There is something I rather love about discovering an emerging artist whose music comes with a story you can actually get your teeth into. Enter Fendi Efendi, an Indonesian-born, Netherlands-based artist. His journey towards his debut single “Don’t Play With Fire” has taken him across cultures, perspectives and, quite literally, between two very different worlds.

Born and raised in Java, Indonesia, Fendi later relocated to the Netherlands, eventually becoming a Dutch citizen. On paper, that might sound like a straightforward geographical move, but culturally, the shift offered a much more fascinating experience. Fendi found himself face-to-face with a worldview grounded more heavily in logic and secular thinking, where supernatural ideas can often be met with a healthy dose of scepticism.

That is rather different from the world Fendi knew growing up. In Java, stories of mystical forces and supernatural happenings could sit comfortably alongside everyday life, with the boundary between what is ordinary and what is extraordinary feeling considerably less defined.

And this is where “Don’t Play With Fire” really starts to spark my interest. Fendi takes those contrasting experiences and turns them into the narrative foundation of his debut. The track explores what happens when you carry stories, beliefs and cultural memories from one life into another. Subsequently, asking whether magic and pragmatism can happily occupy the same space.

“Don’t Play With Fire” comes alive through an infectious beat, euphoric melody and shimmering synths, creating a glossy Euro-dance flavour that gives the track plenty of movement. There is an incendiary electropop quality here that practically comes with its own remix request. Honestly, give this to Calvin Harris and let him loose on it! I feel there is a rather big dancefloor lurking in there somewhere.

With Camila Cabello, The Weeknd, Taylor Swift, Slayyyter and Adéla among his influences, Fendi is clearly drawing from a wonderfully broad pop palette.

Ultimately, “Don’t Play With Fire” feels like more than a debut single. It is Fendi Efendi introducing us to the space between two worlds. A place where ancient stories meet modern pop and a little mystery refuses to disappear. Honestly, if this is what happens when you play with fire, I’m rather hoping Fendi keeps the matches handy.

Connect with Fendi Efendi

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/people/Fendi-Efendi-Page/61592053884064/

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The post EMERGING ARTIST: Fendi Efendi Finds Magic Between Two Worlds With Debut Single “Don’t Play With Fire” appeared first on EQ Music.

Talk about impeccable timing. As another spell of soaring temperatures settles in, singer-songwriter John Galea arrives with a track that couldn’t be better named. “Hotter Than A Heatwave” lands as the second preview of his forthcoming debut album, due later this year, following April’s album-launching single “Songwriter.”

Having featured John Galea on the blog over the years, I can’t say I’d ever naturally associate his name with the soundtrack to summer. Yet here he is, confidently stepping into sun-drenched pop territory and delivering what feels like a bona fide summer anthem. It’s a refreshing change of pace that still feels unmistakably John, only this time with the windows down and the volume all the way up.

“Hotter Than A Heatwave” sees him embrace shimmering synths, uplifting melodies and irresistibly danceable beats. The move towards the dancefloor feels remarkably effortless, as though this glossy, feel-good pop direction has been waiting for him all along. It’s bright, breezy and instantly infectious, while still retaining the thoughtful songwriting that has long been one of his greatest strengths.

When asked about the track John said:

“I love the summer, and I can safely say this is a true summer track – it was written one hot afternoon and is about a turbulent relationship, the ups and downs, the heat and the cold., the push and pull. It’s a very different kind of track from me where I used my falsetto a lot more in the studio and it brought out something fresh”.

Summer anthems practically invite a remix treatment, and John has enlisted exactly the right collaborators to keep the temperature climbing. Fellow LGBTQIA+ artist Bright Light Bright Light injects “Hotter Than A Heatwave” with an extra shot of shimmer. He steers it towards the glossy, synth-driven spirit of Desireless‘ timeless “Voyage Voyage.” Meanwhile, the newly commissioned 7th Heaven remixes amplify the track’s club credentials even further. While proving the song has just as much staying power on the dancefloor as it does soundtracking lazy afternoons in the sunshine.

“Hotter Than A Heatwave” proves John not afraid to surprise us. And sometimes the biggest musical glow-up arrives exactly when the forecast says it’s least expected. Some songs simply soundtrack the sunshine—this one practically packs the sunscreen.

Connect with John Galea

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

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

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The post John Galea Shares “Hotter Than A Heatwave” Plus Bright Light Bright Light Remix appeared first on EQ Music.

There are moments when the algorithm gets it spectacularly right. As I discovered when stumbling across Atlanta-born, SoCal-based singer-songwriter, model and influencer Jace Cameron. The latest single “Easy” feels like one of those rare wins. It’s genuinely some of the best musical discovery my feed has delivered in quite some time.

While many first came to know Jace through modelling and social media, his musical ambitions have been quietly taking shape for several years. Back in 2021, he first hinted at this creative path by sharing a heartfelt cover of Harry Styles‘ “Sweet Creature.“ Rather than rushing the process, Jace has steadily developed his artistry, initially leaning into an introspective folk-pop sound that produced the EPs “Denim Heart” and “Dogwood.”

Curiosity soon nudged him in a new direction. The electronic flourishes of 2023’s “American Car Ride” evolved further with the disco-pop shimmer of 2024’s “Super 8,” revealing an artist increasingly comfortable blending organic songwriting with dreamy electronic textures. Those experiments clearly laid the groundwork for where Jace’s sound is headed now.

His latest offering, “Easy,” fully embraces that lush electronic dreamscape, wrapping intimate storytelling inside an irresistibly cinematic indie-pop atmosphere. The production feels airy yet immersive, while Jace’s breezy vocal delivery carries every emotion with understated sincerity. It’s the kind of track that quietly sneaks under your skin before you realise just how invested you’ve become.

Lyrically, “Easy” reflects on the courage, vulnerability and quiet magic required to make space for someone else and allow a genuine connection to grow. There’s a beautiful sense of surrender running throughout, perfectly captured in the chorus:

“Jump in the open blue. Follow your lead, follow you nowhere. Stuck in a dream with you. Dying to be lucid, go there.”

What impresses me most is how naturally Jace Cameron now inhabits this dreamy alt-pop lane. “Easy” doesn’t shout for attention—it gently draws you in, rewarding repeat listens with new emotional details each time. This is the sort of track that slips into your playlist, settles in comfortably, and before long you’re wondering why everyone else hasn’t caught up yet.

Connect with Jace Cameron

X:  https://x.com/jacecameronn 

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

The post EMERGING ARTIST: Jace Cameron Finds Dreamy Alt-Pop Magic on New Single “Easy” appeared first on EQ Music.

Every so often, an artist reaches that sweet spot where everything suddenly clicks into place. That’s exactly how this latest chapter of SLAYYYTER‘s career feels. While she’s never lacked confidence or charisma, the artist we see today feels more assured than ever, combining fearless pop instincts with songwriting that carries genuine emotional weight.

I’ve always admired SLAYYYTER’s willingness to push boundaries, but there’s something different about the “WOR$T GIRL IN AMERICA” era. It isn’t just louder or bigger—it’s more honest. Released this past spring, the critically acclaimed album sees her embracing the influences of her St. Louis upbringing while revisiting the music that shaped her teenage years. The result is a record that balances defiance with introspection, proving that vulnerability can be just as powerful as provocation.

Looking back, supporting Kesha on the “Tits Out” Tour last year feels like one of those defining career moments. It introduced SLAYYYTER to new audiences across the globe, and the impact has been undeniable. Her profile has continued to soar, her fanbase keeps expanding, and she’s become one of pop’s most exciting names to watch.

Now, with appearances lined up at Lollapalooza, Reading & Leeds and All Things Go D.C., she’s entering festival season carrying serious momentum. Rather than resting on the success of the album, she’s keeping the story moving with “brand new chanel$.”

“brand new chanel$” finds SLAYYYTER spinning the fallout of a broken relationship into a lavish slice of pop theatre. Set against late-night calls, glamorous after-parties and luxury fashion symbolism. The track charts the emotional tipping point between holding on and finally choosing yourself. The self-directed video cleverly circles back to the house featured in last year’s “BEAT UP CHANEL$,” while rewarding longtime fans with visual callbacks, including the memorable fireworks scene and a striking mirror-image recreation of the “WOR$T GIRL IN AMERICA” album cover.

When an artist reaches this level, the numbers almost become secondary. Millions of streams and views simply reflect what listeners already know. SLAYYYTER is creating some of the smartest, boldest pop of her career. If fashion houses ever needed proof that heartbreak sells luxury, “brand new chanel$” might just be their ultimate campaign soundtrack.

Connect with Slayyyter

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Slayyyter-104494698104151

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

The post SLAYYYTER Unleashes “brand new chanel$” During Her Biggest Era Yet appeared first on EQ Music.

It’s always exciting when an artist hints that there’s plenty more music waiting in the wings. And Atlanta duo Coco & Clair Clair sound positively energised about what comes next. Announcing they’ve been “recording so many songs,” the pair couldn’t resist giving fans an early taste of this fresh creative chapter. They share “Coldplay,” their first new release since 2024’s “Girl”.

Even better, Coco & Clair Clair seem determined to rediscover the carefree spirit that’s made them such compelling alt-pop personalities. “Coldplay“ embraces that mission wholeheartedly. The track serves up hazy, dreamy production wrapped around some of the duo’s sharpest and most provocative lyricism yet. Subsequently, the clever use of metaphor centred around Coldplay‘s beloved anthem “Yellow“ lands with exactly the kind of irreverent wit you’d expect. Let’s just say… the lyrics are a little too spicy to quote here, so you’ll have to experience those moments firsthand. Emitting dreamy pop hooks and an ethereal glow, the track arrives as the first half of a two-song release, with a companion piece reportedly waiting in the wings.

They say…

“This song encapsulates that one scene in Zola where the white girl is hanging out of the roof of the car and bouncing around with her tongue out before all hell breaks loose. It illustrates the duality of women and how we contain multitudes… Black Cars and yellow cabs, cashmere and beer, longing for someone and hating him at the same time, expecting a private entrance into a dive bar, etc.”

The accompanying visual keeps everything firmly in-house, with Coco & Clair Clair self-producing, directing and editing the video themselves. Set against the luxurious backdrop of Atlanta’s St. Regis Hotel. The footage captures the duo escaping for a ladies’ getaway where relaxation, indulgence and playful mischief are firmly on the agenda. The polished setting perfectly complements the song’s dreamy aesthetic while allowing their distinctive personalities to remain front and centre.

With appearances lined up at Just Like Heaven in Los Angeles, Rally Festival in London and Holiday Hootenanny in Austin. Coco & Clair Clair have the perfect stages to introduce this reinvigorated chapter. “Coldplay“ feels like the spark that lights the fuse. Therefore, if the rest of these newly recorded songs carry the same cheeky confidence, audiences are in for a treat.

Connect with Coco & Clair Clair

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

X: https://x.com/coclair333

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cococlairclair

The post Coco & Clair Clair Return With Playful New Single “Coldplay” And Tease More Music appeared first on EQ Music.

North Wales-based artist Samuel Evanson is continuing to build exciting momentum. Fresh from the recent release of “Bad,” he invites listeners into the next chapter of his artistic evolution with a new single “Freaks.” If you’ve been keeping an eye on his steady rise, you’ll recognise that each release reveals another layer of his artistry. This latest offering feels like his most assured statement yet.

What immediately stands out about “Freaks” is how naturally it builds upon the authentic storytelling and soulful vocal delivery that have become Samuel’s calling cards. His ability to turn personal experiences into relatable pop moments continues to grow stronger with every release. Wrapped in an irresistibly polished alt-pop production, the track carries genuine radio and playlist appeal. All while simultaneously reinforcing the artistic identity he is carving out for himself.

“‘Freaks‘ is about finally feeling free to be yourself,” Evanson explains. “It’s about embracing who you are and finding the people who make you realise you never needed to change in the first place.”

For me, the music video is where “Freaks” truly comes into its own. Taking the reins as both director and producer, Samuel Evanson delivers a cinematic visual that feels every bit as heartfelt as the song itself. It captures that familiar crossroads between fear and hope. The moment you decide to step outside your comfort zone and trust that you’ll find the people who accept you exactly as you are. Rather than simply illustrating the lyrics, the video expands their meaning. Thus making the journey towards belonging feel tangible, hopeful and beautifully human.

The creative ambition reaches another level in the self-directed and self-produced music video. Beautifully cinematic, the visual tells a relatable story of overcoming fear, taking that intimidating first step, and discovering the people and community where you’re finally able to belong. It perfectly complements the song’s central message, adding another emotional dimension to an already compelling release.

Samuel Evanson is proving that meaningful pop doesn’t have to shout to make an impact. Sometimes the most powerful songs simply hold up a mirror and remind us that being different was never the problem. “Freaks” feels exactly like that. The narrative is a fearless invitation to find your people. So turn the volume up, and wear your wonderfully weird heart with pride.

Connect with Samuel Evanson

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

The post Samuel Evanson shares “Freaks” – an Empowering Alt-Pop Anthem About Belonging appeared first on EQ Music.

It’s only been a few weeks since Tove Lo seduced us with the sensual, hypnotic allure of “Des Fleurs. However,” she’s already inviting us deeper into the world of her forthcoming album “Estrus”, arriving September 18. With the album now little more than a month away—and the accompanying “Estrus” tour about to kick off—Tove keeps the momentum flowing with another captivating preview, “DNH” (unabbreviated: “Drunk and Horny”).

Without question, this is Tove Lo operating firmly in her electro-dance-pop sweet spot. “DNH” wraps dark, pulsating production around one of her most unfiltered lyrical concepts yet. Thus proving once again that she’s unrivalled when it comes to turning messy human experiences into irresistible pop.

Rather than romanticising chaos, Tove paints a painfully relatable portrait of friendship tested by one alcohol-fuelled night out. It’s witty, brutally honest and surprisingly emotional all at once. “DNH” captures the complicated loyalty that exists between lifelong friends even when they’re driving each other to distraction.

“You’re drunk and horny in the crowd. You need attention let your tears come down. You crying harder kick us out. You’re still my best friend when you ruin my night”

Those lyrics hit because they feel lived-in rather than manufactured. That’s always been one of Tove Lo’s greatest strengths—her willingness to expose vulnerability without filtering out the uncomfortable parts. Pair that honesty with the striking visual identity she is building around the “Estrus” era, and everything feels cohesive, confident and unmistakably bold.

Personally, I’m delighted to see Tove flourishing independently after stepping away from the traditional label system. Creative freedom looks incredible on her. When artists trust their instincts instead of chasing expectations, that’s often when their most compelling work emerges, and everything we’ve heard from “Estrus” so far points towards one of her most creatively liberated projects to date.

Tove Lo will celebrate the album with a run of special release shows across North America beginning in Nashville on September 15, before heading to Brooklyn and additional cities. The excitement then shifts to the UK and Europe, where she’ll perform her biggest headline shows to date. Support comes from Mallrat across the North American dates. Cobrah joins the New York performance. While Rose Gray accompanies the UK and European leg.

“Des Fleurs” hinted at the seductive atmosphere of “Estrus”, then “DNH” reveals its emotional heartbeat. Tove Lo isn’t simply giving us another collection of dance-pop anthems—she’s inviting us into the beautifully chaotic spaces where desire, friendship and vulnerability collide. With the pieces she’s unveiled so far, “Estrus” seems to be an of album that feels just as exhilarating in the early hours of the dancefloor as it does long after the lights come up. (Pre-save here)

Connect with Tove Lo

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

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

The post Tove Lo Gets Brutally Honest on “DNH” Ahead of New Album “Estrus” appeared first on EQ Music.

There’s something especially rewarding about discovering a new band before everyone else catches on. London-based alt-pop trio Kissmet have been quietly building that kind of momentum since arriving with their debut single “Darling Don’t You Know Me” in November 2025. And similarly, every release since has strengthened the feeling that they’re onto something genuinely special.

Since launching the project in September 2025, Kissmet have carved out their own lane on London’s thriving independent music scene. Their DIY ethos shines through every aspect of what they create, from the carefully crafted production to the thoughtful visual identity surrounding each release. Nothing feels manufactured or rushed. Instead, there’s an authenticity that makes their music feel inviting and deeply personal.

Drawing inspiration from alternative-pop favourites The 1975 and French music icon Jean-Jacques Goldman. Subsequently, the trio blend dreamy textures with emotionally rich songwriting. Their beautifully honed vocals and effortless harmonies drift across shimmering soundscapes, creating songs that feel both intimate and cinematic. It’s a combination that continues to set them apart as one of London’s most intriguing emerging acts.

That same magnetic quality flows naturally into their latest single, “Memory Star.” The feel-good energy is immediate, yet beneath its luminous exterior lies a thoughtful emotional core.

Rather than spelling everything out, Kissmet allow “Memory Star” to breathe through mood and atmosphere. The trio paint with rich sonic textures and evocative melodies, creating a listening experience that feels wonderfully open to interpretation while remaining emotionally grounded from beginning to end.

It’s the kind of concept that could easily become overly abstract. Yet Kissmet balance atmosphere with accessibility, allowing the emotion to lead every moment. The result is a track that feels equally suited to late-night headphone listening or getting blissfully lost in at a live show.

With each release, Kissmet seem increasingly confident in trusting their instincts rather than chasing trends. Ultimately, that’s exactly what makes them so compelling. “Memory Star” doesn’t shout for your attention—it quietly lingers like the fading glow of a favourite film scene or a cherished memory you weren’t expecting to revisit. Kissmet are not simply creating songs—they’re building a beautifully immersive world that’s well worth stepping into.

Connect with Kissmet

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

The post EMERGING ARTISTS: Kissmet Explore Limerence on Cinematic New Single “Memory Star” appeared first on EQ Music.

London has no shortage of exciting new pop talent, but every so often an artist emerges with a vision that feels completely their own. That’s exactly the impression EMMMA continues to leave on me. With anticipation already building for MUNA‘s UK and European tour this November, discovering that EMMMA has landed the coveted support slot only adds another compelling reason to arrive early. Anyone heading to these dates is in for a memorable night, especially considering the London alt-pop artist has spent the past year steadily proving she’s one of the UK’s most exciting breakthrough names.

Her momentum is impossible to ignore. While preparing to join MUNA across Europe, EMMMA is currently touring the United States alongside Suki Waterhouse. Again, another significant milestone that underlines just how quickly her profile is growing internationally.

Truthfully, I’m finding it impossible to choose a favourite between her two most recent releases. “Russian Roulette” immediately drew me in with its emotionally charged storytelling, and now “Experiment” arrives matching that same intensity. Together, the songs showcase EMMMA’s gift for pairing deeply intimate lyricism with cinematic production. She balances dark, euphoric, driving pop with striking emotional vulnerability.

The visuals deserve just as much recognition as the music itself. Working with directors Desacato and Holly Wood, EMMMA has crafted a distinctive visual identity that feels every bit as immersive as her songwriting. In “Experiment,” EMMMA is trapped inside a misty, flower-covered birdcage, physically and emotionally unravelling as she removes the bandage wrapped around her head. It’s a powerful visual metaphor that perfectly encapsulates…

“the feeling you get when someone you trusted tricks you into something unexpected. Instead of starting a real relationship, you were used as a test run for someone else.”

The result is haunting, beautifully executed, and impossible to look away from.

What impresses me most is how fully realised EMMMA’s artistic world already feels. She is developing a musical and visual aesthetic that is uniquely her own. Something increasingly rare for such an emerging artist. Every release expands that universe with confidence, making the wait for her highly anticipated debut album all the more exciting. Above all EMMMA isn’t simply finding her voice—she’s building an entire world around it. Furthermore, I have a feeling we’ll all be living in it sooner rather than later.

Connect with EMMMA

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

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

The post EMERGING ARTIST: EMMMA Unveils Cinematic New Single “Experiment” Ahead of MUNA UK/Europe Tour appeared first on EQ Music.

For what feels like an age, many of us have been quietly (and not so quietly) waiting for the return of MNEK the solo artist. While he’s never exactly disappeared, continuing to dominate behind the scenes through collaborations and songwriting triumphs with the likes of FLO and Zara Larsson. There has still been a noticeable gap where a new MNEK album should have been. Thankfully, that wait is almost over.

MNEK has officially announced his long-awaited second album, “Bulldozer!!”, arriving September 18th, 2026. It marks his first full-length project since his brilliant 2018 debut “Language”, and judging by the music already unveiled, he’s returning with confidence, joy, and enough exclamation marks to power an entire era.

The campaign kicked off with the club-ready anthem “Reverse!!”, arriving after an especially busy and triumphant period for the artist. There was the main stage appearance at Mighty Hoopla, a second Grammy nomination earlier this year for his co-writing contributions to Zara Larsson’s “Midnight Sun”, and, most recently, a headline slot at Pride in London this July. Few artists move as effortlessly between pop architect and pop star quite like MNEK.

Now comes “Oh No!! All the Boys!!”, and it might just be his most instantly addictive offering yet. Teaming up with songwriter and producer Jon Shave, MNEK delivers a soulful, slick, funky dancefloor banger that feels tailor-made for communal singalongs and sweaty late-night celebrations. Sampling The Clash’s “Rock the Casbah” gives the track an extra spark. While the hooky refrain is practically begging to become a permanent fixture in our collective consciousness.

The Khari McCloud-directed visual only amplifies the song’s infectious spirit. Compiled from footage of MNEK’s live performance at 3 Dollar Bill in Brooklyn, the clip captures pure joy in motion. This is MNEK entirely in his element — commanding the stage, radiating confidence, and serving major vibes.

With “Bulldozer!! now available to pre-save and UK and European tour dates announced for November and December (his first tour in seven years). It genuinely feels like the stars are aligning for a huge new chapter. Some artists knock politely before returning; MNEK appears to be arriving exactly as the album title suggests. And honestly, after all this time, being joyfully bulldozed by pop perfection sounds like the ideal outcome.

Connect with MNEK

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

X: https://x.com/MNEK

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

The post ‘Bulldozer!!’ the MNEK Era continues with soulful dance-pop track ‘Oh No!! All the Boys!!’ appeared first on EQ Music.