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Thursday, February 20, 2014

Just Rolled In: Hundred Waters - "Down From the Rafters" [electronic / ambient folk]

Eighty-four years ago yesterday the former ninth planet of the Solar System was discovered by American astronomer Clyde M. Tombaugh. Although Pluto was demoted to "dwarf planet" last decade, we can't help but thank Mr. Tombaugh because in honor of his discovery of this desolate icy rock, my favorite Florida band Hundred Waters has shared the equally dark and mysterious track entitled "Down From the Rafters".

Channeling the unhurried eerie tracks of their 2012 self-titled debut (see "Caverns" and "Gather" below), Gainesville's Hundred Waters return in the wake of touring with Canadian art rock band BRAIDS with a mellow and stirring song that doesn't fail to show off their expert instrumentation while the ethereal vocals of lead singer Nicole Miglis sweep you away into the haunting melody. While a sophomore LP is on the horizon, it hasn't been confirmed just yet as to whether "Down From the Rafters" will have a spot on the record.

Check out the "Pluto Day" celebratory song below and if you're new to Hundred Waters, I demand you take the time to listen to their 2012 self-titled debut (my favorite album of 2012), which I've also embedded below.


Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Artist Making Waves: Shivum Sharma [electronic pop / soul]

After releasing a pair of soulful piano-based bedroom demos last year, 19-year-old South Londoner Shivum Sharma is back with a studio version of the powerful slow-burner that turned heads in the first place, "Flicker", and its lusty B-side "Only You". The two tracks will be on the Flicker EP, which indie label National Anthem (home to CHVRCHES, HAIM, and Sir Sly) will be putting out on March 3.

Shivum Sharma enlisted the help of Warp signee Kwes. to produce his originally piano/vocals-heavy tracks. The result falls somewhere between James Blake and Antony and the Johnsons—unique passionate music with captivating electronic beats and textures that serve to add depth, not to divert attention away from Sharma's vulnerable, compelling croon and his solid piano work.

Enjoy the two tracks below (don't miss the climactic closer on "Flicker") and purchase a copy of the Flicker EP in March!