Tracks Of The Week, 13.07.15 - GigslutzGigslutz

Hailing from Copenhagen, all female trio Baby In Vain have been receiving acclaim of late from the likes of NME, The Guardian and Radio 1. And it’s easy to see why upon listening to latest single, ‘Muscles’.

Filled with furious, blues-inspired riffs, pounding beats and hearty vocals, ‘Muscles’ does indeed hit you with plenty of muscle and a raucous, angsty energy.

Reminiscent of the likes of The Dead Weather or (one of my favourite duos) Deap Vally, Baby In Vain exude a refreshing, provocative power, and I’m sure we’ll be hearing more of their riotous tunes in the very near future.

Baby In Vain are currently finishing off their debut album, so keep your eyes and ears peeled!

If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to these warm summer days, then look no further. South London’s Afrikan Boy is back, with the aptly entitled ‘Sunshine’ – a catchy, upbeat track, featuring the vocals of The Noisettes’ Shonhi Shoniwa.

Following the release of his debut album, ABCD, and a MOBOs nomination last year, Afrikan Boy’s latest offering exudes his characteristic fusion of traditional reggae with afro-grime that we’ve come to know and love, with infectious, racing beats alongside astute lyrical storytelling.

‘Sunshine’ basically does what it says on the tin. Apparently inspired by Afrikan Boy’s son, it is a stirring creation filled with pure joy; a perfect ode to London in the Summertime.

‘Sunshine’ is due for release 21 August.

Having been inspired to write their latest album by the Mars One project – a project where members of the public have been given the chance to sign up for a one way ticket to the red planet (?!) – Gene Serene have now shared new track ‘Hazza’.

Reminiscent of the likes of Portishead or Goldfrapp, ‘Hazza’ is a twinkling, ethereal anthem that layers syncopated electronic beats over gentle, celestial melodies and gorgeous vocals. Despite turning away from conventional melody and structure, ‘Hazza is immensely enjoyable and utterly immersive.

Gene Serene’s upcoming album The Polaris Experience is out now via Duchess Box Records.

Somewhat of a ‘supergroup’, Ultimate Painting – consisting of James Hoare from Veronica Falls and Jack Cooper from Mazes – have just announced a new single, to be taken from their upcoming sophomore album.

Despite its telling subject matter about the struggles the government have imposed on society, on first listen ‘(I’ve Got The) Sanctioned Blues’ is a charming, folky ditty. Filled with luscious, tender vocals and dreamy melodies, it oozes shades of the uptempo vibes of ‘60s surf-rock and psychedelia, and could easily lull you into a state of sun-kissed serenity on a rainy day.

Ultimate Painting’s upcoming album, Green Lanes, is out 7 August on Trouble In Mind.