After emerging onto the scene in 2013, WEISS has ascended through the dance music ranks at an impressive rate, receiving support from a host of legends ranging from Armand van Helden, Eats Everything and Carl Cox to Elton John along the way. His 2018 hit single ‘Feel My Needs’ took the world by storm, reaching #1 in both the BBC Radio 1 Dance Chart and ARIA Club Chart (also being voted the #1 track for the year), and winning ‘Best Track’ at the DJ Mag ‘Best of British’ awards.
WEISS has circled the globe countless times to complete tours worldwide, in the latter part of 2019 he embarked on his biggest ever tours of North America and Oceania covering 30 dates across 7 weeks. It is this connection that brings WEISS and his experiences to CULTR. We present, WEISS’ Around The World.
Los Angeles
California
The mad thing is I wasn’t originally the biggest fan of LA but I’ve fallen in love with it more and more over the years. The restaurants are incredible and if you’re lucky & get an offer to party at someone’s house in the hills, then take it!!
Ibiza
Spain
It’s always a No.1 go to place for me to party with my friends during the summer. Not only is the nightlife amazing but Old Town is a real mix of old & new with a chilled atmosphere and beautiful restaurants.
Barbados
Carribbean
Barbados has a special place in my heart: I went there as a kid and love the beaches & crystal clear water. Waking up in the morning and finding yourself surrounded by red crabs and swiminning with the turtles is a memory I’ll never forget.
OTR has just embarked on his most fulfilling venture in his young career thus far. With the release of his debut album “Lost At Midnight” via Astralwerks, it is exciting to see the artist’s vision finally coming to fruition. Featuring artists like Panama, Shallou, Vancouver Sleep Clinic, Au/Ra, and more, the 12-track LP serves as a digital embodiment of the talent rooted in the 26-year old aerospace engineer-turned-producer.
The captivating project will throw you into a whirlwind of emotions as you are captured by the records alluring atmosphere. Offering enchanting soundscapes, melancholic chord progressions, and catchy toplines along the way, “Lost At Midnight” evidently reaches the peak of electro-pop. Pulling you by the heartstrings, OTR effortlessly transports the listener into a pit of vulnerability which is the very essence as to why the album is incredibly addictive to listen to in the first place. Finally showcasing his genius to the world, we can safely declare that this is OTR’s moment.
“Writing the album over the last two years was an incredible experience. Now that it’s out, I’m happy to see people empathize with the raw emotion I put into each track, signifying different points in my life.” – OTR
With all that being said, what better way to pinpoint the significance of this album than to hear it from the artist himself. Hear the story of how he put this all together in the track-by-track breakdown below.
Shawn Mendes and Cuban born Camila Cabello released their joint single, “Señorita,” last week via Island Records. The song achieved instantaneous success worldwide rocketing to #1 on Spotify’s Global chart as the biggest single-day debut of a male/female duet ever. The video garnered 50 million YouTube streams in the first 48 hours of release while trending #1 around the globe. Other notable chart #1s include Spotify US Chart, iTunes, Apple Music Pop and Apple Music’s Top Videos.
GRAMMY nominated Toronto born multi-platinum singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes released his highly anticipated self-titled third album in May 2018. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 album chart as well as multiple additional worldwide markets, including Australia, Canada, Mexico, Belgium, Holland & more and shot to #1 on iTunes in more than 80 countries immediately upon release. The album became one of the top best-selling album debuts of 2018 and made Shawn the third youngest solo artist to ever have three consecutive #1 albums.
Multi Grammy nominated Cuban born singer/songwriter Camila Cabello (Epic Records / SYCO) released her debut solo album, CAMILA in January 2018 to rave reviews. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart at the same time as her single “Havana” Reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Camila the first solo artist in nearly 15 years to reach the #1 spot on the Hot 100, Billboard 200 and Artist 100 charts in the same week. The RIAA platinum-certified album, CAMILA, launched its debut at #1 on 110 iTunes charts around the world, breaking the record for most #1 positions for a debut album in iTunes history. Camila also became the #1 artist on global Spotify.
Ferry Corsten is back with his latest ‘Unity’ collaboration, after releasing the last one with Ilan Bluestone back in December – Ferry has teamed up with BT for a special collaboration in ‘1997‘.
Ferry Corsten has been busy with solo music in the first half of 2019, releasing ‘Freefall‘ – which feels like a more commercially viable release. He also returned to his Gouryella alias with ‘Surga‘.
Ferry Corsten has brought in another big name into the Unity project, with the legend that is BT. After remixing BT’s track ‘Suddenly’ in 2010, the pair are familiar with each other’s prowess in the studio, and that united vision is showcased in abundance. The team-up sees both artists strengths utilised to their best potential to create a track that is greater than the sum of its parts. As it should, the production leans heavily on the killer uplifting melody – which is a prominent throughout the entire track. The mix of each artist’s styles is present and concludes in an epic collaboration.
Ferry launched the UNITY project in 2018 with his collaboration alongside Paul Oakenfold titled ‘A Slice Of Heaven’, and continued working with artists within the Trance community throughout the year, such as DIM3NSION, Jordan Suckley, Saad Ayub and Ilan Bluestone, and after the success of 2018 has more releases in store after making his first donation to project partner, VH1’s Save The Music Foundation, an organisation launched to reinstate music programs in public schools, which to date has raised over $53 million and helped over 2,100 public schools.
Nikita, the Wicked’s inaugural single ‘holy ghost’ from the EP ‘iloveitwhentheyrun’ offers more than just music; it presents a visceral journey into the depths of allure and fascination with darkness. This sonic odyssey beckons listeners into a realm reminiscent of a cryptic initiation, where each note serves as a gateway to an immersive experience. Through haunting piano melodies, foreboding choir chants, and an eerie flute motif, the track weaves a tapestry of sound that transports the audience into a realm of cinematic horror.
The EP “iloveitwhentheyrun” stands as a testament to the narrative potency and thematic richness inherent in electronic music. It transcends mere sonic pleasure, delving into the realms of storytelling and emotional depth. By exploring the interplay of tension and release, it draws parallels between electronic compositions and the evocative scores of horror films, inviting listeners to explore the darker corners of their imagination. In essence, “iloveitwhentheyrun” is not just an EP; it’s an invitation to embark on a sonic voyage where fear and fascination intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on those who dare to delve into its depths.
Freshcobar & Lavelle Dupree, based in San Diego, are excited to launch their new EP titled “Knee Deep.” This release expertly combines tech house’s rhythmic elements with house music’s disco elements, offering a musical experience designed to engage listeners around the globe. The “Knee Deep” EP highlights Freshcobar & Lavelle Dupree’s skill in creating energizing, club-ready tracks, featuring deep bass, compelling grooves, and entrancing melodies, each track reflecting their deep understanding of electronic music.
The duo expressed their enthusiasm about the EP:
“We are thrilled to share ‘Knee Deep’ EP with the world. This project represents our passion for pushing the boundaries of electronic music and exploring new sonic territories. With tracks like ‘Knee Deep’ and ‘Minimal Jack,’ we aim to deliver an immersive and unforgettable listening experience for our audience.”
Their work draws favorable comparisons to respected artists like San Pacho, Fab Massimo, and Gene Farris, as Freshcobar & Lavelle Dupree continue to evolve within their musical genre, establishing themselves as influential figures in the electronic music community.
Universal Basic Income (UBI) is steadily moving from the theoretical fringes to the center of national policy debate, particularly as wealth and social equity disparities continue to deepen.
Andrew Spira, a key advocate for UBI, is actively promoting its nationwide adoption. He is motivated by a growing corpus of evidence indicating that direct cash payments can substantially reduce poverty.
Across the United States, from the streets of urban centers to quieter rural locales, pilot programs demonstrate UBI’s profound impact. One such initiative, “In Her Hands,” in Georgia, has provided invaluable data on the efficacy of UBI.
The program, primarily targeting low-income Black women, offers each participant a monthly stipend of $850, totaling $20,400 over two years, with no strings attached.
Participants in the program have shared transformative stories. One woman leveraged the funds to enroll in veterinary school, a dream previously beyond her financial reach. Another used the support to manage unforeseen medical expenses for her daughter, illustrating the program’s role as a financial lifeline during personal crises.
These anecdotes underline a common theme: UBI supports basic needs and empowers recipients toward greater personal and professional aspirations.
The program’s success is mirrored in broader research findings. A comprehensive study led by Leah Hamilton, a professor at Appalachian State University, found that compared to a control group, program participants faced fewer financial hardships, such as utility shutoffs and eviction threats, and were less likely to rely on predatory financial services. They also reported better mental health outcomes and were more likely to pursue further education.
Despite these promising results, the road to a national UBI program is fraught with challenges. Critics argue that unconditional cash payments may discourage work and promote dependency. However, proponents like Spira counter these claims with evidence suggesting that UBI can actually enhance personal initiative and economic participation.
The Economic Security Project, where Spira collaborates, emphasizes that guaranteed income programs could streamline welfare, reduce bureaucracy, and allow recipients to define their financial goals. This perspective is gaining traction among policymakers and the public, suggesting a gradual shift towards less restrictive social welfare paradigms.
Yet, as Andrew Spira and his colleagues advocate for UBI’s potential benefits, they remain cognizant of the economic implications. Funding such programs on a national scale would require innovative financial strategies and a commitment to reevaluating long-held assumptions about social safety nets.
The discourse around UBI is evolving, fueled by successful pilots and a changing political climate. With ongoing research and advocacy, figures like Spira are at the vanguard of a movement that could redefine economic security in America.
As more data becomes available and public opinion shifts, the prospect of a national UBI system transforms from a distant ideal into an achievable reality.
Fresh off the release of his latest sonic masterpiece, ‘I Choose You’, CHANEY has once again proven why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the realm of dance music. With an impressive track record of chart-topping hits on labels like Toolroom, Defected, Insomniac, and Perfect Havoc, CHANEY has amassed over 40 million streams in just three years, and no wonder! CHANEY continues to drop smash after smash summer house anthem.
Today the talented UK artist joins us for our Around The World feature, detailing his travels ‘around the world’ below.
BARCELONA, SPAIN
My first time visiting Barcelona was around 6 years ago as part of a writing/recording trip – it was a brief few days and didn’t leave me much time out of the studio. But although I was on time constraints, I was already falling in love with the city’s vibe just from the short car ride from BCN to the hotel I was staying atin El Poblenou.
I do believe the company around you has a larger influence on how you perceive new places – but after seeing more people living here and going about normal life, it was clear the city just had a super chilled effect on everyone. For each studio break, I was sitting down on the street corners with an espresso, little beers and good food. I’m half-Italian and always loved that slow-pace of life especially when I’m away.
After feeling sad to leave the city early, I’d already planned the next trip over a few months after with my girlfriend this time – to really explore the city more. After both of us loving the time we spent there, I was lucky enough to go back many times with more studio sessions and my debut at W Barcelona.
LOS ANGELES, USA
The first visit to LA was last July for my debut in the city. It was a real ‘in-and-out’ job leaving just two nights before heading back – the second night being my debut at the Academy for Toolroom’s anniversary party. Fortunately, we managed to find a decent deal on flights plus two night stay at The Hollywood Roosevelt – which was pretty much the land of dreams and probably set the barrier extremely high for otherwise a quite rough round the edges part of town. Mooching about Hollywood Blvd, Downtown and some other areas was interesting (when you’ve already got a pre-conceived image from seeing it on the TV screen) – but even though it was edgy and eye-opening, I loved it.
I’d played an amazing debut party and generally left feeling like I couldn’t wait to go back a couple months later for more shows. My second trip left me slightly more time to experience more of the place and really enjoyed seeing different neighbourhoods as well as some of the popular tourist spots (Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills). I played great shows, ate some really good food and soaked it up.
LONDON, ENGLAND
In terms of cities that have had some kind of impact on me – I couldn’t leave out London. Ever since I started doing music (when I was just a young lad) I was always heading down to London for either a gig, studio session, or a meeting which left me feeling excited about the future. My earliest memories date back to when I was just 14/15 gigging around London’s iconic pub venues (in bands and as a solo artist), and starting to work with different writers in different studios – it was an exciting time which lead to me signing my first publishing deal just after my 16th birthday.
Being just an hour away from the centre (via train), I started to see London in a different light (being old enough to go out) – and it start feeling like the central hub for all of the different labels/industries I started working with as CHANEY. Fast forward 12/13 years, I’m still meeting new people, visiting new studios, and I still have that same feeling every time I’m on my way to London – if it’s the studio, a club, or even just a day with no plans (they’re sometimes the best).
Listen to CHANEY’s latest summer house release below!
Kane Brown has reunited with Marshmello to release a new track titled “Miles On It.” This collaboration follows their successful 2019 single “One Thing Right,” which not only topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart but also earned a 5x Platinum certification from the RIAA. Reflecting on the genesis of this new song, Kane mentioned that Marshmello reached out with a text after a concert, hinting at this sequel by asking, “Are you ready for part 2?” After listening to the track, the pair promptly went into recording.
“The song is just fun. I haven’t been this excited to put a song out in a minute. It felt like a smash, I had to jump on it. Everybody we showed it to has said the same thing. It’s a good summer song, I hope y’all love it as much as me and Mello do.” – Kane Brown
Marshmello is a flagship EDM artists globally, known for his fun-loving dance pop sound (which sometimes goes super hard) and an iconic marshmallow-shaped helmet that conceals his identity. He emerged in the mid-2010s and quickly gained popularity through his upbeat, energetic style and clever use of social media. Marshmello has a knack for blending elements across a range of genres, collaborating with artists from various musical backgrounds. His tracks often feature catchy hooks and appealing melodies, making him a favorite at festivals and clubs worldwide.
Kane Brown is a contemporary country music artist who blends country with R&B influences, creating a fresh take on the traditional country sound. He first gained attention through social media by posting covers and his original songs, leading to a rapid rise in the music industry. Brown’s music resonates with themes of love, life, and personal experiences, delivered through his rich, warm vocal style. His approachability and the relatability of his lyrics have endeared him to a broad audience, cementing his status as a prominent figure in modern country music.
TSHA has released a fresh track titled ‘Sweet Devotion’, which follows a slew of highly popular releases in the past several months. Dive into the song featuring moving piano rhythms, a great house sound, and the vocals of Caroline Byrne.
Describing her excitement about the release, TSHA commented,
“I’m so excited to be releasing my new single! It’s been such a pleasure writing a record inspired by the music I love playing out and listening to on dance floors all over the world. This is one to switch off and enjoy in the moment. The track features incredible vocals from the angel Caroline Byrne. Can’t wait to play this one out in Ibiza this season.”
Following her previous release ‘Somebody’, which included contributions from Ellie Goulding and Gregory Porter, ‘Sweet Devotion’ continues to build on TSHA’s musical journey to stardom.
Supported by endorsements from notable figures and platforms like Annie Mac, Bonobo, Gorillaz, Billboard, NME, Crack, Mixmag, and DJ Mag, London-based artist TSHA has risen as a standout new talent from the UK. She enters this year on the heels of a remarkable 2021, which included the release of her well-received “OnlyL” EP through Ninja Tune; memorable performances at major festivals, such as a prominent slot at Field Day with artists like Bicep, Floating Points, and Ross From Friends; and features on magazine covers and billboards throughout the UK and US for prominent entities like Mixmag, Spotify, and Amazon UK.
She’s growing fast, has a great sound, and represents a fresh generation of dance artists that are taking things to the next level.
Niall Horan’s debut at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena for his world tour in support of his latest album, ‘The Show’, was a night woven with the comforting threads of nostalgia and highlighted by his incredible growth as a vocalist and charismatic performer.
Selling out two nights at Rod Laver Arena across Friday 3 and Saturday 4 May, Horan displayed his clear evolution from boy band heartthrob to a mature solo artist.
From a pure concert goer perspective, it was hard to deny the minimalistic production of the concert, which sparingly used video content and utilised simple lighting (sans any pyrotechnics, fireworks, or laser lighting most concerts today boast). However, remembering the purpose of the concert is first and foremost to appreciate the music and vocalist, no criticism could be made on Horan’s performance which remained the undeniable star of the show.
For fans of Horan’s One Direction days, the night offered a special treat with his rendition of ‘Stockholm Syndrome’, a song that sent the crowd into a scream-filled frenzy, proving to be one of the most electric moments of the evening. It was a reminder of Horan’s roots and his enduring charm that continues to resonate with the Directioners, who filled many seats of the Rod Laver during his two nights in Melbourne.
Horan also paid homage to his first solo album, ‘Flicker’ featuring songs like ‘This Town’ and ‘Paper Houses’ which were particularly poignant, reflecting the singer’s strong ability to connect intimately through his heartfelt lyrics and melodic prowess. These songs from ‘Flicker’ were the personal highlights of the night for me, showcasing the tender folk-infused side of Horan that initially endeared him to his solo audience.
Conversely, tracks from his sophomore album ‘Heartbreak Weather’ were scattered throughout the setlist but resonated with me less, despite Horan’s impeccable delivery. His vocal excellence cut through clearly the entire night, yet these songs lacked the emotional depth that his earlier works conveyed, at least on a personal note.
The concert’s overall production was notably understated, with a distinct lack of wonderous visual spectacle that has become often expected in arena shows, which might not detract from the experience for ardent fans but definitely made it more challenging to stay fully engaged for those less familiar with Horan’s entire discography.
However, this simplicity meant the concert heavily relied on Horan’s vocal performance and interaction with the audience, which he connected with flawlessly at many intervals throughout the night, even going so far as to take a photo with one Bachelorette front row in a wedding-esque dress.
Despite the production limitations, Niall Horan’s performance at Rod Laver Arena was a testament to his growth as an artist and his ability to captivate a venue with just the power of his voice and his songs.
The concert concluded with Horan’s hit single ‘Slow Hands’ elevating fans screaming to cheers that dared to blow the roof off Rod Laver, and left thousands going home in undeniable agreement Niall had indeed brought and stolen ‘The Show’ in Melbourne that night.
In the dynamic realm of contemporary dance, Gion Treichler stands as a beacon of innovation, passion, and excellence. His journey from the disciplined halls of the Zurich Dance Academy to the expressive stages of Dance Kaleidoscope in Indianapolis narrates a tale of unwavering dedication and artistic exploration.
Gion’s career, adorned with pivotal roles and collaborations with renowned choreographers, exemplifies his profound commitment to the art of dance. Let’s learn more about Gion today.
A journey to prominence
According to Gion, “My journey to securing lead roles in major productions has been a testament to years of rigorous training and a relentless pursuit of excellence.” His foundational years at the Zurich Dance Academy and the Ballet School of the Opera House Zurich instilled in him a respect for the discipline and the diligence necessary to excel in the world of dance.
Gion’s path to becoming a principal dancer was not merely a pursuit of a career but a quest for passion and artistic truth. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with esteemed choreographers,” Gion reflects, his voice tinged with gratitude and wonder. His tenure at the Zurich University of the Arts and subsequent association with Martha Graham Dance’s second company solidified his status as a leading figure in dance, collaborating with top-tier choreographers and spearheading groundbreaking productions.
Gion’s move to Dance Kaleidoscope was a definitive milestone in his illustrious career, broadening his artistic scope and allowing him to lead and innovate alongside some of the most esteemed choreographers in the industry. Through his rich experiences, Gion has cultivated a distinctive approach to his craft. A relentless pursuit of excellence in every performance has become his trademark, underscoring his contributions to contemporary dance and his ability to lead major productions with aplomb.
The art of preparation and memorable collaboration
Gion’s journey to mastering lead roles, especially in nuanced productions like “Tea for Two” by David Hochoy, is marked by a deep commitment to preparation and creativity. He immerses himself in the choreographer’s vision and the emotional landscape of the piece, stating, “immersing myself in research and physical conditioning [allows me] to authentically inhabit the character.” His approach is not just about physical readiness but also about understanding the essence behind every step and translating that into a performance that resonates, which he believes is crucial for connecting deeply with the audience.
Gion Treichler, Tea for Two, Picture by Lora Olive
His portrayal in “Tea for Two” blends classic jazz charm with intricate footwork, demonstrating his ability to bring complex characters to life through a transformative process of self-discovery and storytelling. Every movement is imbued with meaning, shaped by his interactions with the music and his conversations with the choreographer. It was a particularly memorable experience for Gion, which was characterized by a free flow of ideas and mutual respect, underscoring the synergy essential for captivating performances.
Reflecting on his broader experiences, including his tenure with Graham 2, Gion notes, “I am grateful for the myriad of collaborative experiences that have enriched my understanding of dance and allowed me to contribute to truly enthralling productions.” Working with renowned artists like Yoshito Sakuraba and Virginie Mecene has deeply influenced his artistic journey, enhancing his technical prowess and expressive storytelling.
Mentorship and leadership
Gion’s vision for his role within Dance Kaleidoscope extends beyond just his performances. He aims to be “a catalyst for mentorship and leadership, both on and off the stage,” as he puts it.
By engaging in mentorship programs, workshops, and collaborative projects, Gion hopes to build a community where creativity thrives and innovation flourishes. He states, “As an established dance artist, I am keen on exchanging ideas and expanding the boundaries of our art form.”
Sharing his journey with emerging talents is central to his approach. Gion sees his role as an opportunity to inspire and guide others, offering insights to help them navigate their own artistic paths. “Offstage, I aim to inspire and guide emerging talents,” he says, underscoring his commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers.
His work with Dance Kaleidoscope provides him with a platform to further contribute to the company’s legacy while also pursuing broader horizons in the dance world. Gion is eager to continue shaping the future of dance, driven by a passion for pushing boundaries and inspiring others.
Challenges and triumphs
Leading a major production presents unique challenges, and Gion has faced his share of obstacles while performing in demanding roles. A notable instance occurred during a duet in the contemporary piece “Under Their Breath,” choreographed by Bradley Shelver for Graham 2’s 2023 New York Season. “The piece’s intricate partnering and technical demands pushed me out of my comfort zone,” Gion recalls. To meet this challenge, he leaned on his technical skills but also explored new ways to bring the choreographer’s vision to life, understanding that simply following the steps wasn’t enough.
Another significant challenge arose when Gion took on the role of the Couple in White in Martha Graham’s iconic “Diversion of Angels.” He described the pressure of honoring the legacy of this legendary piece, noting that it required him to find a delicate balance between learning and performing while adding his own artistic touch.
“I couldn’t be ‘shy’ and just reproduce the set steps; I had to go further and truly incorporate my artistry,” he explains. These experiences not only tested his technical abilities but also deepened his understanding of dance as a form of expression. Through these challenges, Gion has gained invaluable insights into the perseverance and creativity needed to excel in the world of dance.
Gion Treichler, Diversion of Angels, Picture by Brian Pollock
Connecting with the audience
As a principal dancer, Gion understands the importance of connecting with the audience to create a truly captivating performance. He starts by building a compelling narrative through movement and expression. “Each gesture, step, and facial expression is meticulously choreographed,” he explains, to ensure the character’s emotions and intentions are communicated clearly. By modulating the intensity and tempo of his movements in sync with the music, Gion creates moments of tension and release, drawing the audience into the story.
Emotional vulnerability is another critical element in his strategy to engage the audience. Gion emphasizes the importance of fully inhabiting the character’s emotions and tapping into his personal experiences to add genuine depth to his performance. “This vulnerability not only makes the performance more relatable and human,” he notes, “but also enables the audience to empathize with the character’s journey.”
In addition to emotional resonance, Gion pays careful attention to his physical presence on stage, ensuring each movement is executed with grace and strength. By combining these elements, he aims to create a performance that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain falls.
Vision for the future
Gion’s vision for the future is rooted in a desire to continue evolving as a dancer and exploring new artistic horizons. He expresses excitement about how his experiences in lead roles have shaped his aspirations, pushing him to expand his artistry by delving into roles that challenge him both technically and emotionally.
He looks forward to collaborations with esteemed choreographers and renowned companies like Dance Kaleidoscope and Hudson Ballet Theatre in New York. Their commitment to artistic excellence and innovative performance inspires him. “I envision our collaboration as a dynamic fusion of expertise and vision,” he notes, emphasizing the potential for these partnerships to result in groundbreaking performances.
By working with such respected entities, Gion hopes to create projects that resonate deeply with audiences while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of dance. Gion’s dedication to his craft, his remarkable ability to embody complex roles, and his vision for the future of dance underscore his significant contributions to the art form. As he continues to evolve and inspire, Gion’s journey remains a testament to the power of hard work, creativity, and leadership in the world of performance arts.
Maryland-based recording artist Zel? is stirring up excitement in the music industry with his new release, “PULL UP!” Known for creating relatable songs, Zel? blends alternative hip-hop with a touch of rage, featuring UK rapper Len in this latest track.
Zel?’s unique approach combines elements from hip-hop, indie rock, R&B, punk, and pop, establishing a unified brand that deeply connects with listeners. His attention to musical detail provides a thrilling experience for fans of all tastes.
“PULL UP!” is powered by guitar loops, 808s, and synths, creating an energetic anthem that’s designed to energize turn things up a notch. The collaboration with Len adds an extra layer of excitement, making the track a standout piece easy to return to again and again.
With “PULL UP!”, Zel? shows he’s on his way up and has it figured out. His skill in crafting engaging tunes and connecting emotionally with his audience highlights his potential and marks him as an artist to keep an eye on.
Ren Zukii, the trailblazing bass music producer from Australia, has been making waves both on stage and over the airwaves. Recently, she wrapped up the epic Touch Bass 2024 tour across Australia, which saw packed venues and positive reception. Additionally, Ren has been featured on renowned radio shows, making appearances on New Zealand’s George FM Drive with Sin & Brook and Australia’s Triple J in March of 2024, where she discussed her creative process and upcoming projects.
Adding to her repertoire, Ren is now focused on the release for her new single “Push Up Ya Lighter,” a collaboration with the UK hip-hop vocal duo Virus Syndicate. Scheduled for release on April 26th under the prestigious WAKAAN label, this track is anticipated to be a game changer in live performances and beyond.
“Push Up Ya Lighter” infuses a fresh blend of UKG, breaks, and dark synth chords, creating a powerful, bass-heavy tune that engages the audience in a refreshing manner. This single marks a delightful deviation from Ren’s usual array of sounds, showcasing her ability to innovate and excite in the evolving world of bass music.
Ren Zukii, or Rene Snow, hails from the serene surf town of Margaret River on the south coast of Western Australia. Discovering her passion for drum & bass at the tender age of 12, she pursued music production at university, crafting a unique sound that has established her as a formidable force in the Australian bass music scene. With several successful releases on Liquid Stranger’s label, Wakaan, Ren continues to push the boundaries of music and set a standard of success.
