We Speak Music

Baytrees release ‘Sunshine’ video

Published

2 years ago

April 5, 2023

Don Reed

Brixton-hailing four-piece ‘Baytrees’ have been crafting their unique blend of hip hop beats, funk rock riffs and catchy pop hooks since 2018. New single ‘Sunshine’ is a soulful, life-affirming story inspired by the sun and is a song about summer, as everything is just better when the sun is out.

Lead singer/songwriter Mensah Hart explains, “I wrote sunshine on a gloomy, rainy day. I had had enough of cold weather and wanted to be back home in Jamaica or in the sunshine of Barcelona or Ibiza – both second homes to me and places I love to visit. I wanted to create something that could automatically transport myself and the listeners somewhere else. We wanted to create an instant party. What is life if not one long ass party?”

Baytrees is made up of brothers Mensah (songwriter, producer, lead singer, keyboard, guitarist, and producer) and Kwame Hart (Bass Guitar), who are joined by friends Marcus Harris (drums and vocals) and Cujoe Ryan (guitarist and keys). Collectively, the members of the band have supported acts including The Sex Pistols, grime sensation Kano, and rock royalty The Rolling Stones. As songwriters, Baytrees have worked with legendary Italian artist Gianna Nannini on her album ‘La Differenza’ which reached number 2 in the Italian charts.

Mensah further reveals more about new single ‘Sunshine’, “Musically, the guitars and synth are inspired by Earth Wind and Fire, Micheal Jackson Talking Heads, Gap Band, J Hus, Metronomy, and Daft Punk. I like to listen to music new and old when I’m in the creative process as it always sets me up to create something fresh. Lyrically, the song is about having a positive outlook on life and living to the fullest. It’s also about gratitude to really feel grateful for each day of life. Tomorrow is not promised so let’s love the process.”

We Speak Music

Etherdene’s “Forsaker” Captures the Power of Letting Go

Published

17 hours ago

April 1, 2025

Philomena Marie

Etherdene’s ‘Forsaker’ is a revelation in both sound and sentiment. The track marks a new chapter in her career, blending the vulnerability of heartbreak with the resilience of moving on, all wrapped in an electrifying package of synth-pop and indie-pop. The result is a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, a cathartic journey that encourages listeners to let go and rise above their challenges.

At the heart of ‘Forsaker’ is Etherdene’s exploration of emotional struggle and the painful yet liberating act of letting go. Drawing from her own experiences with the end of a professional partnership, Etherdene’s lyrics are a raw and powerful expression of inner conflict. The line, “Brand new member in the club of quitters, the uniform compliments my eyes,” encapsulates the complex emotions of giving up, flipping the narrative on its head to reveal the strength in choosing to walk away.

‘Forsaker’ is a triumph. Etherdene’s decision to incorporate synth bass arps brings an air of 80s nostalgia while keeping the track fresh and forward-thinking. The electric guitar work from Cory Clark adds a layer of dynamism to the song, complementing its mood perfectly. However, it’s the drums – played by Warren van Wyk – that truly elevate the track, infusing it with energy and warmth that feels almost magical.

What sets ‘Forsaker’ apart is its empowering message. Etherdene isn’t merely recounting a painful experience; she’s showing us the strength that comes from letting go of something that no longer serves you. It’s a message of courage and self-love, encouraging listeners to prioritize their emotional well-being over the fear of walking away from something that seems promising but ultimately isn’t right.

‘Forsaker’ is yet another example of Etherdene’s impressive versatility as an artist. From her early days in the Afrikaans band Kaktus to her current solo career, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what indie-pop can be. With ‘Forsaker’, she’s taken an emotional experience and turned it into a musical triumph that’s as empowering as it is catchy. This track is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever had to make the difficult decision to walk away – and Etherdene’s ability to capture that moment in song is nothing short of remarkable.