Kwon Breaks Down Debut EP “Collections” Track By Track

CULTR Staff
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Kwon Breaks Down Debut EP “Collections” Track By Track

Justin Kwon – better known as Kwon – is a rapidly rising independent producer from Los Angeles California. Gearing up for his debut EP release, Kwon embarks on his most courageous venture yet. Described as a “creative mind dump,” the producer has put together a cohesive project that will showcase the various facets of his musical talent.

Putting his vision into fruition, the artist exquisitely displays his creative ability through this 7-track project available via Moving Castle. With production cameos from Manila Killa and Ramzoid, all elements seemed to be put in place for this special occasion. Out now, we had the honor of chatting with Kwon as he breaks down the EP track by track.

Smith

“This is the first installment of the EP Collections. Made back in July of 2019 with Chris (Manila Killa)  and Julien (Ramzoid) initially started as a fun session that progressed into what it is now. This song sets the stage for what to expect in the rest of the EP.”

JU18Y

“Wanted to give a contrasting listen as there are two separate moods of the EP. This one is on the lighter side with a lot of different moving synths to give it a whimsical ride.”

770 Twin

“This was the start of Collections. I made this demo over a year ago and was the blueprints for the project. Initially it was supposed to be separated into two parts but to follow the story of creating a journey felt that it needed to be a single track.”

I(myhead)n

“Struggled with this song the most but ended up being my favorite. This song was really a reminder to myself to not overthink things and allow the mind to create. It’s something all creators face and this was just my journey overcoming it.”

Reality

“I think the hardest thing to do in life sometimes is to face reality. No matter what we do we are presented with things that aren’t in our control that we stress about or try to change. This song is about overcoming that feeling.”

Oceanside

“Made this on the train ride down to San Diego. You get one of the most scenic trips taking the Amtrak and wanted the track to be the exact opposite. The idea of being unexpected was something that I wanted to do on the EP and felt like this was a great way to do it.”

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Where It Started: Mefjus

CULTR Staff
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Where It Started: Mefjus

Your passion and love for music can start at any age. That’s something that hangs in curiosity for many fans. What did this person listen to when they were younger? Who influenced them?

The ‘Where It Started’ series is a platform for artists of all kinds to speak on the anthems that raised them to be who they are now.

Meet Mefjus: Based out of Linz, north Austria, Martin Schober is a singular protagonist at the forefront of this beguiling game we call drum & bass. He likes hip-hop, skateboarding, schnitzel, Leibniz biscuits and long walks in the sunset, but he’s most respected for how he traipses across electronic music’s wildest terrains with total boundary abandonment… And is regarded as a leading influential new-gen figure in the genre.

Where It Started: Mefjus

“There are so many great artists that I look up to and there are so many creative people out there who constantly keep pushing the limits in so many ways, so there is more than enough great art to be inspired by.“

“To single out a sole track, artist or even genre that inspired me or influenced my style of music production really is a tough one…kinda impossible.“

“Thinking back to what or who first brought me to music and what sparked the desire to start producing myself, I think for me it was like for most people, the greatest influence always comes from people who are close to you and who you look up to.”

“In my case, that person would be my brother who is four years older than me, and you know, what the big brother does is cool, and you have to check that out for yourself. My brother fell for Hip Hop when he was 15, maybe 16 years old, for the first time in the late ’90s, early 2000`s. For us, it kind of started with German Rap and Hip Hop. My brother discovered “Beginner” (a German Hip Hop group) who released their 2nd studio album “Bambule” that time around.”

“We were instantly hooked on these Hip Hop beats and from there we started exploring and became aware of the very vivid Rap & Hip Hop scene in North America. I think Gang Starr’s “Moment of Truth” was released in 1998, from there we started digging deeper, we went back through the 90’s discovering more and more artists and tunes.” 

“During this time, I think I was around 12, 13 years old, I practically only dealt with 90’s Hip Hop and that actually went on until the end of my teenage years.  And that was still the case when I first started making beats myself.”

“My transition to drum and bass was also triggered by my brother, who took me to my first rave when I was 16 or 17. I was instantly hooked by the tempo, groove and sophisticated sound design of it. Having had some experience making hip-hop beats I then tried myself at 172bpm.”

“Long story short, my musical progression started off with my passion for 90’s Hip Hop. That’s the musical foundation I started to build on, and I still enjoy playing around with Hip Hop beats in the studio. In fact, my good friend MC Maksim, who performs with me on pretty much all shows, and I started a hip-hop side project and we are aiming to release our debut album this year. More info on that soon!”

– Mefjus

How Games Make Money Podcast With Jeff Grub, Featuring Wiz Khalifia’s Weed Farm Designer, Ironsource CFO & More

CULTR Staff
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How Games Make Money Podcast With Jeff Grub, Featuring Wiz Khalifia’s Weed Farm Designer, Ironsource CFO & More

While most people love playing games, there’s a smaller few who like to make those games and this podcast talks about the business of gaming. Whether its a fully immersive in depth first person shooter like Call Of Duty, or a simple player like Tetris or the more recent phenomena of Animal Crossing, games undoubtedly come in all shapes and sizes.

So for those interested, you can check in to How Games Make Money every Friday for a new episode with GamesBeat editor Jeff Grubb who talks to people from all walks of life in and around the business of video games. On each episode, he seeks to find out how people are bringing in cash from games in different ways. Jeff talks with developers, publishers, executives, content creators, toolmakers, and more. Look for new episodes every Friday.

The show which launched in February has so far brought on Ironsource’s CFO Omer Kaplan to talk about serving up ads in hypercasual games. On the next episode, Grubb brings on Out Of The Park’s COO – Rish Grisham who’s been releasing games for the past 20 years to discuss the avenues of releasing games from traditional formats, through to new subscription models and the introduction of microtransactions in games.

Other episodes include Kinda Funny co-founder Greg Miller to discuss what it’s like to be an influencer in the gaming sphere, Khalief Adams of Spawn On Me another Gaming Podcast that talks about people of colour in the gaming industry, and Chief Game Designer Mitch Zamara from Mobile Game development company Metamoki (known for Weed Inc, Wiz Khalifa’s Weed Farm and Fruit Pop) about they test profitability and knowing when to move on.

Nicky Romero Brings 3 Massive Club Anthems With ‘Redefine’ EP

Oliver Tryon
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Nicky Romero Brings 3 Massive Club Anthems With ‘Redefine’ EP

After being teased for months, Protocol Recordings boss Nicky Romero has taken the wraps of his three track ‘Redefine’ EP. The EP focuses on the club side of his production repertoire.

After releasing ‘I See’ back in January, Romero brings along two other productions to fill out the release. ‘Time’ and ‘Replica’ bring a familiar sound to ‘I See’, yet remain original in their own right.

Whilst it does sound like the new sound that David Guetta and MORTEN have recently been pushing, Nicky Romero takes it to the next level providing three terrific main room hitter that would be a highlight of any club/festival set – if only there were events to be played at.

The ‘Redefine’ EP is just one facet of the ‘Redefine’ concept, which also includes a world tour, 3-part documentary series, themed website, and merchandise line.

Nicky Romero Interview: New Music, Proudest Track & More

Brian Fink Continues To Provide Value, Revamping His Seesaw Sessions Podcast During Worldwide Quarantine

Ben Beamish
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Brian Fink Continues To Provide Value, Revamping His Seesaw Sessions Podcast During Worldwide Quarantine

Since its launch in October of last year, Brian Fink’s Seesaw Sessions Podcast, airing via iHeart Radio, has featured some of the most influential people in the entertainment industry. Among them are artists such as Armin Van Buuren, and Sam Smith, as well as industry professionals such as Lorne Padman and Maykel Piron. 

Recently, with the worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus COVID-19 and a large part of the world being in quarantine, Brian Fink has been revamping his entertaining podcast series providing some well-needed laughter and value during these times of isolation. In his latest couple of installments, that have been labeled as “Quarantined”, he “invites” (over the phone) legendary Finnish producer Darude, as well as Lorne Padman (VP of Steve Aoki’s label Dik Mak), Maykel Piron (CEO and Co-founder of Armada) and singer/songwriter Casey Baer. 

Listen to Brian Fink’s latest Seesaw Sessions Podcasts below: 


Major Lazer Drop New Single “Lay Your head On Me” feat. Marcus Mumford

Ben Beamish
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Major Lazer Drop New Single “Lay Your head On Me” feat. Marcus Mumford

Major Lazer continue their busy release schedule this year by dropping yet another single, smooth vibe “Lay Your Head On Me” featuring vocals from Mumford & Sons’ frontman Marcus Mumford. The unexpected release comes short after the trio’s announcement of their new weekly live mix series titled “A Very Lazer Sunday,” the first of which was broadcasted from Diplo’s home. 

“Lay Your Head On Me” is co-written with previous collaborator MØ, who has worked with Major Lazer on their biggest hits “Lean On” and “Cold Water”. With the single, the diverse superstar trio (comprised of Diplo, Walshy Fire and Ape Drums) goes in a different direction in comparison to the dancehall aesthetic that has characterized their latest releases. Starting off with warm, washed-out guitars, “Lay Your Head On Me” features Marcus Mumford’s soothing voice right in the forefront, while as the song unfolds listeners are met with a combination of folk and tropical sounds.

San Holo Releases First Of Many Quarantine Singles “(if only I could) hold you”

Ben Beamish
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San Holo Releases First Of Many Quarantine Singles “(if only I could) hold you”

If you’ve been following San Holo over the past weeks on social media, you know that the recent outbreak of the coronavirus COVID-19 affected his career and mental health greatly. The Dutch artist was rehearsing for a huge headline show in San Fransisco’s Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, as well as preparing his label showcase A Night With bitbird during Miami Music Week, which was turned into a virtual event. 

Now, San Holo unexpectedly dropped a new single titled “(if only i could) hold you”, following up his earlier, massive collaboration with Brooks, “Honest”. To fans’ delight, he explained on social media that this is only the first step, as he’ll be releasing new music every week creating an ever-expanding collection titled stay vibrant. 

“(if only i could) hold you” is an emotional showcase of San Holo’s unique and forward-thinking style. Filled with lush guitar chords and melodies, as well as heavenly vocals, it makes up for the perfect start to his new release series. 

Dua Lipa Releases Stunning Sophomore Album ‘Future Nostalgia’

Ben Beamish
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0
Dua Lipa Releases Stunning Sophomore Album ‘Future Nostalgia’

Dua Lipa has been everywhere over the past years with inescapable chart-toppers such as empowering “New Rules” and club anthem “One Kiss” with Calvin Harris, while recent hits “Don’t Start Now“ and “Physical” have built massive anticipation for her sophomore effort Future Nostalgia, which was released today. 

“Future Nostalgia”, which was released a week early via Warner Music UK, potentially due to its leak two weeks before the original release date, is a stunning showcase of quality pop music paired with 80s and 90s funk-disco aesthetics. To her advantage, the British-Albanian superstar is not heard overly catering to modern trends during the project’s 11-tracks; she keeps the production consistent and sharp, while paying homage to some of her inspirations; “Physical” interpolates the lyrics from the 1981 Olivia Newton-John single of the same name, while “Break My Heart” samples INXS 1987 hit “Need You Tonight”. Other highlights include the Tove Lo co-written “Cool”, and stunning ballad “Boys Will Be Boys”, which closes off the track list. 

Listen to Dua Lipa’s ‘Future Nostalgia’ below: 

Channel Tres drops “Weedman”, the Freshest Sound of the Week

Brendan Hanson
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Channel Tres drops “Weedman”, the Freshest Sound of the Week

The man with the low-rumbling voice and the crunchiest of beats makes his triumphant return with “Weedman”. Channel Tres has been one of the most exciting artists over the last two years. He has a golden voice that it’s easy to hear why he’s drawn comparisons to George Clinton and Isaac Hayes. To be fair to Channel, he has brought a cool, billowing breeze to a music scene that is often caught chasing fads or big data, which is partially why the comparisons make sense. However, he is much more than someone with a baritone voice. His artistry extends far beyond and “Weedman” continues that richness of good vibes.

The Compton-native has a knack for creating music that sits at a unique intersection of musical genres and styles. It could be dubbed g-funk, but that’s disingenuous and undersells the originality. It’s not quite dance-specific, but there are elements of house. It’s not quite hip-hop, but it has a bit of that rawness and lyricism. It’s not quite funk, but it does have that rhythmic “pop” that drives feet to move. It’s distinctly the idiosyncratic sonic turbulence of Channel Tres.

“Weedman” creates a party for the mind, body, and soul. On the surface, it’s playful, energetic, and jovial entrancing the body. Behind the overt fun nature of having to chase down a drug-dealer, is a deeper meaning and message for the mind and soul. While dispensaries become commonplace and marijuana decriminalization continues to sweep across the nation, prejudices and discrimination continue to be hurled at black men and women, often wrapped in a blanket of presumed drug abuse and crime. Many of those who suffered these microcosms during the War On Drugs, still rot behind bars and wait for the presumed absolution of these crimes. It’s the brilliance of Channel to shine a light on these issues in such a way that can resonate with the masses. He’s an artist that knows who he is and what his art’s purpose is.

In conjunction with the release, we were blessed with the most fitting music video. Directed by Anthony Sylvester, who was CULTR’s debut Behind The Lens interviewee, the video utilizes 8mm film and a charming period-specific house. Popcorn ceilings, wood paneling, and even an Atari create an old school, 70s atmosphere and aesthetic that is perfect for the “Weedman” sound and narrative. Channel conjures his inner Eddie Murphy and Tyler Perry, to perform multiple characters to add an extra layer of pazazz. He also choreographed the dance sequences, setting the stage for him to join the ranks of multi-hyphenates.

“Weedman” marks the first release under Channel’s own label, Art For Their Good. It’s the freshest sound of the week and is well worth the stream or music video view, which can be done by scrolling down. Or you can follow the link here to choose your preferred service.

Bad Honey Break Down EP “Awake Tonight” Track By Track

Omar Serrano
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Bad Honey Break Down EP “Awake Tonight” Track By Track

Comprised of both Lydia Clowes & Teresa Origone, Bad Honey is the newest soul-pop duo from South East London garnering reactions from all over the world. Bad Honey emits a fragile and dreamy voice. Combining the purest sounding vocals, minimal synths and jumping rhythms, culminating in the most succulent of sweet spots-a nice mix of experimental music and lo-fi electronics.

Capturing the hearts of their listeners one by one, the duo have put forward their best efforts into their latest “Awake Tonight” EP. Making its arrival on streaming platforms today, we’ve had the privilege of chatting with the two creatives to break down the project track by track.

STILLNESS

“Inspired by an overwhelming feeling of being small in the face of nature, and how this can bring you back down to earth. We wrote this on a nice sunny day with Frenchie (The Naked Eye) in a park in East London, it’s a simple idea of looking out at the world and having that feeling inside which you can’t quite explain. This song has so many vocal layers, which maybe subconsciously reflected the complexity of humans. Recently having done a road trip in a van where I (Lydia) was forced to live very simply, it made me realise that living simply is so refreshing, and how focusing on very small things throughout your day can really take you back to the basics and not get too caught up in the complexities of life and the things around you.”

EASILY

“This song is a light hearted story of a new found love where all the little things matter. You can definitely tell it was written in the summer. We had a lot of fun making this with all our favourite synths and lots of vocal harmonies and layers, and the middle 8 of the song features a friend Toby Couling playing percussion on some pots and pans, which is our favourite bit of the song. This song is actually so hard to play live as there is so much going on (vocally and instrumentally), so by the time we get to the end of the song at a gig we look at each other really flustered and red faced, it’s so funny.”

BLISSFULLY UNAWARE

“Although on the surface this song may appear light and bouncy there is certainly a darker side to it.We wrote this with our friend Georgia (Sharky), who is also featured in the song. When writing the lyrics we were thinking about the many worries surrounding global warming and our climate in the modern world. It’s about the contrasting outlooks humans can have on these issues, and how helpless it can feel when it seems that half of the world are not taking it seriously enough and the small things you do to try and help feel useless. “Close your eyes or stay awake” referring to either turning a blind eye or doing something about it. After having written the song we had a big instrumental section in the middle which was longing for a rap verse, so we brought our friend Mercy (MEI) in where she voiced her similar thoughts on the whole thing.”

CIRCLES

“Circles is about being in a relationship where both people are fighting their own battles, and finding strength in supporting each other. It’s a positive way of saying ‘I’ve got you and you’ve got me’, and not allowing things to go round in a vicious circle where problems are ignored and the situation gets worse. We wanted to create some cyclic motion within the music as well, so we did this via the looping arpeggiated synth in the verses, and the layered backing vocal lines in the choruses which create a canon-like effect. We worked on this song with our friend Geo who we produced it with.”

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