Sophia Latorre-Zengierski

An Interview With: Manatee Commune

We spoke with Seattle-based musician Manatee Commune on his newest single “My Dearest Friend,” his creative passions, and how he got that name. The title of “My Dearest Friend” suggests an actual person. Is the song inspired by someone close to you or rather is it a celebration of the experience of human friendship? Both. [continued]
Essentials: “Coagulation” – Bentley Dean

It’s a slow, tantalizingly eerie start to Bentley Dean’s “Coagulation”. The single launched itself into the world on January 4th as a part of mau5trap’s We Are Friends Vol. 8 and since then, it’s stolen its way into my brain. A single that is relatable, intense, and mysterious, “Coagulation” is pure, undisturbed synth. “Coagulation” sets a steady build-up [continued]
Essentials: “No Filter” – Ward Thomas

Ward Thomas have been hailed as the UK’s first “country music stars,” and their second album, Cartwheels, reached number one in the UK album charts before going silver. British twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas have talent—I’m not disputing that—but I question whether their sound is worthy of the being included in the country [continued]
Essentials: “DOIDOIT” – Spazz Cardigan

You know that kind of happy poppin’ sound that’s both smart and thoughtful? That was what I needed today, and Spazz Cardigan delivered with new single, “DOIDOIT.” Upbeat and full of joy, this is a solid track to lift your mood on the most frustrating of days. But underneath those jiving beats is profound insight [continued]
Essentials: “The Middle (Luca Lush Remix)” – Jimmy Eat World

Hey—remember where you were in 2001? Chances are between classes, you were rocking out to some 90s grunge, including Jimmy Eat World’s classic anthem “The Middle.” You know it: that strong steady drum beat, the emo lyrics reminding you that everything “will be just fine/everything, everything will be all right,” and that bizarre music video [continued]
Essentials: “Japanese Hotel” – Blasko

When I was in Japan, I somehow managed to skip Tokyo, instead exploring the less touristy island of Kyushu. Visiting Toyko properly has been on my list for some time, and when I listen to Blasko’s single “Japanese Hotel,” it’s like I made it there. This song effortlessly combines the silky, dulcet wafting through a [continued]
An Interview With: dream beach

With the release of Lost Angel available digitally and on cassette, I was excited to catch up with Andrew Oliver, the face of dream beach. With a catchy harmonic style and thoughtful lyrics, I was thrilled to dive in and learn more about his music, influence and process. Can you describe your creative process and [continued]
Essentials: “Don’t Lie To Me” – Barbra Streisand

I grew up with Barbra Streisand, listening to her albums and watching her films. I tried to cultivate the spirit and wit she captivated as Dolly Levi in Hello Dolly! I felt her heartbreak in The Way We Were, which is arguably the greatest Kleenex movie of all time. Her portrayal of Fanny Brice proved [continued]
An Interview With: Fluencee

As someone always on the lookout for new sounds, I was very excited when I came across Fluencee and his new EP, Foxgloves. With a background in DJing, Fluencee has created a style that is both energetic and thoughtful, crafting a rich experience for the listener. I had the privilege of interviewing Fluencee to learn [continued]
Essentials: “Heaven/Hell (PRXZM Cover)” – CHVRCHES

In general, I am always a bit wary of covers because they draw comparison by nature. When the cover is of Chvrches, one of my favorite synth bands, I timidly press the play button like a schoolgirl hesitant to raise her hand in class at the risk of being called a know-it-all. A Chvrches cover [continued]