Music Reviews
London based artist Sim Simi brings a sharp tongue, a warm heart and plenty of attitude to “Salt”, a powerful pop single that turns authenticity into its greatest strength. Drawing on RnB grooves and raw electric guitars, the track builds a rich, textured soundscape while her expressive vocals take centre stage.
Gaza Vs Gully Live at The O2 Arena is shaping up to be one of dancehall’s most exciting reunions, bringing together two of the genre’s biggest names, Vybz Kartel and Mavado, for a celebration that has been 18 years in the making.
ESSEO brings a fresh dose of energy with BWU, a dreamy and vibey track that blends melodic rap with smooth, infectious vocals. The British Nigerian artist takes listeners on a spacey journey through love and relationships, creating a sound that feels both personal and effortlessly catchy.
Perpetuate The Struggle turns personal loss into something powerful and surprisingly playful on debut album The Good Fight. Written entirely by the artist, every lyric comes from his own experiences, while he also maintains creative control over the composition and production.
GOLD BARS arrives with Vision Quest, a debut album that turns heartbreak, self discovery and personal growth into an energetic trap journey. With dozens of releases already behind her, the artist, songwriter and label boss steps into a bigger spotlight with a project that feels deeply personal while still bringing plenty of attitude.
East London artist SHAY Khushrenada returns with VANTA VANTA, a lively blast of UK hip hop, breakbeat and classic rave energy that feels built for packed dance floors and sweaty underground parties.
Jay Suave is turning up the energy with That's Why, a confident Afrofusion track blending Afrobeats, Afropop and melodic rap.
Soulection brought serious energy to Greenwich Peninsula as part of the opening weekend of Magazine Open Air, celebrating 15 years of the influential global music platform with a London experience that felt every bit as special as the occasion deserved.
Artist Spotlight
After years championing artists through Outpost Media and 3 Bar Fire Records, Silver Man is stepping back into the spotlight with Paint Me In Gold. Having worked with names including Diplo, Mr Scruff, Nightmares On Wax, Skream and Example, he joins us to discuss creativity, confidence, storytelling and his exciting new musical chapter.
Paris collective 10LEC6 are back with Ako Akas, an adventurous new album inspired by a Cameroonian legend. Fusing Afro techno, footwork, UK bass, gospel and electronic sounds, the five piece continue to blur musical boundaries. We caught up with the band to chat about the album, Nicole's vocals, collaborations and their fearless creative journey.
Handsworth reggae pioneer Admiral Jerry has spent decades giving a voice to Birmingham's reggae scene. After working with UB40 in the 1980s, he returns with Chant Down Babylon, a powerful anthem inspired by the Windrush generation and Benjamin Zephaniah. We caught up with the storyteller behind the music to talk legacy, sound system culture and what comes next.
South London star Layyah is stepping into a bold new chapter with Layers to Layyah Pt 1, blending RnB, rap and Afrofusion with raw honesty and soulful energy.
Fofo arrives from Switzerland with Outta My Section, a cinematic debut shaped by sharp instincts and late night ideas. Influenced by Kanye West, Drake, Jay Z, J Cole and Skepta, with film cues from Scorsese and Nolan, he blends music, style and confidence, proving he can hold his own on any record
NORDI, raised between Mafra, Ericeira and London, blends metal roots, hip hop culture and self produced experimentation into a cinematic sound. A drummer turned architect of his own universe, he builds music like worlds. From Cryonic to the Atlas series and Tales, he invites listeners to become the glitch today.
In this playful Artist Spotlight, BSEARL links up with the producer behind No More Pain, an 18 track journey through emotion and club energy. With viral singles Believe Me and Ride or Die, BBC Radio 1 support, and sold out shows worldwide, he reflects on influences, experimentation, and finding balance between light and dark.
In this playful Artist Spotlight, we catch up with Sun-El Musician as he unpacks his latest album Under The Sun. From soulful moments with Manana to respect from Black Coffee and Ami Faku, he shares growth, gratitude, and global groove.
Exclusive Premieres
Admiral Jerry’s Chant Down Babylon is a powerful return from one of Birmingham’s pioneering reggae voices. Best known for collaborating with UB40 in 1985, Jerry combines classic sound system energy with a message that feels as relevant today as ever.
UK based Nigerian hip hop artist Fecko returns with fresh energy on his uplifting single Make Sense, a track that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Known for conscious lyricism and cross cultural storytelling, the Coventry based rapper once again proves that motivation and vulnerability can live comfortably in the same space.
Money Mykez is back with Lose My Number, a banger that blends Afrobeats, Dancehall, and UK Rap into one irresistible track.
Watching IYAMAH’s In Two Worlds at the iconic House of KOKO was an experience to remember—made even better with a free pair of Ray-Bans from the film’s sponsor!
Leeds-based nu-gaze trio Lozenge makes a striking entrance with their debut single, "Interloper," offering a captivating glimpse into their sonic universe.
Lowkey-E's "No Help" is like a shot of musical adrenaline, a self-produced anthem that's all about doing things your way.
Lincoln Roy's latest jam, "2 Shots," is like a musical melting pot that's as chill as it gets. Hailing from the streets of South Los Angeles with some Caribbean spice, Lincoln's vibe is all about that laid-back fusion of Hip-hop and Afrofusion.
Aretha Fontaine's "Restore My Mind" from the debut EP "Therapy Notes" is a soulful masterpiece that effortlessly captures the essence of personal growth and resilience.
EVENTS
slacs bianci - breeze
After eight years away, South London collective Ammi Boyz are back with ‘Riverside Apt’, and they sound like they have plenty to say. Released via Surf Gang Records, the track sees founders Nigz TG and P From Lee reconnect with the energy that earned the group cult status in the UK underground.