Melodic Mag // Spencer Sutherland, Hobo Johnson, Whitney by melodicmag

LODIC

PHOTOS: JUDAH AND THE LION, OSO OSO, VAMPIRE WEEKEND + MORE

G A Z I N ISSUE 006

SEPTEMBER 2019

SPENCER

SUTHERLAND

+ SABINA BEYLI // HOBO JOHNSON // WHITNEY // BABYMETAL + DISCOVER: NASHVILLE, TN

MELODIC MAGAZINE

CONTENTS//

SPENCER SUTHERLAND ANGEL ESCOBAR 2 MELODIC MAGAZINE

INTRODUCTIONS

TEAM MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

PLAYLIST: MELODIC ESSENTIALS

IN YOUR CITY: NASHVILLE, TN

ARE GENRES A THING OF THE PAST?

LYRICS YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL LOVE: LANA DEL REY

BABYMETAL

ON YOUR RADAR

SABINA BEYLI

SPENCER SUTHERLAND

ALBUM REVIEWS

LIVE PHOTOS

MELODIC MAGAZINE

M E L O D I C ISSUE M A006 G A ZSEPI N2019 E VICTORIA GOODWIN editor-in-chief // media coordinator ANGEL ESCOBAR online editor // photojournalist

COVER PHOTO: angel escobar // @escofotos

SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM: angel escobar, bella shirk, hailey collins, hannah maynes, kellie wiltz, kendra post Contributing ezine Writers: angel escobar, angela leung, christine sloman, hannah howells jones willingham, jordyn lyric, kiana lawrence Contributing ezine Photographers: alana noble, angel escobar, ariana simon, carrine hen, jonathan sommer, hailey collins, jane wallin, juliana morales, liz wiltshire, leah craft, orest dorosh, taylor bernard

FOLLOW US // Website www.melodicmag.com TWITTer + Insta @MELODICMAG Facebook MELODIC MAGAZINE SPOTIFY MELODIC MAGAZINE Look out for the next issue Www.issuu.com/melodicmag

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LISTEN WHILE YOU READ:

TEAM MEMBER

SPOTLIGHT

CHRISTINE SLOMAN AGE 26 WHERE ARE YOU FROM Tampa, Florida WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN MELODIC Writer WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE ARTIST TO SEE LIVE It is so hard to pick which artists I love seeing live, but I would have to say that The 1975 is definitely one of my favorites. I have seen them the most and it’s been fun seeing their shows evolve into these massive productions. I also really enjoy seeing Panic! at the Disco. They were the first band that I ever liked and so when I am at one of their shows, it just feels so surreal and amazing. When it comes to picking which artists I like to review, I haven’t reviewed an artist more than once, so I can’t say just yet. However, I have enjoyed the artists that I have reviewed so far and I would definitely review them again. FAVORITE CONCERT EVER ATTENDED I think I would have to go with last year’s Warped Tour. I had never been before, and I still don’t know how or why I never went, but it was such a fun day. I couldn’t really believe that something so incredible existed! I saw loads of my favorite bands and discovered a lot of other cool bands. I also did the photography workshop, which was so eye-opening. A lot of great memories were made. CAREER GOALS Ultimately, I want to be happy and know that what I was doing was making an impact in some way. I want other music lovers out there to find those bands that they really need or help them see an artist in a different way and if I could contribute through an article, an interview, or through a photograph, then my job is done. The dream would, of course, be to work with artists that I have always admired, but as long as I get to work with others who have the same passion for music as I do, then that is all that matters. Shout out to Melodic and to everyone out there who uses music to get through their day <3

WANT MORE FROM CHRISTINE?

INSTA @christine.sloman SEE CHRISTINE’S WORK THROUGHOUT THIS ISSUE Pg 10, 26, 27 MELODIC MAGAZINE

melodic essentials >>>

Angel Escobar

playlist by 6 MELODIC MAGAZINE

Spencer Sutherland – Sweater Monsta X – Who Do U Love (Feat. French Montana) Post Malone – Circles SiR – You Can’t Save Me Ruel – Real Thing Allison Ponthier – Gross Mxmtoon – Prom Dress Lana Del Rey – Cinnamon Girl All The Rest – Our Youth AJ Mitchell – Move On Alec Benjamin – Jesus In LA Mura Masa & Clairo – I Don’t Think I Can Do This Again Fletcher – If You’re Gonna Lie Lolo Zouai – Moi Taylor Swift – False God Chase Atlantic – HEAVEN AND BACK NCT 127 – Highway To Heaven PVRIS – Hallucinations Zara Larsson - All The Time Phoebe Ryan – A Thousand Ways Tiffany Young – Magnetic Moon Rich Brian – Rapapapa (Feat. RZA) Poppy – Meat NF – Trauma Mabel – Just A Friend Bazzi – I.F.L.Y

MELODIC MAGAZINE

INYOUR YOUR IN CITYCITY >>> >>>

Nashville, tn Welcome to MUSIC CITY, U.S.A.: Most notable for its high production of musical talents and potential

opportunities for aspiring artisans of all genres. NASHVEGAS awaits with open arms and more southern

charm than you ever thought you needed, so throw on your kickers and saddle up for a local look! INPUT FROM LOCALS OF NASHVEGAS >>>

FAVORITE LOCAL RADIO STATIONS >>>

Andrew Ha • Amanda Hunt

Haley Bullard • Jenn Stookey

Lighting 100 (100.1) • 107.5

Jonathan Sommer • Ross Parham

The Big 98 (97.9) • 105.9

FAVORITE LOCAL VENUES >>> Analog • The Back Corner • The Basement East • Belcourt Taps Bridgestone Arena • Cannery Ballroom • High Watt

•

N IO

JUD

AH AND THE L

MME

David O’Donohue • Faith Rowely • Jase Harshman

E, T N SO

Andy Barron • Autumn Dozier • Caroline Voisine

ILL

Jakob Wandel • Jonathan Sommer • Lauren Lundy Mandy Reid • Meaghan Mcbell • Nolan Knight

FAVORITE LOCAL ARTISTS >>> Amanda Shires • Arlie • Briston Maroney • Caitlin Rose • Chey Rose • Chris Ferrara Jake Wesley Rogers • Jess Jocoy • Josh Turner • Judah & The Lion • Kat Saul • Lauren Weintraub Marty Manus • Moon Taxi • Muscadine Bloodline • Secondhand Sound • Striking Marches

MELODIC MAGAZINE

FAVORITE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER >>>

V SH

NA TH

Mercy Lounge • Ryman Auditorium • Exit/In

by JO

The Listening Room • The Local • Marathon Music Works

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER AWESOME MUSIC RELATED THINGS NASHVILLE HAS TO OFFER? JONATHAN SAYS: Grimey’s Record Store (they put on free shows/signings for artists touring in town),

Live On The Green (free music festival every year), CMA Fest, Belmont University Showcase Series, Nashville is known for their writers night and rounds at venues all over town!

AMANDA SAYS: McKays & Grimeys: used record/book stores.

JENN SAYS: Grimey’s record store, Nashville Is The Reason puts on Emo Live Band events a lot which are super fun, Musician’s Corner puts on a lot of live music events and panels which are all free and

usually on a weekly or bi weekly basis, Americana Fest is based in Nashville every September and it’s

another great festival with enough free events you can

go to without having to pay for a badge.

DID YOU KNOW? Nashville was founded in 1779 and has since become best known as the capital of country music; as evidenced by such attractions as the Country Music Hall of Fame and the city’s famous Music Row District. In 1925, the establishment of radio station WSM and The Grand Ole Opry further secured Nashville’s reputation as a musical center and sparked its durable nickname of Music City. Nashville has also long been known as the “Songwriting Capital of the World”. Timeless bands from Nashville include:

Kings of Leon, Old Crow Medicine Show, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Lonestar. Modern bands like Paramore, COIN, Dan + Shay, Kesha,

Judah and the Lion, and Moon Taxi also rep Nashville as home.

NASHVILLE + MUSIC: • In 1941, Nashville was the first city in the country to be granted an FM-Broadcasting License • Elvis recorded over 200 of his songs at RCA’s historic Studio B on Music Row • Centennial Park is home to the only replica of the Greek Parthenon • “Jingle Bell Rock,” “The Bunny Hop,” and “Hokey Pokey” were all recorded in Nashville • Nashville is home to the largest songwriter’s festival in the world. Tin Pan South takes place every spring and draws more than 350 songwriters who perform original work in venues around the city MELODIC MAGAZINE

F O G N I H T A S ARE GENRE article by

Christine Sloman

? T S A P THE

Road,” it is a blend Musical genres have always been around of hip-hop and to help define our musical experiences. country; Lil Nas X They might inform the type of bar we visit sings in a country or the type of festival we attend. It would style over hip-hop be so weird if we didn’t have categories for beats. our music, but it seems like we are getting Of course, not closer to living in a world where genres are everyone was able becoming less important. Lately, the next to comprehend best artist or the next best song doesn’t play what was going by the rules. Artists are becoming more open on with the track. to changing their sound from album to album Recently, Billboard and songs are starting to incorporate more claimed that there was not enough elements than one type of genre in their composition. in the track to deem it as country and proceeded to remove the song from the With all of the new technology out country charts. While it still remains on the there, people are able to make music in hip-hop charts, fans have been confused as unconventional ways and produce songs or to why Billboard would pull the track from albums that contain a mixture of genres. The the country charts. They claim that there most prominent example of this is Lil Nas have been tracks by other artists in the past X’s breakout song, “Old Town Road.” This who have had similar songs, yet those songs got to stay on multiple charts. Lil Nas X even claimed that the song is “country trap” and should be on both charts. Either way, the track has proven to be very successful and shows that genres are not objective.

“

”

songs are starting to incorporate more than one type of genre in their composition

In addition to multi-genre tracks, we are getting multi-genre albums. One band that song has been number one on the Billboard is starting to become notorious for this is The charts for almost five months now, setting the 1975. Any fan of The 1975 has heard Matty record for most weeks at number one. For Healy state time and time again, “We create those who aren’t too familiar with “Old Town in the way that we consume.” The front man uses this phrase to summarize the band’s

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sound and why the band experiments with different genres from album to album. He explains how everyone listens to different types of music, so they feel it is only proper to make music in a similar manner. This philosophy tends to be working in their favor, as they received the award for “Best British Album” earlier this year at the BRIT Awards for their third effort, A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships. Newcomers, Chase Atlantic, are also exemplary of what it means to “genrebend.” When I first listened to their debut album, I noticed that the band used various elements of genres in each one of the songs. I wasn’t sure what I was hearing, but I liked everything. When it came to identifying the band’s sound as a whole, though, I was at a loss. The bio on their Spotify page cannot even give a clear explanation, mentioning that the boys incorporate “elements of contemporary hip-hop and trap production into decidedly alternative-minded pop and rock songs.” We may never determine a definite identity for Chase Atlantic, but they

are definitely representing the next wave of artists. Lately, when I try to organize my playlists, I notice that I struggle to sort the songs into groups. I try to create the typical “pop” playlist or the “rock” playlist, but a lot of my newest jams fit both. Sometimes, they don’t even fit anything. Instead, I resort to how the songs make me feel. If it deals with a breakup or sounds melancholy, then it goes into my “sad songs” list. If it makes me want to spin around outside in the rain or dance like no one is watching, then it goes into the “happy” list. Usually, though, I will make artist playlists, such as “The 1975” or “LANY,” because their songs stand out so much on their own that it can be hard to place them between other songs. Indeed, genres are starting to become outdated, as CDs have now become outdated. They aren’t really a necessity any more in order for music to thrive. Mostly, people just want their music to sound good; no one really cares if it fits what they usually listen to or not. At this point, labels and categories just restrict the types of music we can create or hear on the radio. As people and technology progress, there is no telling which direction music will go, but there is no doubt that it will continue to inspire and change the game for the better.

MELODIC MAGAZINE

Lyrics you’ll love from Lana Del Rey’s

by Kiana Lawrence On her cinematic and airy fifth album, Norman Fucking Rockwell, Lana Del Rey solidified her place as a top-tier songwriter of today. Unlike most of her peers in music, Lana does not shy away from the lengthy, melodramatic tracks that generated her rise to fame. She consistently creates work that is not intended to be popular yet secures a place in mainstream culture due to relatable lyrics and a timeless sound. Lana’s simply elegant lyrics are often the highlight of each album, notoriously broadcasted in social media captions and sketched across school notebooks. Her latest 14-track release is no different, here are the lyrics you’ll love from Norman Fucking Rockwell:

Norman Fucking Rockwell

Mariners Apartment Complex

“ You talk to the walls when the party gets bored of you. But I don’t get bored, I just see

“ Don’t look too far, right where you are, that’s where I am.”

“Why wait for the best when I could have you?”

“ You’re lost at sea, then I’ll command your boat to me again.”

you through.”

MELODIC MAGAZINE

“ Hold me, love me, touch me, help me. Be the first who ever did.”

How to Disappear “Can’t a girl just do the best she can?” “ I’m the board the lightning the thunder. Kind of girl who’s gonna make you wonder, who you are and who you’ve been.

Venicee Bitch “Fresh out of f*cks forever.” “ If you weren’t mine, I’d be, jealous of your love.”

Fuck it I Love You “ But one day I woke up like, ‘Maybe I’ll do it differently.” “F*ck it I love you, I really do.” “ Wish that you would hold me or just say that you were mine.” “ And if I wasn’t so f*cked up, I think I’d f*ck you all the time.”

Doin’ Time “Show them, now, we’ve come off the shelf.”

Love song

“ You know that I’d just die to make you proud.” “We go fast, we go so fast, we don’t move.”

“ I love that man like nobody can. He moves mountains and pounds them to the ground again.”

California

“ You don’t ever have to, be stronger than you really are, when you’re lying in my arms.” “ Baby, you don’t ever have to, go faster than your fastest pace or faster than my fastest cars.” “ And honey, you don’t ever have to, act cooler than you think you should. You’re brighter than the brightest, star.”

The Next Best American Record “ Whatever’s on tonight, I just want to party with you.” “It’s you, all the roads lead to you.”

The greatest “ The culture is lit, and I had a ball. I guess that I’m burned out after all.”

Happiness is a Butterfly “ If he’s a serial killer, then what’s the worst, that could happen to a girl that’s already hurt?”

Cinnamon girl

Hope is a dangerous thing for a woman like me to have

“ If you hold me without hurting me, you’ll be the first who ever did.”

“ Don’t ask if I’m happy, you know that I’m not. But at least I can say I’m not sad.”

“ There’s things I want to say to you, but I’ll just let you live.”

“ Hope is a dangerous thing for a woman like me to have, but I have it.”

“Is it safe, is it safe to just be who we are?” “ Touch me anywhere ‘cause I’m your baby. Grab my waist, don’t waste any part.”

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Bringing the kawaii metal sound to the Coca-Cola Roxy, BABYMETAL (Su-Metal, Moametal, and temporary new member Riho Sayashi) brought non-stop energy to their Atlanta fans this past weekend. With a night filled with galaxy video interludes and insane light work, fans were treated to a one of kind experience. Starting the night with an old fan favorite “Megitsune,” the trio took on the stage 14

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with loud roars from the crowd. Dancing in perfect sync with one another, the members moved all over the stage floor as fans went ballistic. Hitting notes with such ease, BABYMETAL’s lead singer Su-Metal filled the venue with her voice. With an all ready electrified crowd, Su-Metal shouted “ARE YOU READY!?” making the crowd become more ballistic than what it was before. Transitioning into “Elevator Girl,” the three members kept the energy going.

Constantly showing a duality in their stage presence, the girls would go from all smiles to intense stares just at the right moment. Continuing the show, the girls demonstrated a high level of stamina as they performed nonstop with excitement and passion. With fans of all ages dancing and rocking out, the Atlanta crowd was truly mesmerized by the trio. As the night went on, BABYMETAL’s setlist consisted of old, new, and unreleased songs from their upcoming album Metal Galaxy (Set to release on October 11,2019). Pleasing old and new fans, BABYMETAL’s show is a must attend event. With addicting personalities and amazing talent, there is no doubt that BABYMETAL is the full package. For sure to leave you mesmerize, BABYMETAL will leave you begging for more as the night ends.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES: 09/20 – Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom 09/21 – Saint Paul, MN @ Myth Live Event Center 09/23 – Kansas City, MO @ Uptown Theater 09/24 – Dallas, TX @ South Side Ballroom 09/27 – Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre 09/28 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Union Event Center 09/30 – Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues 10/01 – Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theater 10/04 – San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield 10/11 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum * 10/13 – Sacramento, CA @ Aftershock ^ 10/15 – Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater # 10/16 – Seattle, WA @ The Paramount Theatre # 11/16 - Saitama, Japan @ Super Arena ~ 11/17 - Saitama, Japan @ Super Arena ~ 11/20 - Osaka, Japan @ Jo Hall ~ 11/21 - Osaka, Japan @ Jo Hall ~ * = no support ^ = festival date # = no Avatar, support from The HU ~ = support from Bring Me the Horizon

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g up your Daily in en p o as sy ea as n be ming fits your playlist ca at th st ti ar picking all the upco r an fo g in fy d ti o fin Sp es n o im et ly s re Som artists that you need , but we can’t alway r fy fo ti o ch Sp ar y b se e d th te n ra o Mix cu ways . is on your playlists odic Magazine is al el ic M us y. m jo ur en yo t ay ha m w u artists yo - no matter ON YOUR RADAR HAVE AN ARTIST YOU WANT TO SEE IN ‘ON YOUR RADAR’? TWEET US @MELODICMAG WITH #MMRADAR

SPENCER SUTHERLAND #POP #R&B #SOUL

FROM: Columbus, OH SIMILAR ARTISTS: Charlie Puth, Sam Smith, Nick Jonas RECENT NEWS: New music later this year

Infusing Pop and R&B to his music, Spencer Sutherland’s soulful vocals will instantly make you want to stan. Having recently released his debut EP, NONE of this has been about you, Spencer’s relatable and honest lyrics shine through the 5 track journey leaving you begging for more. With influences from Bruno Mars, Prince, and Elvis, Spencer creates his own voice and brings a fresh new sound to the pop genre. Set to release more music this upcoming year, we are excited to see what Spencer has been working on. LISTEN: ”Sweater”, “Freaking Out”, “NONE of this has been about you” pick by Angel Escobar

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CONTINUE FOR MORE ARTISTS >>>

HOBO JOHNSON

#HIPHOP #RAP #ALTERNATIVE

FROM: Sacramento, CA SIMILAR ARTISTS: Scotty Sire, Oliver Tree, BROCKHAMPTON RECENT NEWS: New album The Fall of Hobo Johnson released September 13

We’ve seen a lot of new talent pop up in the music scene this year, yet one of the most prominent would have to be Hobo Johnson. Hailing from Northern California, Frank Lopez Jr. (known to many as his stage name “Hobo Johnson”) went viral back in 2018 from a live version of his song “Peach Scone”, which now holds an astounding 15 million views on YouTube and maintains a steady online and social media presence. Hobo Johnson and The Lovemakers begin their United States tour on October 9th in Seattle WA. LISTEN: ”Father”, “3%”, “Peach Scone” pick by Hannah Howells

MY FIRST STORY

#ROCK #JROCK #altrock

FROM: Tokyo, Japan SIMILAR ARTISTS: Coldrain, The Oral Cigarettes RECENT NEWS: New acoustic album The Plugless and a new single “Mukoku”

My First Story is a five-piece rock band based in Tokyo, Japan. Since their formation in 2011, they have released notable hits such as “Fukagyaku Replace”, “Missing You” and “Alone.” Their presence has garnered a generous amount of interest in the public as they’ve participated in several music festivals such as Summer Sonic, Punkspring, and Rock in Japan. Following the release of their fourth album Antithesis in 2016, My First Story had their first Nippon Budokan show in front of a crowd of 12,000 people. Aside from their own shows, the band has previously supported Western acts such as All Time Low and Fall Out Boy. LISTEN: ”Reviver”, “Accident”, “Black Rail”

pick by Angela Leung

MELODIC MAGAZINE

WHITNEY

#alternative #indie

FROM: Chicago, IL SIMILAR ARTISTS: Kevin Morby, Vampire Weekend, Real Estate RECENT NEWS: New album Forever Turned Around out now

It’s easy when describing the Chicago-based band Whitney to rely on cliches. To many, Whitney sounds like warmth, or a tight hug from a friend you haven’t seen in a while. That would sell the remarkable music short to limit their sound to a metaphor, as their earnest indie-rock has won fans across the globe with its easygoing nature and disarmingly honest lyricism. Combining the smooth falsetto of drummer/vocalist Julien Ehrlich and the delicate guitar arrangements of guitarist Max Kakacek, Whitney’s latest album Forever Turned Around is a throwback to the heydey of 70s rock that makes for a lovely listen no matter the season. LISTEN: “Giving Up”, “On My Own”, “Used to Be Lonely” pick by Jones Willingham

PHOEBE BRIDGERS #indierock #folkrock

FROM: Los Angeles, CA SIMILAR ARTISTS: Mazzy Star, Cayetana, Elliott Smith RECENT NEWS:

Phoebe Bridgers is an indie-alt singer/songwriter from Los Angeles. She released her debut album, Killer, in 2016, and in tandem with its follow up, Stranger in the Alps, she amassed a cult following. Bridgers has had a hand in two full-band acts, Better Oblivion Community Center with Bright Eyes’ Conor Oberst, and supergroup boygenius, a collaborative project with indie stars Julien Baker and Lucy Dacus. LISTEN: “Motion Sickness,” “Funeral,” “Smoke Signals,” “Killer.” pick by Jordyn Lyric

PREVIOUS FEATURES: CAUTIOUS CLAY, QUINN XCII, JADE BIRD, KING PRINCESS, THE NUDE PARTY MELODIC MAGAZINE 18

Sabina Beyli Sabina Beyli is aiming for global domination with her growing music career. After becoming a finalist on The Voice Kids Turkey, Sabina has been finding her sound and staying true to herself. With over 250K Spotify streams, over 8M Youtube views, and a constant growing Instagram fanbase of almost 50K followers; Sabina is ready for the next chapter of her U.S. domination. She is set to release a series of singles throughout the upcoming months, ending with her highly anticipated EP, Good Intentions. Check out our interview with Sabina as we discuss her music, balancing real life with social media, and what’s to come in the upcoming months.

MM: If we were to focus on your past releases, I would argue that you are very multi-genre. You have shown a latin side with “Maria Maria” and “No Puedo”. “Searching For You” lands you in the R&B/Ballad category, where as “Last Forever” is more upbeat Pop. Your most recent release, “Close,” has shown a more mature side of you. How would you describe your sound to our readers? SB: Honestly, I completely agree with you when it comes to my genre. When it came to my previous songs, I made them with completely different producers. I was also immature back then, I was like 13 or 14. My latest song “Close” and my upcoming EP has come after gaining more experience and after figuring out my sound.

MM: For your upcoming EP, “Close” will definitely give us a better understanding of what to expect, correct? SB: Yes, but all my tracks from the upcoming EP are different. They sound different from each other. Some are pop, while some are more R&B. MM: How did “Close” come to be? What was the creative process for your latest single? SB: The first thing I did was have an hour long conversation with my producer. I basically told him what I wanted the song to be about. We talked about things that have happened in my private life, you know the usual teenage stuff. From there, he showed me several different tracks and melodies, and we eventually selected a beat that we preferred for “Close.” Once we had the beat, we MELODIC MAGAZINE

MM: Would you say you’re very relatable, and try your best to be authentic then? SB: Yes! Of course, of course. I think it’s really important to be different from others, but also be real and authentic, and discuss things that matter and that hopefully others can relate to. MM: Your upcoming EP is going to be called Good Intentions, correct? Are we going to hear any other singles before the release, or are we going to have to wait for the EP to drop? SB: Yes! That’s the correct name. “Close” Is the lead single from the EP, but later this month, in September, I will be releasing “Replace You.” In October, I will be releasing my debut EP Good Intentions. MM: With such relatable lyrics, would you say the rest of the songs are similar to “Close” when being compared to its theme and lyrics? SB: In general, they have similar topics. Lyrically there are all quite different but straight forward. I’m tired of hiding my feelings. We’re in the 21st century, it’s about time we just put it out there, and say what’s on our minds. Most of the lyrics will portray that, and just remind you to let it all out. MM: You have had a passion for singing and performing for quite some time now. Has it always been a natural want to take this career path? SB: Yes, since I’ve been four. I don’t know why, but I have always wanted to sing. I remember being 4 years old, and just singing all the time. I would look up to artists like Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Christina Aguilera, and say I would to be like them one day. It’s been quite hard not being from America, seeing how I’m from the other side of the world. I know it’s challenging, but I’m willing to do all it takes cause it has always been a dream and passion of mine. MM: Seeing how we are in the social media age, have you been able to connect well with fans? 20

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SB: Absolutely. I think social media is so important when it comes to music, because its the platforms that you use to communicate with your fans. I think my instagram account has been really helpful because I text them, they dm me, they comment on my pictures, and we talk sometimes. It’s really amazing to be able to communicate with them. It can also be hard at times, because at times I may feel pressured to always have to put content out there, especially when I am having to deal with school work. But I love my fans, and talking with them makes me really happy.

“

starting mumming melodies and forming lyrics for “Close.” It was a very long process, but also very interesting. My producer told my dad to leave, so I could talk more freely about things. We just talked and talked, and eventually formed the lyrics for “Close.”

I think it’s really important to be different from others, but also be real and authentic, and discuss things that matter and that hopefully others can relate to

MM: How do you balance it all? Everyday life and school life with social media can get quite challenging. SB: Well because I have to travel so much to record songs, I became home schooled in 10th grade. Most of the time, I’m in my room doing homework,

and then going out to record songs. I haven’t been able to hang out with my friends as much, because music and education have become two of my top priorities right now. MM: Have your family and friends been really supportive of this path? SB: Oh for sure! I have been so lucky from all the support I’ve received. I’m so grateful that they have been supporting my dream, rather than talk against it. They all took it quite seriously, and saw the passion I have for music. They let me do what I love, and support me all the time. It’s great. MM: Is it true that you’re planning on moving to California? SB: Yes, very soon. I want to move as soon as possible, and just live in the studio and make albums, and eventually go on tours. Obviously, education is still very important to me, and I can tell you 100% that I’ll be going to a university. I want to have a great education, as well as having good music. MM: With more music being released very soon and wanting to tour, what would you say would be your future tour goals? SB: I would say in 5-10 years from now, my goal is to be on a world tour. To be able to sing my albums to thousands across the world would really be amazing. For now, as I keep working and releasing more music, hopefully I’ll be able to go to mini tours across America. Hopefully, as I keep releasing more music, one day I will be able to go on a world tour.

one of my upcoming songs. I want to something different. You know, show a different side of me. I’m nice, but I also want to show that I can also be risky and dangerous. haha MM: Wow, it’s clear that your future is planned out, and you know what you want to do! SB: Thank you. I can be a perfectionist. I always like everything planned out so I can be ready. MM: Being a little cheesy right now, but as you get bigger and more well known. If you were able to collab with anyone, who would it be? SB: BTS. I’m literally blushing as I say this. I absolutely love them so much. I hope one day I will have the opportunity to collaborate with them. It’s one of the biggest dreams of mine, it would mean I OFFICIALLY MADE IT. I got to see them perform this past summer, and they were absolutely incredible. They are so humble and amazing. MM: As our interview comes to an end, is there anything else you may want our readers to know about you? SB: I just want them to know that I’m here to talk about things that are very important. New music will be coming out shortly, and I hope they can give it a listen when it comes out. I will hopefully keep making more music that they’ll love.

@sabina.beyli @beyli.sabina

MM: Can we expect any new music videos anytime soon? If so, what can you tell us? SB: Yes, there will definitely be a music video for

interview by Angel Escobar photos courtesy of Gramophone PR

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From releasing an amazing debut EP, NONE of this has been about you, this past March to headlining his first tour, Spencer Sutherland has been working nonstop. Truly establishing a name for himself this year, the soulful pop singer-songwriter has been gaining a following with his impressive vocals and unique sound. While staying true to himself and gaining more success, Spencer has what it takes to be a household name. Throughout the month of August, he traveled across the country as he visited twelve different cities on his “Freaking Out Tour.” Melodic Magazine sat down and chatted with Spencer during his Atlanta show to discuss tour life, his music, and what’s to come for the upcoming months. Melodic Magazine: Your music appears to be a little bit of everything: Soul, R&B, and Pop. How would you describe your sound? Spencer Sutherland: That’s actually a really good way to describe it, but I think it’s definitely its own thing. I don’t think it really or necessary sounds like anybody else’s stuff, but I think it’s a super authentic take on alt-soul-pop. Very conversational lyrics, and stuff that’s very true to me. I don’t like to write songs about stuff that I’m not going through. Just honest music.

show. To be able to go on my first Headline tour, it’s literally something about I’ve been dreaming about ever since I started doing music. Part of me thought that I would never get to this point, but to be here, it’s just so special. This has literally been all possible because of these amazing fans. It’s the only reason why I am able to do this. I have had such a long and unique journey; I am able to step back and truly understand- really appreciate it. Sometimes an artist will blow up quick, and are not able to appreciate it as much, because it happens so fast. We have gone through so much to get here, which has allowed me to appreciate and love it so much.

MM: Congratulations on your first headline tour! SS: Thank you!

MM: Have you guys done formed any traditions/ rituals for the past shows? Has there been anything that you must either do before or after the show is over? SS: Well before the show, I’ll normally be steaming all my clothes. I do have this thing where I have this certain tea with Manuka honey, and I’ll drink that for like 30 minutes while steaming and just relaxing. I do like 50 push-ups, and maybe a shot of Tequila.

MM: How has it been so far? Atlanta is your second to last show, and your last show is at Nashville at theSS: The End! haha, so funny. It’s been a dream come true; I have always wanted to headline a

MM: Ah you can’t go wrong with Tequila! SS: Exactly! You know, just loosen up and joke around with my band, my boys. I really don’t like being too serious before I go on. So just messing around and chilling.

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MM: So, what have been the highs of touring? Have there been any lows? SS: The highs, are the shows and meeting the fans! I actually like driving and traveling, or in my case, riding because I don’t actually drive anywhere. The lows would definitely be the amount I can’t work out. I just don’t have time! The amount I can’t work out, the lack of sleep, and getting sick. I’ve already gotten sick this tour. You legit will get sick on every tour. That is for sure a low. MM: Oh yeah, I can only imagine. The exhaustion and the lack of sleep, all that really adds a toll to the body. SS: Yeah! We are putting on a show that’s a little over an hour is a lot of work. And then to get four hours of sleep, definitely not the most ideal. haha MM: So, you have recently collabed with Hoodie Allen for his latest album. How did that come about? SS: Man, I have actually been a fan of Hoodie for a while now. He actually reached out in my Instagram DM’s, and was like “Hey dude, I love your music video for your single ‘Sweater,” and I was like “BRO, I’m such a huge fan! That’s so amazing you say that!” We became quick friends and went into the studio. That legit was the first song we did together, and it’s out now. Literally two months later. MM: Let’s talk about your debut EP, NONE of this has been about you. How would you describe your EP in two words? SS: Hmm authentic… Authentic Bops. Yeah, that’s it. MM: In forming your debut EP, did you get any inspirations from other songs or artists? SS: I think it just draws from all my favorite artists, like little things from them, like the writing, vocals, or even melodies. I got inspiration from Prince, a little bit from Elvis, Sam Smith, and some Bruno Mars. All off these little bits and pieces have helped in creating my sound. MM: As our interview comes to an end, what does the future hold? What can we expect? SS: The future. This year is holding new music. I am confirming that new music is indeed coming before the end of the year. AND, you might even see me on more tour dates later this year. I love touring and putting out more music and performing. I’m going to keep doing what I love.

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ALBUM REVIEWS // ARTIST Taylor Swift ALBUM Lover

ARTISTS YOU MAY LIKE Demi Lovato, Meghan Trainor, Carly Rae Jepsen RECOMMENDED TRACKS “I Forgot That You Existed” “Cornelia Street” “You Need To Calm Down” You don’t need to be in love or be in a relationship to appreciate Taylor Swift’s new album, Lover. Filled with stories about insecurities, finding yourself, and knowing the difference between good and bad, Lover shines a light on what it means to be alive today. And, okay, there are also some songs about love that will make any hopeless romantic swoon. Differing from reputation, there is a new lightness on this album that comes through on the opening track, “I Forgot That You Existed.” Taylor recalls a moment when she genuinely forgot about having enemies and what it feels like to be at the center of controversy. When you listen to this track, you can picture her just walking along, getting lost in the beauty of the day, and being content. It sets up the tone of the album excellently. After hearing a couple of songs about finding love and keeping love, Taylor tackles the idea of gender bias on the fourth track, “The Man.” While it is all so ridiculous, Taylor ponders how her career might be different if she was a man and observes, “They’d say I hustled, put in the work / They wouldn’t shake their heads and question how much of this I deserve / What I was wearing, if I was rude / Could all be separated from my good ideas and power moves.” 26

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STAY CONNECTED Website: taylorswift.com Instagram: @taylorswift Twitter: @taylorswift13 Facebook: @taylorswift

REVIEW BY: Christine Sloman

While there are some personal tracks on Lover, one of the most personal is the twelfth track, “Soon You’ll Get Better.” On this track, Taylor expresses how she has been dealing with her mother’s cancer battle. When something like this happens to a parent, it can be hard to accept that there is something wrong; you feel so hopeless. The track serves as a beacon of hope for those experiencing such trauma. The album ends on a heartfelt note with the tracks, “It’s Nice To Have A Friend” and “Daylight.” We hear a steel drum accompaniment on “It’s Nice To Have A Friend,” making us feel warm and safe. Further instilling this idea of protection and comfort, the lyrics tell of a close relationship that forms between childhood friends and follows them into adulthood. As the album closes with “Daylight,” we are left feeling radiant, as Taylor calls upon golden hues and shades of red to describe the love she feels from her current lover. After swimming through the vibrant pool that is Lover, we are left knowing that Taylor is in a better place now more than ever. Life can be complicated and frustrating at times, but as long as we hold close the things that bring us light, we are sure to get through anything – and end up with a bold, effervescent album of emotional stories.

ARTIST FLETCHER ALBUM you ruined new york city for me

ARTIST HARBOUR ALBUM Thoughts On Letting Go

REVIEW BY: Christine Sloman

ARTISTS YOU MAY LIKE Demi Lovato, Meghan Trainor, Carly Rae Jepsen

ARTISTS YOU MAY LIKE COIN, Knox Hamilton, Walk the Moon

RECOMMENDED TRACKS “If You’re Gonna Lie”, “Undrunk”

RECOMMENDED TRACKS “That Feeling”, “Glutton”, “Float”

FLETCHER is about to become your next obsession. Described as “exciting,” “non-conformist,” and “catchy,” she is taking the pop world by storm. On you ruined new york city for me, FLETCHER gives us an honest look at her first love, describing what went wrong and how hard it can be to move forward. She explains, “I wore my heart on my sleeve with this project. It’s been important for me to show myself and others that it is okay to be both vulnerable and aggressive at the same time. It means we’re human beings.” The EP begins with the witty, “If You’re Gonna Lie,” where FLETCHER mentions, “If you’re gonna lie / at least do it in my bed.” On the next track, “Undrunk,” she takes us back to a night of regrets, where she wants to undo everything that transpired. The third and fourth tracks, “All Love” and “About You,” summon feelings that we have experienced, but would never say out loud. The EP then concludes with the buoyant-sounding, “Strangers,” which summarizes the state of the relationship you have with your ex after the two of you call it quits. You definitely feel as if you were present for all of the scenarios presented throughout the EP. FLETCHER truly has a gift for songwriting; visuals appear in your head when you listen to the lyrics. It is weird to think that this is only an introduction and that this is just the beginning of her career. Where will she take us next?

For anyone who is having trouble letting go of something, person or feeling, HARBOUR is here to help you move with their third effort, Thoughts on Letting Go. It is charming and sincere, providing insight and understanding to the things in life that we find most valuable. After the brief marvel intro, “To Find Yourself,” we are whisked away to the tropical paradise of “Radiate (Like You Do).” Bright guitars and soothing descriptions, make the track warm and inviting. There is no mistaking that this is HARBOUR. Two of my favorite tracks on the album are “That Feeling” and “Float.” While both tracks focus on love, they touch on different aspects of the feeling. On “That Feeling,” we hear about the feeling... you can’t really describe it, but the specific feeling overcoming you and you know that you’re really in love. Out of the two tracks, “Float” is more of your “typical” love song; a slow dance kind of vibe. As from the title, it describes the weightless feeling you have with your significant other and how the two of you can just float through life together.. The album closes with a more enhanced version of the intro and ends on a weird note; not providing us with as much closure as we anticipated. Reflective of the title, “Think for Yourself,” is open-ended and reminds us to take what we can from the stories we just heard, but stay true to ourselves.

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SPENCER SUTHERLAND ANGEL ESCOBAR 28 MELODIC MAGAZINE

JAKOB OGAWA JULIANA MORALES MELODIC MAGAZINE 29

JUDAH AND THE LION JONATHAN SOMMER 30 MELODIC MAGAZINE

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FUTURE TEENS ARIANA SIMON 32 MELODIC MAGAZINE

SPENCER SUTHERLAND TAYLOR BERNARD MELODIC MAGAZINE 33

PORTUGAL. THE MAN ALANA NOBLE 34 MELODIC MAGAZINE

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TAME IMPALA JANE WALLIN 38 MELODIC MAGAZINE

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BANKS HAILEY COLLINS 44 MELODIC MAGAZINE

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