Artist Spotlight
Micki Balder Chronicles Loneliness in New Single
Micki Balder debuts her new single “Lonely” on September 2 ahead of her highly anticipated EP, releasing later this fall. “Lonely” was written while in what Balder refers to as “the throes of misery that is dating.” Having written several songs with consistent themes of heartbreak and frustration, Balder was beginning to feel as if she was stuck in an endless cycle… until a funky strum pattern opened up a new place of songwriting within her. The light-hearted track moves away from Balder’s folk tendencies with lyrics that reflect what she wishes someone would sing to her to melt all her frustrations away. “I think we all get a little bogged down by the sad and lonely parts of life sometimes, and this song was just about crafting a version of hope that worked for the moment, just to get through it,” says Balder. The burgeoning artist goes on to describe the single as riding a line of “hopeful melancholy” – a trait found in much of her previous catalog as well. “Lonely” is the first tease to Balder’s upcoming EP and will be available on all major platforms.
“My songs are personalized storytelling, generally a one-woman show, with an authentic voice. I like to write and record with a time capsule attitude in mind, that each recording or album is like a glimpse of a moment in time, what was going on in myself and the world in that snapshot.”
Micki Balder is a folksy singer-songwriter writing sad songs for happy people (and ever so occasionally, happy songs for sad people!). Her music is born from a life-long desire to be a character in a musical, unapologetically singing her feelings for the world through simple and poignant lyrics. Though she’s been dabbling with music her whole life, it wasn’t until 2018 when a friendship’s moment of truth unveiled itself in the middle of a Denver coffee shop. She walked home, wrote a song, and has been writing ever since, now a regular at local music venues around her Colorado home. Micki writes from a place of vulnerable storytelling, with people and relationships at the core of her music. She’s been compared to modern folk bands like The Weepies and Mipso, along with classic songwriters like Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon, but she draws inspiration from all over the spectrum — the swing and soul music of her lindy hop days, the earthy folk of Gregory Alan Isakov and Mandolin Orange, the candor and dry humor of John Craigie, or the heartbreak of Sara Bareilles, to name a few.
|
Connect with Micki Balder:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | Tik Tok
Stay updated! Click the Google News follow button for more news and updates.
Follow on Google NewsArtist Spotlight
Eric Alexandrakis ignites a rhythmic anthem of tranquillity with the single “Home”
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.
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.
For more information about Eric Alexandrakis, please visit [website].
CONNECT WITH Eric Alexandrakis | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook |
Artist Spotlight
IKON unleashes a genre-defying odyssey with new album “MUSIC”
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.
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.
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!
CLICK HERE TO STREAM IKON’s Album “MUSIC“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH IKON | Facebook |
