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Our Violet Transports Fans to Romantic Hideaway With New Folk Single “Secrets”

Denver artist Our Violet Room – aka Matthew Birch – is preparing to release his next single “Secrets” on September 24. Filled with gentle acoustic strumming and hauntingly beautiful harmonies, the song pairs perfectly beside Birch’s previous single, “Winter,” which is featured on FreeForm’s popular show Good Trouble. “Secrets” was inspired by Bon Iver and early Coldplay records, two artists who Birch is commonly compared to because of his alternative folk sound that reveals raw emotion through vocal and lyrical presentation. New Zealand pop artist Estella Dawn also features on the single, bringing in her delicate vocals to complement Birch’s tones. As a talented musician with a unique and melodic command, subtlety, and range, the multi-genre artist remains driven to shed light on the conversations that matter in today’s time and age. Often compared to icons such as Adele, Billie Eilish, Pink, and Hayley Williams, to name a few, Estella continues to impress listeners with unique musical compositions and stunning vocals, crafting her own position in the world of music.

A blend of romance and adventure, “Secrets” feels like the touch of wholesome love that the world is desperately craving. The song at its core is about “being with someone you love, and knowing secrets that only you two share,” says Birch. While a listener’s first thought may be to escape on a jet to a secluded island with their lover, the underlying essence of the single reminds them that their relationship – late dinners, walking the dog, sitting on the couch together – is the real prize. As the seasons change and the world faces new challenges, people turn to music for relief. Birch has poured genuineness and graciousness into “Secrets” to make it not only a relief, but also an escape for fans looking for the magic in music.

Fans can stream “Secrets” everywhere on September 24.

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A deep love of movie scores and the composers that made them alongside an admiration and passion for folk music is the base of the music that Birch creates under the moniker Our Violet Room. An “indie singer-songwriter with a cinematic twist”, Birch got his musical start in 2018 by playing SoFar Sound shows – first in Denver but soon all over the world. A humble story of overcoming depression, working hard, and diving headfirst into his dream, Birch only has one goal…. to make thoughtful, well-made, emotional art that inspires his listeners and causes them to feel. His music has been compared to the likes of Sufjan Stevens, Bon Iver, Bob Dylan, Peter Gabriel, and Coldplay for its lush atmosphere, emotional lyrics, and cinematic arrangements and has quickly launched his music career with two songs featured on FreeForm’s Good Trouble series and two songs featured in a Magnolia feature film. “Making movie scores has been a dream of mine and to look at each song as a little movie score has been a great way of creating,” says Birch. Thus far in his career, Birch has released two EPs – Our Violet Room and the live EP Loss and Death in Winter – alongside a handful of singles. Mixing folk and cinematic soundscapes seem to be working for the emerging artist as his songs have a combined 80K+ streams. “ I don’t go for cool or hip, I go for what moves me.”

Artist Spotlight

Chandra delivers an anthemic dash of festive kindness in its recent single “Christmas Hugs”

Chandra

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.

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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.

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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.

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Whether you adore the holiday season or find yourself counting down the days until it’s over, “Christmas Hugs” is the perfect song to lift your spirits. It can brighten even the gloomiest moods and make excellent background music while decking at home, sipping mulled wine, or craving a sonic pick-me-up, seasonal serotonin. It’s a feel-good vibe that wraps listeners in its joyful melodies, which don’t let go, just like the best festive hug for the soul.

 

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For more information about Chandra, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Chandra’s Christmas Hugs on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Chandra | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

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

Carmen Braden

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.

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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.

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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.

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For more information about Carmen Braden, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Carmen Braden’s An Invite on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Carmen Braden | Instagram | Facebook |

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