Artist Spotlight

M.A.G.S. RETURNS WITH EUPHORIC SINGLE “BEG”

Following the success of dream-pop banger “Choked Out,” indie artist M.A.G.S. is back with a new music video for his latest summer release, “Beg.” The track and supporting music video comes in celebration of his newly-announced debut LP, Say Things That Matter, out August 13th via ONErpm. The highly anticipated full-length project is considered the mark of personal growth in multi-instrumentalist and producer Elliott Douglas (M.A.G.S.), and will feature a total of fourteen tracks – including the latest string of retro indie-rock inspired singles; “Smile,” “Sunrise,” “Choked Out” and “Beg.” To coincide with the full-length release, vinyl copies will be available for pre-order through Take This To Heart Records today.

“Beg,” written and produced by Douglas, is a crowning achievement of the rising indie rock artist – showcasing a range of depth and growth since 2017’s self-titled release. The single ─ simply put ─ is indie-pop with an experimental twist: erupting into a euphoric celebration of emotions with brash guitar work and M.A.G.S. skating alongside the busy streets of Los Angeles. While the track pays homage to M.A.G.S.’ DIY punk roots and newfound confidence sonically ─ lyrically, the track was born from a transitional time in M.A.G.S.’ life leading to the eruption of the COVID-19 pandemic:

“I wrote Beg while I was in Buffalo visiting my family in January 2020. At this point in my life I was actively trying to change myself and face some of my demons. I could see the results of my efforts but I was still healing from a few old wounds. I didn’t really know what was next, figuratively and literally with the pandemic about to kick in the door.

I love this song because every part is kind of its own thing, and they kinda shouldn’t work well together but somehow, they do. I wanted the dynamics of this song to be part of the narrative, with the bridge basically just being an explosion of rage and passion.” – M.A.G.S.

M.A.G.S. is the solo moniker for Buffalo-bred, Los Angeles-based artist Elliott Douglas. His style seamlessly glides between genres ─ from funky garage to minty alt-pop ─ and hooks you in almost immediately. His universal appeal feeds his success, and it’s never at the expense of his art. Elsewhere in his blossoming catalog, songs like “Mvp” and “Hi Tops” zig-zag from visceral, gnarly heavy metal to lo-fi folk-rock, respectively; his musicianship is a marvel to witness, each entry building on the last with refreshing acrobatics.

M.A.G.S. released his first solo record in 2015, an EP titled Cellophane, and his self-titled LP arrived two years later – securing a seat amongst the most prominent indie/alt-rock artists. With his new batch of music, Douglas displayed marked growth in vocal prowess, overall musicality and lyrical bite through the release of 2020’s Lost Tapes EP.

In May, M.A.G.S. announced he will be embarking on The Happy Fits’ “What Could Be Better” U.S. tour alongside snarls this Fall – tickets are available for purchase through the artist’s official website here.

M.A.G.S.’ debut album, Say Things That Matter, is set to release August 13th with leading singles “Smile.” “Sunrise,” “Choked Out” and “Beg” available for streaming everywhere. Watch the “Beg” music video on M.A.G.S. official YouTube Channel here, and pre-order Say Things That Matter in three different vinyl color variants via Take This To Heart Records here.

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Artist Spotlight

“The Tide” by John Doherty stirs an enchanting wave of soulful melodic voyage

“The Tide,” John Doherty’s latest single, exemplifies a masterstroke of heartfelt storytelling and evocative soundscapes. The Irish singer-songwriter, renowned for his soulful vocal delivery, effectively merges the intimacy inherent in traditional folk music with a sophisticated contemporary country music style, crafting a vivid atmosphere that resonates with a timeless charm reminiscent of the ocean.

The composition “The Tide” captivates from its initial notes, sweeping listeners into its wave of introspection and hope. Doherty’s warm vocals, imbued with authenticity, anchor the song as it unfolds melody, accompanied by gentle acoustic strums and a lush instrument arrangement. Co-written with Luca Janzen and enhanced by the expert craftsmanship of producers Tommy McLaughlin and Cormac Butler, the track balances simplicity with cinematic depth.

Lyrically, Doherty articulates the cyclic nature of life, love, and resilience. “The Tide” is employed as a profound metaphor, its fluctuations paralleling human challenges and triumph achievements. His poetic delivery transforms the song into an emotional voyage, where every lyric feels like a personal conversation dialogue. The production is exceptional, featuring intricate layers of melody and harmony that evoke the experience of standing on the shores of the Irish coastline. The influence of Doherty’s extensive touring, including stints performances alongside notable artists such as James Bay and The Staves, is discernible in his polished yet unfiltered authentic artistic approach.

“The Tide” is an auditory invitation for reflection, encouraging listeners to find solace in the rhythms of nature and life. Regardless of one’s musical preferences, whether a folk purist or a country aficionado, this track is bound to leave an indelible mark. Engaging with it will reaffirm why John Doherty’s artistry is an exceptional and worthwhile experience you won’t regret.

For more information about John Doherty, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM John Doherty’s “The Tide“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH John Doherty | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

Sadie Brown delivers a heartfelt illusion of a fake life with her new single “Counterfeit”

At the heart of “Counterfeit” is a tale of love manipulated for selfish purposes, yet still feels captivating. Sadie Brown’s new single “Counterfeit” invites listeners into the deceptive lull of beautiful and bleak love, one that promises everything while lacking genuine vulnerability, ultimately delivering only heartbreak. Brown adeptly illustrates the anguish of being entangled in a romantic relationship that never fully reveals itself, leaving listeners caught between longing and the painful acknowledgment of reality. Through ethereal pop sensibilities and a bittersweet melody, Brown explores the complexity of a “counterfeit love life” alluring yet reserved, a love experience that’s perpetually poised to “cut its losses.” The outcome is a sonic experience that feels as vast and unreachable as a memory of love gone awry.

“Counterfeit” doesn’t just touch on the hurt that comes from unrequited love; it captures the quiet resignation accompanying it. With “Counterfeit,” Sadie Brown steps into a new creative direction in her music, mixing introspective storytelling with emotional resonance.

Written during the lockdown and produced by Cashybear (Tim Ross, formerly of Cash+David), “Counterfeit” builds a hazy, indie-pop atmosphere that feels grounded and otherworldly. The collaboration with guitarist Jimmy Sims (known for his work with George Ezra) lends a retro warmth, creating swirling riffs that complement Sadie’s soft yet piercing vocal delivery. This subtle instrumentation mirrors the song’s themes: a relationship built on false pretenses, with its sweetness fading away like mist.

Brown draws inspiration from artists like Camera Obscura, Kate Bush, and Lana Del Rey, bringing a charming and restrained sense of vulnerability. Like Joni Mitchell, Brown leans into the contradictions of envious love, evoking nostalgia but never retreating from the reality of unfulfilled desire. “Counterfeit” is a thought-provoking piece that establishes Sadie Brown as a voice that can authentically convey both the charm and the ache of illusion.

For more information about Sadie Brown, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Sadie Brown’s “Counterfeit“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Sadie Brown | Instagram |