Music
James Chelliah x Cam May “i cannot tell, i do not know”
James Chelliah and Cam May are excited to release “I cannot tell, I do not know” on the 2nd of January 2022. “I cannot tell, I do not know” – a follow up to “Hold On, Pt. 2”, James’s highly-acclaimed collaboration with Moses Boyd and DARGZ – is an existential indie rap project accompanied by a graphic diary created by textile designer and illustrator Grace Joyram, which aims to present a detailed composite representing the range of emotions experienced and explored throughout the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.
The project is a clarion call for those blindly walking through a life lived within the preordained boundaries set by others, and a sonic jolt to those whose bodies and minds are tired of the endless fight against the accepted norm. It explores the odd simultaneous contentment and frustration felt by many over the past two years, juxtaposing the tranquillity of monotony against discomfiting feelings of stagnation and aimlessness brought about by pandemic life.
Cam artfully plays with contrasts of light instrumentation and minor melodies to emphasize James’ scathing lyrics, ensuring that frankness is breathed into each piece. ‘Yaldabaoth’ layers mellow guitars with probing lyrics that question the obsession with social media, the transience of young-adult friendships, and living life through a lens, before slamming the listener into ‘Slurp’, a hypnotic and provoking ode to social proof and the desire to belong. As James notes “I looked at the life I was living and decided that I’d had enough. I reassessed friendship expectations, ambitions, communication norms, wants, needs. I started to make changes to reflect what I wanted: less of everything the world told me was important.”
This theme of contrasts continues with the ripe melancholy of ‘Fullish’ and its considered contemplation of the always-online world, and the mocking sonics and lambasting lyrics of ‘Couch’. The use of interludes and instrumental tracks ‘Alone’ and ‘Emptyish’ serve to tease kernels of the potential for us to live alternate lives, and create a space to digest what has been heard prior. The project concludes with ‘Something, at least drawing the listener to relief in recognizing that there can be a route to peace in the gradual acceptance of the different reality thrust upon us. Of the graphic diary, Grace says, “Initially the imagery is complex, jumbled, and caliginous. However, as the pages turn, the visuals get clearer and more comprehensible, representing the gradual acceptance of a different reality as time passed. The outcome represents a new perspective that we were able to gain from each passing day; a slower world allowing extra contemplation.”
The message of “I cannot tell, I do not know” shines a light on a risk we all face – becoming victims of the machinations of capitalist culture which keep us falsely satiated and unquestioning. James says: “We started writing this project when we realized that we weren’t looking forward to returning to a pre-covid life. Every day feels like a fight against conditioning, a fight against the self. The weight of the old world is heavy, what we’ve learned is light. The usual is returning and I cannot stop it. But I won’t participate. I cannot tell, I do not know.”
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“Every Rain” by Luke Borchelt evokes a soulful tapestry of nostalgic life with introspective memories
Emerging singer-songwriter Luke Borchelt steps into the spotlight, making waves with his highly anticipated debut album, “Every Rain,” a heartfelt ode to life’s quiet moments, comprises a nine-track odyssey that bridges the intimate charm of the Chesapeake Bay roots with the universal resonance of timeless authenticity. This collection demonstrates Borchelt’s unique blend of country upbringing and modern soundscapes, creating nostalgically grounded and refreshingly innovative music.
Spanning just over 32 minutes, the album “Every Rain” is a masterful exploration of life’s imperfections, love’s intricacies, and the enduring impact of personal history. It begins with “Same Old Square,” Borchelt immerses listeners into a euphoric country classic drenched in youthful memory love, capturing the unassuming joy of revisiting familiar places with someone special, driven by heartfelt lyrics and strumming guitars and small-town life with his signature lyrical authenticity. The title track, “Every Rain,” follows with soulful yet melancholic undertones co-written with producer Warren Russell. This centerpiece delivers a vivid mosaic of imagery of life’s imperfections, malfunctioning trucks, and overgrown gutters, embracing the therapeutic warmth of resilience through life’s storms.
Subsequent tracks such as “Itchin’” and “Frostbit Hands“ further broaden the album’s emotional spectrum. The former ventures into unexplored realms with folk-pop soulfulness, while the latter is a modern acoustic classic work reflecting on lost friendships and the reconciliation of past errors with hopeful renewal in personal growth. “Victoria“ shifts the focus to a romantic-soaked ballad influenced by dreamy organ strums, catchy beats, and an uplifting soundscape to paint vivid snapshots of budding memories of romance, evoke late-night calls, and sweet red wine, rendering it an undeniable highlight of the album.
Borchelt’s artistic versatility is manifested in blending enchanting lyrical narrative with sonic sophistication shines in “Accent,” a nostalgic acoustic vibe co-written with Jordan Rager and Mark Irwin. Meanwhile, “Maryland Life“ and “Car Heat“ are poignant tributes to Borchelt’s upbringing and childhood memories, encapsulating his roots with soul-stirring melodies. The album concludes on a hauntingly beautiful note with “Orland, ME,” a heart-wrenching portrayal of heartbreak. Borchelt’s trembling vibrato leaves an indelible mark, lingering long after the final note fades.
Crafted meticulously, “Every Rain” constitutes an intimate adventure through Borchelt’s world. It traverses a landscape of memories characterized by shimmering melodies and genuine authenticity. Each track provides a glimpse into his creative vision, cementing his place as a compelling new voice in modern folk and soul. Luke Borchelt’s “Every Rain” promises to be a valuable addition to diverse musical playlists, appealing to listeners craving introspection and emotionally evocative depth. Don’t miss the chance to experience this profoundly remarkable debut.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Luke Borchelt’s Album “Every Rain“ on Spotify.
Artist Spotlight
Chandra delivers an anthemic dash of festive kindness in its recent single “Christmas Hugs”
The Bristol-based pop-rock quartet Chandra has unwrapped an early gift for music enthusiasts with their new single, “Christmas Hugs.” This upbeat festive bop delight is an auditory representation of a cozy fireside experience, encapsulating an intimate gathering that embodies a shimmering embrace. The track celebrates the joyous spirit of the holiday season with a hint of unapologetic nostalgia, featuring catchy melodic tunes that will resonate with listeners.
Frontman Chandra Nair leads the charge with his spirited vocals and jangly guitar riffs, while Chris Wong’s groovy basslines and Keith Jones’s upbeat drumming keep the song bouncing with holiday joy. Co-produced with their long-time collaborator Aaron Shawt, the track exudes a polished yet playfully energetic vibe, weaving together Chandra’s signature cheeky pop-rock style with a sprinkle of classic Christmas magic.
The brilliance of “Christmas Hugs” is particularly evident in its unabashed optimism. It’s a merry, melody-driven, lyrical anthem that doesn’t just sing about Christmas; it feels like Christmas. The composition radiates with festive cheer and an endearing sense of whimsy. Its infectious hooks and sing-along chorus effectively capture the essence of a holiday gathering, where warmth, laughter, and a little bit of mischief come together in perfect harmony.
Beyond the festive sound that sets this mesmerizing production apart, the song carries a heartfelt message. Beneath the layers of tinsel and festive flair, “Christmas Hugs” echoes the thematic hallmark of the band’s core ethos: celebrating kindness, inclusivity, and shared togetherness of humanity. It consistently reminds audiences that the true spirit of the holidays isn’t in the material gifts or glitter but in the human relationships that bring people closer.
Whether you adore the holiday season or find yourself counting down the days until it’s over, “Christmas Hugs” is the perfect song to lift your spirits. It can brighten even the gloomiest moods and make excellent background music while decking at home, sipping mulled wine, or craving a sonic pick-me-up, seasonal serotonin. It’s a feel-good vibe that wraps listeners in its joyful melodies, which don’t let go, just like the best festive hug for the soul.
For more information about Chandra, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Chandra’s “Christmas Hugs“ on Spotify.
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