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Diving Horse bring a bit of optimism in new single ‘Sometimes I Feel Like A Fool’

Sistra News Team
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Diving Horse bring a bit of optimism in new single ‘Sometimes I Feel Like A Fool’

Glasgow-based six-piece Diving Horse is fueled by an artful indie rock sound, releasing five singles so far, most recently ‘Sometimes I Feel Like A Fool’. Supported by local press and radio personalities they are building a dedicated fan base in their home city, across venues and festivals such as Stereo, Broadcast, Hug and Pint and Butefest, an electrifying uniqueness about them.

Diving Horse‘s latest single takes an optimistic stand against the trials of life should it try to break your spirit. The track opens with a flurry of synth arpeggios and a powerful drum punch, moving into a funk-fuelled guitar riff and bass line as the judicious lead vocals arrive.

On the surface, the track is a simple call for eagerness and enthusiasm around living. But, diving deeper into the lyrics, beneath the somewhat ludicrous instrumentals, there’s a narrative being told about both self-reflection and constantly worrying about the world. The poetry speaks to defying a society that looks at grey clouds and ignores the silver lining, accepting your mistakes and surrounding worldly problems, in favour of taking life a little lighter.

The band explains, “For this song, we wanted to write a song with a chorus you could sing along to, and ‘Sometimes I Feel Like a Fool’ is what came out. Musically, the song is inspired by the later works of Talking Heads, and lyrically, the song masks feeling like a fool under poppy rhythms. We hoped to tap into a universal feeling we all have and say, ‘Don’t worry about it too much!’”

Plus Music PR

Album: Blast Off by Chino Picasso

Cherine Abulwafa
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Album: Blast Off by Chino Picasso

AGAINST ALL ODDS AND UNEXPECTED MISHAPS, BLAST OFF MAKES A THRILLING ENTRY INTO THE WORLD OF HIP HOP 

Power outages? Hungry producer locked up in booths hungry and waiting for his pizza to slide through the ventilator? Writing and recording music under candle light? Nope these are not some random movie scenes we’re telling. This is actually how the recording session of Chino Picasso’s latest released album, BLAST OFF, went! Crazy and extremely unexpected but, truly, nothing could tell the story of the album as much as the story of recording it.

The album features 18 tracks where the artist was able to freely experiment and boldly explore musically. Picasso was able to break boundaries and bridge a variety of styles and techniques to come with lots of unique sounds and auditory experiences that keeps the listener interested and pleasantly surprised with new ideas and concepts. You don’t always get what you expect or anticipate musically, and that is the best part about BLAST OFF.

Giving that the album is mainly inspired by the Picasso’s personal life and experiences, the first track, STEP, opens up with a strong narrative about the artist and how he maneuvers around toxic and fake people. Those who are “hissing like snakes.” The imagery here, sure is on point, and it clearly showcases the artist’s lyrical abilities.

The second track, BREAK THE LAW, despite being an all instrumental track, it actually blends perfectly with its former. It smoothly holds on to this chill yet swag vibe, urging the listeners to enjoy the vibe a little bit more. But what stands out in this track is how the producer, operating under DTH Productions and who happens to be Picasso’s childhood buddy, cleverly plays with mixing and sound dynamics. It keeps the listener interested as it subtly takes him into a journey. This is indeed the power of subtle simplicity. 

Press Play, which is the fourth track of the album, is also one that stands out. The contrast between the laid back beat and the fast rapping is an excellent combination to reflect the artist’s earned confidence and grounded nature. Picasso grew up with absent parents and was raised by his grandparents. Not an ideal situation for 2 years old. He acknowledges that his life “has been hell than heavens,” but still he acknowledges that it’s important to “keep your head up and trying to keep the faith.” It can be said that Press Play is one of his most vulnerable and emotionally sincere tracks. “You gotta look at reality, understand that shit so you don’t get caught.” This is a strong statement that mixes between being a reality check as well as an invitation to use this realization and work towards a more hopeful and optimistic kind of future. A very unique blend. This is enforced by the liberating melodic section by the end of the track. It’s a hopeful and sweet outro yet keeps this steady and grounded feel and vibe to the song. 

Another track that stands out is OPPS ALERT. It starts with an interesting piano intro that almost gives a classical feel but with the synthesized vocal lines. Without a doubt this highlights an interesting and innovative blend that sets the tone for the track and hightens the surprise element of the sudden start of th le upbeat rapping.

With so many interesting and surprising elements to this incredibly well-thought of album, it would’ve been interesting to see how Picasso would also express his creativity with different collaborators. The artist surely has many innovative ideas and a unique musical vision that is worth showcasing. Especially that with an 18 tracks long album, some beats a could start to feel slightly repetitive. 

All in all, Blast Off, surely present an innovative take on the world of hip hop. It showcases Picasso’s ability to innovate musically as well the endless possibilities that are ahead of the world of hip hop.

Music Review: Pamela Hopkins’ “Walk of Honor”

Michael Stover
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Music Review: Pamela Hopkins’ “Walk of Honor”

Pamela Hopkins‘ latest single, “Walk of Honor,” released back in January, is a heartfelt ballad that delves deep into the themes of organ donation and the devastating consequences of drunk driving. Known for her powerful storytelling and emotive vocal delivery, Hopkins has outdone herself with this poignant track. Co-written with Arkansas Independent Artist Anna Brinker and Lonnie Abbott, “Walk of Honor” stands as a testament to the transformative power of music and its ability to touch on important and often difficult subjects.

From the very first notes, “Walk of Honor” grabs the listener’s attention with its somber, yet hopeful melody. The song opens with Hopkins’ evocative voice over a simple arrangement of acoustic guitar chords, setting the stage for a story that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The narrative follows a mother who must say goodbye to her daughter, who has passed away but will save many lives through organ donation. The song’s title refers to the “honor walk,” a solemn procession where the donor is honored one final time before giving the gift of life to others.

In the first verse, Hopkins paints a vivid picture of the mother’s grief and the difficult decision she faces. Lines like “All she can remember / Is holding her hand / Never wanting to let go” capture the raw emotion of the moment, while the chorus brings a sense of hope and gratitude: “Somebody else’s baby’s heart is gonna beat again / Somebody else’s mama’s gonna breathe okay again.” These lines underscore the life-saving impact of organ donation, turning a moment of profound loss into one of hope and renewal.

The second verse introduces a twist in the narrative, revealing that one of the recipients of the daughter’s organs is the very person responsible for her death. The lines “He caused this senseless tragedy / And now she also lives in him” are particularly striking, highlighting the complex, often contradictory nature of human experiences. This twist adds a layer of depth to the song, making it not just a story of loss and donation, but also one of redemption and forgiveness.

Hopkins’ vocal performance throughout “Walk of Honor” is nothing short of stunning. Her voice conveys a range of emotions from sorrow and pain to hope and forgiveness, making the listener feel every word. The arrangement, while simple, complements her vocals perfectly, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The use of acoustic guitar and subtle background harmonies adds to the song’s emotional weight without overshadowing the story being told.

The bridge of the song brings a moment of introspection and acceptance. The mother reflects on her journey towards forgiveness with the lines “One day I’ll forgive that man / I’ve come to realize she saved more than just him.” This moment of personal growth and understanding is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for forgiveness, even in the face of unimaginable loss.

“Walk of Honor” also carries a cautionary message about drunk driving. By intertwining the story of the mother and the drunk driver, Hopkins emphasizes the devastating consequences of such actions and the importance of making responsible choices. It’s a sobering reminder that one’s actions can have far-reaching effects on the lives of others.

The production quality of “Walk of Honor” is top-notch, with every element meticulously crafted to enhance the storytelling. The song’s arrangement, pacing, and dynamics all contribute to its emotional impact, making it a standout track in Hopkins’ already impressive discography.

In conclusion, “Walk of Honor” is a masterful blend of storytelling, emotion, and advocacy. Pamela Hopkins has created a song that not only raises awareness about the vital importance of organ donation but also serves as a powerful cautionary tale about the consequences of drunk driving. With its compelling narrative, emotive vocals, and poignant message, “Walk of Honor” is a song that will resonate with listeners long after the final notes fade. It’s a reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and bring about change.

A Deep Dive into Ashley Puckett’s “Anchor”

Michael Stover
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A Deep Dive into Ashley Puckett’s “Anchor”

Ashley Puckett, a rising star in the country music scene, has released her anticipated single, “Anchor.”. This release promises to further cement Ashley’s place in the industry, showcasing her remarkable talent and emotional depth. In “Anchor,” she delivers a poignant and powerful performance, capturing the essence of love and support through challenging times.

Ashley Puckett hails from North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, where she discovered her passion for music at a young age. Her journey began with vocal competitions, community events, and open-mic nights, eventually leading her to perform in bars and clubs. Influenced by iconic artists like Lee Ann Womack, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Jo Dee Messina, Carol King, and LeAnn Rimes, Ashley has developed a unique sound that resonates with a broad audience.

At sixteen, Ashley picked up the guitar and began writing songs, a journey that included adventurous feats like skydiving and bungee jumping. Her path led her to collaborate with world-class singer/songwriter/producer Bryan Cole and lead sound engineer Doug Kasper at Tonic Studios. With the support of legendary musicians such as Mike Brignardello, John Willis, Mike Johnson, Heidi Engel, Tammy Petty, and newcomer Adam Ernst, Ashley’s debut album “Never Say Never” came to fruition. Released on MTS Records on February 14, 2020, her first single “Medicine” charted nationally, followed by the success of “Bulletproof” and “What’s Her Name.” Her self-penned single “Tequila” hit the Music Row country charts in 2023, making her a notable name in the country music industry.

“Anchor,” co-written by Ashley with Andrew Douglas and Nathan Beatty, the same team behind her successful single “Tequila,” is a testament to the strength found in love. The lyrics speak to the challenges and support within a relationship, with Ashley’s soulful vocals delivering a moving performance. The song begins with a contemplative tone, “You think I’ve got no reason / You think I have no place / But I’ve been closer to the bottom / Hmm… closer than you think,” setting the stage for a journey through vulnerability and reassurance.

The chorus, “Let me be your anchor / While you take the time to fix what you think’s broken / In the wind and the rain let me help heal the pain / Let me be your anchor / Even the stormiest seas have a reason to be / So, let me be your anchor / Even if you don’t want me to be,” is a heartfelt plea for connection and support. Ashley’s delivery of these lines is both powerful and tender, resonating deeply with listeners.

The song continues to explore themes of healing and closeness, “You don’t want to bother / And I don’t wanna make you run / But this could bring us closer / When the healin’s done.” The lyrics convey a sense of understanding and patience, with Ashley’s vocals providing a comforting presence.

In the bridge, “Be the one that’s standing there / When you’re fallin’ apart / I don’t need a perfect life / I just want your heart,” Ashley emphasizes the importance of emotional support and unconditional love. The song culminates in a final plea, “So let me be your anchor / While you take the time to realize you’re not broken / Through the wind and the rain / I can help heal the pain / ‘long as we’re together / Let me be… I want to be / Let me be your anchor / Even though you don’t want me to be.”

“Anchor” showcases Ashley Puckett’s exceptional talent and emotional depth, solidifying her place in the country music landscape. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength through her lyrics and vocals is truly captivating. As she continues to grow in her career, Ashley’s dedication to her craft and her heartfelt performances will undoubtedly resonate with audiences for years to come.

For those eager to experience the emotional journey of “Anchor,” the single is available on all major streaming platforms. To stay updated on Ashley Puckett’s latest releases and tour dates, visit www.ashleypuckett.com. Don’t miss out on this beautifully crafted new single that promises to touch the hearts of many.

Patti Spadaro’s Empowerment Anthem, “Glass Shatters”

Michael Stover
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Patti Spadaro’s Empowerment Anthem, “Glass Shatters”

In a time when the voices of women are resonating louder than ever, Patti Spadaro‘s new single “Glass Shatters” emerges as a powerful anthem celebrating female strength and resilience. Released on June 8, 2024, this track not only marks a significant addition to Spadaro’s discography but also serves as a rallying cry for women worldwide.

Spadaro and her band open the song with a catchy guitar riff that quickly sets an uplifting tone. The lyrics in the first verse, “Glass shatters, clear the way / Declare today a holiday,” immediately set the stage for a celebration of progress and change. The vibrant energy is further amplified as the pre-chorus challenges naysayers with lines like, “Some people say, they don’t believe it / Others cry ‘you must have cheated.'”

What makes “Glass Shatters” especially compelling is its chorus—an evocative statement of unwavering solidarity: “We should be waking up to celebrations / Women, this is our nation / Keep rising up, never giving up / Hear us Roar, Hear us Roar.” The harmonizing voices of Spadaro, Anne Celedonia, Cherylann Hawk, Jill Simmons, and Alison McTavish create a rich tapestry of sound that amplifies the song’s empowering message.

The second verse pays homage to the generational efforts of women: “Life giving, amazing women / Raising up each generation / Main street to Harvard, pushing forward so long.” This acknowledgment of diverse contributions adds depth to the song’s narrative, making it relatable to women from all walks of life.

Musically, the track is sophisticated yet organic. Spadaro’s guitar work is both intricate and soulful, paired perfectly with Celedonia’s keys. The rhythm section, driven by drummer Eric Kurtzrock and bassist Ryan Black, provides a robust foundation that supports the song’s dynamic structure.

The bridge, “Lotus rising up from the mud / Grow through resistance, bloom from a bud,” epitomizes the enduring spirit of women. The imagery of a lotus rising and blooming through adversity is a beautiful metaphor that resonates deeply. The build-up to the final chorus is nothing short of exhilarating, with the song erupting into a crescendo that feels both liberating and victorious.

Recorded at Blue Door Recorders in Pittsburgh, “Glass Shatters” showcases the local talent and collaborative spirit that define the Patti Spadaro Band. It’s evident that the song is a labor of love, reflecting Spadaro’s heartfelt songwriting and the collective artistry of her bandmates.

With a career that spans multiple albums, performances at renowned clubs and festivals, and even sharing stages with legends like Little Feat and Melvin Seals & JGB, Patti Spadaro is no stranger to the music scene. “Glass Shatters” is a testament to her enduring influence and her ability to inspire through music.

In conclusion, “Glass Shatters” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for our times. With its compelling lyrics, engaging melodies, and powerful performances, it resonates as a beacon of empowerment for women everywhere. For anyone searching for a musical experience that uplifts and unites, Patti Spadaro‘s “Glass Shatters” is a must-listen.

For more information about Patti Spadaro and her music, visit http://www.pattispadaro.com.

“I Can’t Feel” by K-Syran and StoneBridge

Mariam Nowar
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“I Can’t Feel” by K-Syran and StoneBridge

“I Can’t Feel” by K-Syran and StoneBridge Captivates Numbness
with an Upbeat Electronic Sound

Powered by the soft vocals of Norwegian singer, K-Syran, “I Can’t Feel” is definitely a dance bop! 

The star has collaborated once again with Grammy-nominated Swedish DJ/producer StoneBridge, after bringing us hits like Starry Night, D.R.A.M.A, and So In Love. You can choose from a colourful spectrum of versions that range from Ibiza mixes, classic House mix, and various extended tracks – perfect for every mood!

Each song carries a different flavour, while maintaining its core identity that captivatingly explores feelings of numbness. If you listen closely, you might hear a sharp contrast between the lyrics and the upbeat electronic sound that has you bobbing your head and moving to the pulsating punches.

Did you know that not only is K-Syran (Katrina Syran) a singer/songwriter, but the award-winning artist also witnessed tremendous success as an actress, director, and human rights activist. 

As for StoneBridge, he’s kept himself busy by collaborating with artists like Sia, Missy Elliott, Taio Cruz & Ne-Yo. He’s also been locking himself gigs in clubs around the globe, from Miami’s Space to San Francisco’s Ruby Sky, and his latest creation only proves further that his musical repertoire is ever-growing.

Hyperdrive by VNCCII

Moataz Gwaily
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Hyperdrive by VNCCII

Cosmic, slithering electropop is the definition of VNCCII’s latest single ‘Hyperdrive’. An endlessly catchy song, a crisp mix, and an addictive attitude that warrants multiple rewarding replays.

VNCII is a musical avatar based in the metaverse. Blurring the lines between reality and AI, VNCII is the thought child of tech expert and digital pioneer Samantha Tauber who uses cutting edge animation and live motion capture technology to bring her musical alter ego VNCCII to life. Tauber showcases a few of the potential directions the future of music might be heading towards and makes it all look too exciting.

At the end of it all we have a song to discuss, and if this song does not carry its own weight then no amount of tech will be able to redeem it. Fortunately, ‘Hyperdrive’ is an exceedingly neat musical product. An electronic marvel through and through, ‘Hyperdrive’ does not leave space for speculation over its futuristic, tech-centered core. With a minimal composition and a synth heavy arrangement the song is easy to follow, and Tauber’s vocals and harmonies are intoxicating all the way through the track. Effortless and alluring, Tauber’s vocals stand out and easily define the song’s character.

‘Hyperdrive’ is a forward thinking and futuristic piece of music that showcases a very interesting musical entity that is VNCCII, and the astonishing technology behind bringing her to life. A very exciting cut on so many levels.

23 by Toby TomTom

Moataz Gwaily
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23 by Toby TomTom

Toby TomTom calls himself a sonic architect who defies categorization -a bold statement that is put to the test on his latest offering ‘23’. Let’s see if the single pass that test.

Based in Long Island with roots in Akron, Ohio, Toby TomTom shines across on ‘23’ as an off-kilter musician whose charisma seeps easily through the cracks of his distinctive sound. Bridging never-before-seen gaps between funk, folk, electronica, soul, and gospel, TomTom’s sound comes really close to Bowie levels of uniqueness and of creativity.

‘23’ is a song that is defined by a punchy beat and an intoxicating sub bass part that’s barely perceptible but whose earth-shattering effects are readily felt. ‘23’ is also a shapeshifting beast, jumping from driving, melodic parts to groovy interludes and breakdowns, and from soulful vocals to firey rapping in heartbeats. ‘23’ is a song that also showcases Toby TomTom as a bit of a musical visionary. With lyrics about the search for meaning, and about a daughter’s plea for her father, the words are just as enigmatic as the music on ‘23’.

‘23’ is one of those songs that deserve high quality speakers for all the details to come across, and even then, you’d probably need half a dozen listens to wrap your head around the intense amounts of musical cues on this genre-blending stunner. A truly stand out piece of music.

The Ghetto Gospel by B. CHRISTO

Mena Ezzat
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The Ghetto Gospel by B. CHRISTO

In the current era, doubts about the existence of God are prevalent. Have you ever encountered a challenging situation where you sensed the presence of a divine force guiding you? B. CHRISTO, in his recent work “The Ghetto Gospel,” shares a profound personal experience that sheds light on this question, offering a perspective that is both enlightening and relatable.

“I cannot believe that after being shot, and ran over multiple times that I would still be standing. Not only that, but after taking a bullet through the brain, somehow my mind was more intact than ever.” Indeed! The tale you just read is the authentic account of B. CHRISTO. His expressive and compelling vocals bring a fantastic hip-hop/rap flair, paired with a melodious music arrangement that I truly admire. Surprisingly, I’m not usually drawn to rap/hip-hop, but this is an exception.

I found his song both captivating and enlightening, as it resonated with my own personal experiences. It’s amazing how certain events can deeply affect us and bring about profound changes. I admired his ability to maintain a raw yet polished musical style, which cleverly keeps the listener engaged with the lyrics.“And I’m the type of cat, he made to love, my mind sharp as f**k, sort of like a razor cut, and I really came from the mud, this road paved in blood, so every day I’m waking up, I’m thanking God or thanking cuz, and yeah, life‘s just a buzz, so pour some thing in my cup, and then roll another blunt, cause you don’t really know what it was, no you don’t know what it was,” – Copyrights reserved to B. CHRISTO.

I admired B. CHRISTO’s ability to learn and grow from difficult experiences, transforming positively despite challenges. His story serves as a reminder for us all, highlighting the importance of appreciating the blessings in our lives instead of constantly complaining or placing blame on others or circumstances.

“And I’m thanking God, I stayed faithful, then I seen a gold pot at the end of the rainbow, I’m an angel no halo, but I’m just thankful that I even got a say so, and precious enough to wait for, dropping these diamonds, while I spit gems, couldn’t walk a day in my big Tim’s, nigga you couldn’t fit them, yeah.” – Copyrights reserved to B. CHRISTO.

In terms of music, I don’t have any criticisms. Instead, I think that if he keeps evolving artistically, we could witness the rise of another rap/hip-hop icon soon. Cheers to that!

We Rise by Bvss Tactic & Hazmatix

Mariam Nowar
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We Rise by Bvss Tactic & Hazmatix

New Dubstep Summer Anthem by Bvss Tactic & Hazimatix
Brings Light at the End of the Tunnel

Yeah, yeah, we rise! 

Your new summer anthem comes with a twist! Renowned Los Angeles-based dubstep producer Cody Parker AKA Bvss Tactic’s latest explosive collaboration “We Rise” with underground artist Hazimatix was created from a tough mental space. The masterminds behind the track credit their hardships for the deep meaningfulness that detonates as soon as you hit play.

“If [one] person resonates with this song, that’s an accomplishment to me,” shared Bvss Tactic. “Life gets rough sometimes; we just gotta rise through it together, keep your head up and realize that we’re not alone.” 

Along that note comes their hard-hitting lyric “No, we can’t stop the sky from falling,” which allows the listener to let loose, aligning with Bvss Tactic’s wishes, and to let the chips fall where they may. 

Having been producing for almost a decade, you can clearly hear the passion Bvss Tactic holds for music in the track that overflows with smooth transitions and sick bass stabs, which is complimented by the raspy vocals even further. 

As the song brought a beacon of hope to its creators, we hope it also brings your day by the beach, stuck in traffic, or out for wild nightlife shenanigans, a little light at the end of the tunnel.

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