Wonderland.

WONDERLIST

The seminal fourth LP of one of the UK’s modern greats, hard hitting drill, and genre-blending bangers: we’re back with a fresh Wonderlist.

Photography by Reuben Bastienne-Lewis

Photography by Reuben Bastienne-Lewis

King Krule – Space Heavy

The return of Archy Marshall is finally upon us! King Krule has long been solidified as one of the most visceral and compelling talents that the UK has to offer, and with Space Heavy, his fourth studio album, the Peckham-native has outdone himself yet again. An immersive journey through hope, despair, love and pain, this is perhaps Krule’s most personal album to date. As usual, the compositions on show are utterly encapsulating, as the talent leans even further into the atmospheric, ambient approach that he has explored in his decade long career. A triumphant, rousing LP from a truly incredible artist.

K Trap – “Outings”

K-Trap is your favourite rapper’s favourite rapper. Last year’s LP, The Last Whip II, cemented Trap’s legacy as one of the most pinnacle drillers in the scene, and he shows no sign of slowing down. His new track, “Outings”, is as ominous as it is well-crafted: M1ONTHEBEAT’s synth and bass heavy beat is the perfect backdrop for the rapper’s unique flow and broody tone. Lyrically, Trap once again showcases how untouchable he is. Violent but provoking, his wordplay and construction of a narrative is unparalleled.

Amaarae – “Wasted Eyes”

Undoubtedly amongst the most exciting talents in world music right now, Amaarae is flaunting her versatility and effortless charisma on genre-bending new LP Fountain Baby and its accompanying lead single and visual “Wasted Eyes”. Fresh off her superb collaboration with KAYTRAMINÉ, Amaarae has unveiled one of the most cohesive and sonically exploitative album’s of the year, combining sounds, styles and timbres with ease and nuance. “Wasted Eyes” is an incredible epitomisation of the album and Amaarae’s striking talent.

Bad Boy Chiller Crew – “Spaceship”

The Bradford boys are back and ready to ignite the summer with “Spaceship”! The dance crew have gained a huge following for their club ready anthems and cheek-laden energy, which is perfectly encapsulated in this lively single. With a four-to-the-floor to get your teeth grinding and celebratory synths and vocal sampling, the trio are in full party mode, gliding over the beat and treating us to a highly entertaining visual accompaniment.

Yussef Dayes ft. Tom Misch – “Rust”

Two of UK jazz’s leading lights, Yussef Dayes and Tom Misch, have once again joined forces to truly bless our eyes following their seminal collaborative ’20 album, What Kinda Music. Dayes’ debut solo album, Black Classical Music, is quickly approaching, and this is our second teaser into the LP. Dayes’ drum work is typically impeccable, with a startling range of rhythm and tone on show. Misch, who has been somewhat quiet on the release front over the pass few years, teases his artistic progression with some gorgeous guitar licks and layered harmonies. Bring on the album!

Downtown Kayoto – “Lite”

Downtown Kayoto is a star in the making. HIs eclectic sound has been grabbing our attention for years now, with the artist standing out for his genre-bending tendencies, strong aesthetic and excellent songwriting. Kayoto has taken things up a gear with this new one, “Lite”; an A$AP Rocky-esque video that is meticulous shot, colour graded and envisioned accompanies an anthemic track from the Hull-native. Flaunting his vocal diversity with a more rap heavy number, the artist’s bars, delivery and ability to find a pocket on an adventurous beat is second to none. Remember the name!

El Londo – THANKSLONDO

When it comes to producers in the UK alternative rap scene, not many have a higher calibre than El Londo. His new album, THANKSLONDO boats an all star cast; ayrtn, Bawo, Ashbeck, Capo Lee and many more bless Londo’s beats with cheek-laden verses, with the producer showcasing his superior craft and versatility across the tape. A standout tape celebrating a standout scene in British music right now.

Hilts – “Swings”

A rapper quickly rising through the ranks, Hilts is showcasing a thoughtful thematic resonance and powerful vision across his to-date limited releases. His new single, “Swings” is a focused and well crafted track that leans into an array of sub-sounds, with Hilts illustrating his ability to be a reliable narrator and poignant wordsmith.

Sipprell — “Ritual”

Sipprell’s debut album, Peace in the Madness, is officially out now. The project is an intimate and honest reflection of what the artist was going through while pregnant with her first child, and serves as a snapshot into the love, grief, and hope she was encountering. All of the 13 tracks are beautiful, but we’re currently focused on the new featured single, “Ritual”. A collaboration with Nao, it is a vulnerable and enchanting depiction of loving someone unconditionally. Listen and you’ll get lost in the mesmerising vocals and powerful lyrics.

Seb Wildblood ft. lawrence — “don’t see this”

Seb Wildblood has once again proven he is a master of thought-provoking, experimental sonics. His new single, “don’t see this”, will immerse you in a dreamy haze of intricate electronics. A first taste of what we can expect for Wildblood’s new chapter of music, the single has us captivated.

Holly Blair — “Where You Are”

LA-based alt-pop musician and filmmaker Holly Blair released her debut EP, “One Step Away Is Too Far”, last week. With it, she unveiled a beautiful music video for the lead single, “Where You Are”. A story about missed connections, the accompanying video was directed and produced with her brother, and feels as nostalgic as the emotional track. As she sings directly and powerfully to the camera, Holly truly brings her lyrics to life.

Nat Slater — “Romanticize”

Nat Slater’s new garage-pop single, “Romanticize”, is the second release from her forthcoming debut EP. As her hazy and captivating vocals sing over a steady beat, as she opens up about learning to see someone for who they truly are — not who you wish they were. Questioning love, she sings through her confusion as she comes to a clear understanding of a toxic situation. Vulnerable, honest, and utterly relatable, the song will touch your heart and make you feel completely seen.

Renao — “A Space Between Orange & Blue”

Raised in Bangalore and based in London, alt-pop artist Renao explores his relationships with India and the UK in a new EP, “A Space Between Orange & Blue”. He touches on themes of duality and identity through infectious, soulful indie-pop songs. Smooth and mesmerising vocals float through funky instrumentals and production as he forms a soundscape all his own.

Purple Disco Machine — “Bad Company”

Purple Disco Machine is back with a new track, “Bad Company”! An immersive offering of disco house, it is the ultimate dance track — reminding us of his growing influence in the scene. With an incredible beat and electric spirit, it will get you up on your feet from the very first note.

Arctic Lake – “My Weakness”

Arctic Lake’s new single, “My Weakness”, is an intimate alt-pop depiction of the nuances of loving someone with your whole being. As Emma Foster sings delicately and powerfully about how that love can be both a strength and weakness, Paul Holliman’s production brings the dynamics to life. Moody, encompassing, and grand in its vulnerability, “My Weakness” is as personal as it is universal. Out now with an accompanying music video that plays with colours and lights, it is not to be missed.

sona blue — “window seat”

Hackney’s alt-pop artist sona blue has released his first song of the year, “window seat”. Soft guitar instrumentals set the base for his smooth, enchanting vocals as he sings of a love lost. Extremely personal, you can truly hear the emotion and vulnerability in his voice — creating a raw and enthralling single that will touch your heart.

Rukmani — “So Fine”

Rukmani’s new single is, excuse the pun, so fine. A celebration of love and the beauty that’s beneath the surface, “So Fine” is a smooth and soulful R&B masterpiece. The visual component sees the singer-songwriter glowing in gold as she effortlessly sings over a soundscape of strings and percussion. Luscious and sultry, it will be a beautiful addition to your summer nights.

Alysha — “Finer Things”

London’s rising R&B artist Alysha has a new single, “Finer Things”, and it’s truly something special. Her stellar vocals command attention as she emotionally pleads for a connection she’s lacking in a capitalist, superficial society. Her clear, raw message resonates powerfully on top of production that is delicate yet powerful, and simple yet expansive. As if that isn’t enough, Alysha has also released a music video where we see firsthand the emotion behind the song.

Cassa Jackson — “The Guy I Never Dated”

Her first single of 2023, “The Guy I Never Dated” is pure Cassa magic. Upbeat, sassy, and empowering, the track combines pop-punk guitar sounds with intimate, singer-songwriter lyrics as she details a situationship that took too much energy to sustain. A breath of fresh air, she sings of letting go and moving on from someone who wouldn’t put in the same effort. Filling the verses with deeply personal lyrics, she combines her specific experiences with the universal emotions that come from this relatable experience — providing listeners everywhere with an anthem to connect to.

Will Linley — “Tough (The Girls Song)”

“Tough (The Girls Song)” is the latest song from rising pop artist Will Linley. His classic bittersweet sound shines once again as he gears up to release his full-length debut album. This alt-pop track is as nostalgic as it is Gen-Z and as playful as it is heartbroken. A full-bodied soundscape energises his lyrics and creates a fun, carefree summer song. We can’t wait for more!