We Speak Music

Brooklyn’s Saga returns with Black Label Saga Vol. 1

Published

4 months ago

July 12, 2024

Brooklyn emcee/producer Saga has returned in a big way! For his first official release in over two years, he has announced a double LP entitled Black Label Saga Vol. 1 & 2. Vol. 1 is available now and Vol. 2 will drop on August 2^nd.

Stream / Purchase Black Label Saga Vol. 1: https://soulspazm.ffm.to/blsv1

In business the term Black Label, (also sometimes referred to as custom branding) usually refers to creating a completely unique product or service tailored to your specific requirements. In the context of Saga’s music, it means, taking a collection of loosies and nondedicated songs and building a project by designing new music around them to create a cohesive project.

The result is somber instrumentals that retain grainy soul samples, crackin’ drum patterns and gritty bars. Besides Saga’s contributions, featured guests on the project include LeZeppo, Adonis, Mac Montana, Iceburg Snub and Noyz. Guest producers include Quincy Tones, DJ Skizz, Cuth, Duke Westlake and Trox.

The Black Label Saga is a warmup to two other completed projects from Saga to drop this year. While this one is a sampler of the many styles and moods of the artist, the following two will be single producer and thematically focused affairs

With a lengthy history in the game, Saga’s 2015 debut full-length Out Of The Shadows was entirely produced by Marco Polo (Masta Ace, Torae). He followed that up with 2017’s Molotov with producer Thelonious Martin (Odd Future, Pro Era). When next he emerged in 2019 with the one-two punch of the Hagler EP and the Agassi LP, he demonstrated his own developed production skills. 2021 saw the drop of another two projects, Wisdom Wears The Crown EP and the Guttersnipe LP. He has appeared on tracks alongside such notables as Freddie Gibbs, Roc Marciano and Blu. He also toured Europe several times with such artists as Fashawn, Exile and Asher Roth.

In addition to these forthcoming releases Saga is also a member of The Drum Majors Production Team along with Marco Polo, DJ Skizz and Shylow.

More Info: https://www.instagram.com/saga718/

We Speak Music

Kendra & The Bunnies Challenges the “Manic Pixie Dream Girl” Stereotype with New Single, “Manic Pixie Nightmare”

Published

44 mins ago

November 21, 2024

Philomena Marie

Kendra Muecke of Kendra & the Bunnies is back in the spotlight with her latest release, “Manic Pixie Nightmare,” a single that confronts and defies the traditional “manic pixie dream girl” (MPDG) trope. Known for her genre-blending sound that fuses rock, pop, and elements of folk, Kendra has built a reputation for delivering music with powerful messages of self-love and authenticity. With “Manic Pixie Nightmare,” she takes her message a step further, encouraging fans to embrace their individuality and break free from societal constraints.

The term “manic pixie dream girl” refers to a cinematic trope that presents quirky, free-spirited female characters as a muse for male protagonists. In her new single, however, Kendra reclaims this character as a figure who refuses to be boxed into anyone else’s narrative. Instead of living for others, Kendra’s “Manic Pixie Nightmare” character lives for herself. The track tackles complex themes of self-discovery, self-worth, and rejecting external expectations, reflecting Kendra’s evolving artistry and commitment to empowering messages.

The song combines catchy guitar riffs and a punchy beat with lyrics that are both rebellious and introspective. Kendra’s bold vocal performance gives life to lines that challenge listeners to live authentically, making “Manic Pixie Nightmare” both an anthem for personal freedom and a critique of narrow, limiting labels. As Kendra puts it, “Chasing love can lead to heartbreak, but finding yourself? That’s where the magic happens.” Her message has struck a chord with listeners, as early feedback shows fans responding strongly to the song’s empowering themes.

Adding a visual layer to the single, Kendra released a music video shot on the Los Angeles subway, specifically on the line running from North Hollywood to Hollywood Blvd. The video shows Kendra journeying through the subway with friends, symbolizing the process of self-discovery amid an ever-moving world. Set against the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, the video highlights her message of forging one’s own path and finding meaning outside of societal pressures. The subway scenes create a relatable setting that complements the song’s themes of independence and authenticity.

Kendra’s new single has already received positive feedback from music critics and fans alike, who appreciate her willingness to challenge conventional stereotypes while providing an upbeat and fun musical experience. With this release, Kendra is not only solidifying her presence in the indie music scene but also expanding her audience. “Manic Pixie Nightmare” has caught the attention of fans who are eager for music that speaks to personal empowerment and breaking free from limiting narratives.

Kendra Muecke continues to push the boundaries of indie rock-pop with “Manic Pixie Nightmare.” By taking on cultural archetypes and reframing them, she’s giving listeners a fresh perspective on self-identity and personal freedom. As she continues to create and evolve, fans can expect more music that doesn’t just entertain but also inspires critical thinking and self-reflection.