Music

Eyeconic And Shakk Share Addictive New Single “it’s a vibe”

Rising UK artists Eyeconic and Shakk have teamed up for brand-new collaboration “it’s a vibe”. Following the many challenges that have been prevalent globally over the last two years, “it’s a vibe” brings pure elation in the form of two and a half minutes of UK garage nostalgia. The track arrives with accompanying visuals directed by Kraken Cinematic. With the two Middlesbrough-based artists having already experienced much individual success in their solo careers so far, they look set to reach even greater heights with this latest release.

Highlighting what a formidable team Eyeconic and Shakk are, the track perfectly spotlights their rap abilities and songwriting talent – their knack for insanely addictive melodies and catchy toplines can be heard throughout, no more so than on the anthemic chorus which will surely be fixed into everyone’s head after just one listen. Setting the tone for the song with its title, “it’s a vibe” is a huge feel-good vibe that commands attention from the opening seconds and transports listeners to the popular late ‘90s/early ‘00s sound of UKG that has been making a comeback in recent years.

Speaking further on the release, Shakk says, “During a period of feeling low and uninspired during lockdown, I spoke to Eyeconic on the phone, and we discussed how we missed the thrill of performing live, which sparked the idea for this song. Inspired by the UK garage comeback, we felt it would be the perfect foundation to make something that encapsulated everything that makes the British music scene fun, energetic and diverse”.

The two fast-rising artists have already garnered plenty of support up until this point. Eyeconic has performed alongside the likes of The Game, Jaykae, Kamakaze and The Mouse Outfit and has had support from BBC Music Introducing. Meanwhile Shakk has performed at the likes of the O2 Academy and BBC Music’s Biggest Weekend UK Fringe, been shortlisted for Performing Artist of the Year at the 2021 North East Culture Awards and has had support from BBC Music Introducing and BBC Asian Network. Having had such strong support already, it’s clear the talented pair are artists to watch out for over the next year, with “it’s a vibe” set to see them end 2021 with their biggest release yet and keep their momentum running into 2022. “it’s a vibe” is available to buy/stream now on all platforms: https://tlr.ffm.to/itsavibe.

Keep up to date with the latest from:

Eyeconic – Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Shakk – Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

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Album Review

Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album

Dian Sheng releases his long-awaited first English-language album, “Sid,” a genre-defying collection of songs that includes pop, rock, electronic, and jazz. “Sid” is a deep, meditative exploration of identity, relationships, and self-growth, spanning 29 minutes and 12 seconds across eight tracks. This album is a personal exploration of the complex emotions of mankind and the vitality and jubilation of life.

From the opening track, “Right Now,” Dian Sheng establishes a sense of urgency and reflection. The upbeat song “I Come From Far” examines the connection between the self and one’s environment. It has joyful beats and layers that make you think and feel like part of the narrative.

The jazz ballad “Undecided Love” delves into the complexities of modern romance, featuring tender vocals and instrumentation that showcase Sheng’s delicate touch as a songwriter. “It Will Be Alright” is an empowering anthem about overcoming life’s biggest obstacles, combining electronic beats with a rock influence.

“Seventeen” is bursting with youthful energy, and its production captures the restlessness and emotionality of adolescent life. Two introspective songs with similar atmospheres, “The Way Before” and “This Life,” match chilling melodies with moving lyrics that touch on bygone relationships, self-awareness, and the quest for meaning we all experience.

The album concludes with “Shining As Your Name,” and the final few minutes of this piece alone evoke a strong sense of hope. Dian Sheng demonstrates his ability to join emotional depth with new styles. “Sid” is an invitation into the rich musical universe of Dian Sheng, where you can both consider yourself and feel influenced.

Written by:

Faith Koch

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Artist Spotlight

Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound

“The P.L.U.R. Project” begins like a rush of light across a crowded dance floor as jubilant, purposeful, and very human. This seven-song, 29-minute journey from the EDM pioneer Sporty-O is a cultural reset built around peace, love, unity, and respect.

Sporty-O establishes the emotional timbre for the entire project from the first track of its lead single, “Spirit Higher.” The song is anthemic, its purposes well outlined despite a high-gloss production. It’s a centerpiece that establishes the mood of an intensive exploration of sound and self-awareness.

“The P.L.U.R. Project” is just as much about managing your feelings as it is about moving. Sporty-O creates each record with intention, writing things that make people think on the dance floor. Another high-energy song is “Happy Together,” with Lorme and Chris Willis, pulsing warmth and togetherness. “SOLD!” has a clean, feel-good sound that embodies the community spirit of EDM culture.

Sporty-O embraces a multi-genre EDM palette on the EP, fusing forward-thinking sounds with uptempo beats. Tracks like “Revolution” with Specimen A and “Geek’d Up” with Baby Sweet provide lots of energy and edge. “Piece Of My Mind” is more introspective, while “Cheveyo” features a diverse array of collaborators and culminates in a rich, layered sound, all while maintaining a global welcoming spirit.

What makes this project unique is that it serves both and reminds people of the origins of dance culture. Sporty-O aims to help people rediscover the heartbeat of the community. “The P.L.U.R. Project” is an EDM experience that reaches beyond the speakers, colorful and thoughtful about meaning in music-based culture.