Munk Duane – Just A Word

Munk Duane has arrived again and dropped another hit, “Just A Word.” Munk creates music which is derived from the late 60s and early 70s soul and pop, taking inspiration from artists such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. Munk, who is from Boston, labels himself as a recording artist, producer and film composer and he has even won the New England Music Award twice!

Anyway, his newest release “Just A Word” is undoubtedly a good one! The most noticeable feature of this track has got be the opening bassline, which immediately captivates us. As soon as the drums kick in, we get that groovy energy. Then the guitar immediately creates further funkiness, and together, they have created an unreal sounding backing track!

From the moment Munk’s vocals are introduced, I was fascinated with his voice! He includes the use of melodies and harmonies to ensure his voice reaches its full potential! I personally love Munk’s voice and its rawness.

This track has to be one of the best R&B tracks that incorporates funk and soul. I am intrigued to see what other tracks Munk Duane has in store for us! This is the perfect track, and you will unquestionably be mesmerised by it.

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Jen Ash – No Lover Lover

After previously hearing other hits of Jen Ash, when this was come along, I must say I was over the moon!

Jen, who has lived her life in France, uses her personal experiences to create her music. This results in very important messages being sent with the words that she sings. Jen is heavily influenced by 90s R&B, French and Latin Music.

In “No Lover Lover” is an amazingly crafted track, where Jen sings about a previous toxic relationship. Sometimes toxic relationships are hard to overcome, especially when you do not even realise that you are in one, and she loves to sing about it as it is such an important topic! These break ups usually come with a wave of relief, and you come out of it stronger than ever, and that is exactly what “No Lover Lover” is about.

The music in this track is very relaxed, yet powerful. The backbeat remains catchy, releasing a sense of strength. The main focus in this track has got be Jen’s outstanding vocals. Her soft, R&B sounding voice is perfect for this track, and as soon as you hear her voice, it will melt you!

I cannot recommend this track enough, and I can promise you will fall in love with it just as much I did!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Ajay Mathur – Talking Loud

Ajay Mathur is a great international singer-songwriter, who has been making music for over a decade and has a very quickly growing audience. I must say his music is one that catches your ear almost straight away!

Ajay’s “Talking Loud” takes inspiration from genres such as rock, funk, blues, country, and soul. The song has a joyful and triumphing delivery, with a groovy upbeat sound for the entire duration of the song. The drumbeat, guitar, and even the funky bass, combine together to create this great track! Ajay also includes unique sounds and stops within the track, which bring uniqueness and originality. Also, Ajay’s vocalism is one that is full of power and competence, and it gives the song a groovy and warm feeling to it.

“Talking Loud” is the title track of his newest album “Talking Loud” and after hearing this track, I want to have a little listen to the full album.

Give Ajay Mathur’s music a try and I am certain you will love it!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Energy Whores – Psycho Chemistry

Energy Whores are a synth, indie rock artist, who reach out with the intention of bringing politics and social consciousness into music. Although this may seem fairly peculiar, it is an especially important topic, and their music raises awareness for younger people on these topics.

“Psycho Chemistry” is a track full of surprises, techno beats, synth patterns and interesting sounds. The track is upbeat and steady and has inspiration from rock, electro pop and even disco. Energy Whores have given their music an edgy feel to it, with lyrics to match. They sing about threatening their enemies and slashing people’s eyes, and this almost brings about a sense of fear.

The vocals in “Psycho Chemistry” are perfect for this track as they are soft but come across almost passive aggressive. I must say this kind of track would be absolutely perfect for being featured in a dark or horror film.

If you are yet to listen to Energy Whores, give this track a listen to, you can find it on many platforms, including Spotify!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

HURRICAN X – Galop

The Paris born and raised producer and DJ creates incredible hip-hop beats with his amazing technical skills. In this instance, HURRICAN X has collaborated with Fya Nya and 70 Shine, to create the amazing piece “Galop”.

From the second I heard this track I was mesmerised, the vocals, the beat, the production, every single part of this song is outstanding! The basslines and beats are ones that release a positive energy, making you just want to dance to it. I must say HURRICAN X has done exceptionally well with the track, and he defintely deserves the credit.

However, not only is the production of this song great, the two vocalists also do an amazing job! Fya Nya and 70 Shine have two different sounds, yet their voices blend and run so smoothly together. Fya Nya has the perfect hip-hop and R&B tonality, and combined with 70 Shine’s rap style voice, a masterpiece is created!

All the artists in this song are amazing and this track must be heard everywhere! Please give “Galop” a little listen on Spotify, and you will undoubtedly find yourself listening to this song on repeat!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Sarah McGuinness – Christmas Everyday (No More Sad Songs)

Christmas is the most magical time of the year, and who doesn’t love a good Christmas track? With Christmas creeping up on us, that festive joy has begun, and this is one that brings just that!

Sarah McGuinness is a rising vocalist, who has previous worked in film. Sarah decided to re-release her track “Christmas Everyday” and honestly, I absolutely love it!

The entire song is filled with joy, festivity, jolliness, and upbeat tones. Sarah ensured that it is a positive, festive-filled track, that just makes you want to start decorating your tree and getting right into that Christmas spirit! The inclusion of chimes and trumpets enables that Christmassy feel.

I think we can all agree that Sarah’s vocals are absolutely outstanding, with a flawless delivery. Her voice blends exceptionally well with the music and she is accompanied by a children’s choir at various points in the track. The choir gives the track a “carol” sound, and I personally do not think this song can be faulted!

If you are in the mood to get in that festive spirit, give Sarah McGuinness’ Christmas tune a listen to!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Karen Harding – Strong For You

Karen Harding is a young artist, who has worked tirelessly in her music career as a singer-songwriter.

My most favourite feature of Karen’s new release “Strong for you” is undoubtedly her amazing vocals. Karen sings with such emotion and power which really pulls you into the song. The song welcomes us with very soft vocals however the power builds up into the chorus, where we get to witness the strength and ability of Karen’s voice.

The musical side of this song is minimalised, as we only hear a few subtle instruments. At first Karen presents a few keys that get accompanied by a soft stummed guitar. This gives off a very mellow vibe, where the main focus is her voice. Drums are then introduced in the chorus, which give the song a bit more kick.

I honestly cannot criticize this song at all!

If you are in the mood for a quiet, emotional yet effective song for a rainy day, then Karen Harding’s song is a must!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Micki XO – Fake Gold

Micki XO’s track “Fake Gold” is an absolute dream, filled with emotion, amazing vocals, a good beat and great lyricism.

Micki XO used her music to help her overcome her own demons and mental health, and she sings with hope that she can help others who are in the position that she was in. The lyrics in “Fake Gold”, show a sense of darkness, where her life has been overtaken by her mental health, a place she feels worthless and numb. This song is so important and holds such meaning.

The songster vocals are overwhelming, she hits all the right notes and sings with such peace and emotion in her voice. As mentioned previously, she wants her music to make people feel like they are not alone, and her vocals give a sensation of comfort.  The music is also almost psychedelic and flows with her voice so smoothly.

Micki XO’s music needs to be heard, and anyone of any age will thoroughly enjoy her music.

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Marcus Quirion – Filet Désert

Marcus Quirion was born in Canada and has a love for music and poetry.

Although “Filet Désert” is a French written song, we can really take the time to appreciate the sound and the music of the song. It is an upbeat, fun-filled song that just straight away puts you in a good mood.

The musical side, remains upbeat, with a strong beat that makes you want to bop your head along to it. Each chorus is condensed with joy and a feeling of love and unity. Part way through the song, Marcus has included a great electric guitar solo, and although it is only short, you can really hear the talent of the band. Not only is the instrumentals great, his voice is fantastic and I find it so interesting listening to him sing in French. 

After hearing this amazing track from Marcus Quirion, I am excited to listen other tracks of his and the music is so good and uplifting. Go and give “Filet Désert” a try and see if you love it as much as I do!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum

Kelsie Kimberlin – Right Place Wrong Time

Kelsie Kimberlin once again has hit the nail on the head with this brilliant track, “Right Place Wrong Time”.

Kelsie is a young, growing songster, who gives her all in every track she creates, filled with love, magic and emotion. Her voice is outstanding every single time as she sings gently but with power.

When I saw that Kelsie had another song, I was straight away on it, as she never disappoints. The lyricism in this is one that many can relate to, about a failed love and heartbreak. The saying right place wrong time is something that we are all familiar with and Kelsie reaches out to let us feel empowered if we find ourselves in this situation.  

This track is almost dreamlike and completely melts us with the lyrics and Kelsie soft, soulful voice. The music is designed to make us focus on the singer. Although the song builds up in the chorus, it remains fairly quiet and slow, really melting our hearts.

I cannot recommend Kelsie and her music enough! Go and have a listen to this tune and you will find yourself wrapped up in her music!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum as part of The Metal Asylum