Artist: Maddie Jackway EP: Kindred Genre: R&B, Neo-Soul, Pop Release Date: April 5th, 2024
Maddie Jackway’s EP “Kindred” not only offers a musical journey but also serves as a reflection on the essence of authenticity in artistry. Hailing from the far south-west of Victoria, Australia, Jackway infuses her music with values of honesty, integrity, and authenticity, resonating throughout this release.
Collaborating with co-producer Jake Amy and a talented ensemble of session musicians, Jackway showcases a willingness to explore the breadth of her influences and experiences. The lead single, “You Make Me Look Over My Shoulder,” serves as a poignant example, with its haunting electronic elements and introspective lyrics mirroring the complexities of personal authenticity and vulnerability.
“Pity Party” introduces us to Jackway’s gospel-infused chords and solid groove, embodying the positivity and chill vibe that authenticity can bring. However, “You Make Me Look Over My Shoulder” takes a different turn, embracing a slower, EDM-inspired style that, while still genuine to Jackway’s exploration, may not resonate as strongly with listeners.
Yet, Jackway finds her stride once more with “Ready Or Not,” a heartfelt ballad that speaks to the inevitability of change and growth, echoing the journey of self-discovery inherent in the pursuit of authenticity. “I Wish I Could Be Brave” further delves into this theme, offering a raw, emotive portrayal of vulnerability and courage, reminiscent of the authenticity found in unfiltered expression.
Closing with “Big Feelings,” Jackway ventures into the realm of R&B, delivering lyrics that echo the challenges and triumphs of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity. Throughout the EP, Jackway’s exploration of musical styles and lyrical themes serves as a parallel to the journey of discovering and embracing one’s genuine self as an artist.
In essence, “Kindred” is not just an EP, but a testament to the transformative power of authenticity in music. Jackway’s willingness to explore, experiment, and express herself genuinely leaves listeners eagerly anticipating the next chapter in her artistic evolution.
Check her out on socials:
https://www.facebook.com/maddiejackwaymusic/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/50ZEroRhr0CmBwRB3M2g0V
https://soundcloud.com/maddie-jackway
https://maddiejackway.bandcamp.com/album/what-is-this-freedom
https://www.instagram.com/maddiejackwaymusic/?hl=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@maddiejackwaymusic?_t=8kAbQYdqFHO&_r=1
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“Big Feelings” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating DA DA DA - Best New Music
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
Reviews
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KARMA’s “SIS (She’s Something)” isn’t the type of track we typically review, but its engaging musicality and unapologetic message make it impossible to ignore. This Memphis-based trio delivers a fresh, club-ready anthem that celebrates the unselfish roles women play in everyday life, with a mix of sass, soul, and swagger. It’s a song designed to uplift, and it does so with infectious energy and smooth production.
Andi Fins’ “You Need A Friend” is a warm, introspective hug in musical form—a celebration of companionship that feels refreshingly sincere without tipping into saccharine territory. Set against a backdrop of shimmering DX7 chords and playful guitar lines, the song channels a relaxed, almost effortless vibe that invites listeners into a world of quiet nights, cozy conversations, and the simple joy of shared moments.
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BOYFRN’s single “GoGo,” released on July 26, 2024, brings a dynamic fusion of emotional depth and rhythmic drive. Produced by Bobby Love, Young Clancy, and Dave Plowman, and supported by Jahmal Padmore’s drumming, “GoGo” navigates the stages of grief through an explosive, rhythmic canvas. The track’s themes of anger and resilience resonate as BOYFRN delivers a raw, poetic reflection on pushing through hardship.
Grace McLean’s “My Lovely Enemy” is an eerie, entrancing track that defies easy classification. It weaves together a mix of avant-garde pop, blending synths, strings, funky bass lines, and even New Orleans-style horns. The result is a song that constantly shifts and evolves, offering a fresh piece of ear candy every few seconds as it moves between sparse moments and full orchestral swells. This unpredictable soundscape keeps listeners on edge, never settling into one mood or feeling for too long.
Maggie Rogers has treated fans to her first new material since the release of her album Don’t Forget Me earlier this year. The single, titled “In The Living Room,” is a nostalgic nod packed with 90s-inspired guitars and LeAnn Rimes-esque vocal hooks. Co-written and co-produced with Ian Fitchuk, the track was born out of a March 2023 studio session, just a few months after finishing her latest album.
Seattle-based artist Annie J’s latest single, “Gotta Give It Up,” from her upcoming EP “Been Loving You,” is a disco-infused gem that blends funky rhythms with modern pop sensibility. Bursting with energy, this track is designed to make you move, with a groove that’s infectious from the first note.
“A Letter From A Friend” feels like an intimate conversation, woven with a warmth that only comes from experience. Across the album, Beck shares his personal reflections, offering a glimpse into nearly a decade of his life. The album isn’t overly dramatic; instead, it’s grounded in the quiet moments of everyday existence. The acoustic-driven sound, organic and unpretentious, creates an atmosphere where each song feels like a slow, deliberate exchange of thoughts—familiar, yet meaningful.
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