This week we have a special holiday edition of our NMR, featuring new tunes and music videos from Rebecca Black & Slayyyter, Emile Hirsch, Ravell, and many more.
REBECCA BLACK FT. SLAYYYTER – READ MY MIND
Internet-born pop-sensations Rebecca Black and Slayyyter team up for “Read My Mind,” an edgy, digital dream-punk track that’s all the rage. The duo cosplay in gas-station-glam in the Weston Allen-shot music video, pining for the motorcycle rider of their Route 66 rest-stop fantasies. “Read My Mind” doubles as Black’s first offering since her debut project, “Rebecca Black Was Here,” a six-track hyperpop-inspired sonic journey that marked the viral internet star’s 2021 rebrand.
KASABLANCA – VOLITION [MAU5TRAP]
Following the release of its first single “Cronus,” mysterious techno outfit Kasablanca complete their 2-track project with “Volition.” The enigmatic pair are the amalgamation of their many influences, combining their love of analog synth-work and rich textural soundscapes to create a unique style all their own. Swathed in classic Kasablanca technical grit, “Volition” powerfully follows the pair’s enthralling “Cronus.” Hypnotic vocal chops echo throughout the nearly 5-minute track as its oscillating kick propels its fervent energy. A rapturous club-infused display of technical prowess, “Volition” is suited for the underground. Seamlessly combining elements of both progressive and melodic techno, Kasablanca’s “Cronus” debuted in November as part one of their two-track project. Traversing through tranquil breakdowns and blood-pumping build ups, the duo stimulates the senses in “Cronus'” overwhelming melodic abundance.
RAVELL – SIENTO [KAZAA]
After spending two years honing his craft and diligently focusing on the future of his creative vision, Los Angeles-based DJ and producer Ravell has launched his own imprint, KAZAA, alongside the release of a new single, ‘Siento’. Starting off with a thumping kick, ‘Siento,’ immediately takes listeners into a captivating soundscape. Bringing fans into the refined sound of Ravell, the track rises with a tense build-up before going into a massive bass drop. Honoring his Salvadorian roots and propensity for Latin pop, the track sports an enchanting Spanish vocal sample with cuts and chops throughout its runtime, creating an awe-inspiring listening experience. Ravell’s signature sound comes through with a heavy-hitting, pulsating sound. With the release of “Siento,” Ravell is slated to continue his success across the world as a force to be reckoned with. As he continues to release music through KAZAA, fans can look forward to seeing his longtime creative vision come to life.
TESET – EGRESS LP [INTRASET]
Newcomer Teset’s debut project is not one to skip. Following a string of enigmatic, ambient-driven teasers, Teset released Egress, an 11-track LP that’s packed with an array of awe-striking and unique electronic sounds. Egress LP was unveiled over the course of several weeks, with the completing track being ‘Stonemoss,’ work that could be considered the most experimental of the bunch. Boasting an extravagantly stretched disposition, “Stonemoss” embodies the core themes of what Egress has displayed for the listener, driving a deeper sense of collectivism and completion when experiencing the album from start to finish. The full LP was released alongside a visual album render that continues the pattern of content Teset has consistently been sharing in partnership with newly-founded label INTRASET.
LEO TEBELE – FEELING CLOSE FT. LAYLA
Leo Tebele is a DJ and music producer. Fueled by his passion for music, Leo began playing guitar and writing music at a young age growing up in NYC, he then went out to buy his first set of turntables at the ripe age of 16. Now, a go-to DJ in one of the best cities for dance music in the world, NYC, Leo Tebele is in the midst of fueling the production side of his career to match the extensive success he’s achieving on the performance end. “Feeling Close,” embodies a hyper-catchy style that is deliberately executed, Leo Tebele meticulously crafting a multi-genre-inspired single symbolizing his love for an extensive array of music genres that expand well outside of electronic. Embracing house, nu-disco, pop, and a sun-kissed disposition, “Feeling Close,” includes a bit of something for everyone sonically while leaving the listener feeling good when it’s all over.
HEÎK – ARTEMISA EP [BEDROCK BEDROCKS]
Ever since announcing his departure from rising duo ØOSTIL earlier this year, HEÎK has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with within the electronic music space. Throughout 2021, the Latin American producer has successfully carved out his lane in the melodic techno sphere, landing releases on Renaissance, Fur Coat’s Ødd:ity, and ATLANT. To round out the year, he celebrates yet another milestone with the Artemisa EP, his debut release on John Digweed’s Bedrock Records. The Artemisa EP boasts an acutely produced sampler of HEÎK’s creative vision. On a mission to find a “clever balance between melodic techno and a darker, intense vibe,” the project sees him explore a more intricate side of his wide-reaching sound palette. The titular single, “Artemisa,” introduces his poignant production style, echoing the captivating style that brought him to the forefront of rising melodic producers when he formed part of ØOSTIL. “Enclave” showcases a sexier, heavier soundscape that highlights his knack for creating atmospheric peak-time productions. Stripping things back, “Irrelative” keeps the thumping bassline of its predecessor but instead hones in on hazy, chromatic synths, ultimately climaxing into a symphony of melodic riffs. To round out the release, HEÎK delivers the most experimental track of the bunch. “Wanderlust” is a captivating four-on-the-floor cocktail comprised of Caribbean influences, tribal tones, and his signature pulsating undertones.
HIRSCH – MY FAVORITE MOTIVE
Multifaceted talent Emile Hirsch delivered the lead single, “My Favorite Motive,” off his forthcoming third studio album. Primarily known for his notable roles in films such as Into The Wild, The Girl Next Door, and Speed Racer, Hirsch has maintained a stream of musical output via his alias, HIRSCH. His latest offering arrives alongside a retrowave-style Michael Polish-directed music video. Continuing their longtime creative partnership, the music video encapsulates the track’s synth-driven production and Hirsch’s vocals, which reflect that of a mid-2000’s indie-pop band.
