Lorde ⋆ Melodrama

Do Yourself A Favor & Listen To Lorde's Sophomore Album, Melodrama

'Melodrama' by Sam McKinniss

'Melodrama' by Sam McKinniss

'Green Light' means go. As I trust (and hope) you all do when listening to an album the first go-round, you start with track one and play it all the way through. Ideally with no distractions or stops, devoting your best attention and appreciation to the music; and that's precisely what we've done with Melodrama. From the California coast to the metropolis of New York, we've given Lorde's sophomore album a proper listen (as we're sure the rest of the global community has as well), and she's lit a digital firestorm. One could fathom the pressure a young woman - who's debut album, Pure Heroine, garnered such renown acclaim - has weighing on her to create a second album of equal or more triumphant quality. Well, ladies and gentlemen, Lorde has done it again! 

"Broadcast the boom boom boom boom and make 'em all dance to it."

It's likely that if you have access to internet, you've already heard a few of the electric hits from the New Zealand artist's new release. Tracks such as "Liability," "Sober" and "Perfect Places" (to name just a few), were released over the past two-three months, in anticipation of the big day, i.e. TODAY! Lorde, who's given name is Ella Yelich-O'Connor, wrote and produced the album with the talents of her dear friend and Bleachers' lead, Jack Antonoff. The collaborative talents of Flume, Tove Lo, Frank Dukes, plus many more were also part of the magic! Now stop reading, and get to listening. Like we said, start at the beginning and work your way down... but we can't lie that after the first cycle, we may or may not be listening to "Homemade Dynamite" & "The Louvre" on repeat. Now, raise a glass for this talented Kiwi tonight, have a great Friday, and an even better weekend!

"Our rules, our dreams, we're blind
Blowing shit up with homemade d-d-d-dynamite."

Donavon Frankenreiter || The Waves to the Studio

Scrimshaw recently got a chance to chat with Donavon Frankenreiter, a man who embodies all things creative. Discussing and shooting the breeze on everything from surfing to music to favorite breakfast foods, Donavon solidified himself as effervescently cool. Between his newest album "The Heart", which is at the focus of his upcoming Solo tour, to his collaborative project, Jamtown Band, Donavon's music and style is an ode to what he finds true and dear in this world. Ahead of his upcoming shows at the Belly Up on June 19th & 20th for his solo tour, as well as his Jamtown performances, we encourage you to read along, turn up his tunes, and see the depth and fluidity to Donavon's music and surf style.

Scrimshaw (Bold): Trying to get a sense of where it all started for you, where did you grow up and how did you get involved in the music and surfing scene?

Donavon: So I grew up in Southern California, surfing and living the San Clemente and San Diego scenes. I was just kind of everywhere in Socal and watching all the surfers always inspired me. Watching them all do their thing in the water just incredible.

Yea, the talent in the water was probably insane.

It really was and it was such a cool thing to be a part of.

So between surfing and your music it seems like you always have these creative collaborative projects. Recently you have been working on Jamtown Band. Can you explain what that project is and how it started?

It’s funny, for the past 15 years I have been talking to G. Love about making this acoustic BBQ-esque record.  Two of us, sitting around one mic and create something amazing that fits our vibe. So we started this idea, working with Cisco Adler, and he was like, how about you just make all new songs and see how that sounds. Fast forward to recent months and within 10 days, the whole record was done with 10 new songs and Cisco ended up producing as well as playing on it. We ended with this album and were like…shit, we should make a band with this. Through this happenstance it just became a beautiful coincidence.  Never truly planned; just natural.

That’s so awesome, so creating new music, especially in a collaborative place…do you have a preference of recording in a studio or playing the live experience? Where do you find you get your creativity flowing best?

I really just like to keep it fresh. Creativity flows when you play live. But on the other side, I feel like a song that you write was never really written until you record it. You have the birth of these songs but they never become anything until you actually put them down and record them. There are just so many processes and so many different ways to make a record and each one is different and unique and can generate something so beautiful.  But, when you play live, you adapt to what you did in the studio, so they really build off each other. But this is a great question because to me, they both are forever changing.  Like I can never go into a studio or a concert and be like…yup I’ve done everything I can do here. That’s what I love about music.

Yea it's so true! Your music is held near and dear to us (Wes and Will || Scrimshaw Co-Founders) because some of your original tracks from your first record are on our first surf mix CD (Summer Surf Jamzzz), which I still have in my car!

Haha that’s so great!

Ha but between then and your most recent solo album, the Heart, how has your inspiration and how you write music, changed?

Every record is completely different. That’s just the thing, you are always just growing as a person, a musician and a songwriter.  The songwriting process is just such a beautiful mystery. It’s like this unknown letter that you receive and when you open it, you never know what it’s going to say. In music, you never get to a place, or never want to get to a place, where you feel like you’ve arrived. You just keep evolving in music. You never really master the instrument to a point where you can’t learn anymore. It’s the same with surfing, no matter what age you are, you are always learning something about boards and fins and waves. It’s an exciting thing, and I never get bored with it. If it wasn’t for that element or factor, I don’t know if I would as enthralled with this process as I am with surfing and music.  But because they have that factor, I am addicted.  It truly is an addiction. They are just forever changing fueled by your emotion and feeling.

As a listener, we are always interested in seeing what's next in people’s style and production so we can hear the “new”. It goes for surfing also, you feel like you never know what to expect.  Some days are rad and some days you feel a little worse, but its exciting to experience an unknown in something that is consistent in your life.

So true, it’s amazing! You can get one good wave and it keeps you coming back for more. It’s just like a great song. When you make that one song that like totally clicks, you are like…I need more of that. It seems like it can be an easy thing, thinking to yourself, all I need to do is write 10 songs and I can make a record? But the process is never easy. You look at the prolific songwriters and it’s like where the fuck did it all come from? Sometimes you get this spark where it just keeps coming out of you and coming out of you. But, when you don’t have those moments, there is this real complexity in your craft. To me, it’s like looking at a piece of art. Like a Jackson Pollock and you hear someone go “Oh, it just looks like splattered paint on a canvas” and that’s CRAZY to me because I want to say, well, why don’t YOU go try. You hear and see things that seem simple but when you really try and dial in and hone your craft its like, holy shit.  You learn to love and really appreciate the process.

Well said man. As we come to a close here we have to know...in this world of uncertainty, we all know for certain that breakfast is always incredible. But, for breakfast what would you rather have…a breakfast burrito or an acai bowl?

Ha, that depends on what happened the night before! If I could do it…I would be healthy and have that acai bowl every single day. But, some days you have to be like, screw it, I need a breakfast burrito.  But if I’m anywhere in San Diego… a breakfast burrito is a must.

Rad!!  Keep a look out for our upcoming photo gallery on Donavon's Belly Up Concert on June 19th and 20th!  Get your tickets for his solo shows (here) and Jamtown shows (here).  We promise that you will be jamming with a smile on your face all night long!

Kaleo || Way Down We Go

“Little things that make you smile, dancing barefoot in the dark. If only I had strength to change your mind, Oh for what you need, you will not seek. Choose your words before you speak. Can you see that all you’ve got is time?”
— Kaleo

There is true beauty in a band that can layer a southern rock sound with a rich Icelandic heritage, over silky guitar riffs and smooth (sometimes falsetto) vocals.  Scrimshaw recently got the opportunity to photograph the band, Kaleo, in all their rock and roll glory at their recent concert between Coachella performances. Outside of the fact that Kaleo, as a whole, embodies the true masculine handsomeness of a modern day rock band, it is their crisp sound and talent range that makes them truly impressive.

Kaleo is made up of front man JJ Julius Son, drummer David Antonsson, bassist Daniel Kristjansson, and lead guitarist Rubin Pollock.  They hail from Iceland and draw inspiration from American blues and classic southern rock.  This may be why their recent studio album, A/B, is such a creative ode to the band’s style. 

When listening closely, their first half of the album has a heavier rock influence (which they absolutely ripped in concert) where the second half of the album is more acoustic oriented.  This plays into the title, A/B, and how it’s meant to be listened to on vinyl, where each side has a different feel. 

Besides the fact that Kaleo is the PERFECT spring/summer outdoors music, they are a must see in concert.  They were full of electricity and left everything they had on stage.  If the fact that the front row was filled with gorgeous women singing along to every single song doesn’t get you to this concert, then take comfort in the band’s ability to seamlessly transition between rocking blues and lyrically gorgeous acoustic songs.  Kaleo is the real deal, so go plug in those headphones, crank the volume up high and join us…oh Way Down we Go.

SHAED || Colorful Music

Have you ever gotten that feeling like time is slowing down just to allow you to soak up and enjoy that exact moment?  It’s almost as if the setting has to be perfect while your senses acknowledge that something truly special is happening. 

Imagine this…vibrant blue lighting over a dimly lit stage. My hands are lightly gripping the lens of my camera while the beautifully raw smell of whiskey and anticipation fills the crowd.  A slow crescendo of the synthesizer hovers around the stage. Then it happens. The combination of layered sounds, a bass that energizes my heart, all mixed with this incredible vocal purity.  This is that moment.  This is colorful music.  This is SHAED.

SHAED is a creative collaboration of musical ingenuity and raw vocals.  This electro-pop band hails from DC and is bringing their unique sound on tour.  The band’s strength in sound comes from the silky beats and mixing of Spencer and Max Ernst.  If these brothers are the strength, then the beauty, style, and energy come from leading vocalist, Chelsea Lee. Together, with their genre-bending sounds, they form the trio, SHAED.

As spring and summer music is upon us, we suggest you add SHAED to your “must see” list. Songs like "Running Through the Fields" and "Perfume" are instant forms of musical addiction and binge listening.

Their music has us bumping down the PCH and dancing in the sun on the rooftops of NYC where the #SandMeetsTheStreet. Here at Scrimshaw we can’t get enough of SHAED and will be turning our volume louder, listening to their colorful music.

Maggie Rogers || Authentic Vibes on the West Coast

Palpable electricity.  We could all feel it.  The crowd inched forward, bound together by jittery anticipation; ready to hear the lyrically raw and naturally addicting sounds of Maggie Rogers. Fresh off the release of her first album, Now That The Light Is Fading, the stage had been set for Maggie’s debut concert, allowing her to blaze a path of musical identity and genre-bending sounds.

As Maggie dove deep into her set, moving seamlessly between slower cosmic acapella sounds to her famous folky pop song, “Alaska”; it was easy to see the genuine comfort in her style.  While she says at 22 years old she is still “figuring out” her sound, to us, it’s undoubtedly already something of a marvel.  Between the beautifully bright and retro outfit, to her love of banjos, to her carefree yet uniquely choreographed dancing, Maggie embodies something so refreshing.

“Anyone with a good idea can come in and change the entire industry”
— Maggie Rogers

While Maggie’s meteoric rise came from a viral video of Pharrell rendered speechless after listening to her “drug” of a song, “Alaska”; it is her true visceral talent that will bring her into musical stardom.  Reminding me of a young, new-era version of Janis Joplin, Maggie explains that her authentic sound and style is “to make pop music feel as human as possible.”

Here at Scrimshaw, we only fully endorse and create content on people and ideas that we believe in.  We have been following Maggie since her release of “Alaska” through her EP, Now That The Light Is Fading, and cannot wait to see what she will produce in years to come.  If you do anything this year, go see her live, (if you can get tickets) so you can fully embrace the beautiful electricity that is, Maggie Rogers.

Oh and check out our Scrimshaw Sessions ➳ Top 10 of 2016 where we featured "Dog Years" by Maggie Rogers!

Scrimshaw Sessions ➳ Top 10 of 2016

2016 was been a wild one, across the board. But luckily, the music world has been overall exemplary. After some serious filing down, we were able to sift through the hits, to find our favorite tracks from the past year. Some artists have been around for sometime, and others had their debut year, but at the end of the day, these acts are all doing what they love, which is producing quality music. We hope you enjoy our top tracks and that you all have safe and awesome New Years celebrations -- see you in 2017! Enjoy!

 

1) "Dog Years" by Maggie Rogers

Maggie Rogers, a Brooklyn based artist who just had the year of her life, is a name to remember. Maggie is probably best known for her song “Alaska”, which by itself could have launched her career, but was only enhanced when it was played for Pharrell in his Masterclass at NYU’s Clive Davis Institute where his reaction was: “I’ve never heard anything that sounds like that. That’s a drug for me.” Fortunately, this gave Maggie an outlet we were all hoping for in bringing her music into our homes. While “Alaska” is brilliant, our favorite song of hers thus far is “Dog Years”. The way she mixes sounds under her unique voice is something refreshing to the music industry. It sounds so raw and genuine when she sings, which is only heightened by her lyrical depth.

2) "Same Drugs" by Chance the Rapper

One’s bound to lead a thoroughly impressive life with the first name Chancelor, and Chance the Rapper’s musical intelligence is nothing shy of greatness. Immediately upon release in May, Chance’s third mixtape, "Coloring Book", gained universal praise stacked with incredible tracks and phenomenal production. The sixth track’s intimacy begins with a sole piano, and grows incrementally by incorporating gospel-inspired vocals, drum beats, strings, and so on. Age effects change, and Chance dances with Wendy in reflecting on the past while realizing the present.

3) “ILYSB” by LANY

“ILYSB” (I Love You So Bad) is beautiful and sure to make you feel cool, nostalgic, and sexy all at the same time. Taking it a step further, LANY released “ILYSB – Stripped”, which is a slower, vocal rendition of the song that the world deserved. Even though LANY released their latest album, “kinda”, more recently than this song, it deserves all the recognition it can get, and more.  Not only does LANY put on a killer live show, but their coolness exudes style and lyrical finesse.

4) “Friends” by Francis and the Lights ft. Bon Iver 

Released as a single in early July, before “Farewell, Starlite!”’s full-album release in September, Francis and the Lights joined forces with Bon Iver & Kanye West, plus producers such as Rostam Batmanglij, Ariel Rechtshaid and Cashmere Cat (to name a few) to crank out a killer track, “Friends.” The synthetic sounds and whimsical beats really create something. The entire album is gold, but this track is such a powerhouse it’s unfair. Advice: blast this song in the car with windows down (slow-motion-wind-in-your-hair style), or in some real quality earbuds (not the cheap ones).

5) "The Middle" by Wet

“The Middle” exemplifies Wet’s ever-cool aspirational pop music. Earlier this year we were lucky enough to photograph Wet as they mesmerized the crowd with a performance that can only be described as magical (check out our article here). The talent and vocal range of lead singer Kelly Zutrau is a beauty that must be listened to. “The Middle” is one of their most recent songs and captures the essence of emotion in a two-minute time frame. It’s simple depth in the beat and a tempo change between the chorus and bridge of the song, takes you for an addictive ride. Not only should you be listening to “The Middle” but Wet’s entire discography.

6) “Aloha” by Møme ft. Merryn Jeann

The French DJ Møme broke out in huge success with his track “Aloha” featuring the mesmerizing voice of Australia’s vocalist Merryn Jeann. The duo’s roots extend from Nice, FR to Byron Bay, AUS, and their song has covered the globe from pole to pole. If you don’t already know this track, you’re welcome. You should learn something real while listening, and maybe… even a few good dance moves.

7) “Bruce Wayne” by Memorecks & Jenna Pemkowski 

Jenna Pemkowski teamed up with producer Memorecks to create a powerhouse album called “Follow”. One song on this album, “Bruce Wayne” stands out instantly. Jenna’s voice flows perfectly over Memorecks’ beat creating a song that is meant to repeat. Guaranteed, the first time you listen to it will not be the last of the day. Memorecks’ already solidifying himself, but keep an eye out for Jenna Pemkowski, as her voice is meant for greatness, with this track as her amazing jumping-off point.

8) “Show Me Love” (Skrillex Remix) by Hundred Waters ft. Chance the Rapper, Moses Sumney, Robin Hannibal

First start with a collaborative feat for the ages, then remix it further by one of EDM’s most recognizable names, and you get this beast of a track. Skrillex’s remix of “Show Me Love” is an ultimate feel good song, and gets any crowd on their feet. From house party, to beach bash, this crew knows how to release a great song, and we know you’ll love it just as much. The beats on the backend, keep me the poppy vocals aloft for a great time.

9) “Tilted” by Christine and the Queens

“Tilted” is as gorgeous as it is unique. Christine and the Queens is a vocal phenomenon who uses her French style and background to dive in and out of multiple languages while creating songs with silky melodies and insanely catchy verses. This track is addictive as hell; it lures in the listener so they can hear the deep-rooted sexuality and pureness within the lyrics.

10) “Someone That Loves You” by HONNE ft. Izzy Bizu

The true beauty of HONNE’s style is that, they’re combining an electronic style of keys, drums and other instruments with emotional lyrics, which in turn produces a deeply sexy sound. And what better way to keep that going, then add Ms. Izzy Bizu into the mix. This trio produces a sultry song which will result in repetition; playing it over, and over, and over again. Make sure to listen to their Late Night Version of the track, and read our piece on the act with shots from a gig in Brooklyn earlier this year!

Wet: Ever-Cool Aspirational Pop

Every once in a while I feel that if a person is in the right physical place and state of mind, they can reach a truly unique and heightened sense of outward perspective. This feeling of slight euphoria seems like an out of body experience.  It allows you to immerse yourself in the surroundings and full heartedly enjoy that specific moment.  To us at Scrimshaw, this is the catching lightning in a bottle feeling we are searching with every story and experience.  This unique feeling of softness and visceral comfort was felt recently as we watched, listened and photographed the beauty that is the band, Wet.

Wet || The Irenic 2016

Wet, is an “aspirational pop” band, who originated in Brooklyn, NY but has taken over the indie airwaves.  The band’s melodically clean beats combined with beautiful electric riffs and a front woman who’s voice makes you feel all the feels, is something that everyone needs to experience at least once. 

The band consists of Kelly Zutrau, Joe Valle and Marty Sulkow, and together they can actually create more than just music, they can create an experience.  Not only does this experience bring about beautiful music, but lyrically, Wet can bring you to your knees, with an emotional magnitude only comparable to your first kiss. 

Wet || The Irenic 2016

Our viewing, listening, and photographing experience was intimate as Wet connected everyone in the audience through their music.  The benefit of any artist engaging on that level with fans is that there is a tendency for the listeners to reciprocate.  Wet, releasing two songs, “The Middle” and “Turn Away”, only a week before this concert, was met with the crowd singing every word, leaving the band stunned and ecstatic. Connecting on that level is something most bands dream of, but Wet is not any normal band. Some musicians gather this kind of connection and energy through movement and activity on stage, but Wet fits their ever-cool personality with gorgeous lighting and powerfully comfortable stances, losing themselves in their music. 

Here at Scrimshaw we pride ourselves on cultivating a vibe and creating a collective of experiences that people can enjoy.  We fully hope that you go out of your way to listen and experience Wet in the fullest.  Do yourself a favor and take a moment out of your day to really just clear your mind and immerse yourself in their music and we guarantee you will get something special back in return. 

Wet || The Irenic 2016

Wet|| The Irenic 2016

HONNE || Cool On All The Nights

HONNE performing 10.05.2016 @ Warsaw in Brooklyn, NY.

Brooklyn was heating up on a mildly cool night two weeks back, as Britain’s grooviest duo took the stage at Greenpoint’s Warsaw concert hall. HONNE, made up of the widely talented Andy Clutterbuck and James Hatcher, truly got New York’s party started as part of their North American tour. HONNE creates soulful baby-making beats, fused with electronic elements that make for a new generation of sensual sounds. Andy & James started making music together back in 2014, under their name HONNE, which translates to “real intention” in Japanese, and realness was what they were bringing. When they opened the night with “Treat You Right”, the energy was already high and it only got better as the show went on.

Scrimshaw featured HONNE in a piece at the tail end of 2015 forecasting the duo as one of the top 10 Artists to Watch in 2016 - and we’re still firmly standing by this. With a number of EPs out at that time, we are excited to share that HONNE released their first studio album Warm On A Cold Night this past July, and have been touring to promote that beast. The album features some of their biggest tracks such as “Someone That Loves You” featuring Izzy Bizu, “Warm On A Cold Night,” and “Good Together” (all of which they played at the show). They wrapped up their North American leg last night on the west coast, and are heading back to Europe and Japan over the remaining fall to complete the tour.

The crowd at the Warsaw was hundreds of people, but still felt rather intimate. Fans were fairly close to each other, all inching their way towards the front, but nothing that put people off. I don’t recall seeing a single interaction that wasn’t a smile being exchanged or lyrics being sung along in reply. The true beauty of HONNE’s style is that, they’re combining an electronic style of keys, drums and other instruments with emotional lyrics, which in turn produces a deeply sexy sound; a sound that everyone in the venue was getting down with. At one point during the show, frontman vocalist Andy looks out into the audience and exclaims: “I can tell you, we are never ever going to forget this. I’m speechless.” As at that moment, as they burst into their next song, you could really tell that this creative duo was just as excited to be there as the lucky New Yorkers that were in the room that night.

If you haven’t already started listening to your new favorite band, we’d highly recommend getting on board. Check our their Soundcloud linked at the top, plus two music videos of their’s that we absolutely love! Enjoy the music and turn up that volume, as HONNE is here to stay - and is just warming up your cold nights ahead.

HONNE performing 10.05.2016 @ Warsaw in Brooklyn, NY.

Scrimshaw Sessions ➳ 10 Favorites of 2015

With 2015 coming to a close, Scrimshaw looks back at its year in music.  While 2015 was filled with hits after hits that expanded the definition and boundaries of modern music and genres, we somehow narrowed it down to our Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2015!  With NYE around the corner, we wanted to make sure your musical cognition was at an all time high and your playlists were in peak form.  So, turn up the volume, start scrolling, listening, expand your mind, and let the music flow take you into 2016.  Happy New Year everyone!

 

1) "Fantasy"
Alina Baraz & Galimatias

Collaborating via Soundcloud from other sides of the planet, Alina Baraz & Galimatias, created an EP Urban Flora and the world rejoiced.  Baraz (a Los Angeles American based songwriter) connected with Galimatias (a Danish producer), and successfully fused their relaxed electronic styles to create not only an amazing EP, but overall eight banging singles!  One could say their most popular song “Fantasy” changed their lives, and we think it did just that.  The seductive tune lures you in with Baraz’s voice, and boasts a fantasia inspired sound that kept our speakers blaring all year long.

2) "R.I.P. 2 My Youth"
The Neighbourhood

After The Neighbourhood had a monster 2014 with their chart topping song, "Sweater Weather", we were hoping that this California based alt-rock band would continue to create these darker catchy jams.  They delivered, and were firing on all cylinders, when "R.I.P. 2 My Youth" was made.  Fresh off their 2015 released album, "Wiped Out!" is a must-listen from top to bottom ending with one of our favorite and most played songs this year, "R.I.P. 2 My Youth".  Treat yourself, and listen to all of it.

3) "Lit"
Bas feat. J. Cole, K-Quick

Straight Fire.  Bas, a Queens, NY based rapper, is on the serious rise to power with his EP Last Winter under his belt.  If being J.Cole's protégé doesn't already speak volumes, then his lexicon and lyrical silkiness proves that Bas is meant for Hip Hop.  Creating one of our favorite hip hop songs of the year, "Lit" ft. J.Cole and KQuick, is an absolute hit, that should be turned up to maximum volume.

4) "Don't Wanna Fight"
Alabama Shakes

If you haven’t already heard of the Athens, Alabama based quartet, then the actual likelihood that you’ve actually been living under a rock is quite high.  The musical powerhouse, Alabama Shakes, has been officially on the scene since 2009, releasing their first full length album Boys & Girls in 2012, they then graced us with their second album Sound & Color this past April, and we are forever grateful.  The funky soul-rock blended track “Don’t Wanna Fight” accentuates Brittany Howard’s astounding voice, and provides a great look into how the group has developed into they second feature album.

5) "Real"
Years & Years

There is no doubt that Years & Years has invaded your eardrums this year with their electropop / R&B music and style.  This British based trio had a meteoric 2015 combining their insane vocals with beats and sounds that seem to be from multiple generations.  "Real" is an incredible example creative genius and why genres and labels are being broken in today's day in music.  From the beat to the hook, "Real" is going to have you jamming so hard that it will be impossible not to listen to it again and again.  Their album Communion is a must-listen, which is available on Spotify.

6) "Middle"
DJ Snake feat. Bipolar Sunshine

DJ Snake is most known in these past two years for "Lean On" and "Turn Down for What", but in our opinion, this tops them both.  "The Middle" by DJ snake is without a doubt the definition of a banger and will make even those who don't dance, bob their heads as the beat drops.  Bipolar Sunshine's voice and lyrics are mesmerizing and completely captured and combined with DJ Snake's drop, that is sure to brighten your day.  Listen to this song with your window's down, shades on, and volume turned to 10.

7) "Hunger"
Sam Sure

Recording with the London independent based label, Black Butter Records, just as Jess Glynne, Rudimental, and Clean Bandit have done, Sam Sure released his single “Hunger” and his popularity soared!  The UK based artist toured with another successful trio on our list, Years & Years, and seems to be having a wild ride.  The track “Hunger” loops an addicting melody with fantastic lyrics that begs to be repeated.  This tune was made for headphone city-sidewalk cruising, and we can bet that Sam Sure is only to get bigger and better.  Make sure to check out his new single “Me & You” also available on his Spotify or Soundcloud.

8) "Simple Things"
Miguel

There are certain artists in every generation that just embody raw talent and sex-appeal; Miguel is one of those musicians.  "Simple Things" is the perfect example of  R&B and it exemplifies Miguel's swagger and smooth vocals. The more his discography grows, the more Miguel solidifies himself as a force of modern music.  His recent album Wildheart is genius and even though this cd was played on repeat, we realized that "Simple Things" is one song that stands out and speaks so truthfully on the important things in life.  We implore you to listen to his whole catalogue, but if nothing else listen to "Simple Things" and see why it was on our top 10 list of 2015.

9) "I Know There's Gonna Be (Good Times)"
Jamie xx feat. Young Thug, Popcaan

The talented Jamie Smith has been making a name for himself in the music world, firstly with the group The xx, but has more recently been producing and collaborating with a slew of artists under his solo name Jamie xx.  Through his impressive electronic producing skills, and the release of his solo album, In Colour, Jamie xx has received a Grammy nomination for best Electronic/Dance album.  The album has a handful of songs featuring other artists, including Young Thug and Popcaan on the mega-track “I Know There’s Gonna Be (Good Times).”  If you don’t start moving your body to this song, you might need to get something checked out; the beat begs for dancing and guarantees good times had by all who listen.

10) "Say My Name"
ODESZA feat. Zyra

The official music video for “Say My Name” by ODESZA from the album 'In Return’ directed by Ian Pons Jewell starring Stephanie Hunt. Directed by Ian Pons Jewell http://www.facebook.com/ipjewell http://www.ianponsjewell.com Actress Stephanie Hunt https://twitter.com/steph_o_nee ODESZA - In Return – Available Now CD/LP/WAV: http://odesza.co/releases iTunes: http://odesza.co/inreturnitunes Amazon: http://odesza.co/inreturnamazon Follow ODESZA on: Facebook: http://odesza.co/facebook Twitter: http://odesza.co/twitter Instagram: http://odesza.co/instagram Spotify: http://odesza.co/spotify YouTube: http://odesza.co/youtube SoundCloud: http://odesza.co/soundcloud http://odesza.com http://counterrecords.com LYRICS: I wanna go So what’d you say When you gonna let me know If you give a damn about me ‘Cause you got my hands tied In my defense I always fall for confidence And your compliments look good on me Cause nobody knows it better than the girl in the corner with the scarlet letter And while you’re watching you may think that she doesn’t matter But no one knows you better I wanna dance I wanna dance I wanna dance with you So take a chance take a chance Oh yeah I need a sign or a signal I’ve overthought everything I can think of Into symbol I need the coat and your jacket And the remnants of your cigarette packet I wanna go So what’d you say When you gonna let me know If you give a damn about me ‘Cause you got my hands tied In my defense I always fall for confidence And your compliments look good on me Cause nobody knows it better than the girl in the corner with the scarlet letter and while you’re watching you think that she doesn’t matter but no one knows you better I wanna dance I wanna dance I wanna dance with you So take a chance take a chance Oh yeah FULL PRODUCTION CREDITS: DIRECTOR Ian Pons Jewell PRODUCTION COMPANY Residency PRODUCER Marieta Blaskova EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Gaetan Rousseau 1ST AD Delvin Williams DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Pat Scola FOCUS PULLER Jack Bianco 2ND ACE lver Hernandez GAFFER Eddie Apodaca ART DIRECTOR Paris Pickard WARDROBE Brent Coover MAKE-UP Heather O'boyle EDITOR Gaia Borretti COLOURIST Houmam Abdallah GRADING COMPANY Electric Theatre Collective POST PRODUCTION COMPANY Eight VFX VFX Stephane Allender CAST Stephanie Hunt CAST Brandon Michael Anderson

Arguably the best musical pair to breakthrough into the electronic world, the Seattle based duo, Odesza, took over the past two years, with a long list of singles, two full studio albums, EPs, a bunch of remixes and hearty collaborations.  You can’t go wrong with any of their songs, but the track that blew us away in 2015 was “Say My Name” featuring the beautiful voice of Zyra.  Catchy lyrics, plus rhythmic drums resulted in a dream-like ballad for the ages, and has kept everyone wanting more.  Check out their site to download their personal app, full discography and cities for their 2016 tour!

Scrimshaw Sessions ➳ 10 Artists to Watch in 2016

Despite El Niño’s success at messing with our usual wintry weather, the holiday spirit is still in full effect and we wanted to share an early gift with you.  Scrimshaw Collective’s Spotify profile is now LIVE, and our first feature highlights our favorite artists to watch in 2016!  From funk to neo-soul, plus tastes of indie-pop and tropical house, there’s a little something for everyone.  We’ve had these artists on repeat the past few months, and can say without a doubt, they’re all going to have stellar 2016s.  Hit play, start scrolling, and peruse down our count of the 10 Best New Artists for the New Year!

 
 

1) Cleopold

Hailing from Melbourne, and now based in Los Angeles, the Australian singer-songwriter, Cleopold, produces a truly refreshing sound.  His debut EP was scooped up by fellow Aussie, Chet Faker, and is part of Faker’s boutique label, Detail Records, Co.  Cleopold’s also done some incredible work with the likes of Cassian and Miami Horror, and we hope there’ll be more collaborations in the New Year.  We’re really digging his single “Scarlet,” released last month, and can only see this guy becoming huge.
Spotify   ♦   Instagram   ♦   Facebook   ♦   YouTube

2) LION BABE

LION BABE is Jillian Hervey + Lucas Goodman. NYC x IMPOSSIBLE Available Now: http://po.st/IMPWS LIONBABE EP Available Now: http://po.st/FBEPiFT

LION BABE, a ferocious neo-soul duo, create funky tracks with powerfully soothing vocals and a beat that gets you grooving.  LION BABE is made up of Jillian Hervey and Astro Raw, who hail from New York City and bring a new vibe and tone into modern soul music.  Working with artists such as Childish Gambino and Disclosure set Lion Babe up for a meteoric 2016.
Spotify   ♦   Instagram   ♦   Facebook   ♦   YouTube

3) Tom Misch

20 yrs old producer/multi-instrumentalist Beat Tape 2 it out now iTunes - http://smarturl.it/beattape2 Spotify - http://smarturl.it/BT2s management > Duncan Murray - mgmt@tommisch.com bookings > natashabent@theagencygroup.com / noahsimon@theagencygroup.com press > sinead@bleachedcommunications.com

Tom Misch is expanding the defined lines of geners with his silky chord progressions, smooth melodies, and colorful collaborations.  Misch is a London based composer, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and violinist who is going to have a monster 2016.  At his young age, he is composing polished tracks with ease.  If his recent album, Beat Tape 2, is any indication of things to come, than we are stoked to see what is next for Misch.
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4) Lostboycrow

"LostBoyCrow"-- An idea that pays homage to new beginnings and a poignant heritage -- best described as a pop minded vocalists dark love affair with the world of modern R&B. General Contact: Lostboycrow@gmail.com Booking Contact: Joe.Fucigna@unitedtalent.com

You may have heard his latest single “Love Won’t Sleep” on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist last week, but if you didn’t… NOW YOU KNOW!  Described as “an idea that pays homage to new beginnings and a poignant heritage” in his Facebook profile’s bio, Lostboycrow drops some serious beat and brings a soulful voice to his music.  We think he’s from LA, and don’t know his name, but regardless, his style will 100% get you hooked
Spotify   ♦   Instagram   ♦   Facebook   ♦   YouTube

5) Bryson Tiller

T R A P S O U L

Bryson Tiller has been taking the R&B / Hip Hop game by storm since his album, T R A P S O U L, dropped in October 2015.  Tiller, who hails from Louisville, Kentucky, organically grew his Soundcloud and musical abilities, only to be discovered by some of his idols, Drake and Timberland.  Tiller is going to make a splash in 2016 if he continues to spit this hot fire.
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6) HONNE

本音 (True Feelings) Gone Are The Days (Shimokita Import) out Jan 22 iTunes - smarturl.it/GoneAreTheDays Vinyl - smarturl.it/GoneAreTheDaysLP CD - smarturl.it/GoneAreTheDaysCD Official Store - http://smarturl.it/honne.store - Dec 7: Strom / Munich / Germany - Dec 9: Stereolux / Nantes / France - Dec 10: La Maroquinerie / Paris / France - Dec 11: Hospice D'havré / Tourcoing / France - Jan 14: Eurosonic Noorderslag Festival / NL - Mar 3: Electric Brixton / London / UK - Mar 11: Bowery Ballroom / NYC / USA FREE DOWNLOAD http://hellohonne.com

HONNE, a British-Electronic Soul duo, create velvety tracks incorporating aspects of funk and trance that evokes emotional electricity.  HONNE's recent EP, Gone Are the Days, show their true artistic vision and we cannot wait to see where this path leads in 2016.
Spotify   ♦   Instagram   ♦   Facebook   ♦   YouTube

7) Frances

Singer-songwriter/piano woman. New single 'Borrowed Time', co-written with Howard from Disclosure is out now Spotify: http://po.st/BRWTIMEsp iTunes: http://po.st/ai3a9g Apple Music: http://po.st/vDn5zC The ‘Let It Out’ EP is out now x http://po.st/2NgYe2 Watch the official video here: po.st/LetVidv Management: grant@methodmusic.co.uk

The UK’s next leading lady is here, and we’re absolutely stoked about it.  The singer-songwriter & talented pianist Frances is on the scene, and taking charge.  With two EPs released this year, and a brand new single “Borrowed Time,” co-written with Howard Lawrence of Disclosure, France’s powerful voice knocks everything out of the park.  We’re thinking she’s the girl next-door meets total badass, and it’s difficult not to loop her songs on repeat.  #TeamFrancesUK is what you didn’t know you’ve been missing, and we’re very pleased she’s here.
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8) Vulfpeck

Vulfpeck - Thrill of the Arts (2015) ▶ NOW available on Bandcamp: http://vulf.de/thrill-bc ▶ NOW available on iTunes: http://vulf.de/thrill-it Track Listing 01 00:00 Welcome to Vulf Records (feat. Joey Dosik) 02 02:43 Back Pocket (feat. Christine Hucal, Theo Katzman & Mark Dover) 03 05:44 Funky Duck (feat.

Originally from Ann Arbor, but now in California, the group Vulfpeck was founded in 2011 and is just fuckin’ great.  With the release of their fifth album this fall, “Thrill of the Arts” is thirty-two minutes of pure goodness.  Funk oozes through all of their songs, bringing back essences of the 70s and 80s.  Track #2 off the new album “Back Pocket” just makes you want to strut your stuff down the street KC & The Sunshine Band status.  Get jamming – you’ll be glad you did, and be sure to watch their recent performance on The Late Show with Mr. Stephen Colbert!
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9) Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan is getting started.  ‘Happy Little Pill’ is the first single by Sivan, the 19-year-old Perth artist who’s set to confound expectations with the release of his forthcoming debut EP, TRXYE. Due to drop on August 15, TRXYE offers up five tracks of rich, atmospheric pop: a genre-smashing blend of beats, ballads, and influences – a sonic tapestry drawing from a love of Lana Del Rey and Lorde, Frank Ocean to Haim. Realised alongside emerging Perth production duo SLUMs and the studio skills of mixers Tom Elmhirst and Jason Cox (who’ve shaped hits for Gorillaz, Adele, Empire Of The Sun and many more), TRXYE is the sound of a young artist announcing himself. Troye has developed a huge online profile via his videos/vlogging, but 'Happy Little Pill' and TRXYE see him confidently defining a sound and aesthetic all his own. Fans have already had a taste of Troye’s music via 2013’s ‘The Fault In Our Stars’, a track revisited and reworked on TRXYE. The song is already a sleeper hit selling 100,000 around the world, with all proceeds from the song donated to a Perth children’s hospital. As the lead track on TRXYE, ‘Happy Little Pill’ is a heady introduction: all airy, wilful glitches, and Troye’s rich vocals. Call it a promise – there’s even bigger things to come. CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE: http://troye.si/vanTRXYE  

Joburg born, Perth raised, this 20 year old prdoigy is going to have the best. year. ever.  Originally starting out in acting, with a strong presence on YouTube, Troye Sivan just released his first studio album “Blue Neighbourhood” earlier this month.  If you haven’t already heard his name from peaking on the Billboard 200 this summer, you will soon enough.  With a powerhouse of CAPITALIZED tracks from “YOUTH” to “TALK ME DOWN,” it seems Troye’s been cleaning up since day one.  With a tour set for 2016 across the US, Australia, Canada, the UK and Europe, many of the gigs have already sold out – sorry Webster Hall fans.  Get “WILD” for Sivan’s music and turn up the volume.
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10) GLADES

For all enquiries please email: gladesmusicau@gmail.com Alternative Pop Trio Karina Wykes, Cam Robertson, Joey Wenceslao

The alternative pop trio from Sydney is blowing up the internet with their epic track “Her (Loving You),” and we can’t wait to see what else they’ve got up their sleeves.  Karina Wykes provides sultry vocals, with Cameron Robertson & Joseph Wenceslao producing and playing guitar/synth.  Pulling influence from Broods and CHVRCHES, these musicians provide a unique sound of indie pop that we’re sure will continue to impress.
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