Category: News

Single comes out just a few days before Valentine’s day and is dedicated to so-called “ghosting”. Ghosted is the third single of BAIBAS upcoming EP ‘Compulsive’ which will be released this spring.

In her latest song, the Latvian electro-pop artist BAIBA, who lives in Austria, tells about various experiences in the search for the other half – both joys and unpleasant moments, through humor and satire. Song is about “ghosting” – when one person decides to end the relationship without notifying the other.

Through a good dose of self-irony, catchy and rhythmic tunes, the musician has turned this phenomenon into a powerful manifesto for everyone who has ever encountered it – it is not worth looking for the culprits, but it is important to say goodbye with respect.

“Making this piece of music and video for it has changed my perspective on the topic a lot,” says Baiba, “Speaking with people that both have been ghosted and/or have ghosted someone, the only true reminder is – as unpleasant as it may be – a little communication goes a long way and can save one feelings of guilt and anxiety and for the other party sleepless nights of self doubt and insecurities. It’s a matter of respect for the time spent together.”

Song on Spotify

About BAIBA:
BAIBA [real name Baiba Dēķena] is a Latvian electro-pop solo artist living in Austria. She actively produces music, performs and teaches music production master classes for girls.

After releasing two albums in 2017 and 2021, she is currently working on a new EP

“Compulsive”, which will be released in the spring of 2023. “Compulsive” will be a satirical, direct and multi-faceted work. It is known that at the beginning of August, BAIBA will finally perform in Latvia, at the music and art festival “LABA DABA”.

Musician Zelma Jēgere (VIŅA) has released her third solo album “Diamond dust” on March 1st, but this time with a new sound and stage name – Zelma. The album “Diamond dust” consists of 7 songs written in English over the last 3 years. Many different musicians were involved in the making of the album, each with their own style and sound – Oriole, Kashuks, Arturs Liede, Andis Ansons, Andrjus Jaņuns, Kapteinis Reinis, Andris Buiķis, Oskars Ozoliņš, Erna Daugaviete, Matthias Herberg and Marvin Langner from Germany, Rūdolfs Ozols, Valters Sprūdžs and Ralfs Eilands. The songs on the album sometimes contrast with each other, which is a characteristic feature of Zelma’s previous solo albums.

“The time during which this album was created, to tell the truth, was full of painful experiences . Almost throughout 2021, I had to focus more on my mental health and well-being, so there was very little time and motivation for music. The very first songs that were written (“Blue”, “How”) are quite gloomy and depressive. I was quite sure that the whole album would be in similar tones, but slowly, as I regained my joy of life and passion, a few songs also gained some positive tones. I am extremely grateful to all the people who have been part of my support team both musically and emotionally in the process of creating this album. I know that many of my listeners have been longing for a new album from VIŅA in Latvian, and I can whisper that I have already started working on it in parallel.” That’s what Zelma says about the album.

The visual design of the album was created by artist Sandis Mūrnieks using charcoal on canvas. The album is available on all streaming platforms starting from March 1st.”

Spotify

Latvian musician Kristiāns Laizāns launches a new alternative country project “Red Lung” and releases his debut EP “Sleepless”. The album consists of five tracks, which also includes the single “Baby Lightning” released this January.

“The story of “Sleepless” EP began during the beginning of the pandemic along with the first chords of “Baby Lightning” that I captured on my phone while working in my bedroom. Initially, I didn’t expect to release even a single track, but as soon as “4 AM” arrived, I began to feel that this could become a modest but sweet collection of compositions created during some of my insomniac nights. I certainly don’t wish to glorify sleep deprivation, but I felt that it would be more than appropriate to name the album “Sleepless” considering the subject matter and what it took to write the songs,” says Kristiāns.

“When it comes to the themes and content of the songs, I think they are all well connected by their narrative nature. The tracks are like lullabies for adults or small etudes for anyone who could associate themselves to the protagonist or at least an observer,” adds Kristiāns.

The EP came to being in several phases, combining the five tracks recorded over the last few years, including “Baby Lightning” which was released in January. Several musicians from a multitude of other projects participated in the recording of the album: Alise Golovacka (backing vocals, flute), Monta Sleže-Zaļkalne (violin), Oskars Jansons (guitar), Rūdolfs Ozols (guitar), Jānis Steķis (bass guitar), Kalvis Sležis-Zaļkalns (drums) , Rūdolfs Daņiļevičs (drums). The album was recorded, mixed and mastered, as well as produced by Edvards Broders (Broders Audio) at “Red House” studio in Riga, Latvia.

Spotify

Kristiāns first introduced himself to the music scene as the leader of the progressive/indie rock band “Be Reet” (2013-2017). Later, under the stage name “Tavs Puisis”, he began performing as a regular DJ, gave several acoustic concerts, released the single “Hang of This” in the summer of 2020 and later the single “Baby Lightning” in January 2023.

While “Sudden Lights” is actively preparing for the international Eurovision Song Contest, and ZeBrene is dreaming up his next hits, the producer association YDJ, teaming up with producer and DJ Rodion Gordin, has created a remix version of the duo’s song “Pasaule trīc”. 

Spotify

Last year during his final term of music studies in the UK, musician and drummer Kārlis Roberts Kalējs as the final portfolio wrote a solo album, where each track is composed and arranged entirely on drums. The aim was to experiment with the ability to make music, not just rhythms. Ode to Becoming is also the artist’s debut album. Previously, the musician has worked on various different projects internationally as a drummer and a producer, and continues to do it now after returning back to Latvia.

Ode to Becoming is a dialogue with drums. “Usually when making music with other people, I communicate through the drums, whereas with this project I wanted to gain a deeper, much more personal connection with the instrument and learn how to communicate with the drums themselves” the artist says. Drum solo albums are rare and in Latvia Ode to Becoming is the first of its kind.

The album is a diverse yet cohesive and meditative sonic journey. Inspired by countless jazz drummers and experimental improvisation, in his compositions, the musician uses different drum kit setups, extended techniques and various effects. Throughout the album there are tracks where Kārlis layers different elements, plays melodies or simply makes it groove. For some compositions he restricts himself and makes something very minimalistic; for some – quite the opposite. For the best listening experience, a part of the artist’s vision is to encourage people to take a break from everyday rush and listen to the album on headphones in one continuous take without doing anything else. Ode to Becoming is available on all major streaming platforms.

Composed and performed by Kārlis Roberts Kalējs
Recorded by James Coates
Mixed by James Coates and Kārlis Roberts Kalējs
Produced by James Coates and Kārlis Roberts Kalējs
Mastered by James Coates
Artwork by Terēze Brence
Photos by Vivian Almas
Creative director: Tīna Alise Drupa

Zambian guitarist Katuta Sichilongo after listening to the album: “I loved the variety of themes expressed and picked up a wonderful juxtaposition between form and freedom – what they mean and what they could mean. The production was top tier… There were some sounds in there that I imagined were not typical part of the drumkit but added astounding beauty.”
“I had never worked on anything like this before. When Kārlis first got in touch with me, his vision about the album very intrigued me and the whole process has been just an incredible experience.” Sound engineer James Coates describes his collaboration with Kārlis.
Ode to Becoming creative director Tīna Alise Drupa: “The concept and the execution of the album inspired me. It broadened my perspective about the drums as a musical instrument.”
Terēze Brence, who worked on the artwork, describes the album as a unique experience: “It’s so enjoyable and interesting! I have a feeling that I’m listening to some kind of traveller telling me about his adventures.”

What happens when you couple a virtuoso jazz pianist with a curiosity for synths, warm analog sounds and an appetite for beats? Artis Boris will answer exactly that question. The newest signee of Funk Embassy Recs makes a strong entry into the scene currently habitated by Dam Funk, Temu, Dan Kye and XL Middleton.

“Can You Dance?” is the first single lifted from the forthcoming début EP “Easy Living.” Asking the question in a hauntingly beautiful manner is the freshly crowned “Female Artist of the Year” – Rita Ray. Piercing vocals are backed by layers of synths, experimental sounds and a deep bass line. Artis Boris brings along dancefloor appeal that makes this a sure shot for g-funk DJs and future funk fanatics alike.

Spotify

“Fantastic modern funk infused dancefloor slapper with silky smooth vocals”  – Walla P, Funktastique Voyage

“Nice party starter from Artis Boris, excellent production all around.” – Paul Murphy, Leng Records

Although the story of the song is about relationships, about the pain of separation, when everything seems to be lost and hands are down, the call not to say no can be applied to almost any everyday situation, it is relevant for all of us. A video was also made for the song, in which the story is danced by the couple.

After initiating our largest-ever artist showcase award programme last Spring, IMPALA’s 100 Artists to Watch in partnership with YouTube returns in 2023 with a bright selection of emerging talent from across the European independent music sector.

This pan-European initiative continues IMPALA`s efforts to put a spotlight on the diversity of the European independent music sector. Curated by IMPALA’s members and its broader network, 100 Artists to Watch is designed to highlight artists at different stages in their careers. Members are free to propose artists based on various factors such as diversity and innovation, as well as commercial success. These are the artists to watch in Europe today.

IMPALA’s Spring list includes artists from 30 different countries and features more than 35 music genres, from R&B to Drill, Folk to Electronic, Pop to Post-Punk… There are countless artists to listen to and copious amounts of independent record labels to discover; with a total 100 European independent artists to look out for this year. Hit play to embark on an amazing musical journey here and discover the complete list of artists below.

Helen Smith, Executive Chair, IMPALA commented: “The 100 Artists to Watch programme has already achieved great visibility for independent artists and record labels. We hope this encourages both cross-border circulation and official recognition for the creative and innovative work by the independent sector. We have a mix of artists that have just been recognised during award season and others who are literally just emerging now. We are delighted to be working with YouTube again to support artistic and audience development to boost diversity across the European music sector”.

Dan Chalmers, Director, YouTube Music, EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa) added: “We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with IMPALA’s 100 Artists to Watch programme to support emerging artists and independent record labels across Europe. YouTube provides independent artists with exposure, promotion, analytics, monetisation opportunities and collaboration possibilities to develop their talent and reach new audiences. The 100 Artists to Watch programme is an excellent showcase platform for independent artists to advance their careers and reach audiences across borders”.

100 Artists to Watch (by alphabetical order by artist/record label/country):

• Ada Oda – 62TV Records – Belgium
• Alfa – A1 ENTERTAINMENT SPA – Italy
• Amna – IDJTunes – Bosnia and Hercegovina
• Antoon – Dreamteam / Cloud 9 Recordings – The Netherlands
• Antti Paalanen – Rockadillo Records – Finland
• Astéréotypie – Air Rytmo – France
• Batbait – Irascible Records – Switzerland
• Batu akdeniz – Garaj – Turkey
• Be Irving – Green L.F.ANT – Belgium
• Bedford Falls – 1478437 Records DK – Georgia
• Bēdu Brāļi – Frida Records – Latvia
• Bipolar Feminin – Buback Tonträger – Austria
• Black Sea Dahu – Mouthwatering Records – Switzerland
• BOKKA – [PIAS] – Poland
• Cala Vento – Cooperativa Montgrí SCCL – Spain
• Citron Citron – Bongo Joe Records – Switzerland
• Co Lee – Blunt Shelter Records – Hungary
• Cyan Kicks – Ranka Kustannus – Finland
• Danai Nielsen – United We Fly – Greece
• Deki Alem – Deki Alem – Sweden
• Dina Jashari – Dina Jashari – North Macedonia
• Dream People – Dream People – Portugal
• Edo Maajka – Dallas Records – Croatia
• Emilie Zoé – Hummus Records – Switzerland
• Fast Animals and Slow Kids – Woodworm Publishing Italia – Italy
• FLEMMING – 8ball Music – The Netherlands
• Frantic Amber – GMR Music Group – Sweden
• Freakin’ Disco – Launching Gagarin Records and Management – Hungary
• Garbanotas – Garbonotas – Lithuania
• Gaye Su Akyol – Dunganga Records / Glitterbeat Records – Turkey
• Ginebras – Vanana Records – Spain
• Girls in Airports – Kaja Records – Denmark
• Goldband – Goldband / LAB Music – The Netherlands
• Guts – Heavenly Sweetness – France
• Haiku Garden – Kapa Records – Slovenia
• iamyank – Corner Art Records – Hungary
• ISÁK – Little Big Music / Caroline International – Norway
• Ivan Grobenski – Intek Music – Croatia
• Jerry Heil – Secret Service – Ukraine
• Jeshi – Jeshi / Because Music – UK
• Joker Out – Shagadelic Records – Slovenia
• Klotljudi – Krava 22 – Serbia
• Knife Girl – Soliti / Playground Music – Finland
• Kristof – Inner Ear – Greece
• Lava La Rue – Marathon Artists – UK
• Lazer Viking – Lazer Viking / MUSICRAFT – Czech Republic
• Little Winter – Celebration Records – Denmark
• Lomepal – Pinéale – France
• Loverman – [PIAS] – Belgium
• Lucky Lo – Tambourhinoceros – Denmark
• Lufthansa  – Gola Planina – North Macedonia
• Marinho – Marinho – Portugal
• Maryna Krut’ – ENKO – Ukraine
• Matija Cvek – Menart – Croatia
• Melike Şahin – Gülbaba Records – Turkey
• Messer – Trocadero Records – Germany
• Metteson – LEKK – Norway
• Misha Miller – Roton Music – Romania
• Mula B – Plus Records – The Netherlands
• Nashi44 – Nashi44 – Germany
• Niaz Diasamidze – GMI Rights Management – Georgia
• Niña Polaca – Subterfuge Records – Spain
• Offica – MOVES Recordings – Ireland
• Olivia Addams – Global Records – Romania
• Oskar Haag – Lullaby Records – Austria
• OTOY – Mamamusic – Ukraine
• Perera Elsewhere – Friends of Friends – Germany
• Perrin – AM:PM Music – Hungary
• Power Plush – Beton Klunker Tonträger – Germany
• Ramkot – N.E.W.S Records – Belgium
• rares – Global Records – Romania
• RAYE – Human Re Sources – UK
• Sajsi MC – Lampshade Media – Serbia
• Sangiovanni – Sugar – Italy
• Sharktank – Humming Records – Austria
• Sick Luke – Carosello Records – Italy
• Sitrekin – Hun Solo Records – Denmark
• SKAZZ  – Bloom Music – Georgia
• Skott – Cosmos Music – Sweden
• Sofiane Pamart – 88 touches / [PIAS] – France
• Solju – Bafe’s Factory – Finland
• Sophia Kennedy – City Slang – Germany
• Sorcha Richardson – Faction Records Ltd. – Ireland
• Star Féminin Band – Born Bad Records – France
• Stella Explorer – YEAR0001 – Sweden
• Surma  – Omnichord – Portugal
• TAAHLIAH – untitled (recs) – UK
• Tamara – Tamara – Czech Republic
• Tanxuguieras – Calaverita Records – Spain
• The Away Days – The Away Days – Turkey
• The Bad Tones – The Bad Tones – Latvia
• Thumper – Reckless Records – Ireland
• Tomáš Niesner – Warm Winters – Czech Republic
• Uche Yara – goldendays FM – Austria
• UNDERGRUNN – UG Records – Norway
• Vizelj – Kontra Rights – Serbia
• Wesley Joseph – Secretly Canadian – UK
• Wet Leg – Domino Recording Co – UK
• 49th & Main – Counter Records / Ninja Tune – Ireland
• 58G – 58G – Czech Republic

Read more about these artists on our dedicated webpage here.

Listen to them here (all 100) or check out our genre playlists instead:

• IMPALA’s Artists to Watch – Alternative
• IMPALA’s Artists to Watch – Fusion
• IMPALA’s Artists to Watch – Hip hop & R&B
• IMPALA’s Artists to Watch – Pop
• IMPALA’s Artists to Watch – Rock

 YouTube partnering up with the independents
YouTube will work with IMPALA on its 100 Artists to Watch programme to help build awareness of the diverse European independent sector. YouTube will help the independent community by spotlighting talent from different markets and at different stages in their career. Promoting diversity is a priority for YouTube, encouraging music fans to discover artists they might never find otherwise. Further support will roll out during the year, watch this space.

More about IMPALA
IMPALA was established in 2000 and now represents nearly 6000 independent music companies. 99% of Europe’s music companies are small, micro and medium businesses and self-releasing artists. Known as the independents, they are world leaders in terms of innovation and discovering new music and artists – they produce more than 80% of all new releases and account for 80% of the sector’s jobs. IMPALA’s mission is to grow the independent music sector sustainably, return more value to artists, promote diversity and entrepreneurship, improve political access, inspire change, and increase access to finance. IMPALA works on a range of key issues for its members, runs various award schemes and has a programme aimed at businesses who want to develop a strategic relationship with the independent sector – Friends of IMPALA.

More about “100 Artists to Watch”
The 100 Artists to Watch award was launched in 2022 to promote diversity in the European independent music sector. The project puts the spotlight on a more diverse range of amazing artists through a list curated by our members all across Europe. It is a natural evolution of IMPALA’s album of the year award which ran for ten years.

Check out our dedicated webpage here with a card on each artist.

More about YouTube
Launched in May 2005, YouTube’s mission is to give everyone a voice and show them the world. We believe that everyone deserves to have a voice, and that the world is a better place when we listen, share and build community through our stories. YouTube is a Google company.
More here.

Beatrise Heislere, more widely known from the semi-finals of the “Supernova 2022” song contest where she participated with the song “On the Way Home”, has released a new single “Dance ‘Cause You Need It”.

The author is musician and singer Edvards Grieze, the producer is a musician and member of “Eridana” – Roberts Pētersons. “Our successful collaboration simply had to continue. It’s amazing how from the first draft Robers finds details to highlight, giving the song a unique sound,” says Beatrise about the song’s creation process.

“The song is about inner struggles and self-reflection. Again the song and it’s meaning, actuality and everything around it is Edvards’ talent and creativity peak – the right song in the right time,” says singer about the song.

Genre that would describe “Dance ‘Cause You Need It” most accurate is Synthwave. This is a micro genre of electronic music that brings out the best of 80s nostalgia and pop culture era – the atmosphere, arts as cinema and music, and video games. Previous single “On the Way Home” purposefully was produced in this genre to popularize in Latvia.

“With this song I would like to reach out to every listener, saying that you don’t have to hide behind your dreams and goals but aim and get closer every day. Last year hasn’t been the easiest one, many will agree that with everything we’ve been through there are days when you want it all and days when you feel like doing nothing, but, more so – dance ’cause you want it, ’cause you need it now,” says Beatrise.