Soundclouds of the Underground: Finer Things Edition
ABOVE: NANOSAUR
These days, music truly lives online, with an infinite number of websites dedicated to hosting tunes for the laptop-wielding masses. However, the web’s bottomless pit of blogs isn’t the only place to troll for mp3 treasures—some of the most new and exciting (Internet-friendly) artists can be sought out via Soundcloud, the online stage that allows musicians to promote and distribute their music to fans and friends across the globe. In this weekly column, expert Internet sleuth Alex Chapman goes deep into the depths of the music-sharing site, in hopes of shedding light on emerging acts, as well as sharing some digital diamonds in the rough.
Whether the grand luxuries of life are readily available to you or not, most people like to feel fabulous. Sometimes that can mean a date with some creepy high roller you met at the club, or maybe a splurge-inducing shopping spree that leaves you with a chic new wardrobe and an overdrawn bank account. But do not fear, not all roads to fanciness end with empty pockets and/or loss of dignity—music can offer the grandeur of balling big without all the disappointment. Here we’ve featured three tracks that prove this theory, with each providing signature sounds that take us on a trip to the high life.
Nanosaur: “Ferragamo” (featuring Sad Andy)
Who: Nanosaur is a young and talented producer who covers all the bases—whether he’s making melancholic electro-pop alongside Dev of “Like A G6” fame, molding massive trap remixes out of revered classics (like he does here via Lesley Gore’s “It’s My Party”), or crafting indie-pop with his more than capable vocals at the forefront, this Bay Area beatmaker (who reps local crew DFWC) leaves no musical space untouched.
The Song: On “Ferragamo,” Nanosaur builds an epic jam worthy of the most braggadocious rapper, with violin undertones that add a somberness to the otherwise energetic production. The icing on top of the cake here is rapper/vocalist Sad Andy, making his Future-esuqe musical debut with blunt lines like “if you got money we would surely get along.” Throw this track on and even making it rain with Monopoly money will feel just as gratifying as the real thing.
Current Project: Nano releases music quite often—stay on top of his tracks by checking in with his Facebook page.
Movement: “Feel Real”
Who: As they describe themselves on their Facebook page, “Movement are three boys from Sydney, who wrote these songs especially for you.” And with the sensual, sleek dance-pop sounds that emit from Jesse James Ward, Lewis Wade, and Sean Walker’s project, how could one’s heart not melt at their sentiment?
The Song: The group is clearly no stranger to R&B, but the way they infuse nostalgic elements into a current context is what sets them apart. The graceful sound is certainly something one might hear at the more lavish of nightclubs—ominous, smooth, and dripping with sex appeal.
Current Project: The band has upcoming shows in Sydney—find info on their mysterious website.
Lorde: “Tennis Court”
Who: First of all, Lorde is only 16 years old, and already churning out glistening pop hits with a clear focus and distinct vision. Veering away from sensationalized youth culture, the singer floats atop pop production while waxing on the hopeless tedium that oftentimes comes with being a kid. The New Zealander has already made waves in her homeland, but her success stateside has only just begun.
The Song: Sometimes there’s nothing chicer than being sad and stunting at the same time. Our suggestion? Put on your freshest frocks, pour yourself a glass of vino and sigh thoughtfully while listening to this beautiful track, a perfect showcase of Lorde’s melodic skills and beguiling vocals.
Current Project: The video for “Tennis Court,” which features a silent Lorde wearing mime-esque makeup and dark lipstick, is online now, and if that doesn’t quench your thirst, check her out on Facebook.
Soundclouds of the Underground runs every Thursday. For more, click here.