Wonderland.

WONDERLIST

From superstar comebacks to slick trap wave and silky smooth hip-hop, this week’s Wonderlist is an occasion!

Photography by Larissa Hofmann

Photography by Larissa Hofmann

Olivia Rodrigo — “Vampire”

She’s back. And better than ever. Olivia Rodrigo kicks off her next era and sophomore album GUTS with lead single “Vampire”. A true masterpiece, the song builds and crashes, pulls you in and pushes you back out, mirroring and evoking the emotional response that the song’s subject matter touches on. As the production reaches a crescendo, Olivia’s voice commands attention as she sings, “Bloodsucker, famefucker, bleeding me dry like a goddamn vampire.” As always, her lyrics are as witty as they are gut-wrenching (no pun intended), but they feel even bolder this time around. Angry, distraught, unafraid, and above all powerful, Olivia sings with a confidence that is mesmerising and entirely captivating. Her unique expression of fiery pop with dark undertones comes to life even further through her music video, directed by the one and only Petra Collins. Daring, wise, and raw, Rodrigo has guts.

D Block Europe ft. Clavish – “Pakistan”

Following their successful collaboration on ‘Rocket Science’ earlier this year, D Block Europe once again team up with North London rapper Clavish, who contributes a laid-back verse to ‘Pakistan,’ further expanding the duo’s musical universe. With three sold-out shows at the iconic O2 Arena and an upcoming headline slot at Wireless Festival, D Block Europe are solidifying their position as leaders of the wavy-rap renaissance. ‘DBE World’ is set to continue their upward trajectory, with tracks destined to resonate with listeners and shake the foundations of the trap-meets-wave genre.

Kota The Friend ft. Samm Henshaw – “Barcelona”

Kota The Friend is a true alchemist of the creative arts.  A blossoming amalgamation of eclectic, sun-kissed textures, his brand-new album Protea is laced with powerful words of affirmation that shines a light across the realities of expression, romanticism and the wonder of existence. Taking inspiration from his wife, Kota’s ethereal musicality is as beautiful as it is meaningful. From breezy summer vibrations across “Barcelona” ft. Samm Henshaw to powerful house anthems with “Forget About It” ft. Zak Abel – Kota has reached an apex across the rap landscape and Protea looks set to be another definitive moment in his already high-calibre discography.

Maleek Berry – “My Way”

Afro-R&B trailerblazer Malen Berry offers a sound bursting with vitality and culture. The South London singer-songwriter and producer has collaborated with an array of heat hitters from the Afro scene, such as Wizkid and Davido, constructing a space that he only fills. His newest single, “Feel Different”, plucked from his forthcoming debut album If Only Love Was Enough, is a sensual, smooth and bouncy cut that flaunts the vocal ability and seamless charisma ooo the talent – this one is pure vibes.

TeeZee – “Stamina”

TeeZee’s drops latest single “Stamina”, a sun-drenched Afro-fusion gem. Showcasing a blend of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Brazilian funk, this hit is set to soar this summer. TeeZee presents the music video for the single in Rio De Janeiro, only adding to the quenching allure of the tune. TeeZee’s impressive collaborations, influence in African music, and groundbreaking ventures make him an unwavering force in the industry.

Stefflon Don – “Move It”

Stefflon Don unleashes her new infectious summer single “Move It” as the lead track from her highly anticipated debut album “Island 54.” Stefflon Don exudes summer vibes and delivers her trademark flow. Perfect for dance floors and festivals, this release coincides with her electric performance on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage, just last week! The female rapper is dominating the British rap scene with her seamless talents, versatility and vibrant energy. “Move It” without a doubt is a summer party banger.

Kwaku Asante – “Strawberry Skies”

Rising North-west London singer-songwriter Kwaku Asante has been building a loyal following and highly impressive discography. Last year’s EP “Wanderlust” was a potent and fruitful body of work, and it’s becoming more and more apparent that the achievement was just the beginning. Asante has now released his third offering of the year, “Strawberry Skies”, releasing the single via the cherished performance platform, COLORS. The offering insinuates a soaring artistic progression, with a cinematic instrumental with a bop-centric groover laying the foundations for an undeniable vocal performance and striking lyrical approach.

Zakhar – “Overready”

Despite his ripe age of just 18, Zakhar has continually showcased boundless potential. The North London rising star, who merges melodic rap and R&B with maturity and finesse, has been in particularly impressive form of late; previous single “Find You” showed an emotional focus of well beyond his years, and this follow up effort is similarly well crafted. “Overready” is a anthemic offering made for the breezy summer evenings, an intelligent love song that illustrates the versatility and composure of London’s next obsession.

10kdunkin – “OPPS FANND OUT / SOS TRIPPIN”

Maintaining his impressive form this year, Atlanta rapper 10kdunkin has once against consolidated his individilistic approach with a striking new offering. The third offering off of his upcoming album Daryl D’Angelo, “OPPS FANNED OUT / SOS TRIPPIN” is a seamless combination of slick R&B intricacies with silky trap flows and Pluggnb prod, a further indication of the artist’s widening appeal. Bring on the album!

Fredwave – “Sleep”

Continuing his blend of sonic innovation and fondness for UK rap that has cemented the North London talent as one of the most significant names in the scene, Fredwave’s new offering “Sleep” looks set to continue the attention around the elusive, charismatic talent. Hot on the heels of the hyper-imaginative “LA LA”, Fredwave serves up a new heater in “Sleep” — pitched-up, distorted vocal samples layered over glitchy, punchy electronica and anchored in by a neck-snapping bassline showcases a distinctive new angle to Fred’s sound. Flickers of influences from Jai Paul and early Flume feel evident, but the golden-era rap undertones and brass samples gives this a distinctly Fredwave signature.

NSJ Mali ft. Mugzz – “No Pressure”

One of the most highly regarded upcoming UK rap talents, South London trailblazer NSJ Mali delivers his hotly-anticipated rap cut “No Pressure” featuring fellow newcomer Mugzz. An electric narration that distils the lifestyle and ambitions of inner-city youth culture, the 20-year-old lyricist effortlessly glides with smart, intricate wordplay atop menacing bass lines and punchy percussive textures before Mugzz flexes his unorthodox melodies with typical finesse. The two deliver vivid pictures of the roads while balancing a clear purpose to create a real impact across UK music culture. Already co-signed by some of the most innovative talents in the UK, NSJ Mali feels like a significant new voice of authenticity and vision across London and beyond.

Femi Tahiru – “The First Time I Got High”

Femi Tahiru continues his run of good form with moody new track “The First Time I Got High” — presenting his smooth, echoing vocals throughout, sitting on top of a series of scintillating guitar riffs and catchy percussive elements making for one of the most captivating releases to surface this summer. Femi’s innate ability to provide compelling and authentic storytelling atop seductive soul-influenced beats continues to push the Northampton-native into key UK music conversations.

Eljé – “Bout To Lose It”

Displaying a clear reflex for rich, intimate vocal blends and vibrant electronic sound waves, Eljé feels like one of the most exciting new voices emerging across the underground. With sounds showered in eclectic summer vibrations, “Bout To Lose It” sharply embodies the ecstatic resurgence of UK garage and house, while utilising the 21-year-old’s neo-soul touches shining with typical elegance. She reconciles with the turbulent realities of mental health before the atmospheric backing bursts into high-calibre house textures, juxtaposing sleek production with the young talent’s melancholic storytelling. Already making serious waves across the digital landscape, Eljé’s latest cut will no doubt continue the trajectory of London’s next breakout star.

Äyanna — “Girlfriend”

East London’s Äyanna is taking bold steps in the industry and leaving her mark. After pushing the boundaries of pop with her previous singles, she has once again solidified herself as one to watch. Her new summer single, “Girlfriend”, is an exciting, refreshing depiction of falling for someone and daydreaming the days away. It feels like falling in love.

Sekou — “Out Of Mind”

After much anticipation, Sekou has released his debut EP, “Out Of Mind”. Out now with a new single, “Forgiving Myself”, the 5-track project is just what we could have hoped for. Expansive and complex, he explores grand ballads alongside softer tones, creating a dynamic coming-of-age story. As he weaves between genres, showcasing a wide range of musical influences, his captivating, soulful lyrics place the project on common ground.

Solomon — “For Starters”

Solomon’s debut EP, “FOR STARTERS”, is officially here. With focus track “burn out”, the 8-track project follows the success of recent singles “dehydrate”, “sore loser”, and “phases”. Opening with a melancholic acapella track, “do you want my love?”, sets the scene for the raw vulnerability and powerful vocals to come. Emotional and vulnerable, Solomon lets us into his world.

Static Dress — “such.a.shame (smoking lounge redux)”

Leeds rock band Static Dress released a new version of their fan favourite track “such.a.shame” with an eerie, emotional, and surrealist music video to accompany it. The smoking lounge version comes after they came out with a redux of their entire debut album, Rouge Carpet Disaster, breathing new life and altering the messages of their tracks. A glorious and bold offering, “such.a.shame (smoking lounge redux)” is rock at its finest.

Sedric Perry — “It Girl”

Queer R&B singer, songwriter, director and visual artist Sedic Perry has a new single, and it’s the ultimate summer anthem. Titled “It Girl”, its confidence-infused 80s synth pop soundscape is bound to get you out of any funk and up on your feet. Released with a glorious music video that is sexy and hilarious all at once, “It Girl” is a true sparkle. “For me, this era in my life is about not taking things so seriously, life is already hard,” says Perry. “I wanted to give myself and anyone who listens permission to be corny, be a little awkward, and be unapologetically unique. Since January, I’ve been singing the hook to myself as a confidence boost, and it really helped with Berlin winter blues, and I can’t wait to share it. It’s an ode to self love and endless love for our community.”

Fred Waves -“Feel It In My Bones”

Fred Waves captivates with dreamy latest single “Feel It In My Bones.” This indie rock gem, meticulously crafted from start to finish, is a stunning take on feelings of dissonance of our inner lives and truly inspires listeners to take charge of their passions. With an international lineup of talented musicians, the track showcases playful and classic indie rock roots. Fred Waves’ introspective lyrics invite listeners to break free from past mistakes, dance through life, and embrace an honest and pure indie rock sound.

Sam Segurado – “She Always Comes Around”

Portuguese-Irish singer-songwriter Sam Segurado enchants listeners with his new single ‘She Always Comes Around’. The singer has thrown his sound back to his roots whilst blending indie, alt-folk, and 90s alt-rock elements. Sam’s joyful vocals, accompanied by a full band and delightful backing vocals, deliver a hopeful plea to embrace love and live in the present. We are obsessed with this dreamy track, one to play all summer long.

Luke Gomm – “Arcade Nights”

Luke Gomm takes us on a nostalgic journey with his latest single “Arcade Nights” from his forthcoming EP. Blending electronic, R&B, and Alt Pop, Gomm creates a luscious soundscape that captures the excitement of romantic dates spent in neon-lit arcades. With meticulous attention to detail, Gomm crafts an immersive sonic experience that showcases his soulful electronic style. Get ready for a groundbreaking EP from this highly talented artist.

Kitty Montague – “Homegrown”

Kitty Montague delivers an infectious pop anthem with her new single “Homegrown”, from her forthcoming EP. Seamlessly blending irony, intimacy, and soulful vocals, Montague captures the chaos of dating and youth culture with empowering lyrics. With a feminist forward message of self-love and high standards, “Homegrown” is a statement of confidence and empowerment. Montague’s talent shines through, making her a soaring star in the music industry.

Zane Penny – “Maybe the Moon”

Zane Penny is a trailblazer in the Alaskan scene, delivering a unique and striking concoction of soaring melody, raw songwriting and emotional resonance. His latest offering, entitled “Maybe the Moon” is the second single plucked from his forthcoming album New Skin. From its delicate opening, the song constructs itself into an engrossing amalgamation of styles, with Penny’s honest lyricism and refined compositional craft shining through.