Artist Spotlight

Lupae Filius – This is (Feat. Just A Random)

This year alone, Lupae Filius – a rapper, singer, producer, and beatmaker from Stavanger, Norway – has attracted a lot of international attention for his impressive performances on tracks like “Run”, “Heard It All” and “On A Vybe”. He was definitely setting the bar high, and met all of the expectations that were set for him. Born Sebastian Jonassen, Lupae Filius has been working his craft for well over a decade. Lupae raps and sings with a cool passion that draws you in and intrigues you. He has a certain smooth swagger when it comes to his approach and his lyrics. On top of everything, apart from demonstrating his vocal skills, Lupae’s self-produced beats also sound fantastic, showing that he’s very well-versed on all fronts.

If there is one track that manages to coalesce the many special elements of this rapper/singer/producer/songwriter’s artistry, that noble title would be given to his latest single release, “This Is”. The track dropped on September 23rd and was premiered on a Norwegian radio station and a TV channel on the same day.

On the track, alongside Lupae Filius, we find singer/rapper Just A Random, who also hails from Stavanger, Norway. Though the two artists are both based in the same city, they never knew each other previously.

“This Is” turns out to be very warm and inviting, with a beautiful slow to mid-tempo groove to it, allowing Lupae Filius and Just A Random to narrate the experiences lived in their city.

As he proved on previous tracks, Lupae can be a very technical and profound lyricist, while at the same time he is able to focus on the vibes and grooves, together with displaying sharp, mellifluous, and high-caliber rap-singing. Lupae Filius manages to find a meaty compromise between “This Is” is a clean pop track, and still infectious in its scope of rap and hip-hop.

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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.

Artist Spotlight

“An Invite” by Carmen Braden stirs an ethereal sonic ode of memory woven in empowering choice

There’s a cinematic feel to “An Invite,” the second single from acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Carmen Braden’s new album, ‘A Hard Light,’ offers an enchanting amalgamation of sound and emotion. This stunning track encapsulates the feeling of looking back on a significant moment in life, eliciting a sentiment of nostalgia intertwined with the strength derived from choices that ultimately define our identities.

The song features a distinctive marimba melody, which Carmen created in collaboration with producer Mark Adam. This introductory sensibility set the stage for a narrative centered on a young woman grappling with essential decisions while being distant from home. The composition evocatively highlights the gravity of those moments and the empowerment they can facilitate, allowing listeners to revisit a personal memory in conjunction with Carmen’s experience.

Carmen’s vocal delivery is spooky yet beautiful, making it feel like she’s sharing a personal tale from the past. She works alongside Cas Palmer from Nova Scotia, creating a warm, friendly vibe that resembles an honest, heartfelt conversation, mirroring the intimate dialogue accompanying profound decision-making. The marimba’s consistent rhythmic beat underscores the cyclical essence of memory while integrating diverse musical styles, generating an enjoyable auditory experience that is both calming and energizing.

Each note reflects her experiences, celebrating vulnerability and courage in the face of life’s crossroads. This song invites listeners to reflect on the importance of our choices and the strength we possess, especially during uncertain times. “An Invite” showcases Carmen Braden’s exceptional talent by merging storytelling with an innovative soundscape. For anyone who has faced difficult decisions, this track is relatable, eye-opening, and profoundly impactful.

For more information about Carmen Braden, please visit [website].
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