THEGUUDS w/ LUCA, MOZZ!, Shann, KIDZ, Theodor Black, Elly Shane & Manah
LUCA - Altar
NY native LUCA makes his euphoric return with his latest single “Altar.” LUCA continues to welcome listeners into his creative guises with the use of descriptive writing and admiration to transcend punk-esque guitar riffs and puddy-like bass arrangements. On “Altar,” LUCA displays the motions of holding onto love despite feeling unfulfilled in the relationship. The battle of trying to be selfless while denouncing your happiness. This song feels like an alternative ballad. LUCA’s voice strikes the beat with care and direction; shaping the sound movement throughout the song. The song moves at a consistent pace, building up towards the luxurious guitar solo by co-producer Will Catucci. LUCA is wearing his heart on his sleeve, creating a safe place to display his vulnerability with grace. This serves as a follow-up to his November release “Serotonin.” We’re excited about what LUCA has in store for the rest of the year.
MOZZ! - “call me”
New Jersey singer-songwriter MOZZ! makes her debut with “call me.” MOZZ!’s voice is soothing and submerges the delicate textures provided by the production. The slow-building drum kicks are infectious. MOZZ!’s enticing harmonies paces well alongside the dreamy chords. On ”call me,” MOZZ! sings about wanting her love interest to put more effort into their relationship. MOZZ! tonality and pacing over the subdued dreamy production delivery resemble an alt approach to blues with modern soul components. The balance between traditional piano arrangement and synth chords will send listeners into a trance of peace and comfort. MOZZ! is floating on her debut single and we’re excited to see what she floats on next.
KIDZ, Quincy X & SMYTH - “4 Da KIDZ”
Collective KIDZ recently dropped their debut EP 4 Da KIDZ, which serves as a solid four-track body of work that highlights each member's creative contributions. One of the standout tracks from their last sonic offering is “4 Da KIDZ.” The chop and screw feel nostalgic, embracing the essence of Houston with a refreshing approach. The lyrical exchanges between Quincy X and SMYTH are delivered with aplomb over the heavy bounce production. The glitchy hi-hats with the sharp snare display no blemish and the saxophone section lingering in the background are alluring. The collective pays homage to Kendrick Lamar with their “you ain't gotta lie to kick it” bridge. Quincy X and SMYTH are a match made in heaven when it comes to both holding their own on tracks and encouraging each other’s pen. At the top of this year, the trio released singles leading up to their collaborative effort.
Manah- “Time and Space”
Singer-songwriter Manah returns with her latest single “Time and Space.” Manah’s vocal arrangements are dreamy and set as equilibrium for the heavy 808s and sticky snares that holds the core of the production.
On “Time and Space,” Manah reflects on the value of love from previous lovers. She’s coming to terms with the loss of love and finds comfort in the time and space it’s providing her. The deeper vocals underneath Manah’s voice add color and expression to Manah’s therapeutic writing style. This single serves as a follow-up to her 2020 release “Numb.” We’re excited to see what else Manah has planned for the year.
Theodor Black - “TOP DOWN”
South London artist Theodor Black returns with his latest “TOP DOWN.” Black’s cadence and versatile delivery exude confidence as he expresses the highs and lows of living up to your best potential. Black is not afraid to go against the grain by playing with his vocals, adding a deeper texture to his lyricism. The drill elements in the second portion of the beat demonstrate Black’s ability to find balance with UK sounds and nostalgic synths; cultivating a refreshing sonic offering. At the beginning of 2022, Black released his single “LOOP,” and is planning to drop his EP PARADISE FM next month.
Shann - “Same Page”
Virginia native Shann makes her debut with “Same Page,” produced by FULMETALPARKA. Shann’s vocals are placed gently over the bright production as she expresses her desire for her significant other to be on the same page as her. The production blur modern and traditional R&B elements with elegance. The song is short, which feels intentional; leaving listeners wanting more from the Virginia singer. “Same Page” serves as a heartfelt interlude to Shann’s unapologetic predilection to be in sync with her significant other. We’re excited to hear what else she had planned for the future.
Elly Shane - “Sense of Gravity”
LA-based Singer-songwriter and vocal producer Elly Shane makes her latest sonic offering with “Sense of Gravity.” The funkadelic aspects and thumping drums are evocative and the violins are gorgeous. There are so many instrument elements throughout the song, it's constantly moving at a comfortable pace, lead by Shane’s angelic vocal arrangements. The hook is infectious and catchy over the ethereal production by Ryan Baer. On her latest single, Shane sings about wanting her crush to move on from their current relationship and be with her instead. Taking honor in being that comfort space for her beloved crush, despite the limitations of their partnership. Shane’s voice is smooth and samite; finding a nice balance between 90’s r&b and pop-soul. Shane is planning to drop her debut EP Tripwire on April 22nd. We’re excited for the new music!
