We Speak Music
Ciao Ciao Marigold ‘satsuma’ Is Sonic Playground You Didn’t Know You Needed
What happens when meticulous musicianship meets a technicolor imagination? The answer is Ciao Ciao Marigold (CCM), the mind-bending Lofi psychedelic project that’s turning heads across the globe. Conceived by NYC’s Mike Brun, CCM is a one-of-a-kind creation that blends hypnotic beats, intricate melodies, and vibrant visuals into a sensory feast that fans describe as “stoned virtuosity”.
In a genre where quantity often trumps quality, CCM stands out as a labor of love. Mike Brun, a seasoned producer and instrumentalist, launched the project in secret, recording every track with a precision that’s rare in today’s music landscape. He played almost every instrument himself, collaborating only with trusted NYC musicians and visionary artist Hannah van der Weide, who brought CCM’s animated world to life.
The result? A sound that feels deeply human yet otherworldly—a balance of groove-heavy funk, shimmering synths, and lush guitar lines that evoke comparisons to Khruangbin and Toro y Moi. CCM’s appeal isn’t just sonic; it’s visual, emotional, and downright immersive.
Since its launch in late 2022, CCM has quietly revolutionized Lofi music. Its growing fanbase has propelled the project to two million Spotify streams per month, while viral TikTok and Instagram posts have solidified its cult status. Now, with the release of its sophomore album, satsuma, CCM is ready to expand its reach even further.
Each track on , satsuma, is named after a different type of orange, symbolizing the global influences that shape CCM’s sound. Highlights include “Byeonggyul,” an atmospheric nod to Korean indie genius Mid-Air Thief, and “Sumo,” a guitar-heavy groove that lands somewhere between soulful and seismic. The album has already landed on Spotify’s “Alt Here” and Facemelts playlists, cementing CCM’s reputation as a rising star.
For fans, the next chapter of CCM’s journey is an event worth celebrating. On February 6th, 2024, Brun will bring CCM to the stage for the first time, debuting the project live at Nublu 151 in New York City. This intimate concert promises to be as lush and immersive as the music itself—a true celebration of CCM’s kaleidoscopic universe.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, Ciao Ciao Marigold offers a chance to escape the mundane and step into a world of psychedelic wonder. Stream, satsuma, now, and let the grooves carry you somewhere magical.
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.
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