Global Artists Spotlight: Mitsune, Alok, K.ZIA And More
Hear new tunes by musicians from across the world
Check out the latest releases from K.ZIA, Alok, Mitsune and Shenna (clockwise from top left). Photos: Tribunalova (K.ZIA); Gabriel Wickbold (Alok); Courtesy of the artists (Mitsune, Shenna)
Mitsune – Hazama
Berlin-based fusion outfit Mitsune has members hailing from Japan, Germany, Australia and Greece and is heavily influenced by Eastern blues, jazz, rock and cinematic elements which help in creating their unique sound. On their new 10-track album Hazama, Mitsune explore the feeling of being in limbo and caught between worlds. Through their vocal harmonies and use of traditional instruments such as shinobue, ney, qanun, koto and the Tsugaru shamisen (a three-stringed Japanese folk instrument), the outfit delivers immersive performances across the record.
Alok, Au/Ra – “Side Effect”
Brazilian electronic music producer Alok teams up with prolific singer Au/Ra on their latest single “Side Effect.” Packing in twists and turns vocally as well as melodically, the song is a bright, club-ready banger which allows Alok to further lead the world into a new era of EDM. Alok said in a statement, “To work with such a bright, young talent such as Au/Ra on this track was so much fun, she really brought a tone to the track that fits the production perfectly and with a fresh energy.”
Shenna – “ELEVATOR MUSIC”
On her latest bossa nova-leaning single “ELEVATOR MUSIC,” New York-based singer-songwriter Shenna incorporates the all-too-familiar sounds associated with the track’s title. The song oozes with slick production, Shenna’s captivating vocals, as well as a catchy chorus. In a statement, the artist said, “I want people to envision themselves as the powerhouse that they are when they hear this song. Even though it has fun lyrics and a quirky storyline, the overall meaning is assuring the listener it is okay to put yourself first and prioritize what matters to you.” She adds, “Time is money and sometimes you have to give yourself a mental break from people asking for favors or blowing up your phone!”
Flope – Mask
London producer and musician Flope launched their latest album Mask after unearthing and buying a batch of over 100 original 78 RPM shellac records made nearly 70 years ago in erstwhile Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland (Now Zambia and Malawi, respectively). The result is an intriguing mix of African chants and instrumentation being sampled over electronic music. “Angie” is seemingly upbeat, while “Ngawe Ngawe Yami (For You Through Me)” is darker, while “Lament” is built like a sonic journey. By chopping up bits and pieces of old recordings, Mask is an album that traverses moods and styles.
K.ZIA – Genesis
Brussels-born and Berlin-based artist K.ZIA’s new concept album Genesis showcases two sides to her persona: K.ZIA the artist in her original form and ZIA is her alter-ego in development. The 11-track record blends elements of classic R&B, soul and pop while K.ZIA’s enchanting vocals shine throughout the album.
Norna – “Mother Majestic”
Swedish-Swiss origin post-metal band Norna recently released their debut full-length album Star is Way Way Is Eye on February 18th via Vinter Records and the song “Mother Majestic” arguably sums up their stomping, seismic sound the best. The eight-minute track is a punisher through and through, invoking eerie guitar wails as well as sludgy rhythms. The band describe the song as a hymn to the seemingly indestructible power of mountains. “Everything dies and decay is a part of the cycle but the mountains stands strong on their foundation for eons and the test of time. This embrace by these massive surroundings can only make us feel humble, aware,” the band adds in a statement.
