WFNM Roundup #4 – Grei & VAN SCOTT, New Shack, KAWALA, Rubblebucket, BRYNÄS
Grei has recently released her duet with VAN SCOTT called “Turn Back”. This song has intense and gritty production that plays with space and dynamics in a powerful way. Grei’s vocals are sultry and direct which compliment VAN SCOTT’s lighter style. The back-and-forth approach to the verses, coming to together on the choruses, is effective in building up intensity. This is a great new release for both artist.
“Achilles” by New Shack starts with a spacious intro punctuated by record crackles. The verses open up the track with distinctive vocals production that’s minimal and steady. There’s a wonderful development to this song, as the chorus-section hits and grows bigger to feel like a 80’s dance track. This is a song to listen to while driving along the coast or down a long road.
“Funky” by KAWALA immediately draws you in with its unique and energetic vocals. From the first second, it’s a consistent groove full of motion and subtle vocal harmonies. It all culminates in a chorus that is an absolute jam, feeling familiar and fresh all at once. This song is sure to connect with fans of this kind of sound (like Two Door Cinema Club) and anyone who needs a pick-me-up.
“Fruity” by Rubblebucket is a subdued groove that gets under your skin. This song is incredibly interesting, starting with a four-on-the-floor kick drum and fluttering woodwind layers. As the verse starts, the vocals sound both tired and urgent, full of gentle melancholy. The horns briefly add a new color and the combination is comfortable and disquieting all at once. It’s a powerful contrast that sustains as the shuffling chorus carries us all along for the ride. I’ve given up on trying to understand why this song sends a shiver down my spine and I’ve decided to dance along instead.
The Berlin-based duo BRYNÄS has recently released their new single “Information”. The track opens with the eponymous line cutting through alongside guitars and a static bass tone before diving into the verse. The verse is comparatively sparse with enticing vocals sailing over a light piano. The now-familiar chorus follows and solidifies the groove that makes this song feel special. Brynäs is comprising of two Swedish brothers both have varied professional experiences in the music industry (respectively members of critically-acclaimed bands Alberta Cross and The Ghost of Helags) which can be heard in the duo’s music.