Lauren Ash, Clay and Kelsy, Owen Weston, ELYSA & Stephanie Westdal new this week!

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Lauren Ash – Whiplash

Lauren Ash Gives Pop-Punk a New Groove with “Whiplash”

Lauren Ash steps into the spotlight with her fifth original single, “Whiplash,” a vibrant addition to the indie melodic pop-rock scene. Known primarily as a TV actress from hit shows like NBC’s “Superstore,” Ash captures the intense emotions of heartache and resilience, echoing the raw energy reminiscent of early 2000s pop-punk and rock pop genres.

The single’s creation was a cathartic journey for Ash, who co-produced with Jesse Colburn and Aaron Verdonk. Drawing upon personal turmoil from a breakup and a literal car accident, she masterfully transforms her pain into art, embodying Carrie Fisher’s advice to “take your broken heart, make it into art”.

With “Whiplash,” Lauren Ash invites listeners to revel in her evolving musical identity, seamlessly intertwining indie rock’s authenticity with pop-punk’s uncompromising spirit. Fans can anticipate a full-bodied performance at her Anti Valentine’s Day concert on February 12, 2025, as she headlines the Phoenix Concert Theatre, a dream venue that holds a special place in her heart.


Clay and Kelsy – I am

“An Anthem of Empowerment and Resilience: Clay and Kelsy’s I Am”

Los Angeles-based synth-pop duo, Clay and Kelsy, bursts onto the scene with their debut EP “I Am”—a poignant exploration of identity and emotional resilience. Released on November 15th, “I Am” is an intoxicating blend of dreamy alternative pop, laden with raw, heartfelt storytelling that plunges listeners into a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Comprising five emotionally charged tracks, “I Am” delves deeply into the complex realities of love, vulnerability, and self-doubt. The EP’s titular track stands as a beacon of affirmation amidst chaos, echoing themes of survival and transformation. Other tracks like “I Miss You” and “Insecure” unravel the nuanced layers of self-confidence and loss, beckoning listeners to confront their own emotional landscapes.

By weaving compelling narratives with intricate electronic production, Clay and Kelsy extend an invitation to embrace authenticity and introspection, reinforcing that every story matters. As pioneering artists and co-founders of CKI, a queer woman-owned company aimed at empowering underrepresented voices, they are reshaping today’s music industry through a symphony of art and innovation.


Owen Weston – Higher Ground

Exploring the Heights of Owen Weston’s ‘Higher Ground’

Owen Weston‘s “Higher Ground,” the latest single from the talented Welsh singer-songwriter, is nothing short of a sonic tapestry. This captivating piece, part of his debut album “Everything’s Moving, Nothing’s Changing,” gracefully blends the introspective nuances of Bedroom Pop with hints of Indie Folk. Crafted in the intimate space of his home studio, “Higher Ground” offers a lush landscape of acoustic guitars and ambient instrumentals, interwoven with Weston’s ethereal harmonies.

Each listen uncovers subtle guitar licks and synth elements, revealing Weston’s knack for mysterious lyricism and a knack for creating layers of texture. Collaborating with producer Alef Matthews, the track was polished to perfection, adding yet another layer to its shimmering brilliance. Released on November 15th, “Higher Ground” stands as a testament to Weston’s ability to evoke self-reflection and nostalgia, and it’s ready to captivate audiences across streaming platforms today.


ELYSA – The Last to Know

ELYSA Returns with the Emotionally Charged “The Last to Know”

ELYSA fans, brace yourselves as the contemporary pop artist unveils her fourth entry in the Eesti Laul with the deeply personal track, “The Last to Know.” Known for her upbeat pop anthems, ELYSA strips back the layers in this heart-wrenching ballad that vividly explores themes of love and betrayal. Co-written with Scandinavian talents Simon Peyron, Angelino Markenhorn, and Julie “Kill J” Aagaard, the track emerges from the creative crucible of Malmö’s HYDRA STUDIOS.

As ELYSA’s voice soars through the emotional lyrics, listeners are invited into the narrative of her own relationship misfortunes—a story that has already captivated Estonia. In a time when betrayal can dim the spotlight, ELYSA reminds us that success is ephemeral, a sentiment beautifully encapsulated in her lament, “Living in the spotlight doesn’t shield the heart from betrayal and loss.”

With her sights set on February 15’s televised Eesti Laul finals, ELYSA is set to enrapture not only her homeland but a global audience, solidifying her place as a powerhouse in contemporary pop music.


Stephanie Westdal – Gonna Love You

Love is Love. Power is Power. Stephanie Westdal brings it all in “Gonna Love You.”

Stephanie Westdal’s new single, “Gonna Love You,” is set to ignite the music scene on November 15th, 2024. This compelling track, released by World Peach Records, is more than just music; it’s an exploration of power, lust, and desire articulated through a vibrant Soft Rock and Alt-Pop sound. Westdal describes the song as capturing the intimate ways people navigate through space, emphasizing a trust in playful power dynamics within safe partnerships.

Having traversed continents and genres, Westdal’s sonic tapestry pulls from her diverse experiences—from her beginnings in Winnipeg to European and African escapades. Collaboration with Chris Burke-Gaffney has led to a polished delivery, ensuring “Gonna Love You” resonates with both her long-time fans and new listeners. With elements that blend contemporary pop artistry and alternative backbone, Stephanie embodies a world-inspired, world-wise storyteller. Life is meant to be explored and devoured—a sentiment elegantly captured in this single’s captivating rhythm.


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