Pictured above: Mikky Ekko (Photo Credit: Jim Chapin Photography)
So, as of yesterday, I am officially happy to announce that I’m off my little hiatus from music writing. In the past few months, I’ve been discovering lots of new music and I’m going back to January only because there are so many songs that deserve attention and love. Here are my top picks for January: better late than never, right?! *insert laughing emoji*
Tonight Alive – “Disappear” (ft. Lynn Gunn)
Aussie alternative rock band Tonight Alive had a huge month in January. Releasing their fourth LP Underworld, it’s safe to say that the band are back to their roots with blazing guitars accompanied by lead singer Jenna McDougall’s stellar voice. Moving on to indie label Hopeless Records – the home of pop punk and alternative rock bands – it’s good to see the four-piece delve into their emotional and honest music in “Disappear”.
Kendrick Lamar, SZA – “All The Stars”
Black Panther has been receiving so much love over the past month because let’s face it, it’s a pretty fucking awesome movie! Taken from the movie’s soundtrack, Kendrick Lamar dropped a killer single feat. SZA in January titled “All The Stars” and the visuals for the music video are top notch. SZA’s vocals are incredible in this one and the beats to the song are just so elegant and chill. Though this song has been overplayed almost everywhere, I can’t get enough of it!
Pianos Become The Teeth – “Bitter Red”
Pianos Become The Teeth released their anticipated fourth album this month titled Wait For Love and I can tell you now, you will feel all the feels listening to it! “Bitter Red” is another stunning track from the outfit, evoking more emotions than the heart can contain with its blistering guitars and heartfelt storytelling lyrics.
The Hunna – “Flickin’ Your Hair”
The Hunna are my favourite band at the moment, only because their music is so fresh and so fun to listen to when I’m driving to places. “Flickin’ Your Hair” is an insanely catchy track with its anthemic guitars and drums. The English alternative rock band are super energetic live and I managed to catch them play at the Oxford Art Factory in January too. They will be releasing their sophomore record Dare on the 25th of May and we couldn’t be more stoked over that!
Waterparks – “Not Warriors”
Pop-punkers Waterparks dropped their sophomore record Entertainment in January and it’s been getting some love from fans around the world. The three-piece also managed to tour around Australia during January/February supporting The Maine. “Not Warriors” showcases the band’s vulnerable side, flourishing in lush pop/rock melodies and lyrics that will touch your soul. Awsten Knight has definitely written amazing songs for this album and it’s honestly worth checking out!
Mikky Ekko – “Not The One”
Indie alternative artist Mikky Ekko has been doing well for himself, showcasing incredible vocals while blending some refreshing soundscapes in his music. Not only that, he’s also a recording producer and has also featured as a vocalist on Rihanna’s 2013 single, “Stay”. He released his new single “Not The One” in January and the music video for it is quite abstract. The electric vibes that come from the song are so breathtaking and Ekko’s sound direction is quite similar to The Temper Trap.
Wholesome Tapes 