INTERVIEW WITH NEWCOMER POP SINGER-SONGWRITER ISA BRUDER
I got to chat with up-and-coming Brazilian-American pop artist Isa Bruder, whose rich vocals, emotional storytelling, and layered harmonics are just in their infancy. I asked Isa about her songwriter, culture, and what’s to come this year in an interview, which you can read below.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Thanks for answering a few questions for The Reclusive Blogger. How has your 2023
been?
ISA BRUDER: Happy 2024 to you and your readers! I am really grateful for 2023 -- I got to travel to new places, spend time with my family and friends, go to incredible concerts, and write lots of music. :)
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can you talk a bit about your background and culture and how that encompasses your music?
ISA BRUDER: Sure! I grew up in São Paulo, Brazil. In addition to loving our Samba's swing and percussive musicality, Brazilian people have a reputation for being really fierce music fans -- and I definitely think that passion is embedded in me. The crowd's joy at a concert in Brazil is contagious. It can sometimes take years or even decades for a musical act to make its way to South America, so we're extra excited and grateful to finally witness that music in real life. The energy really is on another level #ComeToBrazil iykyk
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: How did you normally approach writing and recording as a singer-songwriter?
ISA BRUDER: I am constantly writing feelings and concepts in my notes (notes app girlies rise), so in preparation for a session I usually pull a couple ideas from there that particularly resonate with me. Then I catch up with my cowriter(s), and we talk about our feelings / what kind of song we want to write! Sometimes a producer is included in these conversations / during the session if I have the luxury of being in a physical room with one -- most of my music I write through Zoom since most of my collaborators live in LA! I love writing music with people, as opposed to alone, because I find it takes me out of my own head and helps weed out the good ideas from the less interesting ones.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What's the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?
ISA BRUDER: Know who you are, because if you don't people will try to tell you. Believe in your vision!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What's your process for dealing with performance anxiety?
ISA BRUDER: I actually find a couple of hours before my show more stressful than being on stage -- I wouldn't say I really get performance anxiety. During the hours before I'm stressing about logistics, if my band is gonna arrive on time, if my outfit is creasing on the subway, if people are actually gonna show up, if I'll remember all the lyrics... by the time I'm about to go onstage, I'm more so relieved that I don't have to think about all that anymore! Performing is my favorite part of being an artist, so I look forward to it and try to book as many shows as I can.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Do you have a favorite lyric that you’ve written or that you wish you had written?
ISA BRUDER: I have "I wish I wrote that" moments all the time! Today, what comes to mind is What I Want by MUNA. "That's what I want, there's nothing wrong with what I want!" So simple yet so affirming, it's a perfect pop song in my opinion.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Since we’re coming up to the end of the year for 2023 do you have a favorite album and/or song of the year?
ISA BRUDER: My favorite album of 2023 is without a doubt Raye's My 21st Century Blues! She moves across genres and themes so freely -- but still with such a clear vision and identity. I love the production on the record, I love her voice, and I love her honesty and vulnerability. She recently released a My 21st Century Symphony version of the album, which is recorded live from Royal Albert Hall with The Heritage Orchestra. It's so beautiful, you guys gotta check it out!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Lastly, what is up next for you Isa in 2024?
ISA BRUDER: Hmm... I'd love to play a show somewhere other than New York this year since I've only ever played with my band in the city. In a greater sense, my dream and hope for 2024 is that the music I release reaches people who resonate with and enjoy it :)
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER’S 100 BEST SONGS OF 2023 - SONGS 100-51
It's that time again for my picks of the best songs of this year. As usual, I’ve put all my picks on one playlist for easy listening. I hope everyone reading enjoys the music I highlighted in this year-end roundup post. My next post featuring my top album picks is coming up next week. So, without further ado, these are The Reclusive Blogger’s picks for the 100 Best Songs of 2023…
100. SPARKS
“The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte”
99. Joshua Radin
“Neverland”
98. Abraham Alexander
“Tears Run Dry”
97. Killers Of The Flower Moon By Robbie Robertson
“Osage Oil Boom”
96. Sharaya Summers
“Forever You & Me”
95. Maren Morris
“The Tree”
94. Megan Thee Stallion
“Cobra”
93. Charlotte Cardin
“Confetti”
92. Avalon Emerson
“Astrology Poisoning”
91. Bakar
“Alive!”
90. Halle
“Angel”
89. Faye Webster
“But Not Kiss”
88. Ryan Gosling
“I’m Just Ken”
87. Bleachers
“Modern Girl”
86. Poppy
“Hard”
85. Jeon Somi
“Fast Forward”
84. Bad Bunny
“Monaco”
83. Mothica (feat. Sophie Powers)
“Sirens”
82. Little Simz
“Gorilla”
81. Descartes a Kant
“After Destruction”
80. Marika Hackman
“No Caffeine”
79. Bishop Briggs
“Baggage”
78. olivia dean
“Carmen”
77. EVERYTHING, EVERYTHING
“Cold Reactor”
76. NMIXX
“Love Me Like This”
75. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Original Score) by daniel pemberton
“Across the Spider-Verse (Intro)”
74. AMA LOU
“Silence”
73. Romy (feat. Fred Again)
“Strong”
72. DAUGHER
“Be On Your Way”. ”
71. Boygenius
“Not Strong Enough”
70. Coco Jones
“ICU”
69. The Beaches
“Blame Brett”
67. Lovejoy
“Normal People Things”
68. Dreamville + JID + Lute
“Ma Boy”
65. Doechii (FEAT. Kodak Black)
“What It Is (Block Boy) ”
66. Depeche Mode
“My Favourite Stranger”
64. Agust D
“Haegeum”
63. Foo Fighters
“Rescued”
62. Stephen Sanchez
“Be More”
60. CHVRCHES
“Over”
61. Troye Sivan
“Rush”
57. MUNA
“One That Got Away”
59. Griff
“Vertigo”
57. Billie Marten
“I Can’t Get My Head Around You”
56. Maya Hawke
“Coming Around Again”
55. TORI KELLY (Feat. Jon Bellion)
“Young Gun”
54. Grace Weber
“Intimate (A Colors Show Version”
53. Måneskin
“Honey (Are U Coming)”
52. Slowdive
“the slab”
51. Kelela
“Enough for Love”
That’s it that’s my list for my 2023! Stay tuned for my top albums from this year! Also, sound off in the comments below on your favorite songs from the year?
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER’S 100 BEST SONGS OF 2023 - SONGS 50-1
It's that time again for my picks of the best songs of this year. As usual, I’ve put all my picks on one playlist for easy listening. I hope everyone reading enjoys the music I highlighted in this year-end roundup post. My next post featuring my top album picks is coming up next week. So, without further ado, these are The Reclusive Blogger’s picks for the 100 Best Songs of 2023…
50. Saint Harison (feat. Tiana Major9)
“Homies”
49. Chelsea Wolfe
“Tunnel Lights”
48. Leslie Odom Jr.
“Holding on to Us”
47. v
“Love Me Again”
46. Kenya Grace
“Strangers”
45. TINASHE
“Talk To Me Nice”
44.
The National (feat. Taylor Swift)
“The Alcott”
43. Beharie
“We Never Knew”
42. Laufey
“From The Start”
41. FLO (feat. Missy Elliott)
“Fly Girl”
40. CHRIS sTAPLETON
“White Horse”
39. Renee Rapp (feat. Coco Jones)
“Tummy Hurts ” - Remix
38. JUNGLE (FEAT. BAS)
“Pretty Little Thing”
37. Bruno Major
“The Show Must Go On”
36. flowerovlove
“Coffee Shop”
35. Aespa
“Drama”
34. Rosalia
“LLYLM”
33. NOTHING BUT THEIVES
“Overcome”
32. Doja Cat
“Paint The Town Red”
31. Sabrina Carpenter
“Feather”
30. Dean Lewis
“How Do I Say Goodbye”
29. Jisoo
“Flower”
28. SPIRITBOX
“Jaded”
27. XG
“LEFT RIGHT”
26. SZA (feat. Doja Cat)
“Kill Bill (Remix)”
25. Zach Bryan (feat. Kacey Musgraves)
“I Remember Everything”
24. Lana Del Rey
“A&W”
23. Kylie Minogue
“Padam Padam”
22. YARD ACT
“Dream Job”
21. NewJeans
“Super Shy”
20. Mitski
“My Love Mine All Mine”
19. Tate McRae
“Greedy”
18. JungKook (FEAT. LATTO)
“Seven”
17. Niall Horan
“Heaven”
16. LE SSERAFIM [FEAT. NILE RODGERS]
“Unforgiven”
15. Caroline Polachek
“Dang”
14. Allie X
“Black Eye”
13. Taylor Swift (Feat. Ice Spice)
“Karma”
12. Paramore
“Big Man Little Dignity”
11. The Hives
“Bogus Operandi”
10. The Kills
“New York”
Why it’s #10: “New York” features some of the duo’s grittiest and sludgiest sounds from one of their most cohesive records yet. Just when you think this can’t get grungier. They dig their heels in and find depths of emotion to create some of the most incredible music, including this song.
9. Bastille (feat. Hans Zimmer)
“Pompeii MMXXIII”
Why it’s #9: For this visionary rework of Bastille’s mega-hit Pompeii. The band teams up with legendary film composer Hans Zimmer. The rework lays bare the inner workings of a truly brilliant and now timeless song and gives breadth to the often-overlooked songwriting talent of Frontman Dan Smith. Zimmer and crew aren’t just showing it in a new light. They craft a version of Pompeii for a new era. It’s lush, sweeping, and gorgeous.
8. Victoria Monet
“On My Mama”
Why it’s #8: A song that perfectly imbues the essence and vibes of 80s Dance, Funk, and R&B/Soul without sounding trite or pandering. Monet has captured the best pop/dance song and video this year. ‘On My Mama’, is note for note, a stylish and nuanced celebration of Blackness and the culture we bring to the table. If the driving bass line doesn’t get you, the insanely slick production, with some blaring horns for good measure, or the classical catchy hook. Then you might need your ears checked.
7. Chappell Roan
“Red Wine Supernova”
Why it’s #7: While it seemed like there weren’t a lot of artists this year making fun club pop hits (especially ones geared towards the LGBTQ+ community). Chappell Roan said let me try and more than try, she did. She succeeded. The song is lifted from her stellar debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, and is an absolutely saucy and cheeky number. One that is sure to fill dance floors with its 80s spunky synths and funky bass lines.
6. Miley Cyrus
“Flowers”
Why it’s #6: It’s the (affirmational) bop of the year of the Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. This was the song that Miley needed and deserved. That’s all.
5. The Last Dinner Party
“Nothing Matters”
Why it’s #5: Another band coming out of nowhere like a bat out of hell. Artfully blending Pop, Art-Rock, Indie, and an amalgamation of many other genres, the band has carved out a unique space and sound design. ‘Nothing Matters’ is a song that has become a beloved fave of mine this year with its honest lyricism and gothic charm. Since the band has only been together since 2021, they already have a pretty well-defined sound and stage presence that is so refreshing. I cannot wait to see what 2024 has in store for them.
4. Slow Pulp
“Slugs”
Why it’s #4: Another surprise artist for me this year, but the heavy guitars feel sludgy and distorted as they harken back to the early 90s Brit-Pop and Shoegaze. The song “Slugs’ is the magic combo lead vocalist Emily Massey's soft love-lorn vocals sync well against the band’s angsty soundscape.
3. Sampha
“Spirit 2.0”
Why it’s #3: You know the quote, “The music is not in the notes but in the silence between them”. Spirit 2.0 is a perfect example of that. What seems sparse in production and sound allows the beauty of this gorgeous track to shine through. It’s not like anything we’ve heard from Sampha before and definitely not like anything out now. That’s what makes it so brilliant.
2. RAYE
“Oscar Winning Tears.” (Live at the Royal Albert Hall)
Why it’s #2: First off, her voice, already stunning, just soars on this gorgeous live take at her special Royal Albert Hall concert. Raye hits every note on this song with so much depth and soul. Yet, Raye saves the best for the last ending on a spectacular vocal run that is the cherry on top.
1. Olivia Rodrigo
“get him back!”
Why it’s #1: For one, it’s the song that has been sounded off in my head since the first listen. The punchy lyrics are filled with grit and a punky effervescence that captures youth and heartbreak at its core, even if that means some revenge.
That’s it that’s my list for my 2023! Stay tuned for my top albums from this year! Also, sound off in the comments below on your favorite songs from the year?
JAMES BAY CHARMS IN OPENING SPOT ON THE LUMINEERS BRIGHTSIDE WORLD TOUR AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL
Indie Folk act The Lumineers (“Ho Hey”, “Cleopatra”) brought their Brightside World Tour to The Hollywood Bowl last Friday (September 15th), playing a dazzling sold-out show with special guest and opener James Bay (“Let It Go”, “Hold Back The River”). It was the second time The Lumineers were playing the Hollywood Bowl, so this was a special night for them. The last time The Lumineers played here in 2016, they had just released their debut Grammy-nominated album. So, tonight was big for them and their fans. It was also a significant night for their special guest and opener, James Bay. An accomplished artist in his own right, he had many of his fans turn out for the gig. One of those fans who attended was me. It is always great to see music fans turn up early to support the opener. I would love to see more of this happen for smaller upcoming artists. The Bowl was starting to fill up quickly with people running in just as James Bay had begun to play his first song, the Pop Rock Stomper, “Best Fake Smile” from his debut, ‘Chaos and the Calm’. Bay's striking guitar melodies echoed throughout the canyons of the gorgeously lit arena. Even though I had been to the Hollywood Bowl once before, the current view I had with my seat in the garden box section allowed me to see the stunning bowl shape everyone talked about so much. I finally understood what everyone was talking about. It was also the first time I had seen James in concert since 2018 with the ‘Electric Light’ era. I could see how much has changed and grown since then, a clear and clean melding of the best parts of all his album eras. It was also great to hear how fantastic his current tour band lineup sounds with Bay. The drummer adds a hard-hitting and soulful element into the mix. James' guitar solos in the set are distinct, precise, and have a purpose. Overall, his opening set seemed to delight his and Lumineers fans alike. Other song highlights were “When We Were On Fire”, the emotional “Let It Go”, and “Hold Back The River”, where the crowd sang along. We even got to hear an unreleased track titled, “All My Broken Pieces”, which he played before his latest single, “Goodbye Never Felt So Bad”.
James Bay | Let It Go (Live at The Hollywood Bowl)
The unreleased track and his current singles note his seamless shift towards a new musical direction. The newer sounds are much more mellow and assured, leaning towards a poppier folk, towards a similar musical vein like The Lumineers. Although, his progression seems like a natural ark that his music would take. I cannot help but attribute some of this progression to him recently becoming a father and husband as you mature quickly. Many of the attendees were families and couples who were enjoying a night out on a Friday. Headliners The Lumineers, whom much of this crowd was waiting for, and in all honesty, quite patiently, walked onstage to Rihanna's “Desperado” and the audience's loud applause. Besides the intriguing walkout track, the band had a lot of energy, starting with some of their biggest hits like “Hey Ho”, “Stubborn Love”, and “Angela”. I had not heard of this before bands or artists performing their big hits and crowd faves first. This setlist was an interesting choice by The Lumineers. Frontman and Lead singer Wesley Schultz's anecdotal stage banter was also notable and affable. The Brightside Tour was a fun and incredibly joyful night, and when laid out in all of its dazzling folk rock glory, a massive triumph for their fans. If you were new to The Lumineers or fans of the opener, James Bay, it was a night of inspired fun, seeing into the luminescent and nostalgic world of The Lumineers. You can check out some of my snapshots from the gig below, no pro camera this time!
Thank you to Republic Records for inviting me out, and don’t forget to check out James Bay’s new single “Goodbye Never Felt So Bad” which is out now on all DSPs.
INTERVIEW WITH… GERMAN-BASED SINGER-SONGWRITER M.BYRD TALKS DEBUT ALBUM + MORE
INTERVIEW WITH… GERMAN SINGER + MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST M. BYRD
Photo credit: Miriam Marlene
M. Byrd is a German-based singer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter whose stark, inspired, and confessional pop-inspired folk-rock music. The artist is turning heads and opening ears with his intense and contemplative sound, which marks his debut album, The Seed. A body of work that is out now and happens to be a deeply personal collection of songs for him, as it was also a healing process for him. For the listener, M. Byrd hopes the aptly named record plants a seed and encourages the listeners’ evolution or growth in some way, as it did for him. I got to interview M. Byrd about his debut record and much more. You can read his answers below.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Let's start with learning a bit about your background. Did music always have a role in your life? Did you always know you wanted to pursue this path professionally?
M. BYRD: My grandfather collected jazz records, so I early on became interested in swing music by e.g. Duke Ellington. Music had always played a huge role when I grew up in a small town - it presented me with a new language that would always be a companion.
I never made a conscious choice to pursue music professionally, it was more of an accident that we made some songs that people responded to. I think, even if I changed career paths you’d still find me in the studio experimenting - it’s just such a big part of my life
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: How has your year been so far both professionally and personally?
M. BYRD: It’s been a wild ride so far - I didn’t get to spend a lot of time at one spot and have been traveling back and forth in Europe playing shows or recording. This makes it possible for me to visit a lot of friends that I otherwise wouldn’t see too often and I am very grateful to combine these things!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: You just released your debut album, The Seed. What’s a typical creative and writing process like for you? And was it any different to record this record?
M. BYRD: I like to start with a very rough voice memo. My voice memos really are like little, grainy, old photographs that I take during my travels. When I start working on one of these days’ ideas, I like to have people in the room, that see the same potential in these little ideas as I do - everything from there is an open field of experimentation, and whatever instruments work best at that moment.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Was there a track on The Seed that you found particularly challenging to craft? One that came together quite easily?
M. BYRD: Pyrrhula was quite challenging because it’s played completely live and not on a grid or anything that could lead my timing. I recorded a loooot of versions of this until I stuck with one of the initial takes.
Flood came together quite easily - I remember the process as a fun day of playing with sounds and structure.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: I did some digging and discovered that you played bass in a band called, Ilgen-Nur. Was there anything from that time playing and touring that you brought with you into this current solo project?
M. BYRD: Well, Ilgen is a super talented writer - she has a calm but very sharp sense of observation, which really inspires me. Also, the end everybody really encouraged me to release my own songs!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: The visuals to your songs really emphasize the emotion felt in your music. Is that something you were keen to get across?
M. BYRD: Absolutely! Glad you recognized.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Who are some of your biggest artistic influences?
M. BYRD: That changes a lot. I’ve lately been digging Daniel Norgren’s music, in case you haven’t heard it. It’s all recorded to tape and sounds super analogue. On the other hand, I am also digging into Cocteau Twins’ discography a lot. Oh, and there’s a lot of Japanese ambient music out there (e.g. Haruomi Hosono) that I’ve been listening to.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Lastly, what is next up on the horizon for M. Byrd?
M. BYRD: EU Tour in September and October! Come to the shows and say hi if you read this interview :-)!
M. Byrd’s “The Seed” is out so stream now
YOU SHOULD KNOW... JONATHAN HORSTMANN FRONTMAN OF AUSTIN’S CAPTIVATING POST-PUNK TRIO URBAN HEAT
I interviewed Urban Heat frontman Jonathan Horstmann at Pasadena’S Cruel World Festival last May after the band played their afternoon set at the festival. You can read the piece below…
I spotted the multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Jonathan Horstmann of the Austin-based post-punk and 2nd Wave band Urban Heat taking selfies with fans and chatting. I had one interview scheduled during this year's Cruel World Festival, and it was with Urban Heat. The enigmatic trio formed in Austin, Texas, in 2019 after multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Jonathan Horstmann needed a live band to fill out his analog soundscape and songwriting. I have most likely mentioned before seeing how an artist interacts with their fans can tell you a lot about them, especially in an industry driven by ego. Immediately, Horstmann exudes star power not only onstage but off stage. A thought that struck me the first time watching Urban Heat's early afternoon set and then the second time after meeting with his fans and in our introduction for the interview. There was an existing underlying strength or quiet confidence I couldn't place. I later learned he's been sober for some years now. Ultimately, he did it for his and his family's peace of mind. You can easily find him talking about it openly and honestly in many interviews, including this recent Spin piece. His onstage persona is commanding, electric, and ferocious, unlike his band members, fellow musicians Kevin Naquin and Paxel Foley, who exude similar energy differently. The Texas trio brought way more than just the heat to Southern California, with quite the adoring audience as they scored new fans along the way.
One of the first things I am constantly curious about and ask literally anyone playing a festival of this magnitude and that question is. How does it feel to be a part of such a big festival and play it? Horstmann responded, "This is the first time that we've been a part of something at this scale that's genre related, right?" Normally, our genre is regulated, off like into a corner or something. But this is all about dark fuckin' music. So, being a part of that. That feels incredible. I feel blessed to have this opportunity”. This same genuine openness and honesty continued for the rest of the interview. We talked about who we were most excited to see. Although I'm not a fan of putting artists on the spot with a response, his answer was pretty diplomatic. He said everyone, as everyone brought something unique to the table.
We also get onto the discussion of representation as a Black artist after I ask about their cover of Goodbye Horses by Q. Lazzarus, born Diane Luckey, and what covering that song meant to him, "I think Diane Luckey's story with something as a person of color making dark music, "I feel a kinship to." "When you choose songs to cover, it says something about you as an artist." "It says something about the space that you're existing in and who you respect, right? And I think there wasn't anyone else that would make sense to cover the way it makes sense to cover to others." "I just wanted us to do. Justice”. So, it makes sense when you hear their recording of the Q. Lazzarus song that it sounds like a tribute. Though Urban Heat has never branded themselves a political or socio-political band, they don't shy away from it, nor do they purposefully go after it, but songs like ‘That Gun In Your Hand’ or ‘Simple Love Song’ are perfect examples showcasing that side lyrically. After referencing a conversation with Pat, in a slightly joking manner, on representation within their genre and whether they would be one of few Black/POC playing the festival and onstage. Albeit true, there was a hint of bittersweetness to it, even more so considering the amount of us who have taken the genre and culture under our wings. Horstmann continued mentioning that one of the biggest catalysts for change is visibility, talking about all of the Black and POC fans they have. That is something Urban Heat hopes to continue to be a part of.
So, when I asked Jonathan about his songwriting and influences, as he is the primary songwriter. Two things immediately stood out. First, How he said he needed to let go of control, and two, that he wanted to be an instrument of something greater. These goals seem like herculean tasks but never count out Urban Heat. Their latest EP, Wellness, often speaks on similar themes, with lyrics dipping into darker compositions like mental health, the pandemic, existence, and relationships, but ultimately with a sense of hope. The writing started out by a then hunkered-down Jonathan in North Carolina before switching to a studio for the rest of the band to continue. In all honesty, Jonathan’s distinctive baritone is the highlight. It cuts through the Urban Heat palette of heavy synths, gritty guitars, and nostalgic bass lines carrying echoes of Ian Curtis.
"So have you ever? So have you ever seen the face of God? Do you turn around and wonder what it was?" -
Have You Ever |
Urban Heat
Concluding our conversation, I had to ask a few fun questions, including his pick for a go-to karaoke song or jam. So, if you're ever out at your favorite karaoke spot, hear a baritone raising hell singing ‘Mr. ‘Brightside‘. Well, you didn't hear it from me. Another fun fact I learned is the band is a big fan of podcasts, notably, Disgracedland. They love to chill out to podcasts on those long moments on the road. I inquired about what being an artist and songwriter meant to him, including being able to share his craft with a larger audience. He responded with one of his most earnest answers; "I think that self-expression and the pursuit of that are probably the highest and most important things about the human experience. I feel very blessed that I'm able to do that. But yeah, it's everything". His response was something I'm sure anyone creative, myself included, could understand wholeheartedly. It was also very much indicative of an artist who knows their strengths, weaknesses, and talents. Also knows where they want to go and how to get there. In short, it's what my Mom would call a five-year plan. So, it seems that Jonathan and Urban Heat already have theirs written up. If you want to learn more about Urban Heat, then click here.
You can view the festival portraits I took of Jonathan Horstmann below. 
-- Stream Urban Heat's 2022 EP 'Wellness' out now --
PHOTO GALLERY: 15th ANNUAL STAGECOACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
PHOTO GALLERY: 15th ANNUAL STAGECOACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
This past weekend after Coachella wrapped its two weekend stinct in Indio, CA. Stagecoach Music Festival rolled into town and took over to continue the party in the California desert. While the annual country music event is only one weekend, it still brought a pretty star packed lineup of country stars, icons, boundary pushers, genre blenders, and a bit of diversity. This year headliners were Luke Bryan, Kane Brown, and Chris Stapleton, each turned out incredibly massive crowds for their main stage shows. Artists and fan favorites like Breland, Jon Pardi, Elle King, Lainey Wilson, Priscilla Block, and Bailey Zimmerman also performed and had everyone singing along. Nikki Lane (A Stagecoach Veteran), along with band Old Dominion, Ryan Bingham, Keb Mo, and Valerie June, to name a few, were some who brought a more Alternative or Bluesy sound. DJs Diplo & Dillion Francis, plus Rapper Nelly brought party vibes to Stagecoach, while Rock icons ZZ Top and Bryan Adams still held their own. This year was the festival’s 15th year and anniversary.
You can view a ton of photos from the festival from incredible photographers in a slideshow gallery below courtesy of Stagecoach.
WHO: HEADLINERS: Luke Bryan, Kane Brown, and Chris Stapleton. Jon Pardi, Old Dominion, Brooks & Dunn, Riley Green, Gabby Barrett, Parker McCollum, ZZ Top, Bryan Adams, Tyler Childers, Elle King, Niko Moon, Turnpike Troubadours, Breland, Nelly, Diplo, Melissa Etheridge, Morgan Wade, Lainey Wilson, Priscilla Block, Ryan Bingham, Sammy Kershaw, Marty Stuart, Parmalee, Ian Munsick, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Bailey Zimmerman, Nate Smith, Kameron Marlowe, Luke Grimes, Jackson Dean, Nikki Lane, Valerie June, Trixie Mattel, Corey Kent, Warren Zeiders, Seaforth, Lily Rose, Sierra Ferrell, Drake Milligan, American Aquarium, Restless Road, Flamin' Groovies, The Last Bandoleros, Keb' Mo', Nick Shoulders, Jaime Wyatt.
WHAT: Stagecoach Music Festival
WHEN: April 28 - 30, 2023
WHERE: Empire Polo Fields, Indio, CA
PHOTO CREDITS: Are listed on each photo and courtesy of Stagecoach
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER’S TEN BEST ALBUMS OF 2022
Hey geeks and music freaks! It's time for year-end music roundups. The first one up is the best songs from the year. Me like so many, find comfort within music. These are my picks for the 10 Best albums of 2022…
I hope you had time to read and ponder the first list. If not, you can catch up and read my picks for the 100 best songs of 2022 here and here. Below are my top ten picks for best albums of the year. In a year that was full of incredibly diverse soundscapes from a plethora of artists. From breakout artists tipping the needle to your establishment acts pushing their artistry. It was initially hard to narrow down to only ten albums from the entire year. That’s why I made an extended version that featured my top 15 albums in an Instagram reel video which you can view by clicking here. But first, let’s dive into that top ten.
#10 Yard Act
“The Overload”
The Leeds-based act is one of three albums from my list that was on the shortlist for the Mercury Prize for this year. Their acerbic and in-your-face take on new Gen/Brexit era post-punk. Yard Act was a fresh sound and style full of depth, to say the least, with many of the tracks cultivating echoes of Talking Heads and even Joy Division.
Key Track: “Tall Poppies”
#9 Mitski
“Laurel Hell”
An unflinching synth-pop meets electro-rock record about bad relationships and the unsettling realities of the music industry she was honestly suffering in. Her sweet lilting vocals are a sharp contrast to the biting visceral lyrics. Mitski is an artist stepping into her own, and on Laurel Hell, she created a full-bodied piece of art that was quite hard to put down.
Key Track: “Love Me More”
#8 Everything,
Everything
“Raw Data Feel”
An album that is at once encapsulates the horrors, loneliness, uncertainty, and reliance we all have on social media and tech. It part-way features elements of A.I. through a bot named Kevin, whose a recurring character throughout the record and provides some lyrical content. Lead vocalist Jonathan Higgs finds his footing as a frontman as he deals with underlying trauma head-on. Ultimately the band creates some of their freshest work and spot-on production. Everything, Everything juxtaposes what should be at odds with each other putting the listener into a fun, hyperrealistic, and at times unsteady dance-pop world. One that adeptly mimics the current human existence of having to live a large majority of your life online.
Key Track: “Teletype”
#7 Lizzo
“Special”
The self-proclaimed 'America's Next Great Bop Star', herself, Lizzo, latest outing offers up her most emotionally connected work and one of the most feel-good releases of 2022. Lizzo dives into a well of deservedly pent-up feelings from an utterly life-changing few years. Her superb songwriting skills and knack for writing infectious pop hooks shine brightly throughout this record. That details stories of love, longing, heartbreak, loss, and regret, all through inescapable funk dance rhythms, silky pop-r&b melodies, and the disco-pop dance-floor readiness of lead single, About Damn Time.
Key Track: “To Be Loved”
#6 Wet Leg
“Wet Leg”
The Isle of Wight duo and their spunky and, at times, downright cocky debut were a fun and enlivened highlight of the year. A breath of fresh air to a genre and industry that can be stifling in many ways, it can be hard to keep up. Their witty comedic timing, the often on-point takedowns of nihilistic millennial/Gen Z behavior, and overall great musicality have proven this to be an instant hit and new gen classic.
Key Track: “Angelica”
#5 Placebo
“Never Let Me Go”
Brit Rock iconoclasts, Placebo made their 2022 return to music with the album Never Let Me Go. Not only a surprise but an absolute delight, particularly for the fans. Never Let Me Go, as an album, had Placebo in a robust form painting a layered sonic palette of dynamic synths, thrashing guitars, and driving bass lines. Molko's famous vocals are still there, along with his ever-present existential dread haunting every lyric. There are more hope-filled songs on the record such as the anthemic lead single, "Beautiful James". It is also worth noting that the pacing is perfect, with everything given room to flow.
Key Track: “Happy Birthday to the Sky”
#4 Beyoncé
“Renaissance”
Arguably the most well-rounded and sonically diverse record. It is one album on this list designed to be listened to from start to finish. The tracks seamlessly blend into each other. Beyonce has once more switched up her sound and taking a risk doing so. Structurally this is a Dance, Disco, and House album. Yet, interwoven throughout as well are the melodics and harmonics of pop and R&B music. Lyrically, the songs are fluid with black femininity and sexuality and the power of holding that space. It’s also worth noting how stunning her vocals are here.
Key Track: “Break My Soul”
#3 Bastille
“Give Me The Future”
What wound up being a record I could hardly turn off and put down for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons of note was how Bastille perfectly captures a sense of longing, nostalgia, loss, and those post-lockdown fears and paranoia many of us from the millennial and Generation Z set. That and our addiction and ambivalence to social media and tech are truly driven home lyrically in this infectious dance-pop meets electro-rock escapade. So, seeing as Bastille has always had a knack for synthesizing introspective and bleak lyrical themes in culture and then setting them to upbeat danceable music. The band’s journey to get to this point and this album where they honed in on those skills was oh-so-satisfying.
Key Track: “No Bad Days”
#2 Nova Twins
“Supernova”
This exceptional duo create a sound that is hard to pin down, yet you know you want more. The Nova Twins easily win as the artists that have excited me the most this year, bringing an all-encompassing force and freshness to Rock that I have not heard or seen in some time. Their ferocity, femininity, strength, talent, loudness, and sexuality are heard loud and unmistakable here as Black women on this powerful and raw record. Not only do Amy Love and Georgia South take musical cues from Alternative Rock, R&B, Rock, Metal, Pop, Hip-Hop, Rap, Punk, and pretty much everything. They infuse their style, unique way of playing (heavy usage of pedals, including pitch shift pedals), and an overall hip vibe to create something I haven’t heard before and don’t think sounds like anything else out now. I’m excited to see how they push forward from here.
Key Track: “K.M.B”
#1 Arctic Monkeys
‘“The Car”
I understand this band is not everyone's cup of tea, but what they do, they do brilliantly. Frontman Alex Turner's vocals have developed into a strong troubadour sound here. That set against the lushly layered soundscapes (I caught the addition of orchestral arrangements here, what?!!) from a band that is tighter than ever, and Matt Helders on the pocket succinct drumming. The Car is their most cohesive album to date. It's a melting pot of cinema scores, music from the 60s and 70s, those signature Arctic Monkeys inflections, and Beatlesesque harmonies. Arctic Monkeys as a band has never been known for subtlety in sound or proper pacing, but with The Car, they've achieved both. Ultimately, making it such a worthwhile listen.
Key Track: “Hello You”
This is the list of albums for my 2022! Also, what were your favorite albums this year? Let me know about by dropping a comment below or through a tweet!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER’S 100 BEST SONGS OF 2022 - PART TWO
Hey geeks and music freaks! It's time for year-end music roundups. The first one up is the best songs from the year. Me like so many, find comfort within music. So I hope you can find some new songs that aim to to that as well. These are my (aka TRB) picks for the 100 Best Songs of 2022… Part two
Hey geeks and music freaks! It's time for year-end music roundups. The first one up is the best songs from the year. While 2022 personally has been up and down, ultimately leading to lots of growth. Like many, it has also been ripe with change and uncertainty for many reasons. I know the one thing many of us have come to rely on— and that's the comfort of music. The caliber of music, the creativity, and the sheer amount of music that came out this year— 2022 was calling for a supersized version. So, I hope you enjoy the first of a few year-end roundups coming in the next couple of weeks. These are my picks for the 100 Best Songs of 2022…
50. Bryce Vine - “Moonrock”
49. Noah Cyrus - “I Just Want A Lover”
48. Suelgi - “28 Reasons”
47. SOHN - “Segre”
46. Halsey - “So Good”
45. Dove Cameron - "Boyfriend"
44. Doechii - "Persuasive"
43. Denzel Curry (Feat. slowthai) - "Zatoichi"
42. Dry Cleaning - "Anna Calls From The Arctic"
41. Polyphia (Feat. Steve Vai) - “Ego Death”
40. The Weeknd - "Sacrifice"
39. Willow - “curious/furious”
38. Sabrina Carpenter - “Fast Times“
37. Empress Of - "Save Me"
36. Rina Swayawayna - "This Hell"
35. Aespa - "Illusion"
34. FKA Twigs (feat. The Weeknd) - "Tears In The Club"
33. Yeah Yeah Yeahs (Feat. Perfume Genius) - "Spitting Off The Edge of The World"
32. MUNA - "What I Want"
31. Conan Gray - "Disaster"
30. The 1975 - “All I Need To Hear”
29. Maggie Rogers - "That's Where I Am"
28. Bad Bunny - "Titi Me Pregunto"
27. IYLA - “FOH”
26. Ab-Soul - "Do Better"
25. Yard Act - "The Overload"
24. LE SSERAFIM - "ANTIFRAGILE"
23. Florence + The Machine - "King"
22. Bloc Party - "In Situ"
21. Mothica - “Sensitive”
20. Franz Ferdinand - “Curious”
19. Harry Styles - “As It Was”
18. Caroline Palochek - "Billions"
17. MICHELLE - "Pose"
16. Soccer Mommy - "Shotgun"
15. Kendrick Lamar - “N95”
14. Mitski - "Working For The Knife"
13. Lizzo - “About Damn Time”
12. Phoebe Bridgers - "Sidelines"
11. Everything, Everything - "Pizza Boy"
10. Placebo - “Beautiful James”
9. NewJeans - “Hype Boy”
8. Wet Leg - "Ur Mum"
7. Paramore - "This Is Why"
6. Bastille - “Hope For The Future”
5. Rosalia - “SOAKO”
4. Beyoncé -“Alien Superstar”
3. Arctic Monkeys - “Body Paint”
2. Nova Twins - "Cleopatra"
1. My Chemical Romance - "The Foundations Of Decay"
That’s it that’s my list for my 2022! Stay tuned for my top albums and music videos! Also, let me know what your favorite songs were this year? Is there anything on this list you disagree about? Let me know about by dropping a comment in the comments section or through emoji.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER’S 100 BEST SONGS OF 2022 - PART ONE
Hey geeks and music freaks! It's time for year-end music roundups. The first one up is the best songs from the year. Me like so many, find comfort within music. So I hope you can find some new songs that aim to to that as well. These are my (aka TRB) picks for the 100 Best Songs of 2022…
Hey geeks and music freaks! It's time for year-end music roundups. The first one up is the best songs from the year. While 2022 personally has been up and down, ultimately leading to lots of growth. Like many, it has also been ripe with change and uncertainty for many reasons. I know the one thing many of us have come to rely on—and that's the comfort of music. The caliber of music, the creativity, and the sheer amount of music that came out this year— 2022 was calling for a supersized version. So, I hope you enjoy the first of a few year-end roundups coming in the next couple of weeks. These are my picks for the 100 Best Songs of 2022…
100. LATTO - “It’s Givin’”
99. EDITORS - “Karma Climb”
98. Em Beihold - “Numb Little Bug”
97. Kae Temptest (Feat. Lianne La Havas) - "No Prizes"
96. Labrinth + Zendaya (Euphoria Season 2 Soundtrack) - “I’m Tired”
95. Ralph Pelleymounter - “Steady Love”
94. Kimbra - “replay!”
93. Carly Rae Jepsen - “Beach House”
92. Gayle - "abcdefu"
91. BIM - "O.T.R"
90. Tove Styrke - “Cool Me Down”
89. Tove Lo - “How Long” From (Euphoria Season 2 Soundtrack)
88. Jazmine Sullivan - “Roster”
87. Eddie Benjamin (Feat. Alessia Cara) - “Only You”
86. Hope Tala - “Stayed At The Party”
85. Charlie Puth - "Light Switch"
84. Ethel Cain - “A House In Nebraska”
83. Hermanos Gutierrez - “Thunderbird”
82. Pink Pantheress -"Picture In My Mind"
81. Arkells + Lights - "Human Being"
80. Meghan Thee Stallion - "Her"
79. Freddie Gibbs - “Dark Hearted”
78. Kings Elliott - “Butterfly Pen”
77. Stormzy - “This Is What I Mean”
76. Omar Apollo - “Evergreen”
75. Joesef - "Just Come Home With Me Tonight"
74. Joji - “Glimpse Of Us”
73. Sophie Ellis-Bextor + Wuh Oh - "Hypnotized"
72. Paige Bea - "4x4"
71. Stromae - “L’enfer”
70. Allison Ponthier - “Hollywood Forever Cemetery”
69. Jonah Yano - “leslianne”
68. Boys World - “So What”
67. Nina Nesbitt - “Pressure Makes Diamonds”
66. Maneskin - “The Loneliest”
65. Ed Sheeran (Feat. Lil’ Baby) - “2step”
64. Slipknot - “Yen”
63. Weyes Blood - “Grapevine”
62. Twice - “Talk That Talk”
61. ARO - "Against Mine"
60. Camila Cabello + WILLOW - “Psychofreak”
59. Giant Rooks - "Morning Blue"
58. Spiritbox - "Rotoscope"
57. Adele - "Oh My God"
56. J-Hope - "Arson"
55. Billie Eillish - "TV"
54. Dave - "Starlight"
53. (G)I-DLE - “My Bag”
52. Steve Lacy - "Bad Habit"
51. FLO - "Cardboard Box"
MAGGIE LINDEMANN - “SABOTAGE” - SONG REVIEW
Maggie Lindemann is one of the fierce femmes from pop punk's newest evolution. Her latest is the introspective single Self Sabotage, a track steeping in angst and nostalgia. Lyrically, Lindemann goes through the inner workings of her mind and her bad habit of being her own worst enemy. The song is off her new album, SUCKERPUNCH. This album takes you on her emotional journey of healing from the toxicity of a bad relationship. I got to speak with her about this new project during a small presser. When I asked her what is one thing people are generally surprised to find out about you, Seeing how social media can be a veneer for many things, including people. Lindemann's response was quite like what many of us would say, that she is more than what she is perceived to be online. Sometimes all the versatility we have as humans get lost in the social media clutter. So for fans of Maggie's, her latest album, SUCKERPUNCH, is truly only the tip of the iceberg.
STREAM MAGGIE LINDEMANN’S NEW ALBUM SUCKERPUNCH HERE
INTERVIEW WITH... TOPS SINGER & INDIE DISCO-POP ARTIST MARCI
TOPS’ vocalist Marta Cikojevic recently unveiled her new project and debut album under the solo name Marci. The self-titled solo album is out now on Arbutus Records and was co-produced with TOPS bandmate David Carriere with hopes of crafting electric and fun dance hits, the ultimate disco-tinged bops. Marci checked in with TRB for a quick few questions about the new record and influences which you can read below!
Marci by Christina Bryson
TOPS’ vocalist Marta Cikojevic recently unveiled her new project and debut album under the solo name Marci. The self-titled solo album is out now on Arbutus Records and was co-produced with TOPS bandmate David Carriere with hopes of crafting electric and fun dance hits, the ultimate disco-tinged bops. Marci checked in with TRB for a quick few questions about the new record and influences which you can read below!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can you talk about your normal songwriting process? Then how your writing/creative process was for this new song “Terminal”?
MARCI: I always write on piano, and demo as I am going. Once I have a decent demo, I bring it to David and we figure out which parts can be worked on.
There are a handful of songs that we wrote together, where I would sit on the piano and David on the bass or guitar.
For Terminal it all started with a guitar riff that David had while we were getting ready for a party. I started singing over top of the riff and we came up with the chorus of the song. When we got into the studio, we worked out the rest of the song on piano and guitar together.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: How did the music video for “Terminal” come together? and what was that process like and filming?
MARCI: The music video was almost going to be just a visualizer! Until my friend (and director) Christina Bryson decided that we absolutely needed to do a video and i'm so glad we did! It was done in one day at Christina's house, very relaxed and easy, the group of us girls (Isabelle Fields- stylist, and Melissa Rogers - makeup) had a relaxed and fun time, my friend Jackson Macintosh who played the hunky guy came over, was very fun!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What does music and the craft of songwriting mean to you?
MARCI: It can be anything you want, there are no rules - I love the freedom in that. I also love how good it makes me feel, and how it's a never ending learning/growing experience.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What are you most looking forward to for your upcoming tour?
MARCI: I'm excited to sing in front of an audience, and find out what kind of performer I am. Playing with a band will feel so great, hearing the songs live will be a whole new feeling - since it was a studio record.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: If you were to describe your sound in three words what words would you pick?
MARCI: Peppy, smooth, sparkly
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What’s one album that you can listen to straight through?
MARCI: Marvin Gaye - Here, My Dear
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What’s your pick for song of the summer 2022?
MARCI: Sofie Royer’s Baker Miller Pink has been on repeat
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: And... last question, Is there anything else you would like to add? What up’s next for you?
MARCI: I might be releasing a new song very soon…. hehehe.
Thank you for the interview! :)
Find + Follow Marci Online:
Stream THE self-titled DEBUT ALBUM FROM MARCI out now.
INTERVIEW WITH... Brit Alt-Pop Singer-Songwriter Liz Cass
Brit Alt-Pop Singer-Songwriter Liz Cass' smoky haunted timbre and emotionally raw lyrics harken comparisons to Kate Bush and Lisa Stansfield here and there. Cass uses emotion to not only effectively elevate her eclectic electric pop sounds but to punctuate the story. It instantly grabs you. A key element in her sound that’s featured on her new song, 'Near Miss', a tale of trying to figure out where you stand in love and relationships. Since both are pop-centric storyteller tracks and are on her forthcoming debut album, The Words, out on October 21st. In a new interview with Liz for TRB. Liz spoke about her childhood, her new music, and much more.
Brit Alt-Pop Singer Liz Cass
Brit Alt-Pop Singer-Songwriter Liz Cass' smoky haunted timbre and emotionally raw lyrics harken comparisons to Kate Bush and Lisa Stansfield here and there. Cass uses emotion to not only effectively elevate her eclectic electric pop sounds but to punctuate the story. It instantly grabs you. A key element in her sound that’s featured on her new song, 'Near Miss', a tale of trying to figure out where you stand with love and relationships. Since both are pop-centric storyteller tracks and are on her forthcoming debut album, The Words, out on October 21st. In a new interview with Liz for TRB. Liz spoke about her childhood, her new music, and much more.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Hi, Liz! How has your year been so far? Thanks for taking the time to speak with me at TRB.
LIZ CASS: Thanks for having me :)
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: How did you each get your start in the music industry? Was it something that you felt a calling to?
LIZ CASS: I started singing when I was really young as I was a choral scholar. But I really got into other genres of music as a teenager and had a real urge to move to the big city and try and make it as a singer. I didn’t really care about anything else and ended up ditching my A-levels and hot-footing it to London. I was introduced to some amazing people and started writing songs with Fraser T Smith and met one of the heads of Warner Music who came to see me sing at a big concert in Leicester Square. But ultimately I wasn’t really ready for it all and had no idea what kind of artist I was. So I guess I blew it back then!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Going back to your childhood a bit, did you grow up in a musical family? Was there a band or artist that in particular felt like home for you?
LIZ CASS: My parents weren’t musicians but Dad had a great vinyl collection and got me really interested in all the great artists and bands from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Artists like Kate Bush, Sade, and Fleetwood Mac definitely have an influence on me and my music. The 80s is my decade. I love great baselines and synths are my heaven.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Moving ahead… Can we talk about what your typical creative and writing process is like and how has that evolved for you as you’ve developed as an artist?
LIZ CASS: I wrote this album with Ed Graves who has an amazing studio in Bath called Rainbow Wood. Before we started working together I still didn’t have much confidence as a songwriter as I’d taken a long time out of the industry and I was really just experimenting with him and had no expectations of where it was going. But we just clicked and the music flowed. Being in that beautiful studio, the outside world melted away and as he started playing chords on the synths or strumming on the guitar the melodies and lyrics just started flowing out of me so quickly and easily. We’re so in sync. By the time he’s got a structure together for the song, I generally have all the lyrics and melody ready and we lay it all down. I’ve never had such an easy writing process with anyone before.
I’ve really figured out who I am as an artist through 3 years of writing sessions with Ed. I have stories to tell and I know how I want to deliver them. Now when I go to the studio I have the confidence I never had when I was younger and I know how to translate my thoughts and ideas into songs that represent me and the kind of music I love. It’s been a long road to get here but now I feel happy to keep experimenting and evolving. Got there in the end!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Let’s discuss your latest single “Near Miss”, how did that song come together? What’s the backstory on it and how was the creative process?
LIZ CASS: It was inspired by a romantic situation I was struggling with. Being caught up in that no man’s land where someone is hot and cold and not ready to commit, so you don’t know where you stand. I was feeling quite low and confused and writing is like therapy for me, so I headed down to Rainbow Wood. I think we wrote that in about 6 hours from start to finish! I was feeling quite punchy through my frustration and wanted killer beats and baseline to get it all off my chest. It was definitely the start of a new direction for my music after a lot of wallowing during Covid. I just want to make more upbeat fun pop music for a while now.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: If you were to describe your sound to someone who hasn’t heard it in only three words. What words would you choose?
LIZ CASS: Emotive synth pop!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Lastly, what is up next for you on the horizon, Liz?
LIZ CASS: My album is coming out on 21st October which is exciting. It’ll be strange to send it out into the world after three years of writing it but I’m so ready. I’ve got a live show in London on 10th September at Laylow and I’m planning more gigs this autumn around the album release. I have a covers EP ready to be mixed of some of my all time favourite songs which I hope to release early next year. And then I guess I need to crack on and finish the next album! Stay tuned :)
