Genesis is the act of creation in religious writing. Berlin-based artist K.ZIA used her recently released debut record for the creation of her own universe. Embracing Congolese and Martinique-an roots, she moves between groovy Afro-Beat and smooth RnB through the voice of two different personas on the album. NBHAP author Liv Toerkell caught up with the artist to find out more about her artistic expression.
The NYC-based artist Amber Mark has been through a lot to get to the release of her debut record. "Three Dimensions Deep" is a reflection of her personal journey within. Over smoothly produced soul-RnB and pop beats, the singer finds self-confidence and explores newly found spirituality. NBHAP author Liv Toerkell caught up with the buzzing artist to find out what lies beyond the 3rd dimension of Amber Mark.
As the beloved Brit-Pop trio is about to finally release their fourth LP "The Dream", we invited Alt-J keyboarder Gus Unger-Hamilton to share some reflections on his favourite record yet. Celebrating the Kings Of Leon shortly before they went stadium-rock superstars, the musician strongly roots for the 2004 sophomore record "Aha Shake Heartbreak" and kindly shares the advice of giving records more than one superficial listen.
Although Glass Animals' last album 'Dreamland' was released 1 1/2 years ago, their success continues to this day. Due to the ongoing pandemic, they've only been on tour for a few weeks and their hit single 'Heat Waves' has caused a sensation in recent months. NBHAP author Miriam Wallbaum took the continuing hype as an opportunity to talk to the band's mastermind, Dave Bayley, about their new album and the story behind it.
The Berlin-based musician Yousef Kekhia just released his sophomore record "Polylog". It follows the introspective "Monologue" but turns its gaze outwards. Influenced by conversations, encounters, and exchange the record is a fluid piece of music opening doors and asking questions. We met the artist to speak about his music and he curated a "Beyond Borders" playlist update with his personal favorites from the contemporary Arab music scene.
Over the course of this pandemic lot of us felt the urge to rearrange our lives, reflect on the way we live, and make room for new experiences. For beloved composer Nils Frahm his new album "Old Friends, New Friends" was a beautiful opportunity to do exactly that in musical form. Just in time for its release, he sat down with NBHAP author Anna Stich to talk about immortality, melancholy, friendship, and a few other things.
In a few days, Danish indie-darlings Efterklang will release their beautiful new album "Windflowers". A record which brings the three band members back to their musical roots. Nine lovely and emotional songs take the listener on a journey to the essential things in life. NBHAP author Miriam met up with the two bandmembers Casper and Mads to have a pleasant chat about the creation of their newest work.
Contemporary folk music would most likely not be the same without José González in it. The iconic Swedish indie folk artist who has brought us a number of subtle, yet eclectic albums and who is now returning with his fourth solo work to date: Local Valley. A sonic landscape José was happy to discuss with NBHAP author Annett Bonkowski in a recent chat.