BEATBOX
THE SEASON OF LOVE USHERS IN NEW EMOTIONAL JAMS BY JIMMY NEWSUM
As the spring season of love approaches, our favorite indie artists are pulling out some of their most gut-wrenching jams, guaranteed to
Barracuda KRISTINE W (THE ORCHARD) With the help of her producer, John Keenan, Kristine W manages to reframe this classic rock single, first released in 1977 by Heart, into a modern-day gem. They brilliantly keep the song’s original magic while adding a bit of dance influence into the production. The original was written as a testament to Heart’s anger towards the music industry. Kristine decided to add it to her Issues Episode 1: Love and Lies album because its message fit perfectly with the vibe of her album. The biggest challenge as matching Ann Wilson’s incredible vocals. Wilson was 18 when she recorded the Heart single, hitting notes in the stratosphere. Kristine admits it took her three sessions but she nails it big time. This is one of her standout singles.
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Don’t Leave Too Soon WILS (AWOL) Singapore pop singing sensation Wils — who revealed he was gay last year with his single, “Open Up Babe” — is back with a new album, Don’t Leave Too Soon. It features twelve inspiring tracks that shed light on the darker side of the rainbow. Songs like “Have To Let You Go” (about his friend committing suicide) and “Hurting” (about a friend who loses his husband to illness) reflect on all aspects of loss: the emptiness, hopelessness and rejection, as well as the courage and strength it takes to persevere after saying goodbye. His uplifting messages throughout this impressively produced album is a reminder to reach out to friends who may be in trouble and make sure they are okay. “Como Tu,” a song about living your authentic self despite what others think of you — that Wils sings in Spanish! — is a particularly moving track that will make hearts gush.