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LSD by Proklaim

Mena Ezzat
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LSD by Proklaim

Here we go again with the Namibian Hip-Hop maestro, Proklaim. His latest single, “LSD,” was recently released on January 16th. Allow me to share more details below.

I feel fortunate that at Sistra Magazine, we’ve had the opportunity to showcase numerous tracks from him since 2022. I have fond memories of both listening to and reviewing his music, as well as enjoying the reviews my teammates wrote about his work. Tracks such as “4 Me,” “Promised Land,” “Bad Ting,” “Civil,” “Jitter,” and “Call,” along with many others, are available here.

The song by Proklaim is inspired by various influences, particularly the mesmerizing bassline that caught their attention while they were discovering beats online. In my view, this track showcases an outstanding bassline along with a catchy chorus that will have you singing along almost instantly.

The track was recorded at Pen Pushaz Studios and mixed and mastered by Wojtek Majewski at Audio Art Namibia. It truly showcases a level of mastery that is often hard to find among new Hip-Hop artists in the US today. I understand this may come as a surprising claim, but take a listen and see for yourself.

Finally… I’ve brought this up previously, and I’ll say it once more… If Proklaim maintains his current passion along with his level of mastery, he will soon rise to become one of the most iconic figures in hip-hop. Cheers!

 

EP: These Painted Flowers by Owen Young

Mena Ezzat
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EP: These Painted Flowers by Owen Young

I have always thought that folk, Americana, and country music can be quite challenging for many listeners. If you don’t develop a liking for it, you might find it hard to appreciate the entire genre or other works by the same artist. This is why I prefer artists who strive to avoid repetitive tracks in terms of style, melody, or lyrical themes. This certainly applies to the musical style of Owen Young.


The EP “These Painted Flowers” serves as the concluding chapter of Young’s “Muddy River” album project, which was initiated in 2020. It comes after three earlier releases: “On A Day Like That” (released in late 2021), “Town Line” (December 2024), and “Three,” which features a mix of songs and rants. “These Painted Flowers” wraps up the entire series.

The 7-track EP “These Painted Flowers” showcases Owen’s remarkable journey as a seasoned artist. The music flows effortlessly, offering a pleasurable listening experience while demonstrating his mastery. I always emphasize the importance of artists engaging in mixing and collaboration to enhance their sound. You can relate to that feeling when you hear certain singers whose vocal styles are profoundly unique. This perfectly encapsulates Owen‘s extraordinary vocal style.

I also want to commend his selection of singer, songwriter, and author Tia McGraff, who delivered her unique rendition of “Keepin’ Bad Company.” Alongside Beaux Young, she showcased her beautiful voice, hailing from Australia, as she performed the traditional hymn “Wayfaring Stranger” and contributed backing vocals.

Despite being a 7-track EP, you’ll be truly impressed by the abundance of additional elements that contribute to its richness. I point this out because many new artists focus solely on making music, overlooking the extensive process involved. For instance, consider the extra vocals by Tommy Parham and the lead vocals on “Wayfaring Stranger” performed by Beaux Young.

The EP explores themes of relationships, regret, reconciliation, and self-forgiveness. However, nothing hindered the creation of a unique outcome, particularly when Tia McGraff and Tommy Parham recorded their vocals at their studio in Pt Rowan. The exceptional mixing and mastering by Jill Zimmermann further enhanced the project.

Ultimately, folk music will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and its genuine sound will resonate within our souls. However, if you’re struggling to discover a folk masterpiece, I strongly suggest exploring Owen Young’s These Painted Flowers.

Moon Uprising by Alon Mylo

Mena Ezzat
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Moon Uprising by Alon Mylo

“Moon Uprising” by Alon Mylo is a must-have addition to your daily playlist. If you enjoy alternative pop bands that blend cinematic, rock, trap, and even punk influences, you’ll be truly impressed by this track.

There is no doubt that Los Angeles is a significant city worldwide, particularly for its influence on the international music scene. We were certainly taken aback by the recent natural disaster they encountered. However, as the saying goes, from darkness comes light.

The opening of the track, featuring soft humming vocals and soothing acoustic guitar chords, effortlessly captures your attention, especially with Alon’s emotive and powerful singing style. The exceptional mix deserves recognition as it significantly contributed to the track’s success. Thanks to this remarkable blend, I truly appreciated the cinematic soundscapes that elevated the song to an extraordinary level. In fact, “Moon Uprising” deserves a spot on iHeartRadio and should be performed in cities like Los Angeles and Berlin, among others.

If you’re on the hunt for a fresh and captivating alternative pop anthem, allow me to introduce you to the rising pop star, Alon Mylo. Cheers to that!

Somebody to Love by Brother Vice

Cherine Abulwafa
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Somebody to Love by Brother Vice

Northern Ireland’s rising indie-rock trio, Brother Vice, dives headfirst into the emotional turbulence of love and loss with their latest single, Somebody to Love. Released as their first offering of 2025, this track marks a bold continuation of their evolution, blending introspective storytelling with anthemic energy.

From the very first chord, the song exudes an irresistible charm. A lush soundscape of reverberating guitars and pulsating rhythms sets the tone, while James Feely’s emotive vocals unravel a narrative steeped in longing and bittersweet memories. It’s a vivid exploration of toxic relationships, viewed through a nostalgic lens that many listeners will find achingly familiar.

What stands out most is the band’s knack for balancing vulnerability with resilience. The lyrics, rich in emotional depth, don’t just recount heartbreak; they grapple with the magnetic pull of looking back, even when it’s not good for you. The chorus, a sweeping sing-along moment, anchors the track, turning personal reflection into a universal anthem.

Brother Vice’s creative process shines here. The song feels both meticulously crafted and refreshingly organic, a result of ideas born in their practice sessions and sharpened by in-the-moment decisions during studio time. This balance of raw spontaneity and polished production, courtesy of Neal Calderwood, adds to the track’s dynamism.

Drawing from influences like The Killers and Sam Fender, Brother Vice strikes a chord between indie-rock intimacy and arena-sized ambition. With Somebody to Love, they prove their ability to connect deeply with listeners, wrapping emotional complexity in infectious melodies.

As the first chapter of their 2025 journey, this single sets a high bar for what’s to come. For fans of emotionally charged rock, Somebody to Love is easily a resonant reminder that some love stories, no matter how flawed, are just so impossible to forget..

 

 

Ken Holt’s “Shades of Light”: A Radiant Journey Through Americana and Hope

Michael Stover
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Ken Holt’s “Shades of Light”: A Radiant Journey Through Americana and Hope

Ken Holt’s latest LP, Shades of Light, is a tender yet dynamic odyssey through the landscapes of Americana, drawing from a deep well of country, rock, bluegrass, and classic pop influences. Released on January 24th under the MTS/Virgin/Universal banner, the album marks a milestone in Holt’s career—a celebration of his musical journey that spans decades, from his early days as a touring bassist to his present role as a solo artist and pastor. At its core, Shades of Light is an exploration of faith, resilience, and connection, wrapped in the warmth of Holt’s unassuming yet profoundly expressive artistry.

The album’s lead single, “Shine,” encapsulates Holt’s ethos. A mid-tempo gem imbued with gospel undertones, the track radiates hope and perseverance. Opening with a poignant guitar arpeggio and swelling into a richly layered arrangement, Holt’s vocals carry a timeless sincerity. The chorus—“Shine, O Shine, Shine on me”—is both a plea and a benediction, resonating with an uplifting universality. The imagery of light breaking through darkness complements the lyrical themes of redemption and trust, making “Shine” not just a standout track but a thesis statement for the album.

The instrumentation on Shades of Light is as meticulous as it is vibrant. Tracks like “Middle of Nowhere” highlight Holt’s storytelling prowess, blending poignant lyrics with rustic acoustics. The song’s narrative of finding contentment in simplicity is underscored by lush harmonies and the gentle interplay of mandolin and fiddle, evoking a pastoral beauty. Meanwhile, “Benediction” offers a heartfelt closer, brimming with blessings and poetic affirmations that feel both personal and universal.

Holt’s collaborators, including members of Three Dog Night and accomplished instrumentalists like Kricket Moros and Frank Sanzone, bring a depth of texture to the album. The production—handled by Holt himself—is clean yet organic, allowing each instrument to breathe while ensuring his evocative lyrics remain front and center. Tracks like “Proud” and “Good Luck” strike a balance between introspection and anthemic vigor, reminiscent of the Southern rock stylings of the Allman Brothers Band, a key influence on Holt.

Critics and fans alike have lauded Holt’s ability to marry nostalgia with modern sensibilities. Shades of Light feels rooted in the traditions of Americana, yet it never succumbs to predictability. Whether through the breezy optimism of “A Friend” or the soulful lament of “Uncle Henry,” each track reflects a facet of Holt’s lived experience and spiritual grounding.

Ultimately, Shades of Light is not merely a collection of songs—it’s a mosaic of moments, emotions, and stories that invite listeners to reflect and connect. Ken Holt’s journey may have started decades ago, but this album proves he’s far from finished. For fans of artists like Jason Isbell or John Prine, Shades of Light is an essential listen, and “Shine” is the perfect gateway into Holt’s world: a place where the light always finds a way.

–Jamie Jones

Calgary Indie Ensemble Thomas Thomas Shares New Single, “One Lone Candle,” a Slow Burn Love Song

Sistra News Team
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Calgary Indie Ensemble Thomas Thomas Shares New Single, “One Lone Candle,” a Slow Burn Love Song

The title track of Thomas Thomas‘ new release, “One Lone Candle,” is a slow burn love song that highlights a steady, enduring romance. A mo-town meets garage-pop anthem, the song is a departure from the typical fiery, short-lived love songs, instead reflecting a love that glows steadily over time.

With urgent guitars, sparkly girl-gang backing vocals that call to mind The Supremes, and a throwback production style, “One Lone Candle” is a love song meant to soar.

This was the band’s first time working with producer Graham Lessard (Stars, The Barr Brothers), and they pushed themselves to evolve their sound beyond their familiar garage roots, stepping into a more modern pop production while preserving the nostalgic, throwback feel that has been central to their music. The title of the song is inspired by the unextinguishable candle on a birthday cake and the girlfriend that teases you with her steadiness.

I love the image of a candle that refuses to go out, and that’s how I feel about the love we were trying to capture in this song. It’s the slow burn, the one that sticks with you long after the flash of a fiery moment has passed. – frontwoman Shannon Thomas

PHOTO BY HEATHER SAITZ

Known for their nostalgic, swooning sound and hand-crafted aesthetic, Calgary’s Thomas Thomas is a collaborative project between singer-songwriter Shannon Thomas and indie-rocker Thomas Englund (Bell Tower, Beta Boys). Combining their names and bringing a sparkly rock ensemble to life, the duo’s music resonates with fans of Born Ruffians, Wallows, and Camera Obscura. Their debut EP, Thomas Thomas (2019), drew comparisons to these bands and helped establish their presence in the Calgary music scene, earning a YYC Music Award nomination and a first-place win at the Ship & Anchor songwriting contest.

The band has performed at Breakout West, Canadian Music Week, Sled Island, and many more, with their most recent single, the wistful “Right Place Wrong Time,” featured in Starbucks’ 2023 summer socials ad campaign. They’ve shared the stage with artists like Japanese Breakfast, Shannon & The Clams, and Vundabar, while also making their international debut at FOCUS Wales.

Auteur Research

Friede in der Welt by Zilli Henneberg

Cherine Abulwafa
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Friede in der Welt by Zilli Henneberg

Mathias “Zilli” Henneberg, the satirical singer-songwriter from Großrudestedt, delivers a sharp and poignant critique of society with his latest German-language song, Peace in the World. Known for blending humor with biting social commentary, Henneberg tackles weighty themes like war, education, and healthcare while staying true to his unique mix of Blues and Ska influences.

In this release, Henneberg uses irony to expose the contradictions of global politics and social priorities. The lyrics, translated from the original German, feature lines such as, “We’ll create peace with extremely green weapons, peace for the wealthy of the world, peace with your tax money,” highlighting the hypocrisy often embedded in calls for progress and environmentalism. With his characteristic sharp wit, Henneberg mocks these so-called solutions, sarcastically suggesting that weapons could “end the education crisis” by simply “blowing schools away.” The absurdity reaches its peak in his darkly humorous take on healthcare reform: “Green bombs solve the problem, blessed by green pastors.”

The chorus, stark in its irony, repeats the grim refrain: “When everyone’s atomic bomb falls, there will finally be peace in the world.” This translated line captures the chilling essence of the original German lyrics, driving home the satirical tone with a sense of grim inevitability.

Musically, the song pairs its heavy themes with a deceptively lighthearted melody and a jazzy chord progression. The use of seventh chords lends a playful quality to the track, amplifying the ironic tension between its upbeat rhythm and the gravity of its subject matter. This clever contrast keeps the listener engaged while ensuring Henneberg’s message cuts through.

Peace in the World is a thought-provoking piece that combines dark humor with clever wordplay to critique the status quo. The song’s German roots lend it a unique cultural perspective, while its satirical approach resonates universally. Henneberg’s ability to craft accessible yet profound music ensures his work strikes a chord, whether performed at festivals, local pubs, or intimate clubs. For listeners seeking music that both entertains and challenges, this song offers an anthem that lingers long after the final note; an unforgettable blend of wit and insight delivered through the sharp lens of a master storyteller!

Te Lo Digo a Ti by Ritmo Lokura

Cherine Abulwafa
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Te Lo Digo a Ti by Ritmo Lokura

Ritmo Lokura’s latest single, “Te Lo Digo a Ti,” is an irresistible explosion of energy that demands your attention and dares you not to dance. This genre-bending track effortlessly blends the smooth sway of rocksteady with the vibrant pulse of ska, all while layering it with the fiery essence of Latin rock. It’s the kind of song that grabs you by the hips and pulls you straight to the dance floor!

From the very first beat, the infectious rhythm grabs hold and doesn’t let go. Each instrument contributes to a rich tapestry of sound, with the playful bounce of ska meeting the relaxed yet groovy undertones of Jamaican rocksteady. The Latin flair brings the track to life, delivering a vibrant and soulful energy that feels fresh yet timeless. Ritmo Lokura has crafted a musical masterpiece that pays homage to its influences while forging a sound all its own.

Lyrically, the song tells a story of love’s resilience passionate, raw, and unyielding. It speaks to anyone who’s ever been caught in the whirlwind of emotions that come with loving someone deeply, even when the journey is anything but easy. There’s a certain vulnerability in the words, but also an undeniable strength, a reminder that love, even at its most complicated, is worth fighting for.

The authenticity of “Te Lo Digo a Ti” is undeniable, and knowing that it was born spontaneously during a rehearsal adds even more charm to the track; making it a heartfelt expression of emotion crafted with care and passion by a band that truly understands the power of connection through sound.

With its bold fusion of genres and captivating groove, this song isn’t just something you listen to, it’s an experience. It’s made for movement, celebration, and losing yourself in the moment. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just feeling the rhythm for the first time, this track will have you twirling, stepping, and swaying like never before.

Ritmo Lokura is proving they’re a force to be reckoned with in the music world, blending cultures and genres to create something extraordinary. So, grab your salsa shoes, turn up the volume, and get ready to dance—“Te Lo Digo a Ti” is the ultimate party starter!

Swept Away by For You Brother

Cherine Abulwafa
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Swept Away by For You Brother

For You Brother’s latest single, “Swept Away,” is a poignant and deeply moving track inspired by the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. Released on January 10, 2025, this heartfelt ballad explores themes of loss, resilience, and the emotional toll of natural disasters on communities.

The duo, comprised of vocalist and lyricist Azoughn and multi-instrumentalist Jon Dash, brings their unique chemistry and storytelling prowess to the forefront in this release. With emotive lyrics and soul-stirring vocals, Azoughn captures the raw pain and heartbreak of lives disrupted, while Jon Dash’s dynamic instrumentation, incorporating piano for the first time, adds a layer of delicate vulnerability to the composition.

Recorded at Dizzle Land USA and expertly mixed and mastered by Bizzo in Columbia, SC, “Swept Away” represents a significant evolution in the duo’s sound. Known for their work in commercials and entertainment projects worldwide, For You Brother steps into new musical territory here, weaving a narrative that resonates universally with anyone who has experienced loss.

This track’s strength lies in its ability to connect deeply with listeners. The inspiration, tragic stories of lives lost in the storm, has been transformed into a powerful ballad that is both a tribute and a source of solace. The addition of piano lends a contemplative and somber tone, highlighting Jon Dash’s versatility as a musician.

For You Brother, with a history stretching back to 2006, has weathered their own storms, including the unexpected passing of their friend and collaborator, Melvin, in 2015. Yet, their enduring artistry and heartfelt approach continue to shine. As the duo puts it, “Play from your heart and sing from your soul,” a sentiment that defines “Swept Away”and their broader musical journey.

With live performances planned for 2025, For You Brother is ready to bring their emotional storytelling to audiences in an even more intimate setting. In “Swept Away,” they remind us of the healing power of music and the shared humanity that binds us through life’s tragedies.

Promise Me by Cat Cork

Cherine Abulwafa
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Promise Me by Cat Cork

Cat Cork’s latest single, Promise Me, feels like a heartfelt letter wrapped in the tender embrace of indie folk melodies. This enchanting track, signals a brighter and a more optimistic chapter in Cat’s musical journey, a transition from the heavier tones of her earlier 2024 tracks’ versions into a sound brimming with more positivity and warmth.

Written and recorded in her home studio in Woy Woy, Australia, Cat partnered with longtime collaborator Cameron Taylor and a global ensemble of talented musicians from Musiversal. The result is a beautiful tapestry of gentle guitar strums, ethereal cello lines by Ben Trigg, and understated percussion that gives the song a breezy, nostalgic quality.

The lyrics of Promise Me embody the kind of love that feels grounded, slow, and enduring. With lines like “Promise me you’ll never build a boat, stay with me inside my winter coat”, Cat invites listeners into an intimate moment of vulnerability and connection, a soft reminder of love’s ability to anchor us amid life’s uncertainties.

Equally compelling is the song’s visual counterpart, a vintage-inspired film clip directed by Milo Cawthorne and Ella Hope-Higginson. Shot on Super 8 film, the black-and-white aesthetic adds a layer of timeless charm, underscoring the song’s theme of finding solace in simplicity.

Despite being recorded remotely with contributions spanning Brazil, the UK, Ireland, and Costa Rica, the track feels cohesive and personal, a testament to Cat’s artistry and collaborative spirit. The unconventional late-night sessions, made possible by time zone differences, allowed for seamless creativity while balancing her day-to-day responsibilities.

Promise Me is an experience of gentle wisdom, reflecting on an eventful 2024 with hope and clarity. It’s a sweetly slow love letter to resilience and the beauty of staying grounded, made all the more magical by Cat Cork’s ability to connect through heartfelt storytelling and lush soundscapes.

For fans of indie folk or anyone seeking a soothing sonic escape, Promise Me is the perfect companion, a beacon of light and a reminder of the importance of slowing down our lives a bit; probably something to consider adding to this year’s resolution!

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