We Speak Music

KAWAII HOE Delivers Masterful Debut Album ‘The Reality’

Published

9 months ago

August 2, 2024

KAWAII HOE, the rising star known for their distinctive blend of pop, dance pop, electro pop, and hyperpop, is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene with the release of their debut album, ‘The Reality’. This date holds a special significance as it also marks their 27th birthday. Fans and critics alike are eager to experience the innovative soundscapes and genre-blending tracks that have become KAWAII HOE’s signature.

Originally from London and now based in Wexford, Ireland, KAWAII HOE has quickly emerged as a noteworthy voice in contemporary pop music. Their debut EP, ‘Dream On,’ received critical acclaim for its fresh and innovative approach, particularly the standout single ‘Colours Everywhere,’ which solidified their status as an artist to watch. Drawing inspiration from trailblazing contemporaries like 100 gecs, Charli XCX, and Dorian Electra, KAWAII HOE’s music offers a thrilling and unique listening experience.

‘The Reality’ explores themes of identity, self-expression, and the tension between fantasy and everyday life. The album maintains an infectious, dance-worthy energy throughout, with the focus track ‘Reality’ epitomizing these explorations. KAWAII HOE explains, “‘Reality’ explores the contrast between fantastical dreams of wealth and the everyday world. It captures both the allure of imagining a life of luxury and the grounding pull of actual circumstances, inviting listeners to reflect on their own aspirations and realities.”

A proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, KAWAII HOE infuses their work with messages of inclusivity and self-expression, resonating deeply with a diverse audience. The album features the breakout single ‘What If I’m Rich & Famous,’ which has already garnered significant attention and praise across various media outlets in Ireland.

KAWAII HOE’s commitment to pushing musical boundaries is evident in the AI-driven production that defines ‘The Reality.’ This cutting-edge technology creates a vibrant sonic playground that celebrates both dreams and truths, challenging conventions and redefining the pop genre with every beat.

With ‘The Reality,’ KAWAII HOE cements their place at the forefront of pop music’s evolution. As they continue to challenge and captivate listeners, there’s no doubt that KAWAII HOE is set to leave a lasting mark on the music world.

We Speak Music

Waz-u drops ambient gem ‘Vermillion’ ft. Lilyg

Published

23 hours ago

April 25, 2025

Don Reed

London-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Waz-u returns with his second album, Preludes: Dusk Psalms, set for release on 16 May 2025 via independent label Biodiversity. The 15-track record further refines the artistic depth of his debut, blending electronic textures and classical compositional techniques in an intricate, immersive listening experience.

Ahead of the album release, Waz-u is dropping an exclusive vocal version of ‘Vermillion: G Major’ from the album, accompanied by its original instrumental version. ‘Vermillion’ with Lilyg will be released on 18 April 2025, evoking intimate indie-folk and pop and follows the release of a vocal version of ‘Lament’ with Tom Norrington. ‘The singles are a way to give a voice to the atmosphere of the record and to lyrically encapsulate some of the themes explored,’ explains Waz-u. ‘Lily and Tom are good friends of mine and have both been listening to early iterations of these preludes – it felt right to involve them directly on this record.’

‘Preludes: Dusk Psalms’ marks a new branch of Waz-u’s emerging sound, guided by the duality of tradition and innovation. Combining his musical roots in early ‘90s dub techno and classical music, the album weaves carefully layered synthesizers and electronics to evoke the ambience of sacred music — from the gentle timbres of a choir or an organ to the quiet, open, and reverberating spaces of a church. Also featured throughout the album is experimental musician G9 LUV, who creates textures and drones by bowing his bass guitar, resulting in cello-like sounds. The release follows Waz-u’s 2024 debut LP, Prayer For Dawn, which merged dub, techno, and electronica in an exploration of the ritualistic traditions associated with both organized religion and dance.

Bringing the album’s themes to life, Waz-u will celebrate the release of Preludes: Dusk Psalms with a special performance at Our Holy Redeemer in Clerkenwell, London on 14 May 2025. Set against the church’s resonant acoustics, the event will feature live performance arrangements, including a choir, with further details to be announced soon.