We Speak Music

NJ’s own Zach Kyle drops new single/new album

Published

6 months ago

October 10, 2024

Emcee Zach Kyle brings it back with the release of his new single “Nostalgia.” The young NY transplant takes us on a dream-like train-of-thought narrative coupled with a shifting soundscape (produced by Ray Janes) of ghostly keys and bombastic drums.

Taken from the #SWAG LP (Out on Oct 10^th) Kyle said of the project “the concept of the album is me trying to find a balance between my current life in New York City versus my upbringing in suburban New Jersey. The first few tracks are more ignorant and turnt because I feel that’s who I turn into when I hit the city; A more “swagged out” version of myself, whereas my life in Jersey feels a lot more ‘real.’

Speaking on the track he added “‘Nostalgia’ serves as a turning point in the album, where the music starts to become more personal and representative of my Jersey life. Throughout this track, I’m using more obscure, yet deeply personal imagery to represent the beginning of me opening up to the listener. There’s a lot of references throughout the track to things that are nostalgic to me, such as trips to the Hamptons with my friends, memories with girls, but the main point of nostalgia being touched on is summer camp. Growing up as one of the only black kids in my very white and very suburban town, summer camp was the first place I felt in my life I was truly free to express myself without any judgement and be accepted with open arms. I wanted to make a song that felt like that feeling of being there and being young and energetic and excited to start your day.”

Though barely out of his teens, Zach Kyle has extensive first-hand history with hip-hop partly due to proximity to his father, DJ Jay-Ef whose creative friends include Masta Ace, Wordsworth & Planet Asia. Over the past few years Kyle has been prolific releasing two previous albums, Autonomy and Shangri-La as well as several EP’s and numerous singles.

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

We Speak Music

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

Published

12 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.