Radar reviews Matt Maeson's new EP and three new singles from The Kooks, Autograf and Alma.
Matt Maeson - Who Killed Matt Maeson (EP)
Travelling to prisons with a Christian rock band isn’t your average upbringing but for Matt Maeson this was all a reality. However, when he discovered singer-songwriters like Jeff Buckley and Johnny Cash something resonated with him and he found his own style and started writing his own songs.
The first track off Matt Maeson’s debut EP is ‘Grave Digger’, it starts off soft and acoustic but its production gradually grows into a heavy filled, percussion infused sound. These elements intwine themselves effortlessly and perfectly together. The song transcends genres and lyrically it’s strong and powerful. The production behind the song is booming and impactful; but Maeson’s voice is what really stands out - not only on this track but the whole EP.
The breakout track from the EP, ‘Cringe’, is pop heavy with an outstanding, electrifying chorus; which could easily have come off of X Ambassadors ‘VHS’.
‘Tribulation’ is full of wholehearted vocals and intoxicating lyrics which makes this song captivating and effortless.
‘Who Killed Matt Maeson’ includes six tracks with serious connections to country, roots and alt-rock music. It’s got hints of Twenty One Pilots, X Ambassadors and Noah Gunderson but that’s not to say it’s unoriginal. This blend is unlike any other.
The Kooks - Be Who You Are (Single)
The Kooks’ new song really does sound like that band’s beginnings and that’s a great thing. They got lost somewhere along the way and now they’re back to their best.
The band best known for their 2006 debut album ‘Inside In/Inside Out’ announced that they’ll be releasing a compilation album on 19th May.
It’s not groundbreaking but it’s an upbeat, fun, pop rock track and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Autograf - You Might Be (Single)
If you haven’t hear of Autograf you’ve been missing out; they’ve been gifting us over the last couple of years with music they like to call Future House. The trio hailing from Chicago have been releasing originals and remixes since 2015; trying to reshape house music and take it to another level.
For ‘You Might Be’ they’ve teamed up with Lils to create a glittery mix of electronica and mesmerising vocals. Lils vocals pair perfectly with Autograf’s rhythmic bassline.
This song showcases their imaginative and distinct capacity to create music for the future.
Alma - Chasing Highs (Single)
Since the release of her debut single ‘Karma’, Finnish born singer-songwriter Alma, has been going from strength to strength and ‘Chasing Highs’ is no exception. It’s a confident and clear statement that solidifies her place in the music world.
Think of a sort of mix between Tove Lo and Charli XCX and that’s her; but the tropical beats and impassioned vocal make her undoubtedly unique from the. The neon-haired star has a loads of international appeal and with this track it’s obvious that she’s here to stay.