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Americana duo Dorsten Release New Music

In their new single “To the River,” Americana duo Dorsten continue to develop their sharp tandem tonal attack with larger-than-life harmonies that could make anyone into a fan of modern roots music. “To the River” has all the cosmetics of a true indie-pop song; a big hook, an easygoing groove, and a pair of players in Dorsten that can give life to just about any hook they get their hands on, but the mechanics of the track have a lot more in common with vintage folk music than they do anything else. There are a lot of layers to peel back in this act’s sound, but no matter how you take their music or which genre you choose to classify it as there’s no getting around the simple fact that they’ve got more talent than most anyone in their southwestern peer group at the moment.

Everything in this song revolves around preserving the authenticity of the harmony, which most indie artists would take issue with right out of the gate. There’s often no room in the mix for eliminating the artificialities that come with propping up skyscraper-sized hooks when making conventional pop music, but that’s where Dorsten’s folk ethic comes into play. They’re going out of their way to make sure there’s a little bit of a swing to their shared vocal delivery, and within the substance of the harmony itself, we find a lot of unrefined, humble tonality that lets us know we’re listening to something real and tangible. It’s not a bastion of the revivalist movement, but rather a more virginal era of the Americana genre they’re drawing inspiration from here.

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https://open.spotify.com/album/7fGo6G0ysyZCh9Co8Lcjl3

Even with its subtle bassline being factored into the equation, the groove in this track is heavy enough to get us moving to the beat steadily from the get-go. I’m not one hundred percent certain, but if I were to make an educated guess, I’d say that Dorsten wanted to make a point of demonstrating how little they need to depend on external resources when crafting something original in the studio with “To the River.” The irony comes in the form of the lyrical content, which alludes to pop culture in the bluntest of fashions, amidst a backdrop that is born of something removed from cosmopolitan artistry altogether.

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The underground is always producing new talent, no matter what genre of music we’re discussing, but when it comes to folk and its many factions, its latest export in Dorsten proves that the state isn’t losing its touch by any means. This has been an intriguing time for Americana, and specifically for folk-pop crossover artists, but in “To the River,” I think we can hear shades of a newly evolved sound coming from these two that will be more than worth following up with in the future. They’ve still got time to keep growing, but as of this moment, this brother and sister act is among my top indie folk bands to watch as we get closer to 2024.

Bradley McClure

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Artist Spotlight

Eric Alexandrakis ignites a rhythmic anthem of tranquillity with the single “Home”

Eric Alexandrakis

Eric Alexandrakis, in his evocative new single, “Home,” carves a sonic melody that feels personal and universally familiar, creating a symbolic space where one truly belongs and can confront the emotional burdens of life’s most challenging moments. The track is enriched by soul-infused rock reverberates with timeless echoes of iconic musicians such as Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and Bruce Springsteen. However, Alexandrakis adds his special twist, sharing stories with a unique lens rooted in vulnerability and hope. This single spans miles, recorded across Greece, Texas, Colorado, and New Jersey, resonating with people everywhere who understand the ache of leaving pain behind.

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The collaboration with drummer Ryan Hoyle lends a steady heartbeat and grounding rhythm, while the mixing expertise of Paul David Hager highlights the raw intensity of Alexandrakis’ vocals. Together, they cultivate a transformative sound that expresses sorrow and guides audiences toward brighter futures. Produced by Eric Alexandrakis and Mark Scandariato, “Home” merges enchanting musical elements with innovative energy, signaling that happiness often lies beyond the most arduous trials and necessitates a courageous first step into new experiences.

Home” is a poignant and soul-stirring track that addresses the importance of moving away from emotional turmoil. It encourages listeners to walk away from sadness, loss, and loneliness and step toward their authentic selves. Alexandrakis emphasizes that “Home” isn’t just a physical location but rather an emotional state created by the act of letting go, where one can achieve true happiness. Amidst a cacophony of chaos, “Home” emerges as a distinctive piece, inviting audiences to engage in listening and, potentially, to find a semblance of Peace.

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For more information about Eric Alexandrakis, please visit [website].
CONNECT WITH Eric Alexandrakis | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

IKON unleashes a genre-defying odyssey with new album “MUSIC”

IKON

Prepare for an exciting musical adventure that connects soulful moments with catchy beats! Officially premiering today, rising artist IKON unveils his anticipated album, “MUSIC.” This fantastic album features a transformative 9-track masterpiece that mixes traditional Eastern Soul sounds with modern styles like funk, disco, R&B, and electronic music, whisking listeners back to Studio 54’s heyday. Known for his unorthodox talent and innovative spirit of crafting distinct sound as he writes, performs, and produces his music, IKON continues elevating his artistry by exploring the rich intersections of classic soul and contemporary rhythms for a captivating, futuristic feel.

The album “MUSIC” opens with the entrancing CRAZY,” a song encapsulating the dizzying emotions of love’s early struggles and euphoric highs. Next, listeners are swept into the soulful embrace of the second track, CITY.” This heartfelt tribute to the sanctuary a city can provide showcases IKON’s powerful ability to blend comfort with creative versatility. The title track, MUSIC,” celebrates the joy of music’s timeless allure, combining catchy anthemic choruses with unforgettable dynamic beats that feel nostalgic to the universal language of sound.

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As you listen, each song on “MUSIC” presents a carefully crafted sonic experience that explores diverse aspects of the human condition. The album flows seamlessly into track four, LET U DOWN/RIDE, which focuses on a commitment to the self-harmony narrative where he reassures his listeners with a promise of inner peace. As the album progresses, I’M GOING DOWN,” a thoughtful fifth track, evokes themes of resilience through IKON’s insightful melodies and is followed by MAN,” channeling soul-deep lyrics and introspective grooves about humanity.

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Among other standout tracks, MOON transcends the typical retro-futuristic disco vibes by blending Italo disco influences with soul-infused vocals, classic Wurlitzer electric piano, and IKON’s soulful falsetto. The album wraps up with MIND,” in which IKON merges Southern gospel influences with a laid-back West Coast groove, rounding out the album with a dynamic touch.

With “MUSIC,” IKON establishes himself as a pioneering voice in Eastern Soul. This genre-spanning exploration is a must-hear for those looking for a refreshing, introspective take on today’s music with hints of inspiration from legendary artists like Daft Punk and Nile Rodgers while paving its unique path. Don’t miss out on this experience!

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CLICK HERE TO STREAM IKON’s AlbumMUSIC on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH IKON | Facebook |

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