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Review: Matt Cleare’s “Evelyne!” – A Mystical Blend Of Alternative R&B And Rock

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Miami-born, Atlanta-based artist Matt Cleare has once again captivated listeners with his latest single, “Evelyne!” Following the success of his previous release, “4000!”, this genre-bending musician/producer/songwriter continues to push boundaries and impress with his unique sound. As he prepares for the release of his upcoming EP, Butterfly Twist!, “Evelyne!” serves as a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.

With “Evelyne!”, Matt Cleare delves into the realm of alternative R&B and rock, enveloping the listener in a psychedelic and nocturnal aura. Right from the start, the track demands attention, with Matt’s soulful vocals drawing us into a world of mysticism and love under the moonlight. The mesmerizing electric guitar riffs and immersive drums create a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for his heartfelt lyrics.

One cannot discuss “Evelyne!” without mentioning the equally eerie and captivating music video, skillfully directed by Almighty Zion (known for his work with Mariah the Scientist and Rico Nasty). The visuals enhance the song’s ethereal quality, providing a visual feast that complements the auditory experience.

Matt Cleare draws inspiration from the shoegaze movement, and while he may not consider himself a seasoned guitar player, his guitar parts serve as the foundation for Butterfly Twist!. Collaborating with talented guitarist Jo Darko and drummer Edmund, Matt successfully captures the essence of the song’s story. “Evelyne!” draws from real experiences, exploring the duality of dating a dancer and immersing oneself in the lifestyle. It echoes the atmosphere of rock & roll venues, painting a vivid picture of the seedier, mysterious rooms where bikers, psychics, and die-hard Guns N’ Roses fans congregate.

With “Evelyne!”, Matt Cleare continues to establish himself as a boundary-pushing artist, fearlessly exploring the intersection of genres and crafting a sound uniquely his own. His ability to blend alternative R&B, rock, and a touch of psychedelia is a testament to his artistry and talent. This track leaves listeners eager for more, as they anticipate the release of Butterfly Twist!.

Don’t miss out on the mesmerizing journey of “Evelyne!” and be sure to check it out on all major platforms. Matt Cleare’s music is an experience that shouldn’t be missed, and “Evelyne!” sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting EP release.

We Speak Indie Artist

Marz Starlife Makes A Striking First Impression With Healing

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Every once in a while, a debut comes along that doesn’t just introduce an artist – it reveals a soul. Marz Starlife’s first EP, Healing, is exactly that. It’s raw, it’s heartfelt, and it doesn’t pretend to have everything figured out. Instead, it leans into the messiness of real life – the mistakes, the heartbreak, the isolation – and tries to make sense of it all through music. Born in Jamaica, raised in the UK, and now back on the island, Marz brings a cross-cultural perspective to his storytelling, but at the heart of Healing is something deeply human: the need to reckon with the past in order to move forward.

Across the project’s standout tracks, Marz doesn’t hold back. In Bad Memories, he opens up about years lost to incarceration, fractured relationships, and the weight of regret. “Spent four birthdays locked up, baby remember me please,” he raps, in a tone that’s both matter-of-fact and aching. The production stays subdued and moody, letting the lyrics breathe. There’s no glorification of the streets here, only reflection. He admits to being young and caught up in the chase for fast money, but he also shows growth, making it clear that he’s not the same person he once was. It’s a track that lingers, not because it tries to be flashy, but because it feels real.

The title track, Healing, is where everything clicks. Marz taps into something almost spiritual as he raps, “I turn pain into power, darkness to light.” The song is layered with poetic lines and subtle emotional shifts, balancing toughness with tenderness. There’s a determination to rise above, even when the scars still sting. He reflects on his upbringing, his time in the streets, and the inner battles he continues to fight. “No shrink can understand how I’m feeling,” he says, and honestly, it’s hard not to believe him. The pain here is too specific, too lived-in. But instead of letting it swallow him, he uses it to fuel something greater.

What’s refreshing about Healing is that it doesn’t try to fit neatly into any one genre or narrative. Marz blends elements of UK hip-hop, Jamaican rhythm, and emotional rap into something that feels uniquely his own. He’s not here to be the loudest or the flashiest; he’s here to be honest. And in a world full of over-produced, over-polished music, that honesty stands out.

With Healing, Marz Starlife has given us more than a debut; he’s given us a mirror into his journey, and maybe even our own. Whether you’ve lived through similar struggles or are just someone who appreciates music with depth and heart, this EP is worth your time. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t linear, but it’s possible, and that sometimes telling your story is the most powerful thing you can do.

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