Vents Magazine’s Special 5: Volume 64

Here at Vents Magazine, we keep our ear to the ground on the hottest artists of the moment and the upcoming ones to watch for the future. In this weekly feature, we’ll be bringing you 5 of these artists to listen to and check out in what we’re naming our “Special 5”. So, pop on your headphones, and take a listen to this week’s 5 releases below…

The Kid and I – “Wonder Pt. 2”

Kicking off the year with a bang, The Kid and I follow up their genre-defying alt-rock gem, “Wonder Pt. 1”, with the highly anticipated “Wonder Pt. 2”. While Pt. 1 showcased a more gentle balladry building to a powerful rock crescendo, Pt. 2 takes a different turn. It’s a thrashing and euphoric alternative rock single reminiscent of throwback legends Green Day and Blink-182. Frontman Jacob Powell bares his all on this energetic finale, showcasing the band’s versatility. The outro is a spectacle in itself, featuring a full band finish and a beautiful string section full of violins and viola playing amidst layered delays and echoes of electric guitars.

Loren Heat – “Breathe (SOS)”

After releasing their infectious debut single “Curiosity” last year, emerging north east talent Loren Heat is back with the anthemic new single “Breathe (SOS)” on 23rd February via Quiet Crown. With tastemaker support from the likes of BBC Introducing already under their belt, Loren Heat is quickly making their unique voice heard. The 20-year-old singer-songwriter from Middlesbrough has once again teamed up with producer Chad Rodgers (Cape Cub, Llovers, Tom Joshuato create a bold and confident take on the eternal struggle of keeping your head above water.

MattGordon – “Never Rains Forever”

After a brief hiatus from releasing music, MattGordon (MG) makes a triumphant return in 2024 with his stunning new single, “Never Rains Forever”. The track immediately evokes the golden era of R&B, reminiscent of the pop-infused gems from the ‘80s and ‘90s. Teaming up with renowned producer Nyrell (A$AP MOB, Wale, Saweetie), MG delivers an epic slow-rock-infused R&B sound that flirts with ballad territory. Instrumentally rich and evocative, “Never Rains Forever” showcases Matt’s sumptuous vocals, hitting the sweet spot with beautifully arranged and layered melodies. The vulnerability and honesty of the track serve as a metaphor for resilience, reminding listeners that storms, metaphorical or real, never last forever.

Outstraight Records – “Drive Around”

Founded in 2015, Outstraight Records underwent a transformative pivot in 2020, redirecting its focus toward multiple music releases. Following the collective’s most successful musical year in 2023, the label is set to make a significant mark in 2024 with the launch of its inaugural label release, the 7-track EP titled Being Outstraight. A celebration of the vibrant energy of what is a 10 artist strong collective, Being Outstraight serves as a sonic journey, offering a comprehensive soundscape that showcases the full spectrum of hip-hop sounds and energy emanating from the green isle. The lead single, “Drive Around”, takes centre stage.

Feels Like Fire – “She’s on Fire (Uptown Girl)”

US indie-pop/Americana rock band Feels Like Fire releases their latest single “She’s on Fire (Uptown Girl)”. The track is the lead single taken from the band’s debut album Amaranthine. “She’s on Fire (Uptown Girl)” features an arrangement of drums, guitar and piano lines that gently build throughout the track, finally crescendoing into an anthemic finale that wouldn’t be out of place in any stadium show or festival. Throughout the single, the band utilises strong lyrical imagery coupled with warm harmonies and an emotive vocal performance to paint a vivid picture of the world around them. 

About rj frometa

Head Honcho, Editor in Chief and writer here on VENTS. I don't like walking on the beach, but I love playing the guitar and geeking out about music. I am also a movie maniac and 6 hours sleeper.

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