Canada’s own chasing luma is alternative pop’s newest act to watch. Prior to the creation of chasing luma, the breakout indie artist was producing gold-certified dance music hits. But behind his success across the dancefloor, luma was experiencing a disconnect between his life and musical works. Following a brief creative hiatus and a rediscovery of self, chasing luma emerged from the shadows a more fulfilled artist. At the heels of his debut single “bittersweet,” chasing luma is back with the sophomore single “motions.” The soothing new track is marked by his charismatic vocals and washed-out digital beats. An indie dreamer’s delight, “motions” is poetic, mellow, and downright charming.
Alt-pop
CALISTA KAZUKO - PANDA
Mixtape, Original MixCommentAlt-pop starlet Calista Kazuko makes music with meaning. A classically-trained jazz pianist and London’s Royal Academy of Music alumna, Calista is beaming with talent and accolades. In addition to her expansive library of knowledge and skill, Calista Kazuko is crafting aural worlds that intersect with human interaction and heritage. Her latest single “Panda” is a profound retelling of motherhood through generations. A feel-good listen that illuminates the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter, “Panda” is at once symbolic and poignantly human. Guided by striking piano riffs, crystalline vocal prose, and sweeping crescendos, “Panda” is a touching, optimistic treat.
NOELLE - 30K
Music, Original MixCommentSultry, sweet, and downright divine, Toronto starlet Noelle just delivered her debut EP 30k. A dance with swanky alternative-pop complemented by hints of jazz and Hollywood noir, Noelle’s debut studio extended play is nothing short of seductive. Her crystalline vocal instrument is the conduit that drives each ethereal track into the next, seamlessly blending feminine worlds of glamour and romance. While some tracks offer upbeat, pop-centric hits, other cuts are imbued with a tranquil catharsis. Speaking on the project Noelle says, ““Since the release of my first single, I knew that I wanted this EP to represent me as an artist and I’m really proud that we’ve achieved that,” said noelle. “It was so important for me to make sure 30k showcased every side of my artistry, proving that I’m not one-dimensional. This approach to crafting an EP allowed me to be free during the writing process, making music I felt my fans would love.”
SORAN - TIRED
Music, Original MixCommentAn emotional triumph from blossoming Canadian artist Soran, “Tired” is a deeply-affecting number with an alt-pop edge. A moody, confessional listen, "Tired” is honest and true to Soran’s unique life experiences. The song’s spacey instrumentals effortlessly complement his crystal-cool voice to create smooth, future-R&B soundscapes. Harnessing the power of songwriting, “Tired” is marked by its masterful poetry and soulful prose. Speaking on the track Soran says, “The verses are written by the head, the chorus by the heart. I wanted to portray the constant back and forth and confusion that goes into one’s mind after a breakup.”
