Archives: press_release

Alt-Pop Sensation Delivers “Lay Me Down (NERVO Remix)”

Following the release of his acclaimed album Bloodline, which was lauded by Harper’s Bazaar, EARMILK, We Found New Music and The Hidden Hits, Ben Hazlewood has teamed up with dance hitmakers NERVO and released the “Lay Me Down (NERVO Remix)” single and music video. Together, Hazlewood and NERVO have created an intoxicating hit guaranteed to lift spirits during these tumultuous times. It’s a flawless follow up to an album about which EARMILK beamed Hazlewood was “no doubt to soon turn his status from burgeoning artist to pop elite.” “Lay Me Down (NERVO Remix)” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

The remix’s release serves as an eloquent introduction to the newfound partnership between Hazlewood and renowned independent distribution and marketing company, Ingrooves Music Group. The company has fallen in love with Hazlewood’s catalog and ability to make vulnerable, powerful music and will spearhead his releases for the foreseeable future. “Ben is an exceptional artist who, beyond creating beautiful music, is also a role model for his fans and aspiring young artists and encourages them to be their authentic selves. We’re humbled that Ben and his team chose Ingrooves to help him spread his message and grow his audience further in Australia and other markets around the globe,” says a representative of Ingrooves. Liv and Mim, the two artists that make up the thrilling electronic group NERVO, have been friends with Hazlewood for years and, upon hearing “Lay Me Down” at a release party for Bloodline, they knew they wanted to collaborate on a remix. “We love what Ben has been doing and are honoured to remix his track, ‘Lay Me Down.’ It’s always nerve-wracking to work on originals that are so well written and have so much heart in them,” NERVO says.

Co-written with Katie Carr about “yearning for the comfort of the one you love, trying to find peace in a time surrounded by darkness,” “Lay Me Down” touches on a topic near to Hazlewood’s heart: mental health. “Mental health is a real issue during this time, with people not having usual outlets of expression or access to support,” Hazlewood explains. An advocate for marginalized voices across the spectrum, Hazlewood makes it a point to create music that inspires its listeners to live in their truth, no matter what it may be.

   Ben Hazlewood’s collaboration with NERVO is a genuine hit. You can stream “Lay Me Down (NERVO Remix)” on music platforms worldwide. To keep up with Ben Hazlewood’s journey, follow him

Singer-Songwriter Pens Anthem About On and Off Again Relationships

Singer-songwriter and break-out star, Ariel Bellvalaire, has released her debut single, “Elastic.” The “Shrednastics” creator, a combination of aerial gymnastics and electric guitar performance, combined her love of pop music with her guitar shredding talents to create an upbeat pop/rock anthem. “Elastic” is now available to stream and download on all digital platforms worldwide.

Ariel Bellvalaire started writing this song by summing up a few of her past relationships in one word: elastic. The powerful record puts a fun twist on a frustrating scenario, one that finds the singer being pulled in and out of an exciting relationship filled with mixed signals. “Being a gymnast means I feel elastic sometimes! I’ll keep doing splits, but I’m definitely done with elastic relationships,” exclaims Bellvalaire. She has proven she’s a powerful guitarist, and her first release solidifies her as a confident vocalist as well. Produced by Brett Boyett and written by Scott Lindsey, Boyett, and herself, the song aims to remind anyone who may be in a similar situation that they are not alone and to enjoy the good times while they last.

The electric guitar has acted as so much more than an instrument for Ariel Bellvalaire. It’s been the songwriter’s muse, her motivation, and her musical language. It has allowed her to create a signature sound that fans describe as similar to Avril Lavigne with a hint of Van Halen, a sound you wouldn’t expect from someone who grew up in a small town in Connecticut.  Bellvalaire has traveled the world as the lead guitarist and singer for the Michael Jackson “I Am King Experience” and as the lead guitarist of the all-female Guns ’n Roses tribute band, Paradise Kitty, but it’s her unique solo act that has garnered her the most attention. With a background in aerial gymnastics, Bellvalaire is able to shred guitar while doing gymnastics, including spinning upside down in an aerial hoop. The high energy act, which has been aptly dubbed “Shrednastics,” went viral after debuting on ABC’s The Gong Show.

This impressive release perfectly showcases Ariel Bellvalaire’s musical chops and will leave fans anticipating her upcoming album. Download or stream “Elastic” on digital music platforms now and stay up to date with Ariel Bellvalaire. Follow her on Instagram @ArielBellvalaire.

New York, NY – On the rise pop trio, Running Lights, has released their original holiday single, “This Xmas (feat. Charisma),” a track addressing the reality of being lonely on Christmas. With emotional vocals and sleek production, “This Xmas (feat. Charisma)” is not just a catchy love song about the holidays, but a reflection on past years to inspire hope for the future. This single is now available on digital music platforms worldwide.

If there’s anything 2020 has taken from us, it’s our ability to be close to the ones we love. This holiday season, those we care about, whether they’re lovers, friends, or family, may be further away than ever for a multitude of reasons. “This Xmas (feat. Charisma)” is a reminder to hold on to our loved ones and cherish their presence to realize how lucky we are to have them in our lives. “Many folks will be separated from loved ones this year, some by a breakup, some due to political differences, and some forever because of COVID-19,” explains lead singer and guitarist Mike Squillante. “Though Christmas 2020 will undoubtedly be strange, it’s important that we keep those closest to us in our hearts no matter how far away they may be.” For their latest single, Running Lights recruited alt-pop singer Charisma to showcase the two voices of separated loved ones during the holiday season. The juxtaposition of upbeat and catchy production with melancholic but relatable lyrics is what makes this song a unique addition to your holiday playlists. “This Xmas” features somber yet endearing lyrics such as, “This might be the coldest December I’ve had in forever, and it hasn’t even snowed” and “This Christmas I’m living in the past, this Christmas is harder than the last.” The band is reminding listeners that we are living through a strange time and that we will eventually be back to gathering together with family, sharing presents, and huddling up near a fire or in other words — real Christmas.

Running Lights consists of New York siblings Mike and Nick Squillante, along with Stephen Ranellone. Music is deeply rooted within this Italian trio. Growing up, The Squillante brothers were surrounded by music, whether that be from their dad playing piano or their mom blasting 90’s country music. They started listening to bands such as The Beatles and Green Day which they claim as a major influence on their music. Stephen Ranellone, the brothers’ childhood friend, picked up the drumsticks in the 6th grade and was a perfect fit. All three have accomplished quite a bit throughout their music careers. Mike has toured with major label artists such as Melanie Martinez (Atlantic), Marc Scibilia (Sony/ATV), and Gnash (Atlantic). Steve toured with indie artist, Pronoun (Sleep Well Records). Nick worked at one of the most prestigious music studios in NYC, Electric Lady. This music studio has worked with remarkable artists such as LANY, Frank Ocean, Mumford & Sons, Elle King, and Bon Jovi. Running Lights are currently signed to IDAP Music.

On the surface, “This Xmas (feat. Charisma)” is composed as a melancholy love duet, but once listened through, it explores our current realities. “Like the three ghosts from A Christmas Carol; ‘This Xmas’ is meant to revisit the warmth of the past, understand the reality of the present, and inspire hope for the future.” As we reflect on the past holiday season and realize that we may be apart from our loved ones, we hope that future holidays will return to some kind of normalcy.

Download or stream the single now and keep up with Running Lights by visiting RunningLightsMusic.com.

Unconventional Musician Uses Evocative Storytelling in His Newest,

Highly-Anticipated Album

Unabashedly passionate singer-songwriter, 30 has released a stunning new album, The Introspects of a Psycho. After releasing singles “Your Skin Crawls” and “Homesick,” 30 is filling in the blanks with his new album’s presentation. Through a collection of soul-stirring sounds and vivid lyrics, 30 tells a compelling story of two protagonists journeying their way through the messes of life. The album is now available to stream on all digital music platforms worldwide. 

Through bold lyrics and exceptional storytelling, The Introspects of a Psycho introduces listeners to the volatile world of two people; the narrator and an unnamed “girl” mentioned throughout the record. This collection dives into the narrator’s psyche, using the stories to inspire themes relevant to current society. The album is intended to be an interactive experience; it urges listeners to reflect and develop their own personal meanings for each track. The Introspects of a Psycho chronicles a story, but 30 explains that “the stories in these songs are not in chronological order. I put the tracks in the order that they’re in because I want it to feel like the listener is collecting snapshots of the relationship between myself and this girl. Because of this, a lot of it is up to interpretation – just like the title. Certain songs have more of a broad message, though, such as ‘Your Skin Crawls’ and ‘Ms. Uncomfortable.’ That’s why ‘Your Skin Crawls’ is the first song and ‘Ms. Uncomfortable’ is the last song on the record.” These are two songs with similar messages and instrumentation.” This kind of philosophical exploration is reflective of 30’s desire for music to inspire listeners and urge them to be introspective themselves. 30 explains that “throughout, the inspiration of the title was based on the self vs. self theme. The title was intended to leave the listener confused about whether the ‘psycho’ is the narrator (30), or the girl that appears in the stories throughout the album. I think the internal struggle is super apparent in the interlude, ‘Existential Prose’ — sort of a stream of consciousness, questioning reality and the norms of society.” 30’s ability to reference societal norms and explore their impact is one reason why his music is so honest, authentic, thought-provoking, and extremely relevant. The Introspects of a Psycho explores real stories that are often marginalized by pop culture in a fresh way that feels entirely genuine.

Born in Williamstown, MA, 30 has always been drawn to music. Ever since he can remember, he has devoted himself to learning and progressing his musical abilities, allowing him to explore various genres like hip-hop, rap, rock, alternative and use his creativity to morph them together in compelling ways. 30’s style is certainly unique, but he gained a lot of his inspiration and influence from his favorite artists, some of which include Kanye West, Kid Cudi, Cage The Elephant and The Kooks. 30’s passion also extends beyond music as he devotes a lot of his time advocating for social justice initiatives, such as supporting the BLM movement and openly discussing issues of mental health through his music. In the last two years, 30 has released two EPs and has gained over 180,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Some of his notable collaborations include industry veterans such as producer Kato On The Track, Mike Stud, and Mod Sun.

30’s newest album, The Introspects of a Psycho, is a prime example of the explosive passion and creativity he possesses as an artist. The affecting new album is a philosophical exploration of themes that many people encounter throughout their lives. The record is now available to stream on all digital platforms. To stay up to date with 30’s next projects, you can follow him on Instagram and Twitter @iam30music.

Alt-pop Artist Releases New Visual About the Power of Love

Upcoming alt-pop sensation Ben Hazlewood has released a new music video for his atmospheric track, “The Way You Do.” The song represents the power that love can have in someone’s life, while the ethereal, black-and-white video compliments the tone of the song perfectly. The audio and video are now available to stream on all digital platforms worldwide.

The video was brought to life during lockdown by a skeleton crew. The simple-yet-impactful nature of the video mimics the loving relationship Hazlewood sings about when he says, “No one can hold me the way you do, no one can console me the way you do.” The visuals are alluring and expressive, much like Hazlewood himself. Despite not being a single, “The Way You Do” has comparably high streaming numbers for being the last track on his album, Bloodline. The video’s aesthetic is sure to please audiences and lull them into a state of contentment. Always mindful, Hazlewood’s kimono that he wears in the video is an environmentally conscious upcycled unique one of a kind piece by his friend, Angela Duncan (Re.d).

Ben Hazlewood’s dynamic voice has been instrumental in forming his signature style, inspired by big voices and prominent personalities such as David Bowie, Janis Joplin, and Stevie Nicks. His soulful voice mixed with his genuine lyrics make for a cocktail of magnetism and talent,  that shines brightly in the alt-pop landscape and has garnered him praise from numerous publications. EARMILK lauded that, “It’s clear he’s truly found his creative voice and is no doubt to soon turn his status from burgeoning artist to pop elite,” while The Hidden Hits beamed “Ben Hazlewood is our latest alternative pop obsession that’s about to leave you stunned.”

“The Way You Do” is now streaming on all digital platforms and the video can be viewed on YouTube.com. Stay up-to-date with his latest projects and announcements, follow him on Instagram @BenHazlewood.

Los Angeles, CA – Indie-rock trio Lone Kodiak has released their newest electrifying single, “Bones.” The song delivers a nostalgic message about life, love, and loss that listeners can relate to with sweeping electric guitar, cinematic drums, and haunting vocals. “Bones” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

The indie-rock trio, composed of Dainéal Parker, Daniel Alden, and Joshua Harris, displays undeniable electric energy that seeps into the song. The somber track, penned by lead singer Dainéal Parker, illustrates a touching, vivid message of life’s fleeting nature. Producer Kyle Mangels perfectly captures the essence of the lyrics and accompanies the vocals with vibrant production. “Bones” prompts listeners to reflect on the finite nature of life and revel in the present moment. With poignant lyrics and layered vocals, it’s clear that Lone Kodiak is making an impact by intimate storytelling sure to bring listeners on an emotional journey. Parker explains that the process of writing this track was just as mesmerizing as the song itself. “‘Bones’ was a happy, happy accident. We were experimenting with intros for our live set; we took one of our previous songs, slowed it down, and reversed it (which is what you’ll hear at the beginning),” Parker explains. “We were totally captivated by this melody we kept hearing, and two hours later, we had a new song. I think our best songs are ones that just kind of come together naturally without a ton of interference from us.” “Bones” delivers an emotional and intimate impact that will leave listeners wanting more.

While they now reside in East Los Angeles, Lone Kodiak was established by Dainéal Parker and Daniel Alden in Portland, Oregon, where the pair met as teenagers. Since then, they have consistently produced music that rests on superb storytelling, unique guitar melodies, and unmistakable drums. With the addition of Josh Harris on drums, the band has been fervently writing and recording in preparation for their album release in early 2021. Lone Kodiak’s sound shares a stark resemblance to the bands that have acted as a source of immense inspiration, including Smashing Pumpkins, The Cure, Explosions in the Sky, and Daughter. The group remains a unique, talented group of musicians looking to share their stories with the world. Lone Kodiak has been featured on Buzzfeed, American Songwriter, Pop Matters, Stereogum, PDX Monthly, and played on KROQ, KCRW, KCSN, among others.

Lone Kodiak is a dynamic, energetic, and talented trio that is showing no signs of stopping. Their newest single, “Bones,” is a stunning track that hints at what’s to come. Download or stream “Bones” on digital music platforms worldwide and Visit the band at LoneKodiak.com to be the first to hear about upcoming projects.

Los Angeles, CA —   Brooke Daye has released THE NARCISSIST, her debut EP as a solo artist. An experienced songwriter, Daye created songs so personal she had to sing them herself. She dives deep into all aspects of heartbreak, exploring the pain through a nuanced and realistic style of writing. This release acts as a window into a dark and vulnerable moment in the artist’s life, a moment that has shaped the very person she is today. THE NARCISSIST is now available to listen to on all streaming platforms worldwide.

Proven by the success of the EP’s two lead singles, “DAILY” (834K+ streams on Spotify) and “SELFISH” (451K+ streams on Spotify), THE NARCISSIST comes highly anticipated thanks to Daye’s signature early-aughts, pop-punk influence, and masterful lyricism. For her solo debut, Brooke Daye collaborated with producers Joseph Pepe, Jacob Lee, and Mike Hart, as well as co-writers Annie Dingwall, Gabe Reali, Rebecca Perl, and Michael Wax. The five songs detail the painful ending of a relationship with the artist’s first love. “Each song represents a different stage in the relationship, showing the fights, the back-and-forth doubts, and betrayal. It displays the good, the bad, and the ‘fuck yous’ that we go through during a breakup,” explains Daye. The EP opens with an upbeat and raw heartbreaker, “HARDER.” The rising star is able to create catchy and fresh pop anthems with deep lyrics that express the subtle nuance and emotional contradiction of an all too relatable situation. “DAILY,” the EP’s first single, masterfully blends realizations of betrayal, anger, and defeat while “SELFISH” examines how you can have your self-worth destroyed but still know deep down that you always deserved better. “THE NARCISSIST is a look into my real life. It’s about trying to love someone who will only ever love themself and how their choices left me broken in the process.” Putting her pain into a time capsule, she recorded the vocals on the same day the songs were written, creating an authentic vulnerability that is relatable to their listeners.

Originally from Tampa, Florida, Brooke Daye moved to Los Angeles in pursuit of a career as a songwriter. Within ten months, she had signed her first publishing deal, a testament to her lyrical expertise. “I’ve always felt that I am a writer first and foremost,” explains Daye, so she hadn’t considered singing her own songs. That was until her vocals were featured on “Same Page” by Vincent and yetep, which has amassed over 7.4 million Spotify streams. She finds inspiration in other female singer-songwriters such as Demi Lovato, Hayley Williams, Avril Lavigne, and Julia Michaels, combining the best parts of each to create a slightly nostalgic, yet very current sound that is uniquely her own. The response to Brooke Daye as both a songwriter and performer has been positive, to say the least, with each song gaining hundreds of thousands of streams and placements in many playlists both domestic and internationally including Spotify’s coveted New Music Friday in several countries.

THE NARCISSIST perfectly showcases Brooke Daye’s many musical talents. She displays the unique ability to combine all the significant aspects of pop music while maintaining a fresh sound. Listen to the debut EP now on all streaming platforms worldwide. To keep up with Brooke Daye’s booming career, follow her on Instagram @BrookeDaye.

New York, NY — NYC funk-pop artist Francis Aud has released his infectious new single, “Codeine Kiss,” which is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to feeling good, letting out all of that pent-up summer energy, and treating yourself to that Zoom dance party that you deserve. “Codeine Kiss” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

“Codeine Kiss” is what you get when a summer bop shows up late to the party celebrating the start of autumn. Jam-packed with psychedelic vocals, cheeky guitar, a thumping baseline, and a spicy horn arrangement, “Codeine Kiss” arrives just at the nick of time to fight any quarantine blues. As Francis explains, “It’ll definitely help you do something with all of that “bootyshake-energy” you’ve got stored up and help you groove your way out of this year and into the next.”

A catchy hook, a-little-too-on-the-nose lyrics, thumping bass line, and a shamelessly 80s synthesizer solo to round out the whole shebang, “Codeine Kiss” was made to add some groove to your mood and improve your attitude. In his own words, Aud says: “It slaps, but not TOO hard, ya know?” “Codeine Kiss” is Francis Aud’s fifth release of 2020, and the first song from his discography co-produced by Aud himself alongside long-time collaborator and troublemaker Zach Golden (Anthony Ramos, Jasmine Cephas Jones). The track was mixed by Ryan Gilligan and mastered by Joe Lambert.

Growing up in NYC with immigrant parents, Francis Aud didn’t grow up with the intention of being a musician. He didn’t even listen to the radio until he was 12, for Pete’s sake! On the journey through his teenage years and young adult life, Aud fell deeply in love with music and upon graduating from college and some soul searching, in 2017, Aud decided to pursue a music career. After releasing his first retro-soul EP, Tender Things, Aud started writing “FONK MUSIC,” a unique blend of funk and pop. With influences ranging from Bruno Mars and Allen Stone to James Brown, it becomes pretty clear why his singles “Take Me Home,” “Say It Loud,” “Without You,” and now “Codeine Kiss” sound the way they do – fun.

Francis Aud blends the worlds of pop and funk music perfectly, a feat that is made clear with “Codeine Kiss.” For immediate relief, download or stream “Codeine Kiss” on all digital music platforms. (Side effects may include uncontrollable dancing.) To keep up with Francis Aud, follow him on socials @FrancisAudMusic or visit his website FrancisAud.com.

Los Angeles, CA – Pop artist, Nadia Vaeh, has released a live, jazzy-pop version of her single “1,000 Cuts.” This stripped-down version of the dark-pop single is about her stepping into her skin and owning all of who she is. For the release of this song, Vaeh will be donating proceeds to The Trevor Project. “The Trevor Project offers a much-needed safe space for the LGBTQ community and provides the love and support so desperately needed by those feeling in limbo,” says Vaeh. “1,000 Cuts LIVE” is now available on digital music platforms worldwide.

Since the original release of “1,000 Cuts” last Halloween, Vaeh has used this time as a self-love identifying experience. “Over the last year since releasing the original version of “1,000 Cuts,” I have been developing a love for the parts of myself, I and the world around me, are least acquainted with, like my sexuality,” explains Vaeh. With the influences of Jane Monheit and Sara Gazarek in mind, this spirited remake brings jazz to a whole new level. The soft drums played by Greg Essig are accompanied by the hum of John Moore Jr. on the trumpet and the spunk of Julian Keyz on piano. These three combined give the song a sassy, confident aura. The confidence felt throughout the track is a way to find comfort in becoming your true self. “To not be yourself feels like a slow death by 1,000 Cuts.”

A native of Atlanta, Nadia Vaeh discovered her love for music at the young age of two. Since then her music has pulled inspiration out of many genres and sounds from all over the world. In addition to using her songwriting to self-heal, her music serves as a platform to help others reconcile what they may not be able to express. Vaeh’s uplifting journey of healing through music has made her an advocate for the underdog.

“1,000 Cuts LIVE” gives a jazzy, audacious spin on the original pop bop. Her adventure through the depths of self-love and healing is moving and relatable. “I don’t want to be so afraid to outwardly celebrate and love someone just because their gender may not fit an ideal social narrative. It’s a lot of unraveling of years of social conditioning, but this song is a big part of my healing,” explains Vaeh.” 1,000 Cuts LIVE” is available on digital music platforms worldwide. You can follow Nadia Vaeh’s journey on Instagram @NadiaVaeh.

Benny Freestyles Releases Empowering Single “Empty Eyes”

Rising artist Benny Freestyles has teamed up with Mod Sun to release his new single and video, “Empty Eyes.” This single is about staying true to yourself and not letting the way of the world sway you. “Empty Eyes” is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide. A video for the song can be streamed on YouTube.

 “‘Empty Eyes’ is inspired by knowing who to trust, and the vulnerability that comes along with that,” explains Benny Freestyles. With both artists pursuing their careers in Hollywood, the themes of trust and staying true to yourself are compelling, making it clear that the video needed to be filmed in Los Angeles. Both Freestyles and Mod Sun hail from smaller cities, so keeping the focus on their career in the midst of all the glitz and glamour that Hollywood has to offer is vital to both of them. “Mod Sun really connected to the message in this song and brought a tremendous feeling to the chorus,” Freestyles explains. “This song is meant for listeners to feel empowered and know they are not alone in this ever-changing society of judgment, worry, and non-believers.” Staying true to his central themes of wanderlust and following your dreams, the visual component to “Empty Eyes” is an ethereal trip through Los Angeles filled with kaleidoscopic imagery and care-free moments shared between Mod Sun and Freestyles while they explore the city.

For Benny Freestyles, traveling the world has always been a massive part of his life. He has engaged with people, culture, love, and excitement all across the globe. Experiencing new perspectives on life has shaped Freestyles’ spiritually based music. The musician has released consistent projects and been on multiple national tours, collectively bringing in millions of streams on Spotify and Youtube. By releasing his music and touring the country, he has built a dedicated fan base worldwide, with his movement proliferating.

Produced by Freestyles, “Empty Eyes” serves as a reminder to chase your dreams and be as authentic as you can. Download or stream “Empty Eyes” now on all digital music platforms and watch the video on YouTube.  To keep up with all things Benny Freestyles, follow him on socials @BennyFreestyles.