Eclectic doesn’t quite describe the three artists featured below. Their ability to shift between genres, moods, and animal sounds (in the case of Sofia Isella) speaks to how artists today never settle within neatly defined boxes. And we’re all the better for it, especially when each one is looking to enter a new era.
Genesis Owusu “LIFE KEEPS GOING”
True to the new single’s title, Ghanaian-Australian artist Genesis Owusu proves he’s one of the most consistent voices occupying the space between genres with “LIFE KEEPS GOING” off the upcoming album, REDSTAR WU & THE WORLDWIDE SCOURGE, out May 15 via Ourness.
The fast-paced beat – best suited for a marathon runner – falls somewhere between club-ready electronic and contemplative ballad. Owusu, who pointed out that “The world hasn’t ended yet” when discussing the song’s inspiration, ensures the song’s core message is communicated through the production, vocals, and lyrics.
Whether it’s the pulsating bass or Owusu’s melodic voice, the balancing act he pulls off on “LIFE KEEPS GOING” is nothing short of impressive. And with a simple yet effective music video shot in Ghana, Owusu isn’t slowing down in the slightest ahead of his third album.
Visit Genesis Owusu on his website to stay updated on new releases and tour announcements.
Listen to “LIFE KEEPS GOING” the new single from Genesis Owusu.
Sofia Isella “The Chicken is Naked and Afraid”
Coming off her independently released EP, Something is a shell ., Sofia Isella is unafraid of pushing the envelope with the new track and self-directed, found footage-esque music video for “The Chicken is Naked and Afraid.”
As someone who’s made a career out of taking multiple genres (including being a classically trained violinist) and filtering them through her brand of dark pop music, Isella uses her latest EP to push listeners out of their comfort zone. The track literally opens to the sound of a chicken before heavy drums hit you like an anvil falling on your head.
From there, Isella’s cryptic lyrics about a “chicken” that she mocks with her typical dark humor contrast the eclectic collection of instruments, ranging from buzzing synths to horns in the second half. It’s an unconventional song for an unconventional artist who makes their music seem seamless to them.
Visit Sofia Isella on her website to stay updated on new releases and tour announcements.
Listen to “The Chicken is Naked and Afraid,” the new single from Sofia Isella.
BINA. “Zombies”
As the mark of a new era, BINA is embracing rock with her latest single, “Zombies.” The new direction came as a result of ZINA observing a phenomenon: “Black girls are reclaiming rock music. Here’s my contribution.”
While there are still elements of BINA’s past endeavors into indie and R&B, namely during the catchy chorus, the jumpy beat undeniably teases a sonic shift for the London musician. However, it’s her dynamic vocals that lead the charge towards new sounds.
Her voice ends up moving into a second half marked by the “Crashing down” she sings about on the chorus, even though her career is going anywhere but.
Fittingly, the music video for “Zombies” complements BINA’s pivot to rock music, having been shot in a live studio room with energetic directing. With a locked-in vision like hers, BINA has already proven she’s got a clear way forward.
Visit BINA on her Bandcamp to stay updated on new releases and tour announcements.
Listen to “Zombies” the new single from BINA.
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