Hailing from Long Beach,CA the Rock-Pop-Americana group, Manuel The Band, was founded by songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Manuel Grajeda. The band consists of Brandon Charlesworth (Drums), George Madrid (Pedal Steel), Richard Fernandez (Trombone), Kevin Nowacki (Bass), and Matt Kalin (Saxophone). Described as “a breath of fresh air” by Julie Montante of Coachella Valley Weekly, Manuel The Band has fused an unorthodox range of instruments not normally seen in the pop-music genre. The band has made an impression on the SoCal music scene with a unique sound deriving from influences like John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band and Gram Parsons. Manuel The Band’s energetic live show has brought them to perform on many stages. Tuning into their latest single, “Strong Independent Woman”. This band is so cool. Before looking at anything involving the band I always listen to the song first and their sound is so warm and inviting. The bands connection sounds dedicated and effortless showing how well they work together. And not just the traditional sense of a band but all the bells (brass) and whistles (saxophone & trombone). The lead vocals in this song has a sound similar to a Adam Levine or even Sam Smith. His voice is easy on the ears and it’s mesmerizing. And of course I had to check them out and they are definitely a SoCal swag band. And the cover art is so simple almost like an emblem and it will be remembered because of that. Overall, this band has something and if you want to keep up with them, check them out @ManuelTheBand. Listen to "Strong Independant Woman" here, and learn more about Manuel The Band in our interview Below! Hey fellas. Can you tell us a little about the creation behind your new song "Strong Independent Woman"? This song was probably one of the coolest collaborations we've done as a band. It's a really "inclusive" song, meaning we've had a bunch of people come and play and put their own spin on it or add different feels and instrumentation to it when we do it live. The song started off as an acoustic piece written at the end of a relationship. It really show cases a cool mixture of our unique dimensions, juxtaposing horns with pedal steel. You never see that combo! So to be able to work out some amazingly unique parts with those instruments that work so great together was really awesome. George's pedal steel line is so ambient and beautiful. It tells a story of its own. Matt and Richard have these awesome horn lines that compliment the lyrics, adding a sort of "umph" to the story. When Brandon and Kevin drop the drums and bass it's as if the story really begins. It's super cool. We've also had the pleasure of performing and recording this song live with Jam in the Van, where our buddy, and amazing musician, Thomas DaVinci takes on the second verse. At the time I had finished up the first verse and I thought it'd be really cool to put a different spin on it. So I sent it to our Thomas and asked if he'd be down to write a second verse. Man, he brought the fire! He came back with the coolest second verse mixed with hip-hop and this R&B feel. It's a really cool rendition of the song and gives it a whole different story. You can find that version here. How do you maintain the strength within your band? You know, we're a really bonded band. We've traveled together, spent nights cooped up in the smallest hotel rooms together. Recorded together. Laughed, cried, been totally pissed off together. We've seen each other in our best and worst states and come out stronger and more united every time. I think we're lucky that, from the start, we already had good chemistry and a good bond, but when you spend so much time together you either work and become stronger, or you don't. We've had our hardships, like any band, where things seemed like "oh shit, how are we gonna pull through this one?" But we always do and we do it as a cohesive unit. I (Manuel) am a total history nerd and love to make the connection with the Greek phalanx: It only worked if the guys worked together and looked out for the guy next to him. It was strong and formidable. Totally nerding out here, but I think we work in a similar way. We look out for each other and we decide on things together. We're a family and bonded by our love for what we do. What inspired the song Strong Independent Woman? Ahh yes. The song inspiration. Well, it's a relationship song. Shocking, I know. The song is really about being with someone who deserves more than what I had to give at the time. I don't care to write generically, and this song is no different. This person was, well, IS a very special person and what we had was truly beautiful. Beautiful, but not solidified. I, at the time, was making very different choices about where I was going in life and what I wanted to do/ pursue. I just don't think I was right "there" as a relationship needs. So, when things didn't work out this song became a reflection of just how strong and amazing this woman was/is and where my head was at during that time. What do you hope listeners get from this new single? I was having this conversation the other day with a friend. I always have a struggle with this one. For me writing lyrics and making melodies is a therapy for me. It helps me get out what's on my chest. If people get anything out of the song, I hope it's an inspiration to find a way to do the same. What can we all hope to see from the band this year? Yes! We have such a cool year planned with so many big things coming up. We will be dropping two more singles after this one and an EP by summer. We're in the talks about a music festival or two and possibly a tour. So, keep a look out- we might be heading your way! Connect with Manuel The Band on social media: Instagram Facebook Website #BuzzMusic

Chloe Caroline was born and raised in Manhattan Beach, California. Her music and artistry radiates a warm, authentic, SoCal vibe. Having influences from Fleetwood Mac, Amy Winehouse, Dusty Springfield with the pop and writing sensibility of Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift. Her cover for “Last Christmas” made the Radio Disney Holiday playlist. Performing and writing for a number of others and herself she has an extensive resume that shows how compelling she really is. “Old Souls” was released in 2018 and here for us to tune into. Chloe Caroline, you have truly embodied an old soul in the modern day flesh. Modern day old fashioned is the perfect description for her sound. This track is one of those down home, sweet, sultry, lyrical lullaby’s. This girl has that southern belle with a touch of SoCal soul. The piano and organ take this track over the edge in bliss a true melody. This is one of those tracks that is easy to listen to first time around and you can’t help but to let it repeat. Listen to "Old Souls" here, and get to know more about Chloe in our interview below! Hey Chloe, care introduce yourself? I am a Los Angeles born and raised beach chick who happens to be a singer-songwriter. I’ve been based in Nashville for 6 years now but split my time with LA still. Speaking on "Old Souls" what type of music was played in your home growing up? When I say everything, I mean everything. A lot of classics though. My dad was in a rock band when i was little so definitely a lot of 80s rock, and a LOT of 70s (Fleetwood Mac, The Carpenters, Cat Stevens, Carol King, Rickie Lee Jones, Dolly Parton). But I also grew up around that time of awesome female pop with Michelle Branch, Avril Lavigne, Shania Twain. What influenced your pursuit in the pop music scene? I have never want to define my music one way, i just wanted my melting pot of a sound to allow the music to speak for itself and i think pop gives you the freedom to do that. Growing up in LA influenced that sound because it’s also a melting pot. It’s why if I had to label my music, i always say “its a new Southern California sound”. You can hear that freedom, those stories, and that vibe in it. There’s going to always be a molding of old with the new in my music, like something organic with synthetic in some form. You got keep your roots twisted in to what’s happening currently music wise so you always stay authentic. What's the message you're trying to relay to your listeners with “Old Souls”? I wanted to bring intention to people’s attention. Way back then, there was more intention behind everything—music, relationships, work, clothing, etc. The effort was put in and the quality was just better. We live in a world where its quantity over quality with most things and it affects us every day. It’s why it’s harder to date, harder to stay focused on anything, and harder to get the output we still want, all because we’re choosing to not value things the same anymore. If you could collab with any artist, who would it be? Why? Stevie Nicks because she’s a total free spirit, a creative genius and undoubtedly always been herself. She fought her work even when her own band didn’t believe in it. That takes guts. What's next for you in 2019? I plan on releasing the next wave of my music and doing whatever I can to push my boundaries creatively. This is music that challenges the status quo a bit. I wanna find cool ways to bring me even closer to my fans and get to connect with them, I really want to share in this experience with them and bring them along like never before. Whether that’s touring, visiting places I’ve never been (hint hint), and on social media. Connect with Chloe: Instagram Twitter Facebook #BuzzMusic

UK based, Romanian producer Pascal Junior presents something very special indeed, as the Epic Tones label head drops his 'Infinity' LP on promo. Traversing across a mix of soundscapes, from the vocal goodness of 'Feelings', through the to the more bass heavy 'Got You' & beyond, 'Infinity' continues to set out Pascal Junior's production agenda & kicks off Epic Tones year in style. Set to fire up an abundance of global club floors & radio airwaves in the coming weeks, this is 'Infinity'. Stay tuned. Listen to "Infinity" here CONNECT with Pascal Junior: Soundcloud Facebook Instagram

Kevin Edworthy, aka KVNE, is the founding partner of The KillaKollective, an independent label, with the stated goal of bringing community back to the music industry. According to doctors order, his latest song, "On The Low" should be consumed at least once a day (“or as needed”) until the prescription has been exhausted and it's time for a refill. Edworthy enjoys his trap percussion. But this isn’t hard-hitting Atlanta drug-pushing flow with the hats so crisp it sickens and the vocals so warped you wonder if there’s an IV purple drip in your arm you forgot about. Instead, this is firmly within pop territory. Think more of a Post Malone and Tory Lanez concoction, and less of a T.I. or Migos joint. The song starts with some chords that unfold in mystery. It could take a heavy turn, or dissolve into high quality video game soundtrack fare. It isn’t long before the dope rap build-up arrives, and you’re launched into a glistening world of diamond rings and Hennessy, informed by the industrial past of Hamilton. No, not the musical. Rather, I’m talking about the Canadian industrial town struggling to reinvent itself in the era of global manufacturing. There’s something very pressing here. But it’s silky smooth at the same time. Not bad for a 27-year-old from Canada. Listen to "On The Low" here & connect with KVNE on social media: Instagram Facebook Twitter

Maurico is the epitome of a hard worker. This Nashville native began at the age of seven, experimenting with old keyboards and cassette players. Growing up he never had the money to get the proper equipment, but he made things work by being creative. By the time he was in high school, Maurico was writing his own raps and performing in clubs. After spending five years in a collaboration, he decided to branch out on his own. Coordinating a promotions team, release parties, producing and shooting videos, Maurico stopped at nothing to gain notoriety on his own. Not letting his circumstances make him a victim he took what he had and made a way for himself. And with that attitude brought along the connection with Matchbox Twenty member Kyle Cook. This connection was the birth of his five-song EP. And sharing his latest song “Goals”. This is such a heartfelt track. Something that shows adversity. I love that he uses both of his talents of singing and rapping as a really amazing collaboration in this track. It gives the track a double feel almost like it’s several features. I love the beat as well. It is slow and bouncy giving it both that R&B and Hip-hop swag. The lyricism in this track is extremely influential and motivational. There was a lot of work and thought put into this track and its message really gives us an insight to this talented artist. Listen to "Goals" here, and get to know more about Maurico in our interview below! What’s up! Can you introduce yourself to our readers? I’m Maurico a Hiphop and RnB artist from Nashville TN. What about making music do you love the most? I love the creative process. I like to make music that sounds beautiful no matter the style. My whole focus is to create a great vibe embedded with powerful lyrics. I like pushing the limits and aiming for new sounds and moods. I’m most proud when I’ve created something that doesn’t sound like someone else. The freedom to create exactly what I’m feeling at the moment is what’s important to me. There’s nothing like injecting your emotions into a work of art and then stepping back to appreciate what you have made. The best part is sharing it with the world and gaining feedback and appreciation from them as well. Affecting someone positively gives me a sense of fulfillment. That’s my aim. How would you say your hometown influences your music? Nashville is a huge influence to my music because first and foremost it’s home. This is where I became everything I am. So much of my up bringing contributes to the music I create. Nashville is also a musically diverse city, which adds greatly to my different styles. This again helps in freedom of creativity. "Goals" is such a vibe! Can you tell us a bit about the creation process of the track? Did you face any challenges? "Goals" was created from a place of wanting success. Everyone has some sort of idea of personal fulfillment. This fulfillment is the reason we wake up everyday. It gives life its meaning. I wanted to make a song that not only encourages myself to set goals and shoot for the stars, but also encourage others to do the same. I want people to have a sense of fulfillment in life. I think that brings true happiness. I believe everyone deserves to experience that feeling. What is your favorite line in “Goals” and why? My favorite line is: “Even if you working two jobs do what you gotta do to make it out. And they’ll probably never believe In you Gotta show them what you about.“ This line I know hits home for a lot dreamers and visionaries. When you are trying to be someone great you have to work harder then you have ever worked. A lot of times it requires you to step out of your comfort zone and do things differently. When you have a dream or Vision sometimes other people can’t see what you see until you make it reality. This makes it hard for people to believe in you and support you at the beginning. Usually this is one of the most painful realities of chasing your dreams. I wanted to encourage people to keep pushing until it happens. Be great. Never give up. When having a creative block what do you do to unblock? When ever I have a creative block I take some time to rest, recollect my thoughts and experience new things to refuel my imagination and overall knowledge. It’s hard to recall a thought that has never been put inside your brain. You have to consistently fuel and feed your mind with knowledge. I read, listen to inspirational music, inspirational speakers, spend time with family and friends, and overall just aim to experience more of life. Once I’m refueled I’m ready to release it into the music for the world. What can listeners expect from you in the near future? In the near future my fans can expect a continuous effort and push toward better, more fulfilling music. Music that influences a more healthier fulfilled life. My new brand is “Better Music. Better Life.” That is my focus and vision for the future. I’m currently releasing lots of singles and in the process of creating a album entitled “Thanx A lot.” I want my listeners to have a positive listening experience that adds to their life and doesn’t subtract. Connect with Maurico: Instagram Twitter Facebook #BuzzMusic

Arsnk is an upcoming artist that has a unique sound of eerie guitars paired with authentic lyrics that give the listener a nostalgic feel. Currently, Arsnk has five released singles on Spotify which include, “Brother” (her latest single), “Godchild”, “Paralyzed”, “Real Human”, and “Cut Through”. Arsnk’s music somewhat resembles the dark techno pop of Lana Del Rey although Arsnk has a more classic rock sound to her but is highlighted with some dark synths creating her own sound. Her song, “Brother” greets the listener with moody and melancholy guitar scales that are incorporated into the song very melodically. Arsnk’s vocals tell a story of angst and wonder. Her lyrics match with the very moody and dark guitar instrumentals. Arsnk tells her story of what seems to be her family life and all of the loose ends that she has not tied up with them. The slight breaks in her voice give the song a very raw and honest appeal to it. The song has a great buildup that is different from most songs, but makes it even more impactful. Arsnk is sure to be an artist on the rise. Listen to "Brother" here, and get to know Arsnk better in our interview below! When did you start writing music? I started writing music 6 years ago, but I was writing lyrics and poems and short stories since I was 12. Do you plan on releasing an album in the future? Yes, absolutely. I have loved the immediate interaction of singles, because I feel the music stands alone as its own entity as well s in a group, but I am so excited to put out my album later this year! Who are two of your musical influences? Radiohead and PJ Harvey In one word how would YOU describe your music and how do you think OTHERS would describe your music? I would describe it as: raw, others would describe it as ethereal Is your song, “Brother” about your own family life or is it fictional? It is an amalgamation of fact and fiction, about searching for meaning and truth in a family set up and an exploration of us all as brothers and sisters What's next for you? I have a new band! We play April 16th at Iron Triangle and May 1st at The Other Door, plus will be playing in San Francisco and New York later in the year. Connect with Arsnk: Instagram #BuzzMusic

Black Kenn is a rapper who was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, a state so racially strained that the NAACP issued an advisory warning people of colour their civil rights could be violated if they travel there. This is the culture Black Kenn was socialized in. And when his basketball dreams fell short, he turned his attention to music. He’s been revelling in his rap development ever since. Back a year ago on “Wintertime Interlude” we have some rudimentary but potent drum machine work, soft vocals drowned out by 80s-horror synths, and the mix comes across a bit repetitive. But what’s most memorable about how cold and distant it sounds. The elements don’t quite work together, but still a depth to it. Meaning behind the shock cheeseball horror reminiscence of the synthetic elements, you know there’s some dank bars to unearth. We start to see that come into being on the Gas & Instrumentals Album from 2018, where a bit more complexity results in harder hitting tracks. The confidence of the assault means you start to suspend your disbelief. You start flowing with the cadence, such as on single like “No Pad No Pencil.” This fits perfectly within the canon of modern gangster rap. You might not be a huge fan of hearing a rapper rhyming “phone” with “phone.” But this is where we are as a society. “Get money” music is in, and Black Kenn has been mastering the sense that the darkness it takes to bring that to life. He manages to drop nicely constructed choruses that are catchy — but, you know, not too catchy. The droning beat goes on and on. And you start to believe there’s no escape. And that’s what we saw with Digital Trappin’. This is sickening shit, and that’s just how you want it. It gets inside your head with brooding, intentionally unpolished hustle flow. With this release beats have becoming more pronounced. The swagger comes into its own. Now with the "Chippi Chippi Freestyle" we get another journey into the heart of darkness. It’s founded on a beat from Miami-based producer Redda, previously used by Sheck Wes in his song Chippi Chippi, on the MUDBOY album. Wes has said that Chippi Chippi is when you’re “leaving a place in a state of anger, with intentions to get high.” It’s obviously a situation Black Kenn understands and wanted to add his own take on. By the way.. the video is definitely worth checking out, since it make it looks like he’s in a video game level in the UK. It’s expertly shot, the VFX are rad, the colours are amazing, and his yellow jacket is awesome. But it’s the content that stands out. “I’m comin’ for your head” he barks. You can’t help but enjoy how he rhymes Chippi with Mississippi, in a way that sounds consequential. While Sheck Wes, thought to use the Mississippi rhyme in his own Chippi Chippi song, he definitely missed the prime opportunity to use the underused gem of the English language “jiffy.” Black Kenn didn’t miss the chance. And now I want to put peanut butter on a banana. Thanks a lot Kenn. While Sheck Wes’s verses reflect more of a high-end international travel vision, and a musician who’s in the mainstream crosshairs, in a way Black Kenn’s is more interesting. That’s because it reflects a street-level grind giant artists crave the chance to embody. In the song Black Kenn revels in having that vantage point. But if he keeps improving at the rate he has been, he might find himself, too, cradling a colourful basketball on a deserted island. Under blue skies by day and beside a fire at night. Listen to "Chippi Chippi Freestyle" here and get to know Black Kenn in out interview below! Great to chat with you! Can you tell us a bit about yourself? What’s the word! It’s Black Kenn checking in an I’m all about dividends. I’m a young entrepreneur out of St. Louis Missouri trying to make the world a better place. How hard was it for you to let go of your dream of being a professional basketball player? Very hard. I’m still low key holding on to it. I haven’t fully let it go but it definitely was a challenge for me. It was something I dedicated everyday of my life to. What was it like growing up in St. Louis, Missouri? For those who might not know, what were some of the challenges and opportunities for the average person there? At first growing up was cool in St. Louis but now the city is a lot different. The vibe just ain’t how it use to be. From my position, opportunities were limited and we have to be different in order to stand out. I guess that’s why I am the way that I am. What do you think was the biggest factor in your recent development as an artist? Trusting myself and not second guessing myself. At the end of the day I had to do me and not care about what others say or think. Sheck Wes said Chippi Chippi is “leaving a place in a state of anger, with intentions to get high.” What does it mean to you? Its exactly the same thing but I am being more particular about the strain which is Cookies. I was smoking cookie at the time, chips ahoy is a cookie, so its basically my twist on Chippi Chippi. Why was it important for you to put your own spin on the Sheck Wes’s Chippi Chippi track? I really wanted to get back to what some of my favorite artist did and that was freestyle and rap over other artists beats. What do you think the best part about being a rapper is so far? I really don’t care for the attention, but the best part for me is that I can have a voice and an influence on the world! What's next for you? More music. More shows. More merch. More businesses. But the sky is the limit so shit who knows. Connect with Black Kenn on social media: Instagram Black Kenn #BuzzMusic

Jeremy Remond released his single “Lord Help”. A vibe single that can be added to all our moody playlists. What was so dope about this song was the vocalist in the beginning. Her comforting voice set the vibe for the song and you can’t help but become intrigued and abducted into the atmospheric singing. Jeremy flow transitions in and it’s seemingly perfectly timed. The impeccable flow and charisma he demonstrated gave us the impression that he’s serious about his artistry and his music. He knows how to deliver bars with emotional conviction while spitting the message of each individual song. From ST.Louis, he undoubtedly represents a new generation in the Midwest. With quick-witted flows, intrinsic story-telling, and musing metaphors, he continues to prove that he belongs. He faced multiple adversities in his life in which makes you think it’s almost inevitable that he needs to be heard by a larger audience. With a story to tell and good music to back it, Jeremy Remond is an unforgettable artist we will hear more about later on down the road. Listen to "Lord Help" here, and get to know Jeremy Remond better in our interview below! How was it growing up in ST. louis? Growing up in STL was what made me who I am today. The culture, the people, and the history gave me grounding that I still hold with me to this very day. I think growing up in STL gives you a unique perspective on various things, in many ways like being known as the underdog, especially in the music scene. Do you think your growing environments impacted your artistry and music? Definitely! Growing up, I saw a lot of what STL had to offer, from violence in the city to racism in the county. This definitely helped cultivate me as a person and also helped to create my story so far. Do you have any music influences? If so who and why? Growing up, I would listen to major artists heavily. At the time it was Wayne (Carter III) Jay, Em, Ye, to name a few, then pops would always play Pac, BoneThugz, and Three6Mafia always, so their sounds all played a part. I would say these artists helped me solely with musicality as far as story telling, all the OG’s knew how to tell a story, didn’t matter what it was about but you felt connected just by being involved in the story, like hearing a movie only by ear. Also people like Wayne gave me the understanding of metaphors and how it affects the listener in a song, definitely a game changer for me as an teen. If you can collaborate with any other rapper today who would it be and why? Hmmmm. That’s a tough one, I’ll name a few for the same reason. Drake, Jay, Kendrick, Cole, Ross and Future. They not only know how to make hits but hits THAT LAST, meaning they have the story telling behind it that transcends time. That’s really the fine line that I want to come in the game with, making great story telling songs but with crazy beats that can move people. What’s your opinion on the current state of hip-hop and rap music? Honestly, I think it’s the strongest it’s ever been, from a business perspective. Meaning it has become the most influential genre and also garnered the most attention throughout the masses, EVERYONE knows major hip hop artists nowadays. On the other hand, I can say that the culture has changed for sure, it’s more of an attention game so now you have the young guys who rap only for attention instead of expression, they can care less about what rap and hip hop is truly about and only want the fame. Self expression is where I believe the true art in this craft is, it’s all about expressing yourself, no matter who’s watching. What’s the most influential part about being a rapper? Similar to my last answer, I would say self expression. Hip hop and rap has always been a release for me and given me the ability to have a voice. I think expressing yourself and telling your story helps the next generation by creating inspiration, people see what you’ve been through and can relate. The world is ever evolving and changing and I think art and self expression is what makes rappers influential. People spend money to see us or hear our voice on a track, that’s the epitome of a rapper. The influential part is how you express yourself and what you put out in your music, that’s the true power. Whats next for you in 2019? Whew, 2019! I’ve worked super hard to get things done last year and now I’m looking forward to releasing a few more of my singles from my upcoming EP “Middle of America” and hopefully gaining some looks for shows or potentially a tour! Also I’ve got some great rap video releases coming out regularly on my YouTube, they will be freestyles to all of your favorite rappers hits on the radio. So be on the look out for that and details on the next releases, but 2019 is all about more music and consistency to put myself in position to gain the attention of the masses. Connect With Jeremy Remond on social media: Instagram Facebook Twitter Youtube #BuzzMusic

Welcome to the world of “Don’t You Feel So Special”, where you’re ushered out of whatever darkness you’re experiencing and into the world of brighter things, courtesy of Boccanegra. You can thank composer Valentino Farias, from Santiago de Chile, for the modern indie experience, as he can expertly tap his artistic well.For this effort, he joined up with a solid gang of musicians, including Andres Aracena, a jazz school classmate, Diego Moreta on bass, Raul Valles on keys and Esteban Isla on drums. Together they made a 5-song EP, funded via an Indiegogo campaign, slated for release this April! Lucky for us “Don’t You Feel So Special” has already been released. I first heard it in a fancy LA hipster coffee shop with people tapping away on laptops. It fit perfectly with the travel and abstract art on the walls. Its warmth is infectious. It makes you feel complete. The elements of the song are as balanced as the mixture in my third-wave Americano — balanced, but not too in-your-face. Yes, Farias has the unique ability to make you long for the kind of hopeful and tragic experiences it takes to inspire this sort of creation. It’s lackadaisical and sunny, but also contains a depth hinting at prior hardships. The guitars have adequate crunch. The song is Top 40 radio-ready and we have no doubt that it should be an instant success with the college crowd. And yet it still seems like it is enjoying the freedom of relative obscurity (at least for now). Tame Impala comparisons are to be expected, but this is somehow less trendy and more rock-oriented. A perfect addition to your playlist! Stream “Don’t You Feel So Special” by Boccanegra here Connect with Boccanegra on social media: www.instagram.com/boccanegramusic www.facebook.com/Boccanegramusic

There’s plenty to find fascinating about Mike Mokotow, who describes himself as “the illegitimate son of musicians fleeing Cold War-torn Poland for the United States.” He shares a moniker with the “cool” neighbourhood in the capital of Poland, Warsaw, where plenty of foreign embassies and corporations are based. He's a guy who can’t help but take big gambles. He was deeply impacted by his father’s death, which happened during his teenage years. And he’s fronted the Butchers of Sky Valley, a blues outfit, which prepared him for his current music trajectory. “Running On All Fours,” his latest release, is bleak, but rich in layers. The syncopated rimshots keep things moving and swaying. The video is lush in its scenery, but blue and black in presentation. We start with a quote from The Odyssey “…Why take me for a god? No, no,/I am that father whom your boyhood lacked/and suffered pain for lack of, I am he." It is a gut punch given the context. On this track, Mokotow did all the vocals, percussion, electric guitar, synthesizer, drum programming, and lead guitar work. And it’s part of a ten-song debut album titled Domino, from Heeled & Heavy records. The song keeps things turning and swerving, like a wet log on the fire. It's always smouldering, but never exultant. The bearded subject in the video drops to his knees and then on his face. He’s by the ocean, but he can’t feel it’s healing power. This song would work real well in a dingy club after a few beers on a night that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. There is a kind of sadness that men keep hidden inside or do not know how to express. There’s some of that showing through here. Listen to "Running On All Fours" by "Mokotow" here and get to know Mokotow in our interview below! Video directed by David Gross. Edited by Rob Trela. Hi Mokotow! Care to introduce yourself? Hi I’m Mike Mokotow and I like soft things. What is it like to have the same name as a famous neighbourhood in Warsaw? Confusing for most fellow Poles but root of it is inspired by this: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mokot%C3%B3w_Prison  (#RESIST) What are some of your musical influences? I’ve always gravitated to sensual doom and gloom, music that has a significant emotional undercurrent that can embolden me even if it’s  performed in controlled melancholy. Specific records would say Goldfrapp’s Felt Mountain, Neil Young’s On The Beach, Nick Cave & Warren Ellis’s Assassination of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford. Most of what T-Bone Burnett spills out of his creative gourd. I also love me a bossanova beat. How did you enjoy working with Jeff Berner (mixing) and Kim Rosen (mastering)? Both Jeff and Kim are not only master class professionals but such good people. I trusted them with something that meant the world to me. I had taken a significant amount of time finding the right people to work with on these stages of the record, had burned bridges with past mastering engineer I worked with for not actually listening to the record and was lucky to find these humans to bring this record to where it is now. Its a rare thing to find people like that in music, that along the way don’t forget the reason why we got into it in the first place. You played most of the instruments on a lot of your songs on the new album. Do you enjoy having control over the song-creation process, or do you see yourself being more collaborative as you go along? When I first starting writing music many moons  ago it was always a solo effort, and because of that a long learning curve. Over the years I’ve collaborated with people, most recently with my writing partner in Butchers of Sky Valley a few years back. Since putting that band on hold I felt my inner voice slip into place. I knew what I had to say, how I wanted it to sound even though I do not know how to play any of these instruments. I decided to patiently beat them to death in my attic, chasing what I had in my head regardless of any limitations. In truth it’s been very liberating. And now that this has been laid down I can feel myself opening up to collaborating again. Why was it important for you to reference the death of your father in the text in the intro for the “Running On All Fours” video? It is something that has kept with me since I was in my teens and will do so for the entirety of my life. I made this for my son to loosely exemplify what I have felt and gone through all these years, what my sons arrival has meant to me. I hope he doesn’t find it as terrifying in the future as he does now (he’s four year old and did not react well to the scenes of me in distress). What do you hope people will take away from listening to your work? The curiosity to dig into themselves and into me. If you’re still reading this and gave a tune a listen, consider us friends. Connect with Mokotow on social media: Instagram Facebook Twitter #BuzzMusic