Pixey - “Free to Live in Colour”
From a bedroom in Liverpool, Lizzie Hillesdon, A.K.A Pixey, found perspective after a serious illness in 2016 that she translated into writing songs and learning to produce her own music. That work became her debut LP last year, titled “Colours”. Pixey shines with her new song “Free to Live in Colour” -- a dazzling display of her maturity as a producer and her elegant vocal range that seamlessly flows from a quiet sultry groove to full-throated exaltation. Hillesdon has said “Free To Live In Colour was written, recorded and produced in my bedroom at a time where I was struggling to understand and express my identity. I wrote the lyrics to sound like a fever dream, but it’s really about staying true to yourself and not being afraid to change.”
Middle Kids - “R U 4 Me?”
Middle Kids have returned with a heartfelt exploration of solitude and vulnerability, with their new track “R U 4 Me?” The song’s driving beat gives urgency to lyrics that cry out for understanding and empathy. “I was at university once and there were all these signs on the walls saying ‘BE NICE IT’S NOT THAT HARD.’ The tone of the message itself actually wasn’t very nice or kind…. We are always looking around at other people thinking ‘are you on my team?’. I think this just results in us all feeling lonely.” The Music video directed by W.A.M. Bleakley shows a child dealing with bullies before ultimately finding solace in music that speaks to him and allows him to feel safe and free, and ultimately, not alone.
Steady Holiday - “Tangerine”
Andrea “Dre” Babinski is an L.A.-based artist who uses the moniker Steady Holiday as a solo performer. Babinski says “Tangerine” is the most straightforward song she’s recorded. “‘Tangerine’ is a song about mental illness. About witnessing someone’s behavior change without warning.” The ominous instrumentation and her beautifully haunting vocals fuse with flawless precision, turning pain into something tangible.
