PMR Vinyl & CDs

Review: Master Peace reaches new heights on this thrilling five-track 12". He grew up listening to bands like Bloc Party, Arctic Monkeys and The Streets, and combines that with contemporary inspirations to cook up a mix of resonant songwriting and anthemic pop hooks. 'Veronica' from this EP is already a radio hit and 'Groundhog Day' easily slips into the fine UK tradition for belting indie. Nothing here is frilly or excessive, the lyrics are tight and the grooves drive with the wide-eyed 'Kaleidoscope' being a standout amongst these powerful and bold new tunes.

Review: British singer Hope Tala makes about as impressive a debut as you could possibly hope for here. Hope Handwritten is full of indelible love letters and brims with the confidence of an artist who has finely honed her craft. The West London singer leans on neo-soul and classic r&b for inspiration while weaving personal narratives with meticulous care. The standout track 'Breaking Isn't What A Heart Is For' exemplifies the album's essence with velvet vocals over beautifully arranged instrumentals that deepen the emotion of her storytelling. Tala's literary background shines through in her direct yet poetic lyrics, which make this one even more of a fine debut.