As Pride celebrations gear up around the globe, Hercules & Love Affair are returning with a timely and emotionally resonant new chapter. The Andy Butler-led project announces not one, but two new EP releases for 2026. The era begins with “Danseur” PT 1, arriving July 14 via Stratasonic Records. Leading the charge is the vibrant new single, “I Get High.” The track features Icelandic artist Elín Ey of Hips & Lips alongside Quinn Whalley of Paranoid London.

Following on from last year’s acclaimed “Someone Else Is Calling” collaboration, Butler and company once again prove their ability to merge dancefloor euphoria with deeply human storytelling. “I Get High” immediately captures attention. With its infectious groove, channelling the warmth and liberation of late-’70s and early-’80s disco, while delivering a message that feels urgently contemporary.

At its heart, the song is a celebration of connection and visibility. Butler explains:

“The song is about what I consider one of the last frontiers of LGBT rights,” Butler says, “which is to embrace and encourage the romantic partners of trans and nonbinary people to come out, and leave the lie of shame behind. We need more real connection, not less, in this world.”

That spirit of openness flows through the song’s lyrics:

“You know you want to connect with me in ecstasy. Connection it gets me high, it’s what it’s all about, connection is what we live without.”

“Danseur” PT 1 unfolds across four tracks, each presenting a miniaturised tale drawn from the LGBT experience. The EP opens with the transformative coming-out journey depicted in “My Journey.” Whereas “The Eyes of Love” explores a deeply moving story of romance, loss, and hope as two men find each other only to confront the realities of HIV. The collection closes with a cover of Book of Love’s classic “Boy“. The track pays tribute to New York’s legendary BoyBar and the communities that shaped queer nightlife culture.

Danseur PT 1 Tracklist

1. “My Journey” (ft. Hips & Lips)
2. “I Get High” (ft. Hips & Lips)
3. “The Eyes of Love” (ft. Hips & Lips)
4. “Boy” (ft. Hips & Lips)

With “Danseur” PT 2 set to follow on September 10, Hercules & Love Affair are offering more than a pair of dance records. They are, in fact, creating a soundtrack for visibility, remembrance, resilience, and joy. At a moment when authentic human connection feels especially precious, Butler’s message lands with profound clarity. “We need more real connection, not less, in this world.”

Connect with Hercules & Love Affair

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/herculesandloveaffair/

X:  https://x.com/HerculesLA

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/herculesandloveaffair/

The post Hercules & Love Affair announce two new EPs and share the infectious disco-tinged anthem “I Get High” featuring Hips & Lips appeared first on EQ Music.

While many emerging artists are spending the summer crisscrossing festival stages and chasing breakout moments, others are quietly carving out their own lane. One such artist is Montreal-born Lennikim, who continues his exciting artistic evolution with the release of his latest single, “Gas Station Lover.”

Since making the transition to English-language releases in 2025, Lennikim has been steadily redefining himself as an independent artist. Following the release of his “Adrenaline” EP, this new chapter represents more than just a shift in language—it marks a deeper embrace of creative freedom, authenticity, and self-expression.

The move away from his previous label has allowed Lennikim to fully align his music with the artists who shaped him growing up. Rather than fitting into a prescribed mould, he is now confidently stepping into a sound that feels entirely his own.

As Lenni explains:

“Back then, my label wanted me to be the French Justin Bieber. But my teen years were shaped by Lady Gaga and Lana Del Rey. That’s what I wanted to make. This new chapter is an homage to those idols, to the pop grandeur, to the escapism, the cinema of it all. The pop ambition. This music is for the bullied kid who was locking himself away in his bedroom, religiously consuming his pop idols on Youtube instead of doing his homework. Pop music is my passion. “Gas Station Lover” is the first act.”

That passion shines throughout “Gas Station Lover.” Wrapped in evocative production and dreamy pop textures, the track captures the bittersweet emotions of long-distance love. Inspired by a former relationship, Lennikim reflects on the countless journeys he made between Canada and the United States to spend time with his boyfriend. The result is a song that feels cinematic, nostalgic, and deeply personal all at once.

Fans of emotionally charged pop storytelling. Particularly, listeners who have connected with the introspective vulnerability of Conan Gray’s “Wishbone”, are likely to find plenty to love here.

With “Gas Station Lover,” Lennikim isn’t simply releasing another pop song, he’s reclaiming his narrative. By leaning into the artistry, influences, and experiences that define him, he delivers a compelling statement of intent for this new era.

Connect with Lennikim

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/lennikim/

The post Meet the new LENNIKIM: Finds His Voice on the Emotional “Gas Station Lover” appeared first on EQ Music.

Ever since I was reminded to watch out for Déyyess thanks to her deluxe EP “Would You Go Down On A Girl? “ and by way of the additional bonus track “Silverlake Baby“. I similarly promised myself I wouldn’t miss the arrival of new music from the rising alt-pop talent. Thankfully, I jumped back in at exactly the right moment, as Déyyess returns with the intoxicating new single “Crush”. Incidentally, the clip is also her first official music video.

Whereas the track arrives wrapped in shimmering synths and dreamy pop textures, its origins are in a much more vulnerable place. Déyyess has revealed that “Crush” emerged during a period when she genuinely believed she might stop making music altogether. Instead, the song became a turning point, a creative lifeline that reignited her passion and reminded her why she started making music in the first place.

Thematically, “Crush” captures a feeling that is almost universally relatable. At its heart, it’s a song about developing intense feelings for a beautiful girl and finding yourself unable to escape the emotional pull. Alongside the excitement and butterflies comes the familiar anxiety of uncertainty. Especially, the crushing fear that those feelings may not be reciprocal. It’s a delicate balance of longing, hope, and vulnerability that Déyyess translates effortlessly into a captivating alt-pop anthem.

Supporting the release is a sensual and visually striking music video directed by Ling Yu. Rich in atmosphere and emotional tension, the visual perfectly mirrors the song’s emotional journey. The chemistry unfolds gradually, building anticipation before igniting into something electric. As Déyyess finally gets the girl, viewers are left questioning whether they’re witnessing reality or simply a beautiful fantasy. Above all, the ambiguity only adds to the video’s allure, drawing you deeper into its dreamlike world.

(This is actually her official debut video, before this she has only released lyric videos).

With “Crush,” Déyyess not only delivers one of her most compelling songs to date but also signals the beginning of an exciting new chapter. It’s a release that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, transforming uncertainty into something luminous and empowering. Déyyess is stepping into her next era with confidence, creativity, and heart. As the song’s story reminds us, sometimes the feelings that threaten to overwhelm us can also become the very thing that saves us.

Connect with Déyyess

Facebook: https://facebook.com/deyyess

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deyyessx/

The post Watch Déyyess Embrace Romance and Uncertainty in “Crush” Music Video appeared first on EQ Music.

Since bursting onto the pop scene with a string of irresistibly sugar-coated bangers in 2018, Kim Petras has worn many artistic hats. From bubblegum pop princess to dancefloor provocateur, her journey has been anything but straightforward. Whether it was industry circumstances, creative decisions, or simply timing, it has often felt like Kim was searching for the space to fully express herself on her own terms.

With “Detour”, that search appears to be over.

From the opening moments of the glitchy and captivating “POLO,” it becomes clear that this is a different Kim Petras. There’s a confidence and creative boldness running throughout the record that feels both refreshing and long overdue. Tracks like “Freak It,” “Need for Speed,” and “I Like UR Look” deliver the kind of neon-soaked electro-pop energy fans expect, but they also push her sound into exciting new territory.

What makes “Detour” particularly compelling is how naturally experimentation sits within the project. The indie-alt-pop styling of “Jeep” signals an artist operating completely within her comfort zone while simultaneously taking risks. It’s the kind of fearless creative spirit that brings to mind artists such as Charli XCX, Lady Gaga, and Robyn. (These being performers who continually evolve without losing their identity).

Perhaps the album’s most fascinating moment arrives with “Brutalist.” It’s a sound we simply haven’t heard from Kim before. Built around a distinctly 2000s-inspired alt-pop framework, the track carries shades of MUNA while opening the door to some of Kim’s most thoughtful songwriting yet. Through vivid storytelling, she reflects on memories of noticing brutalist architecture while being driven by her architect father to therapy appointments before beginning her gender transition.

The result is deeply personal, emotionally resonant, and utterly captivating. Even the accompanying music video, with its deliberately DIY aesthetic, complements the song perfectly, reinforcing its intimacy and authenticity.

As the album unfolds, one thought remains impossible to ignore: Kim Petras hasn’t simply changed direction. Instead, she’s finally arrived at the destination she was always meant to reach. As an artist embracing every side of herself without compromise, and creating music that feels adventurous, personal, and entirely her own.

Listen to “Detour” here

Connect with Kim Petras

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimPetras/

X: https://x.com/kimpetras

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimpetras/

The post Kim Petras “Brutalist” Is the Emotional Centrepiece of Her Bold New Album “Detour” appeared first on EQ Music.

Normally, I don’t pay much attention to viral trends. However, the moment I heard “Fabulous” by MEEK, any hesitation I had instantly disappeared. There was something undeniable about her. Even in those early moments, it felt clear that MEEK represented something much bigger than a fleeting social media phenomenon. Additionally, the months that followed, alongside the growing excitement surrounding her career, have only confirmed that instinct. MEEK isn’t a viral trend. She’s a movement.

While many emerging artists dream of television appearances, MEEK has already ticked off impressive milestones. These include appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Saturday Night Live UK. Yet from the very beginning, one of the most significant fixtures in her rise has been her relationship with Mighty Hoopla. It’s a booking that has consistently felt symbolic of the unwavering belief her label, BMG, has placed in their new-age pop misfit queen from day one.

With a summer packed full of festival appearances, major commitments, a debut North American tour, and a UK headline run later this year, it felt almost inevitable that MEEK would arrive at Mighty Hoopla with fresh music in tow. Enter “Beautiful Freeks,” a gloriously dramatic pop anthem that champions individuality, self-expression, and unapologetic authenticity.

The track finds MEEK doubling down on the larger-than-life pop energy that has quickly become her signature. It’s empowering, infectious, and tailor-made for anyone who has ever felt like they existed outside the mainstream. The message is simple yet powerful: being different is your superpower.

And while the song itself is a triumph, the accompanying visual elevates the experience even further. Directed by the legendary Sophie Muller, the video is every bit as bold and captivating as its creator. Yet beyond the striking visuals and growing catalogue of standout releases, what continues to set MEEK apart is that distinctive, soaring powerhouse vocal that demands attention every single time.

A star is born.

Without hesitation, MEEK is shaping up to be 2026’s defining queer icon. More importantly, she represents a new generation of pop artistry that celebrates individuality rather than conformity. As her star continues its meteoric ascent, one thing feels certain: “Beautiful Freeks” is not simply another single release, it’s a rallying cry. As MEEK herself proves with every performance, every anthem, and every fearless creative choice, being yourself isn’t something to hide—it’s something to celebrate.

MEEK’s “Worldful of Weirdos” Tour – UK and North American dates on sale now.

Connect with MEEK

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mustbemeek

The post MEEK Returns with “Beautiful Freeks” and Proves She’s More Than a Viral Sensation appeared first on EQ Music.

I haven’t featured DVBBS on EQ Music Blog before, which honestly feels like complete madness when you consider the Toronto duo’s global impact on dance music. Yet I can unequivocally confirm that multiple-Grammy winner Nelly Furtado has long remained a beloved fixture on the site. Most recently, through standout tracks “Love Bites,” “Corazón,” and “Honesty” from her 2024 album “7″. (A banner era that also saw Nelly headline The Mighty Hoopla with effortless icon energy).

It is wild, there’s never even been a proper shoutout here to DVBBS’ breakout smash “Tsunami“. The 2013 EDM anthem not only hit No.1 on the UK Singles Chart, but also stormed Spotify’s Billions Club while earning platinum certifications across nine countries. You absolutely know the one — that thunderous bassline and explosive melody still dominate sporting arenas and festival stages to this day. Which is exactly why this long-awaited collaboration between DVBBS with Nelly Furtado on “Torture of the Heart” feels like such a major pop culture moment.

What makes “Torture of the Heart” feel even more special is the timing surrounding it. Earlier this year, Nelly seemingly hinted she may be stepping away from music indefinitely. Therefore, this release arrives with an added sense of significance and emotional weight. Thankfully, the pull of this collaboration proved impossible to resist.

“The idea of working together has been floating around for a couple of years — we’ve been sending ideas back and forth for a while. A few months ago, Nelly sent over the vocal for “Torture of the Heart”. It was stripped down, super raw, and the minute we heard it we knew immediately — this was the one. It was almost like she was in the room, singing straight into our soul. There’s nothing better than hearing a melody and lyrics that feel that authentic. You know right away it was written straight from the heart.” – DVBBS 

That authenticity radiates throughout the track. Nelly’s unmistakable worldly-pop sensibilities glide effortlessly across DVBBS’ euphoric electronic production. This proves once again just how adaptable and timeless her voice truly is. Yet, there’s vulnerability woven into every lyric. Whereas the soaring dance production gives the song a cathartic release that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current.

Should “Torture of the Heart” mark the beginning of a new musical chapter for Nelly Furtado rather than a farewell epilogue, then music is all the better for it.

Connect with DVBBS

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvbbs/

Connect with Nelly Furtado

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nellyfurtado

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nellyfurtado/

The post Nelly Furtado Makes Stunning Music Comeback With DVBBS on “Torture of the Heart” appeared first on EQ Music.

There’s something undeniably magnetic about DECO. Maybe it’s their effortlessly likeable persona. Maybe it’s their infectious blend of retro-inspired indie-synth-pop. Or perhaps it’s simply because they know exactly how to deliver a euphoric night out.

Witnessing the band first-hand at the Waterfront in Norwich on their 2024 headline tour supporting debut album “Destination I Don’t Know”. I can confidently say DECO are one of the most entertaining live acts currently bubbling through the UK pop scene. From stepping on stage to the moment they soaked up rapturous applause at the end, the packed venue was completely locked into the band’s vibrant energy. Pure fun from start to finish.

Their growing popularity was already evident when “Destination I Don’t Know” landed a Top 10 position on the Official UK Album Sales Chart in 2024. (A huge achievement for an independently releasing band). Yet while DECO have earned a reputation as a feel-good party band and festival favourite. More importantly, they continue proving there’s more depth beneath the glittering synths and singalong hooks.

That evolution began with the Mika-esque title track “Dreamland” from their forthcoming sophomore album and now continues with the newly arrived single “Weekend”. The track is another burst of colourful, mood-lifting pop brilliance.

“On face value, it lives for its title – it’s a feel-good weekend anthem,” says frontman Max Kendall. “It’s a record that made us feel good when we made it, and even more so now we’re playing it live. It’s just got that energy, it’s a mood changer. That excitement for the weekend is something you have from a young age, and it never really goes away.”  

Simplicity remains central to DECO’s appeal. Staying true to their independent DIY ethos, the band once again keep production in-house. Above all, with Max Kendall overseeing much of the production and post-production for the “Weekend” video. It’s a straightforward concept executed with maximum effect. A creative hallmark that continues to define DECO’s artistic identity as much as the music itself.

With “Dreamhouse” arriving on October 23 on CD, cassette, colour vinyl and digital formats, (PRE-save here) DECO feel poised to elevate themselves even further.

At a time when pop can often feel overcomplicated or manufactured, DECO remind us that genuine joy, human connection and irresistible melodies still matter most. And perhaps that’s their greatest strength of all. They don’t just soundtrack the weekend, they make you feel like you’re living inside it.

Connect with DECO

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoband/

X: https://x.com/decobanduk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoband/

The post DECO Bring Euphoric Energy To New Single “Weekend” Ahead of “Dreamhouse” Album appeared first on EQ Music.

If first impressions are everything, then Amelile is making sure her next chapter leaves a lasting mark.

Having already turned heads with previous releases like “H.E.L.L.O” and earned recognition from Rolling Stone UK as an artist to watch, the Albanian-born pop newcomer returns with “Monster” — a darker, bolder and far more provocative offering that showcases an exciting evolution in both her sound and artistic identity.

Built around sleek contemporary production and emotionally charged storytelling, “Monster” dives headfirst into the intoxicating push-and-pull of toxic attraction. It’s polished pop with sharp teeth — the kind of track that seduces you before revealing its darker intentions.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Amelile explains:

“Monster’ is about that side of love you know isn’t good for you, but you can’t walk away from — it’s intense, addictive, and a little dangerous, and I wanted the song to feel exactly like that.”

That tension is woven throughout every moment of the track. Equal parts vulnerability and power, “Monster” explores the emotional chaos that comes from wanting something you know could hurt you. It’s relatable, cinematic and irresistibly dramatic — exactly the kind of emotional pop that thrives when it’s willing to embrace both the light and the shadow.

Amelile’s journey to this point has been anything but ordinary. Raised in Albania, she moved to the UK alone at just 16 years old to pursue her dreams, later performing across Europe and building an impressive profile that includes appearances at major events such as Kënga Magjike, Junior Eurovision and Gjeniu i Vogël. She was also crowned Miss World Albania in 2021, a title that helped further establish her growing international presence.

Now fully focused on music and preparing her debut EP, Amelile is proving she’s much more than another emerging pop artist. With over 100,000 followers already invested in her world, “Monster” feels like a statement of intent from an artist confidently stepping into her power.

And if this is what the darker side of Amelile sounds like, we’re definitely intrigued to hear what comes next.

Follow Amelile on Instagram.

The post Amelile Embraces The Dark Side Of Desire On New Single “Monster” appeared first on EQ Music.

Patrick Wolf has never exactly been one for following convention, which is probably why his long-awaited return to music has felt so refreshing. In fact, if you were to scour the EQ Music Blog archives, references to harpsichord usage would likely be few and far between. Somehow, it feels entirely fitting that Patrick Wolf would be the artist to bring it back into orbit, dramatically.

After a tumultuous decade away from releasing albums, Patrick is a much better version of himself these days, after addressing life struggles. 2025 saw Patrick re-emerge with “Crying the Neck”, a body of work that felt both deeply personal and creatively rejuvenated. More importantly, it introduced us to a version of Patrick Wolf that appears stronger, wiser, and fully reconnected to his artistic spirit.

Now, in the interim between “Crying the Neck” and an already-in-progress eighth studio album, Patrick has gifted fans two standalone tracks — “The Beast” and “The Laughing Dove.” Yet it’s “The Beast” that immediately commands attention.

From the first listen, there’s an unmistakable current running through it — echoes of “Lycanthropy” colliding beautifully with the theatricality and melodic magnetism of “The Magic Position”. The harpsichord flourishes lend the track an eerie, baroque grandeur, while Patrick’s poetic lyricism once again proves why his songwriting remains so singular. He never reaches for the ordinary. Instead, he transforms emotion into vivid mythology.

And truly, only Patrick Wolf could make rage sound this elegant.

“The Beast”, set in a castle I dreamt up and it’s castle grounds where five characters wrestle out in a power play, The Prince of The Rose, The Witch in The Wall, The Jester, The King and The Beast”. Patrick shared with mailing list subscribers.

The music video-directed by Joseph Wilson captures the characterisation, wonderous portrayals by Patrick.

At its core, though, “The Beast” feels more like it’s an artistic reclamation. A fearless reminder that vulnerability and empowerment can exist side-by-side, wrapped in poetic fury and gothic splendour. Patrick Wolf isn’t merely revisiting past eras here; he’s transcending them.

Connect with Patrick Wolf

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/patrickwolf

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrickwolf

The post Patrick Wolf Unleashes Gothic Rage and Harpsichord Drama on New Single “The Beast” appeared first on EQ Music.

Fresh from the emotionally charged releases of “focus on u” and “honest,” emerging alt-pop artist Dirt Flirt now unveils the full vision behind her concept-driven sophomore EP, “Scorpio Fever”. Closing the shimmering collection is latest focus track “high horse”, a vulnerable, slow-burning finale that ties the project’s emotional arc together with striking honesty.

Previously, “focus on u” captured the dizzying intoxication of early obsession, that all-consuming rush where one person suddenly becomes your entire universe. It was dreamy, euphoric, and impossible not to get swept up in. In contrast, follow-up single “honest” pulled listeners into far murkier emotional territory. Furthermore, documenting the painful unravelling that begins once idealisation fades, and difficult truths start surfacing.

That emotional progression sits at the very heart of “Scorpio Fever”. Across the EP, Dirt Flirt carefully peels back layers of infatuation, desire, denial, and heartbreak, allowing each track to reveal a little more vulnerability than the last. Sonically, the project glows with atmospheric pop textures and late-night synth shimmer. Whereas lyrically it feels intensely confessional, like pages torn directly from a diary.

By the time “high horse” arrives as the closing statement, the emotional fallout has fully landed. There is a quiet devastation woven through the track, yet it never loses the EP’s magnetic sense of beauty. Dirt Flirt understands that heartbreak rarely arrives in one dramatic moment. Whereas, instead, it unfolds gradually through reflection, distance, and finally, acceptance.

What makes “Scorpio Fever” so compelling is its emotional authenticity. Rather than presenting heartbreak through polished clichés, Dirt Flirt embraces the uncomfortable in-between moments. The confusion, the resentment, the self-awareness, and ultimately, the growth that follows emotional collapse. It is this fearless honesty that elevates the EP beyond a collection of songs into something deeply relatable and cinematic.

As Dirt Flirt herself seems to suggest throughout “Scorpio Fever”: The hardest truths are often the ones we discover after the fantasy fades.

Connect with Dirt Flirt

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirt__flirt

The post Dirt Flirt Wraps “Scorpio Fever” in Emotional Ruin and Beauty on “high horse” appeared first on EQ Music.