We Speak Music
Newmoon drop blissful shoegaze track ‘Fading Phase’

Brace yourselves for an enchanting musical journey as Newmoon, the acclaimed shoegaze band from Antwerp, Belgium, unveils their third studio album ‘Temporary Light’, set for release on March 22nd 2024, through [PIAS] Recordings (EU) and Manifesto Records (US).
Ahead of the album release, Newmoon have released the album’s first single ‘Fading Phase’. Dreamy, hypnotic and ethereal with blooming guitars and gracefully haunting melodies, ‘Fading Phase’ will send listeners into a state of mesmerizing bliss.
“While writing this album I got a new guitar”, singer-guitarist Bert Cannaerts explains, “It was an older Rickenbacker from the 90’s with loads of wear and tear on it. Definitely a guitar that already had a great life before it got into my hands. The main riff of ‘Fading Phase’ was the first thing I wrote on that guitar and the whole song just kind of wrote itself as soon as I had that riff. It was one of those magical moments where everything just falls into place.”
‘Temporary Light’ is full of those magical moments. It weaves a sonic tapestry that harks back to the band’s roots yet retains a fresh approach that keeps their music alluring. Blending airy vocals with lush guitars, Newmoon creates an immersive sound that sweeps listeners off their feet into a striking world that feels distant yet familiar at the same time.
Joined by new drummer, Conor Dawson, album #3 marks an exciting chapter in Newmoon’s evolution. The band’s signature feel for grand yet delicate melodies are enriched by Dawson’s rhythmic finesse, adding a layer of depth and musicality to their songs.
After a more melodic approach on their previous release ‘Nothing Hurts Forever’, Newmoon returns to embrace their abrasive, dreamy and ethereal sound on “Temporary Light”. Eight tracks that sweep from gentle melodies and catchy hooks to plush walls of guitars and pummeling drums.
“Thick layers of guitars always felt natural to us and are kind of our main thing. We wanted to explore some ideas that have been in the back of our mind ever since we started this band,” says Bert Cannaerts. “As soon as we let go of trying to write a specific type of album, the songs grew organically and everything just clicked.”
Having previously recorded “Space” and the band’s debut EP “Invitation To Hold”, Newmoon enlisted engineer and producer Thomas Valkiers again to record “Temporary Light”. Additionally, Simon Scott of Slowdive,, renowned as one of the key people within the shoegazing genre, is responsible for mastering, truly elevating the sound of “Temporary Light”.
For the cover art the band contacted Brussels-based American painter Janise Yntema. “When we saw her painting everything just clicked,” explains Cannaerts. “We were immediately drawn to it and it felt like it fit the theme of the album so well. We got her permission right as we went into the studio so it also gave us some form of visual reference while recording.” The original painting is from 2019 and is titled ‘Morning Sky’.

We Speak Music
Ervin Munir Drops Second Studio Album, “Pure and Simple”

Returning with his second studio album, “Pure and Simple”, Norfolk-based singer-songwriter Ervin Munir impresses! Following his first album, “Broken Compass”, Ervin does not fail to enthral with a sound which is uniquely his own. Moreover, he emphasises love, grief and loss in this album which will take you on a trip to remember.
One of the highlights of “Pure and Simple” is its many collaborations with a versatile list of musicians, which give the album depth and edge. Tina Blaber’s vocals on “King and Doors” add extra dimension to the album and Aeron Z Jones’s contributions on bass, electric, and slide guitar bring newfound energy.
“Pure and Simple” finds the perfect mix between grandeur and intimacy right from beginning to end. ‘Felixstowe”, is one of the album’s best and it captures its emotional depth and employs a strong drum solo to accentuate its poignant delivery. It is stripped-back but very touching and it is a magnificent distillation of Ervin’s musical vision. “Doors” highlights Munir’s adaptability as his delicate piano playing accentuates Blaber’s harmonies and it produces a very personal feeling.
“Pure and Simple” is evidence of Ervin Munir’s musicianship, honest candour, and engaging songwriting. For everyone who values sincere narrative via song, this album is a must-listener providing times of contemplation and pure musical enjoyment.
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