Music

ISLA makes debut with single “Break The Fall” – an exploration into long distance love

ISLA makes her debut as a solo female artist with a stand-alone single “Break The Fall” composed by herself and produced by HEproducedit (Howard Edward) at Cosher Recording Studios.

The track is a bittersweet contemporary/alternative pop song in which she shares her personal experience in a long-distance relationship. It explores the doubts and insecurities that physical separation brings, but the ultimate hope that love will overcome. ISLA is making a huge step in her solo career and is set to explore different genres as she releases more original content throughout the year.

20-year-old singer-songwriter Isla Sutherland (‘ISLA’) has been making waves in the Cape Town music scene, performing regularly at a wide range of esteemed venues across the city with her acoustic guitar and powerful vocals- with influences such as Lorde, Fleetwood Mac, and Kelly Clarkson.

ISLA on the story behind the song, “I wrote Break The Fall as an outlet to express all the mixed emotions I was experiencing whilst in a long-distance relationship. There were times where I felt nearly hopeless and songwriting was a way for me to deal with the pain of missing someone I truly care about- you really have to learn to trust each other. The simple act of being in love is worth it all.”

Artist Spotlight

Alwyn Morrison scales through with new single “Chained”

Alwyn Morrison’s new single, “Chained,” hits hard with its heartfelt message, offering an honesty rare in music today. Written while he was flying to Europe, this song comes from deeply personal experiences and showcases Alwyn’s most vulnerable side yet.

Teaming up with his longtime friend Michael Ales for songwriting and working with producer Michael Carey in Los Angeles, Alwyn creates a sound that feels both rich and simple. The guitar-driven music is full of warmth, exhaustion, and hope.

“Chained” plunges into the complex realities of loving someone who struggles with depression. Alwyn beautifully captures the heavy feelings that come with it, expressing the helplessness, loyalty, and quiet sadness often accompanying such love. His lyrics paint a vivid picture, inviting you to share the emotional journey of navigating the hidden struggles that can tie two people together.

The track’s raw honesty resonates with anyone who has faced challenges in love. It reminds us that sometimes love means standing by someone going through tough times. In “Chained,” Alwyn Morrison captures real human experiences and turns them into music that sticks with you.

Artist Spotlight

Ava Valianti turns self-doubt into art with “Laugh Track”

In her new single, “Laugh Track,” Ava Valianti takes us on a peculiar journey through her thoughts and feelings, which many can connect to. With a mix of dark humor and raw honesty, Ava shares her experience of feeling like life is more of a series of awkward moments rather than a smooth story where she’s the star.

Drawing inspiration from movies and shows that explore deep emotions, like The Truman Show and How I Met Your Mother’s Ted Mosby, “Laugh Track” captures the unsettling feeling of always being on stage, even when nobody’s watching. It resounds with anyone who has sat alone and questioned whether the laughter around them is meant for them or at their expense.

The song combines deeper sounds with a light, catchy vibe, making its heavy themes approachable enough for dancing. Ava’s voice is strong and open, giving each line an authentic feeling that hits home.

“Laugh Track” is a stand-out because it embraces chaos. Ava doesn’t wrap up her insecurity and self-doubt in a tidy package. Instead, she celebrates the messiness of life and finds comfort in the imperfect characters we often see on TV and in ourselves. “Laugh Track” mirrors our experiences. Like the best comedy shows, it makes you laugh, feel uncomfortable, and reminds you that you’re not alone in your struggles.