York.
He then signed to Just Music and released his second EP, "Same Parts, Same Heart" in December of 2012.

In 2014 Matthew released his album "The Home We Built" as a double CD featuring 32 tracks.

2017 saw the release of his latest LP, "Run", which features some of Matthew's finest work to date.


If you are based in Europe, you'll be able to check out Matthew's energetic live shows yourself - here are the dates:

30th May - Kulturladen, Konstanz (GER)
1st June - Bregenz Life Festival, Bregenz (AT)
2nd June - Degginger, Regensburg (GER)
3rd June - Konzerthaus Schüür, Lucerne (CH)
7th June - Molotow, Hamburg (GER)
8th June - Surfana Festival, Bloemendaal (NL)
10th June - Tunes in The Dunes, Cornwall (UK)
13th June - Merlyn, Nijmegen (NL)
14th June - Paradiso, Amsterdam (NL)
19th June - Blueshell, Cologne (GER)
20th June - Club Stereo, Nuremberg (GER)
21st June - Fluc, Leopoldstadt (AT)


- click here to get tickets -





Below you'll find our conversation with Matthew and you'll get to learn more about him and his art.

house in the sand: Hi Matthew, thanks so much for taking the time to have this chat!
How are you today?

Matthew Mole: Thank YOU for having me! I'm doing great, thanks! Can't wait to be back in your amazing part of the world.

HITS: So, you'll be on tour again very soon, coming back to Europe.
How do you prepare for a tour? Do you have a routine when it comes to rehearsals?

Matthew: I have been playing extensively around South Africa with quite a lot of festival shows happening here.
We have been working towards the strongest live set possible, to put on a fun show for audiences here at home. All of this, at the same time leaving room to make a few adjustments for the audiences in Europe.
That way we are constantly working with basically the same live set here trying to make it as tight as possible for Europe!

HITS: What's your favourite thing about performing live?

Matthew: It's always about the interaction with the audiences. I mean, if they weren't there, then the show would be a little awkward!
So my favorite part is trying to give them as much energy as possible and seeing how that gets reciprocated.

HITS: We've seen some footage of you performing and you actually take your drums into the crowds, which looks so cool! So how did you come up with the idea to do that? And what are the reactions like?

Matthew: I've always loved the idea of doing different things away from the stage at times.
It just moves the whole focus of the show for those few seconds or minutes. I've seen a few bands go into the audiences with instruments and I really wanted to try it out!
It's been so much fun to do, so I've just kept try to do it! 

HITS: Not too long ago you've supported Bastille live - first of all, what was that experience like?
And secondly, if you had to pick any band or aritst to support you on tour, whom would pick?

Matthew: That really was an amazing experience. They are a band that I love, which is a massive bonus. I learnt a lot from them, from how they are with people to how they set everything up on stage.

When it comes to bands opening for me, that's really difficult because I'm still trying to work towards that kind of things, haha! But I love it when there's an opportunity for youger/up-and-coming bands and artists to open up shows!



HITS: How did you meet your band?

Matthew: It's really just myself and a drummer.
There are three of them, depending on whose schedule works best for the tours. Josh Klynsmith is coming with on this tour.
We met years ago in South Africa when I used to play solo shows. He plays for a band called Gangs Of Ballet and we play lots of shows together here in SA. Same with the other two drummers, they both play for other bands.

HITS: Do you have your "must-haves" when it comes to live gear? Are you specific with the brands you use?

Matthew: I do have a few favorite brands, but only because that's all I have used for most of musical experience. I've gone through a few different acoustic guitars and I think I am still figuring out which is my favourite. I love Shure gear, their electronics have played a huge role in my live set.

HITS: Do you ever get writer's block? If so, how do you handle it?

Matthew: I do! But I think it's just overthinking. So when I feel stuck, then I either move on to a different idea/song or I just take a quick break from what I am working on.

HITS: What are your thoughts on Social Media? Do you ever find yourself needing a break from it?

Matthew: Social media is great. It's an amazing tool to spread your music, but most of all it's the best way to engage with followers from all over the world in real time.
I often get a bit overwhelmed and tired from Social Media, but I try and keep consistency and then it becomes a little more natural.

HITS: We've built a house in the sand - if you were to build a house anywhere in the world, where would you build it and why?

Matthew: I've always told my parents, since I was like four years old, that one day I will get them a house. So I would love to build them a house here in South Africa. They would choose to live in Cape Town, so I'd find the best part of Cape Town and build one for them there!





Matthew Mole online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram



Big thank you to Matthew for taking the time to have a chat with us.
And a huge thank you to Barbara for arranging this conversation.




Thank you for your visit!












 Credits // Words (Intro & Questions): Vanessa Jetwash | Answers: Matthew Mole | Image: Tyler Walker via Matthew Mole

EP Review: "Love & Other Things" by Alan Tukmatsev ft. John Thacker



Hey guys!

I remember when I first started out pursueing a job that mainly revolves around creativity,
I did a lot of research.
When you are meant to be creative every single day of the week, there come times when it gets harder.

To prevent those dry spells, a lot of internet gurus tell you to collaborate.

And it works, it really does.
Working together with people helps you expand your knowledge, skill set and creativity.

And in the best case, those collaborations have an end result which not only you get to call a success, but also the people you share it with will enjoy it.

Alan Tukmatsev and John Thacker teamed up and created a new EP, which we think is a total success.


Let's check it out!


Acts: Alan Tukmatsev ft. John Thacker
Title: Love & Other Things
Genre: Dance, Pop
Label: Independent
Release Date: 29th December 2017

Tracklist:
1) Don't Need You
2) Boys Don't Cry
3) Throwback

Opener "Don't Need You" greets you with an ambient and slightly mysterious feeling.
The song quickly evolves into a danceable track, asking for your attention.
With a subtle but steady beat, the instrumentation can be described as simple but every elements has an effect.
John's vocals complete the song, guide you through the emotions and project them onto the track by varying between soft and raspy highlights.

"Throwback" gets a bit more experimental and gives us more to digest.
The melody is colourful, the beat is vibrant and active, the vocals mix in perfectly and create the addictive vibe the song has to offer.
It's the kind of song that will remind you of Summer, of carefree times and it most definitely is going to make you dance. Whether you're up for it or not.

To sum it up: This collaboration was much needed and we're glad we got to share it with you.
Alan's instrumentals already speak for themselves but they feel a lot more vibrant thanks to John's vocals. The storytelling on the EP is vivid and relatable, it hits you right in the gut.
Play this when you need motivation and you should be fine.



You should listen to these tracks: Don't Need You, Throwback



Check out the "Love & Other Things" EP here:




Alan Tukmatsev online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram


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





Thank you for your visit!
















Credits // Words: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Alan Tukmatsev

Behind The Song: "She" by Kiirstin Marilyn



Hey guys!

I have some life advice for you today:
always collaborate with people.

What I mean by that?
Talk about your ideas, let others contribute to your ideas, allow creativity and different thoughts to unfold and optimise your ideas.

When I created the "Behind The Song" feature, I only ever thought of it as a written feature.
That was until I had a lovely chat with the fantastic Kiirstin Marilyn, who had the idea of recording a video of her answering the questions I had.
Of course I loved the idea and so now this feature also exists in video form.

Behind The Song:
- "She" by Kiirstin Marilyn -


Kiirstin Marilyn is a singer/songwriter from New York, USA.
Her sound varies between Alternative, Electronic and Pop- creating the unique and energetic sound she is known for.

Kiirstin has been co-writing with other acts and has been performing in bands since 2005.
In 2011 things started to change and she found herself on her solo career path.

Her debut EP "Something to Die For" was released in 2012, ever since Kiirstin has released more music and started to opening up, telling stories about her struggles and successes. She soon found her political and social voice, which she represents in her music.

Her most recent single, "She", is the first taste of what we can expect of Kiirstin's debut album.
 

Kiirstin took the time to chat us through the process of writing the song. 

She shares who inspired her to write it, why she thinks it's an anthem for women and she tells us more about the video shoot for the impressive video.




Now that you know all about the song and the video shoot, please make sure to check out "She" below.




- get the song: here -


Kiirstin Marilyn online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!
















Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image & Video: Kiirstin Marilyn

Day 8: Panic Tree | #HITSBC17



Hey guys!

One thing I really want to achieve with this countdown, is to offer you a variety of genres and outfits.
For this year's lineup I've picked singer/songwriters, bands and duos.
I wanted a good balance of men and women on board and I think that variety is starting to become obvious.

house in the sand is all about variety and equality and therefore we would like all our readers to be like that too.
Check out genres you might not be familiar with and give every artist the chance to be your next favourite.

That said - let's find some new music today, shall we?


What is #HITSBC17?
HITSBC17 stands for house in the sand's Birthday Countdown 2017.
Throughout the entire month of February, we are going to celebrate house in the sand's fifth birthday.
(Because why celebrate on one day, if you can celebrate for an entire month, right?)
With the support from some of the finest artists and bands around, each day in February will be filled with an exclusive performance just for us.

Who is performing today?
Panic Tree.
They are an Alternative/Electronic-Pop duo based in Berlin, Germany.

With A. Seiffert on guitar, keys and vocals and T.H. Krohn on guitar and vocals - the duo has easily created their signature sound; dark male vocals meet light female vocals and strong beats unite with delicate synths.

Formed in 2012, the duo released their first EP within their first 12 months of working together.
In 2015, Panic Tree released their debut album "Hyena".

What needs to be said about this performance?
The song hasn't been released yet which makes things even more exciting, right?
Panic Tree are giving us a taster of their next album and are showcasing their fantastic signature sound.
I say let's pour ourselves a drink and enjoy this!

Ladies and lads - please give it up for Panic Tree performing their song "Blackbird Sitting" for us.





Where can we find Panic Tree online?
Website | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram

Who deserves a thank you?
The wonderful Anja for being so great to work with!
And of course to Anja and Timo for recording the video for us. It's absolutely fantastic to have them celebrate with us.

What can we do now?
If you enjoyed this video and post, please help us reach more people.
Share it online along with the hashtag #HITSBC17.
We would love to hear what you think, so please feel free to comment.


And that's a wrap for day 8!
I'm so excited for you to see the rest of the videos and cannot wait to hear from you.




Day 7:                                                                                                Day 9:
http://houseinthesand.com/2017/02/day-7-chris-stringer-hitsbc17.html                                                                        http://houseinthesand.com/2017/02/day-9-dan-dietrich-hitsbc17.html




Thank you for your visit!














Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Panic Tree | Video: Panic Tree for house in the sand

Performance Of The Day: "Weathered" by Jack Garratt



Hey guys!

When I was doing the "end of the year" post recently, in which I listed every post we published in 2016, I realised I hadn't written about my favourite song of the year.

That actually surprised me because I've told a lot of people to listen to the song,
I just never got around to post it on here.

But the time has come, today I'll be sharing one of my favourite songs with you.

- "Weathered" by Jack Garratt -

Jack Garratt is a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter from London, UK.
The musician who grew up in Buckinghamshire, UK started making music, or "noises" as he calls it himself, at a very young age.

With a talent not too many people have, Jack manages to combine multiple genres and creates a sound which is mix of electronic beats, dirty e-guitar riffs, jazzy piano parts and a voice that's just a varying as the instrumentals; ranging from a warm, deep voice to a brilliant falsetto, to moments where nothing is raspier than Garratt's voice.

So far he released three EPs:
Remnants (2014)
Remnix (2014)
Synthesiac (2015)

And earlier this year, Jack Garratt celebrated the release of his debut record, "Phase".

His skills and sounds received the BBC Sound Of 2016 award, as well as the Critics Choice Award at the Brit Awards 2015.

His endless amount of gigs, festivals and sessions is always filled with some surprises.
From covering the Spice Girls classic "Wannabe" on tour, to his mindblowing Live Lounge cover of "7 Days" by Craig David and "Senorita" by Justin Timberlake.


Whilst I would highly recommend to check out the music video (and studio version) of Jack's song "Weathered" (click here), I personally adore his live performances of the song.

For the BRITs 2016 Critics' Choice Session, Jack played a stripped back version of "Weathered".
 He usually does his acoustic performances with an electric guitar but picked up the steel guitar for this one.

This song has a very personal meaning to me, which I don't want to write about - simply because it's too personal.

However, I think it's pretty easy to dive into this song, whether you connect with it or not.
The lyrics tell a beautiful story and have so much meaning.

The way Jack arranged this version really underlines the intimacy of the song. Guitar and vocals duetting, Jack's voice varying from calm to raspy and intense.
Even with an acoustic performance, this guy manages to showcase the dynamic his music stands for.

I could ramble about this for days, but who would want to read that?

Have a listen instead!





Jack Garratt online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




Thank you for your visit! 














Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: via Jack Garratt / photography by Steve Turvey

EP Review: "The Last First One" by Neil Noa



Hey guys!

Happy New Year!
I hope you've all had a great start and are feeling well.

With today's post we're officially kicking off 2017 on house in the sand. Here's to another year of presenting some of the finest music to you!

I personally cannot wait to see how many artists we are going to discover this year. Last year we got to introduce you to some incredible artists who quickly made it onto our favourites list.

Over here, we have a feeling that 2017 is going to be filled with fantastic releases and debuts.

Today we are going to tell you more about Neil Noa's debut EP.
Yep, we're kicking it off in style!

Artist: Neil Noa
Title: The Last First One
Genre: Electronic, R'n'B, Soul
Label: Independent
Release Date: 8th December 2016

Neil Noa is a solo artist from Liverpool, England.

The first piece of music the musician has uploaded was his song "Forever Gone".
Out of 6000 entries for the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Contest, Neil Noa made it onto the shortlist with the song, which is also featured on the EP.

His debut EP "The Last First One" has already gotten Neil the support of the BBC.

Tracklist:
1) On Repeat
2) Forever Gone
3) Same Placed Heart

Opener "On Repeat" sets the scene for the EP in a very graceful manner.
The very sensual beats give the song a lot of grip but still leave room for the artist's voice in order to lead you through the track.
As the listener, you get to take a very calming vibe away from the song. The production of the instrumental is so well done, it allows you to discover all the details.
Neil Noa's soulful and enjoyable vocals alone are reason enough to listen to this release.
However, his writing skills should not be overlooked.

"Same Placed Heart" just broadens the variety of the EP.
Even though it sticks to the laid back atmosphere of the EP, it still stands out.
The relaxed and soothingly played guitar duets with the vocals and therefore creates a depth that gently dives into the world of R'n'B elements.
You can easily find yourself lost in the song, as it is enchantingly hypnoticing. Neil's voice deepens the intensity in a passionate, yet smooth way.

To sum it up: "The Last First One" is a fantastic debut EP.
It gives you a great idea of what to expect from Neil Noa, yet it still leaves you wanting more. By achieving that effect, the musician has created a brilliant way of introducing himself to the public.



You should listen to these tracks: give the entire EP a spin!





--> Get the EP here. <--


Neil Noa online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!














Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Neil Noa

Gig Photos: Porter Robinson & Madeon at Wamu Theater, Seattle



Hey guys!

I'm very excited to introduce you to another new team member!

We now have an incredibly talented photographer from Seattle, USA join us - Cissy Ding.

I am so happy with how things are going for us and how we know get to cover concerts from all over the world.

A bit of inside info for you - I prefer having the photographers request shows they would like to photograph; that way we get to fill house in the sand with music that we truly enjoy.

Cissy just photographed her first show for HITS and I can't wait for you to see the photos below.

You can get to know Cissy here.


Please also support her online: website | facebook | instagram

____________________________________________________________

Date: 10th December 2016
Venue: Wamu Theater, Seattle

Support Act #1: Robotaki





Robotaki is an electropop and funk artist from Toronto, Canada.

Listen to Robotaki here:



Robotaki online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




__________________________________________________________________

Support Act #2: San Holo





San Holo is a DJ, composer & producer from Zoetermeer, Netherlands.

Listen to San Holo here:



San Holo online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram









___________________________________________________________________

Headliner: Porter Robinson & Madeon




Porter Robinson is a producer & DJ from Chapel Hill, US,
mainly focusing on electro house, progressive house and dubstep.

Madeon is an electro pop producer from Nantes, France.


Listen to Porter Robinson & Madeon here:



Porter Robinson online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram

Madeon online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram






























Thank you for your vist!








&  







Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Photography: Cissy Ding | **a ticket & photo pass have kindly been provided**

Video Premiere: "Rise Up" by Bella Loka



Hey guys!

So, it's Autumn!
I'm sure I'm not the only person who loves the warm, yet breezy vibe this time of the year has offer.
I think the atmosphere of this season is never the same, it's always unique - every single year.
And to me, that's magical.

Maybe you'll agree with me, that a lot of times music can perfectly create certain atmospheres - just like the seasons can.

Today I'm delighted to premiere the music video for Bella Loka's recent single "Rise Up".
In my opinion it creates a super magical and mysterious vibe.

Please learn more about the band, the song and the production of the video below!


Bella Loka are an electronic indie pop duo based in London, UK.
Members Tea and David Boothby have been making music together for years.

Their recent single "Rise Up", which is the opening track of Bella Loka's upcoming debut album, was produced at the famous Abbey Road Studios in London.

Tea Boothby describes the song as “a love story between the day and the night, the light and the dark. Having become separated 'in the beginning' the light and the dark are irresistibly drawn back together, with seemingly opposing chess pieces depicting how love can appear as a battle, until it's won."

The video for "Rise Up" was filmed and produced by the singer herself.
As part of the production of the video, Tea stood motionless against the iconic London skyline on Primrose Hill for 5 hours from dawn as the sun came up to film time-lapse footage of the rolling clouds and shifting shadows. 

Make sure to be one of the very first people to watch the music video for "Rise Up" now!





Bella Loka online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




Thank you for your visit!










Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Photography: Michael Robert Williams | Video & Quotes: Bella Loka

Video Interview: Jack Garratt




Hey guys!

I've recently had a little period of time for myself which I spent reflecting on my work, planning things for my future work, etc.
The main thing I adore about running a website myself, is the fact that I get to work independently which means I can decide which artist I want to feature.

The fact that I also get to work with the acts I really want to work with, is very great.
Jack Garratt has been on my playlist for a good few months and I knew I had to have a chat with him at some point.
Just a couple of days ago, we made it happen.

Jack Garratt is a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter based in London, UK.
The musician who grew up in Buckinghamshire, UK started making music, or "noises" as he calls it himself, at a very young age.

With a talent not too many people have, Jack manages to combine multiple genres and creates a sound which is mix of electronic beats, dirty e-guitar riffs, jazzy piano parts and a voice that's just a varying as the instrumentals; ranging from a warm, deep voice to a brilliant falsetto, to moments where nothing is raspier than Garratt's voice.

So far he released three EPs:
Remnants (2014)
Remnix (2014)
Synthesiac (2015)

And earlier this year, Jack Garratt celebrated the release of his debut record, "Phase".

His skills and sounds received the BBC Sound Of 2016 award, as well as the Critics Choice Award at the Brit Awards 2015.

Before he played his sold out show in Munich (review and photos will be online soon!), I had a little chat with the talented and super lovely musician.

We spoke about his gear, surprising yourself, his very beautiful song "My House Is Your Home", polaroid photography. We also played the "Song Title Challenge" which he nailed.

Enjoy!




Watch Jack do his magic in the video below:





Jack Garratt online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




With special thanks to Universal Germany for organising the interview and Jack Garratt for the lovely chat.




Thank you for your visit! 







Credits // Text, Image & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

EP Review: "Bones" by Ever



Hey guys!

Do you know what?
Diving into genres that you're not completely familiar with is such a refreshing experience!

Electro-pop is one of those genres that I can't entitle as my expertise. I sure know a thing or two about it, but I know in order to understand its' full potential, I have to dive in deeper.

And the wonderful thing about being a music blogger is, that I receive different submissions all the time.
Finding a gorgeous electro-pop submission in my emails, I had the perfect reason to sit down and get to know this genre a bit better.

Artist: Ever
Title: Bones
Genre: Electronic, Pop
Label: independent
Release: 31st October 2015
HITS rating: 8/10

Ever is a singer/songwriter from the Isle Of Wight, England.
As mentioned above, her music style can be described as electro-pop.

With a lot of personality and hard work, the female one man show has managed to build herself a loyal fan base.

So far Ever released:
Bodies (single)
Common Daze (EP)
Bones (EP)

And today I'm going to review her latest release, the "Bones" EP for you.

Tracklist:
1) Bones
2) Naturally
3) Home
4) Halloween

Opener and title track "Bones" represents Ever sound in a very classy manner. Her hauntingly beautiful voice collides with the atmospheric instrumentals.
The synths are used in a very clever and effective way. Well arranged breaks give the song a lot more grip, more intensity.

"Naturally" is one of those songs who stand out immediately. Ever's light but expressive vocals are accompanied by very melodic instrumentals. It seems like every element of the song has its' own job: The rather up beat rhythm section leads you through the song, the slightly funky snyths set an inviting scene and the honesty in Ever's voice underlines her vivid storytelling.


To sum it up: Ever definitely knows how to create atmospheric electro-pop, the way she keeps the honesty and sincerity in her songs is something you don't find every day. 
Make sure to keep an eye on this talented lady!

You should listen to these tracks: Bones, Naturally











Thank you for reading!






Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image & Sound: Ever | Ever kindly sent me a physical copy of "Bones"

Album Review: "Hyena" by Panic Tree




Hey guys!

I don't know how many times this year I got super excited about a new release.
Quite often would be a safe guess.

My excitement doubles when a band I've worked with before releases a new album. It's just so nice to hear new material from a band you really like.

I'm very happy to have a review for you which I'm very excited about.

Band: Panic Tree
Title: Hyena
Genre: Electronic, Pop
Label: Hyena Music
Release: 16th October 2015
HITS rating: 8.5/10

Panic Tree are an alternative, electro pop duo from Berlin, Germany. The duo consists of A. Seiffert on guitar, keys and vocals and T. H. Krohn on guitars and vocals.

Formed in early 2012 they released an EP called "New Monster Invasion" during their first year of making music together.
And just a few days ago the duo released their debut album, "Hyena". I'm very excited to review it for you today.

Tracklist:
1) Invisible Dance
2) Common C'mon
3) Over The Dune
4) Diamond Face
5) Scary Nature
6) The Tunnel Is Lost
7) Parrots
8) Blood Fountain
9) Happy Magic Hearts
10) Voices
11) Pictures Of The Night

Opener "Invisible Dance" presents Panic Tree's signature sound in which you'll find many contrasts; dark male vocals - light female vocals. Strong drum beats - delicate snyths.
The band works with a lot of multi layered elements and therefore sounds like so much more than a duo.

"Diamond Face" brings out the calmer side of Panic Tree. The female vocals stand out on this track; showcasing her raspy but still soft voice, A. Seiffert proves she's able to lead you through a song in a charmingly demanding way. T. H. Krohn's vocals underline and compliment the song so well.

"Scary Nature" is on the more uplifting and uptempo side of the album. The guitar work on this song is fantastic and controls the vibe of the song; the cold synths melt in the warmth of the guitars and therefore create the unique Panic Tree atmosphere.

Another song which stands out is "Voices", a very bass focused song. There's a new music video for said song, make sure to watch it below. 

To sum it up: With their sound being very experimental, it's quite difficult to genrefy Panic Tree. But actually, there's no need to have a genre when the sound is brilliant anyway. The mixture of elements, the dueting of two very different voices which collide together in a mysterious and harmonic way - it all works. 
 

You should listen to these tracks: Diamond Face, Blood Fountain, Voices





Panic Tree online: Website | Facebook | YouTube | Bandcamp





Thank you for reading!







Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Album cover: Panic Tree online