Cobi – Page 2 – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – March 22/23, spotlighting new songs by @_MarcusMartinus @Cobimusic @Reyamusic @Laroie_music

In this edition of the report, we’ll let the music, reviews and features speak for themselves! Be sure to listen to all of the songs by clicking on the photos above the song title and artist.

Among the features, you can read about my pick of the week, along with picks from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature featuring songs from 1979/80 this week. I also look back on the BILLCS Top 30 from the last five years to find out what songs debuted on the chart in each one of the years 2018 to 2022.

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

SPOTLIGHTING

MARCUS & MARTINUS, “Air”

“Air” was the distant runner-up in Sweden’s recent Melodifestivalen contest, and Loreen’s stunning “Tattoo” went on to become Sweden’s representative at EuroVision in May. But let’s also just say that “Air” was the obvious runner-up to “Tattoo” among a lot of mediocre entries this year. Marcus & Martinus are twin early 20-something’s from Norway, and they have imminent potential to breakout worldwide, even if “Air” may not be – but should be – the song to do that. Nonetheless, “Air” is a beautifully crafted song that’s a terrific showcase for the singers, and they certainly gave their all on the Melodifestivalen stage, winning over a whole bunch of new fans in the process.

COBI, “Telepathic Powers”

L.A.-based alternative singer/songwriter Cobi has continued with a series of releases that draw heavily from bluesy rock and R&B. This time, “Telepathic Powers”, with such a beautiful guitar melody, steps right out of 70’s and 80’s romantic R&B jams, making that long absent sub-genre sound completely fresh again. “Telepathic Powers” is rich, warm and inviting, with another splendid Cobi vocal, and you’ll want to play it more and more. A full album of Cobi’s recent releases would be sure to sparkle!

REYA, “attention”

Hailing from Norway but now based in Spain and of Chilean heritage, Reya is definitely out to seduce your ears with the infectious release “attention”. Although she had some success recording under another variation of her name, Reya wanted to express herself more honestly, incorporating both style and language from her heritage, which is why “attention” is partially sung in Spanish. With an alternately sultry and sassy vocal alongside a taut arrangement that perhaps comes to life a little later in the song than usual, Reya’s “attention” is out to out to conquer without apology, and it’s going to leave one line stuck in your head for days: “I can make the phone stop”. So we can say that Reya’s simpler quest for “attention” from music fans certainly succeeds with this song.

LAROIE, “Tragedy”

Laroie is the new moniker for Gab Godon, once one half of acclaimed Montreal duo Heartstrings, which had the fortune to work with Kaytranada while he was on the rise. After working with a childhood friend in Heartstrings and splitting a few years back, Gab took time to carve out a new persona in Laroie. “Tragedy” is the title song of her new six song EP, and its slick 90’s flavoured R&B will make your ears stand at attention. Shades of Janet Jackson, SWV and Brandy will be dancing inside your head as you listen to her engaging but mellow mid-tempo sound in this release. “Tragedy”, I suspect, is just a small but vibrant taste of what’s in store for us from Laroie.

FEATURING

LAST HEROES, DYSON, “Stay The Night”

British singer Dyson’s vocal is showcased admirably by Colorado production duo Last Heroes in “Stay The Night”. It’s a melodic deep house track that employs some well-placed bounce to elevate it further next to your average house track about finding that one person who is a “keeper”. Although they have never visited my blog pages before, Last Heroes have been making music for the last seven years or so and have played alongside top electronic producers like Illenium, Seven Lions and more. Dyson’s credits in the pop/dance genre are a songwriter’s dream – BTS, Basshunter, Tritonal, Loud Luxury, Zack Martino, Anastacia, and countless others. Although “Stay The Night” to me could have been a bit shorter, all of that experience translates into a catchy release that really shines.

THE SUMMER SET, “Under The Influence(r)”

“Under The Influence(r)” is fun, cheery, edgy alt. rock with some creative wordplay courtesy of Arizona’s The Summer Set, who returned last year with their first album in 6 years called Blossom. Lead singer Brian Logan Dales also wrote “Under The Influence(r)”, and he’s in fine form vocally too. Set to a tight melody, the song’s lyrics will keep you intrigued because you won’t know what to expect next in a story about a guy who gets his heart broken by a social media influencer. The music reminds me of late 90’s and early 2000’s pop-punk bands (think American Hi-Fi or Bowling for Soup), so when it’s all done right like in “Under The Influence(r)”, almost anything can sound refreshing all over again.

GT_OFICE, CHRIS PADIN, KRYSTA YOUNGS, “Invite Only”

Following up his recent Top 20 national radio hit “Never Together” – his hit from last year, “Tuff”, with VASSY, debuted a year ago on my chart, see further near the bottom of the page – Miami producer GT_ofice is back with a melodic earworm, “Invite Only”. This time his collaborators are NYC producer Chris Padin and L.A.-based singer/songwriter Krysta Youngs, who has some impressive credits writing for BTS among others. “Invite Only” is about making sure you don’t let your guard down, and being in control of your own destiny with love. Krysta’s vocal is assured and vibrant, while the producers spice it up with 90’s flavours and bass synths that make it ideal for late nights in clubs.

ROBERT FALCON, STEPHANIE SCHULTE, “Kids”

I think you’ll be as surprised as me when you hear this unexpected and enjoyable dance music cover of “Kids”, originally by MGMT, by Belgian producer Robert Falcon with NYC vocalist Stephanie Schulte. While the style isn’t surprising, given that excerpts of the original is often played in clubs and at festivals, it’s the exceptional quality in production by Robert and vocal by Stephanie that make this cover a good investment of your in time. The basic arrangement is pretty faithful, surrounded by lusher keyboards, but with a pop vocal that’s quite far removed from MGMT’s original. That all makes this rendition of “Kids” well worth hearing and a solid addition to pop or dance playlists.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

“City of Love” by Seattle producer Surf Mesa with vocalist Selah Sol

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio show and the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“I Feel Like Dancing” by Jason Mraz

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

Nashville country/pop duo Eddie & The Getaway with “Born To Run To You”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show heard Tuesdays on Planet Radio Canada. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

M – Pop Muzik
Styx – Babe
Dolly Parton – 9 To 5
Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive
Rod Stewart – Da Ya Think I’m Sexy

BILLCS TOP 30 CHART DEBUTS 2018-2022

2022:

#25 Mercer – Aretha

#26 Cornelia Jakobs – Hold Me Closer

#27 GT_ofice, VASSY – Tuff

#28 Florence & The Machine – My Love

#29 Liamoo – Bluffin’

2021:

#21 Eric Saade – Every Minute

#24 Lordnox, Victor Perry – Myself In You

#26 Finneas – American Cliché

#27 Karen Harding, Shift K3Y – Morning

2020:

#24 Smith & Thell – Goliath

#26 ARTY, Griff Clawson – You’re Not Alone

#30 Jake Shears – Meltdown

2019:

#25 Jonas Brothers – Sucker

#29 Horse Meat Disco, Amy Douglas – Let’s Go Dancing

2018:

#19 MK – 17

#25 Years & Years – Sanctify

#26 Sofi Tukker – Baby I’m A Queen

#27 The Him – White Lies

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – February 1/23 spotlighting new songs by @_Patrick_Wolf Boy Aries @JordanRadics @Cobimusic @SurfMesa & @theSelahSol

I’m hoping that you are enjoying the updated format of the BILLCS New Music Report, which I began at the end of October, to reduce the pressure of writing every day or every other day, and to compact my reviews into a tidy, weekly showcase mainly for songs that are released independently. In 13 weeks, that has allowed me to write about over 100 songs which I put forward for your enjoyment. It’s impossible to keep up with the pace of releases, so I’m always happy when I even find a great song or two to write about that is still within 6-8 months of its release date. It’s all about discovery.

With the latest revival of older releases which I wrote about two weeks ago, the often offered insight by writers and other people in the biz that songs which were released more than two or three weeks ago are no longer up for consideration/their attention is hereby tossed into the waste bin. It’s no surprise that some independent performers are looking into their back catalogue of releases to ignite interest in songs that did not get their fair due at the time. To paraphrase the adage, “miss it once, shame on you, miss it twice, shame on me”.

In addition to the posts about individual songs, you can read about my pick of the week, along with picks from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur. “The Musicman” James Rogers has a thing about songs from 1991 – the year of the big rock ballad – this week with his Classic Five pop hits feature. Because I’m always crazy about charts and lists, you’ll see what’s #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30, and I also include a list of the songs that were #1 on my chart this week over the past 25 years – so hard to believe that Martin Garrix’s “Animals” is 9 years old!!

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

SPOTLIGHTING

PATRICK WOLF, “Enter The Day”

It was so nice to learn (thanks to Stephen Sears) of new music by London’s Patrick Wolf, his first in 11 years! The creative, unorthodox alternative pop singer/songwriter is known primarily for his albums The Magic Position (2007) and Lupercalia (2011), and their delightful songs “The Magic Position” and “The City”, both of which appeared on the BILLCS Top 30, reaching #4 and #10 respectively. “Enter The Day” is an entirely different affair though, a lyrical and thought-provoking song that extends hope to someone who is going through rough times in their life and hoping they “land in the golden mean” “where they oughta be”. Patrick gives a magnetic performance and, accordingly, the song immediately pulls you in. He’s got more music up his sleeve too. To coincide with the 20th anniversary of his debut release Lycanthropy, an EP called The Night Safari is due later this year.

BOY ARIES, “Drive”

Toronto duo Boy Aries follow up their single “Comets + The Death of Time”, which I wrote about recently, with an even more compelling song called “Drive”. The song’s about calling out someone when they’re wrong, and when apology is clearly due. Jordan Radics’ commanding, inspired vocal turns the four words “turn your car around” into a signature unto itself – and the signal to do the right thing and mend fences. The production by Chris Perry with music by Turbo Bobbi is haunting and relatable. It will transport you back in time to a similar situation where you may or may not have received an apology. Certainly, “Drive” is slow and moody, but it’s an easy, fascinating listen thanks to a standout vocal.

COBI, “All On You”

I am all for Cobi’s current era of bluesy pop and rock songs that work so well with his voice. He scales it back to acoustic guitar for “All On You” to make both his voice and the lyrics in the song positively gleam. The harmonies break up the mix from being too static. “All On You” is simply a great song and with its fine performance it doesn’t need any additional trappings to change it or make it work any better.

SURF MESA, SELAH SOL, “City Of Love”

After breaking through the proverbial glass ceiling unexpectedly with the Dance Club Play chart #1 and Hot 100 Top 30 hit “ily (i love you baby)” in 2019, Seattle’s Surf Mesa (aka 22 year old Powell Aguirre) is back with the wistful bop “City Of Love”, which follows up last year’s wild “Marching Band” with Nitti Gritti. Led by a fresh vocal from newcomer Selah Sol, who sounds like a cross between Brandyn Burnette and Brando (singer on Loud Luxury’s “Body”), “City Of Love” is about trying to escape loneliness in the big city after a relationship has ended, but the thoughts of that person won’t go away. The song has a fine house bounce to it, which will go down well at festivals. I’ve seen Surf Mesa perform a super fun set in concert. He’s got great ears for mixing and for keeping the flow going in concert, so be sure to check out his show and listen for “City Of Love” in the mix.

FEATURING

R3HAB, AFROJACK, “Shockwave”

“Shockwave” is one of those short (2:03) blasts of solid fun that’s destined to be a club and crowd pleaser. It slams hard from the first note and is produced in a classic electronic banger structure – that could go on a lot longer with more drops – from veterans R3HAB and Afrojack. As much as I enjoy “Shockwave”, I’d love it if they’d team up next time for something even more powerful (which each has done many times before solo) that will really get under your skin.

JAMES PATTERSON, “To A Disco”

James Patterson (aka Mr JPatt) is one half of The Knocks, hardly strangers to these blog pages or my chart over the last 10 years, and “To A Disco” is his first solo release. Anyone who has ever attended a show by The Knocks is sure to love this funky ode to disco and its related good times in the 70’s – even though the artist himself was not around for it – because that’s the spirit they embrace without any pretentions. The Knocks often use other vocalists but at other times when Mr JPatt takes the lead the results have been smashing (example, “The Key” from their album 55). Any dance music lovers who know that disco is not a dirty word will thoroughly embrace “To A Disco”.

PETER WILSON, “Simone” (Matt Pop remix) and “Gone for Good”

It’s always a pleasure when two Peter Wilson delights come to my attention, but I must say I’m remiss for not knowing about the release of the Aussie singer/songwriter’s album The Great Unknown last summer, which includes both songs. But “Simone” (above) gets a percolating Matt Pop remix, which is always a good thing, adding zest to a lovely song about losing someone, which Peter conveys so well. “Gone For Good” (below) has the benefit of being co-produced by Stock-Aitken-Waterman mixmaster extraordinaire Pete Hammond. Indeed, fans of S-A-W will be mighty pleased with its slick arrangement which incorporates familiar Italodisco elements that always suit Peter’s voice, and are particularly engaging on this track.

LORI CULLEN, BETA ONE, “Here’s Where The Story Ends”

90’s alternative music fans will know right away that “Here’s Where The Story Ends” is indeed a cover of The Sundays’ memorable 1990 release. The singer is Toronto’s Lori Cullen, who has previously been a Juno Award nominee in the jazz category. She’s supported by Canadian electronic producer Beta One (aka James de Pinho) who gives the song a modernistic backdrop. Lori’s cool tones are definitely the star, and she evokes the same appeal of Harriet Wheeler of The Sundays, which will appeal to fans of the original. The pace is a bit slower and deliberate but that does not get in the way of enjoying “Here’s Where The Story Ends” for the fine electronic pop interpretation that it is.

AXEL MANSOOR, “Frame Of Mind”

After a lot of soul searching and travelling which has taken him away from creating music over the past few years, L.A.’s Axel Mansoor is back with a snappy ditty called “Frame of Mind”. It’s a really short (2:02) ode to being positive, and enjoying how you feel while it’s happening. After his more recent, complex and deeply personal and cathartic releases, “Frame of Mind” is hopefully a taste of even more good songs to come soon. Axel has been nominated for a daytime Emmy Award, was the face of Clubhouse for 7 weeks, was a contestant on TV’s “Songland”, and has even got to #1 on the BILLCS Top 30, twice! I’m sure there’s a lot brewing behind-the-scenes that I’m confident is waiting for us to hear!

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Everything But The Girl’s “Nothing Left To Lose” and its cool one-take video

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Pepper” by Death Cab For Cutie

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

“Kelly Time” by Owl City, who brought us “Fireflies” back in 2009

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Bryan Adams – ( Everything I Do) I Do It For You
Extreme – More Than Words
Roxette – Joyride
Wilson Phillips – Hold On
Mr. Big – To Be With You

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Satisfaction” by Darin

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

“Wish On An Eyelash, Pt. 2” by Australian singer Mallrat and The Chainsmokers (19-12)

25 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 25 years.

1998 ANGEL Joée
1999 LOST ONES Lauryn Hill
2000 FADED soulDecision
2001 HANGING BY A MOMENT Lifehouse
2002 COME ON DOWN Crystal Waters
2003 THE SOUND OF VIOLENCE Cassius featuring Steve Edwards
2004 MY TIME Dutch featuring Crystal Waters
2005 THE LETTER SONG Tyler Hilton
2006 THUNDER IN MY HEART AGAIN Meck featuring Leo Sayer
2007 DOCTOR BLIND Emily Haines & The Soft Skeleton
2008 HOW TO BUILD A TIME MACHINE Darren Hayes
2009 YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK Jon Mclaughlin
2010 DELUSIONAL Simon Curtis
2011 GOLDEN TRAIN Penguin Prison
2012 MEMORIZE ME Rune RK & DATABOY
2013 1998 Matthew Koma
2014 ANIMALS Martin Garrix
2015 GOIN’ DOWN Deniz Koyu vs Twoloud
2016 NOTHING AT ALL Brandyn Burnette
2017 D E E P IN NY Bobby Nourmand featuring DOC & Goodmorning
2018 PINEAPPLE SKIES Miguel
2019 DJ’S GOTTA DANCE MORE A-Trak featuring Todd Terry
2020 FLAMES R3HAB, Zayn & Jungleboi
2021 GIVE IT BACK The Disco Fries & GIIANTS featuring Allison Park
2022 UNBREAKABLE TELYKast featuring Sam Gray

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – January 4/23 spotlighting @TimmyTrumpet & @Tungevaag @TheDiscoFries @Kastramusic & @BrittLari @SLANDERmusic @SaidTheSky & @AWonderland

The end of 2022 and start of 2023 have been quiet, music-wise. It seems that many people in the music industry took a well-deserved rest, given the daunting pace of the industry that is now driven by chart and streaming numbers that totally neglect the artistry that is at its core. As such, the new music selections have been slimmer, and my verdict on a few year end releases is still undecided, so today brings you six fine discoveries.

You can also read about my pick of the week, along with picks from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur, and “The Musicman” James Rogers also has his Classic Five pop hits feature. You can also find out what was my #1 song of the week on the BILLCS Top 30 as well as the Fastest Riser on the chart.

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

SPOTLIGHTING

TIMMY TRUMPET, TUNGEVAAG, “La Danse”

“La Danse” is a stunning electronic dance ballad that is built around a frenetic trance melody, giving us a reflective song about the lost art of romance as well as a bass-y banger. Australia’s Timmy Trumpet this time teams up with award-winning Norwegian producer Tungevaag, and they may just need another collaboration sometime soon. This is tight, well-made, and beautifully sung by an uncredited female vocalist. Oh and those French lyrics, which you can’t find online or even in the lyrics video? “L’amour en danse était romance.” (Literally, the love in dance was romance, but perhaps more idiomatically, love through dance was romance.)

THE DISCO FRIES, KASTRA, BRITT LARI, “Alone At Midnight”

“Alone At Midnight” is a sweet throwback to melodic house of about 10 years ago, largely thanks to a familiar synth hook, courtesy of genre veterans The Disco Fries who this time team up with Florida’s Kastra and relatively new go-to vocalist Britt Lari, who you heard last year on Syence’s “don’t you wanna know” among others. Fortunately “Alone” is more than just about a hook, with Britt’s appealing vocal and a classic song structure contributing to a big win, that should hopefully land this song at dance radio sometime soon.

SLANDER, SAID THE SKY, ALISON WONDERLAND, “Picture”

“Picture” is an atmospheric electronic ballad that throws a huge spotlight on Alison Wonderland’s vocals. Set against a restrained future bass production, “Picture” could easily become a benchmark in production for the genre when creating a stylish release that isn’t meant to have beats and effects go over the top. L.A. duo Slander, Denver’s Said The Sky (noted for his impressive work with Illenium) and Alison have all outdone themselves here to give us a record that will endure while remaining true to the genre, and I think fans will simply adore it.

FEATURING

COBI, “Can’t Have It All”

L.A. based singer/songwriter Cobi brings us another bluesy rocker, “Can’t Have It All”. Lyrically it’s a cathartic release about letting some things and people go in our lives, and in reflection, looking out for what’s best for you. Cobi has amazing range and it’s so well suited for this style that he’s chosen to pursue. The song may seem dark but self-realization can feel good in the end, and “Can’t Have It All” captures this well.

JAY BIRD, MAKI FLOW, “Divine and Misery”

Dipping into a trance-flavoured melody this time, Bay area electronic dance producer Jay Bird has released “Divine and Misery” in collaboration with go-to topliner/songwriter Maki Flow for the enduring Blanco y Negro on their Spitfire Music label. Maki Flow’s expressive vocal and the infectious chorus – kind of a cousin to Ariana Grande’s “Love Me Harder” – are supported by Jay Bird’s astute attention to detail and a flowing melody. The song is about accepting someone who loves you, warts and all – but with the condition that if they are going to love you, they have to be “all in” too.

BOY ARIES, “Comets + Death of Time”

Boy Aries is the new performing name for singer/songwriter Jordan Radics, who most recently fronted the promising Toronto-based alt.rock group Blajk (2017’s “Lethal”). And it’s great to hear his deep, rich voice again on “Comets + The Death of Time”, though I’m not exactly sure what the low-key alt.pop song is all about. In the end it seems that love will rule all so hearing Boy Aries’ passionate vocal sing “I’ll love you till the death of time” repeatedly makes you believe it even more. Let’s hope we’ll see Boy Aries return to live performances sometime soon too.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

It’s also the Highest Debut on the BILLCS Top 30 this week – “Hero” by Martin Garrix & JVKE

BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Surfing in Iceland” by Oregon singer/songwriter Goth Babe (aka Griff Washburn)

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” (returning this Saturday!) which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

“Daydreaming”, a Top 40 Canadian radio hit by singer Noelle with Virginia To Vegas

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Starland Vocal Band – Afternoon Delight (1976)
Mel and Tim – Backfield In Motion (1969)
Heart – Magic Man (1975)
Loverboy – Turn Me Loose (1981)
David Bowie – Changes (1972)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Yours” by Conan Gray

L.A.-based singer/congwriter @Cobimusic returns with soulful rock ballad “Temptation”

COBI, “Temptation”

It’s a little bit more off the beaten path for Cobi, but his fourth single release in 2022 is the soulful rock ballad “Temptation”. With the release of last year’s moody, compelling album Songs From The Ashes as well as frequent performances online, Cobi seems to have moved on from heart-drenched, blues-soaked rock tunes in favour of equally introspective songs through a different lens. “Temptation” is about being withdrawn and caught up in your head, and finally giving in to follow another path, despite the unknown attached to it. Some of Cobi’s past, highly emotional vocals have left him with this naturally-sounding soulful tone in his voice that pervades “Temptation”. And being a rock ballad in a time where really good ones are few and far between makes “Temptation” a really unexpected earworm. Cobi has just announced a limited European tour, so let’s hope he’ll come back for some live performances later in the year in North America.

Singer/songwriter @Cobimusic wears his emotions up front in bluesy rocker “Fools Gold” from his new album “Songs From The Ashes”

COBI, “Fools Gold”

Cobi has long been a talent on my radar, since his days in the fondly remembered pop/rock ensemble Gentlemen Hall. He’s been solo though for several years, and his songs have been anchored often by bluesy rock arrangements. The west coast-based singer/songwriter debuted his new album Songs From The Ashes last week on You Tube, and I was happy to watch the intimate performance as the affable and humble Cobi shouted out long time fans who were watching him weave through the impressive songs from the album. One of my favourites, “You’re Mine”, was a previous single, as were fan favourites “Everything You Need” and “Queen Of The Damned”. “Fools Gold” is the opening track, a new song that painstakingly recalls a manipulative relationship that made the protagonist a paranoid “merchant of of pain on the road” believing that “your love is an illusion”, pushing it away from an irreparable broken heart. “Fools Gold” unleashes the emotions buried deep under long-healed scars, and Cobi’s guitar work is nothing short of fantastic, seething the pain while Cobi sings his story. Once you hear “Fools Gold” you’ll want to hear all of what Cobi has to offer in Songs From The Ashes. In addition to the studio version above, you can also check out Cobi’s recent acoustic performance of “Fools Gold” below.

In “You’re Mine” by @Cobimusic, the subject is finding a relationship’s middle ground

COBI, “You’re Mine”

L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi continues to release affecting and personal songs such as his latest, “You’re Mine”. This one documents the struggle to find a relationship’s middle ground, when the singer’s own struggles prevent it from moving on to the next level, and put the relationship at risk. “You’re Mine” is about wanting someone so much, and not knowing what to do about it. Cobi’s powerful vocal resonates from deep within, but what could be a morose song is boosted by a fervid, sometimes bluesy rock arrangement that keeps you captivated instead of pushing you away. I can’t wait to hear what Cobi’s songs will sound like when he has the opportunity to play them in a live concert. And so above is a live clip that will give you a taste, with the studio version below.

Loving you, needing you: Listen to @Cobimusic’s latest single “Don’t Stop”

COBI, “Don’t Stop”

L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi offers one of his most passionate performances in his latest single “Don’t Stop”. The beauty of the song hit home even stronger for me when I saw him play it acoustically online recently. It’s about being madly in love with someone and never wanting that person to question or stop being in love with you. For the doubts are always there, so if you both “Don’t Stop” then the magic will continue. Like in many of his songs, Cobi’s voice is so suited to an old-school bluesy-rock arrangement, and the urgency in “Don’t Stop” is well-conveyed. Have a look at its lyric video up top.

It’s 10/10 #6: @Tritonal & @HenryDarkmusic, @Gramatik, @thisisRyanShaw & @ProbCause, @EricSharp, @Cobimusic, @thisisMokita, @HoneyBeardband, @DifferentHeaven, @AdamKahatimusic & @GabiSklar, @VForeromusic, #Aeoro

10/10 #06

It’s the return of 10/10!! In 10/10 (or tenoutoften) , I write about 10 hot and fresh songs in no particular order, for your kind consideration and attention.

I continue to write individual blog posts about certain songs. That does not mean that songs in the 10/10 lists are any less than those featured individually.

Writing 10/10 features means I can cover more songs in one shot. So you get to learn about more new music that I hear but don’t always get a chance to write about.

tenoutoften

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TRITONAL and HENRY DARK, “Shivohum”

Austin, Texas-based producers and Enhanced label owners Tritonal recently and suddenly dropped one of their most creative trance-flavoured releases to date, right after their latest full length album U & Me. In partnership with Aussie producer Henry Dark, “Shivohum” is a Sanskrit mantra about being one’s inner self. The arrangement is gorgeous and infectious, and “Shivohum” has the potential to be a positive festival crowd pleaser around the world. I’m glad producers like Chad and Dave are looking way outside the box to draw in new fans with the help of others like Henry. To me “Shivohum” is their best work since the still-breathtaking Painting With Dreams album. You can purchase the extended version of “Shivohum” on Beatport.

GRAMATIK, RYAN SHAW and PROBCAUSE, “Don’t Give Up”

Gramatik is back and he’s once again bringing the funky dance music which riveted me a few years back with the Jenaux remix of “Native Son Prequel” featuring singer Leo Napier. This time with “Don’t Give Up”, the Slovenian-born, NYC-based Denis Jašarević employs the deep down soulful voice of veteran singer Ryan Shaw as well as some hip hop inflections from ProbCause. All of the pop, electronic, soul and rap elements in “Don’t Give Up” simply seem to gel naturally, which makes it a feast for both the ears and the feet. It’s from Gramatik’s latest album Re:coil Part II.

ERIC SHARP and SISTERWIFE, “Love The Rain”

A video of contemporary dancers performing in the rain would be highly appropriate for “Love The Rain”, the latest by L.A. producer Eric Sharp. He follows up one of my favourites of 2019, “Monday Blues”, with a lighter piece of ear candy that is carried by the playful vocal of Sisterwife. “Love The Rain” is a real toe-tapper, reminiscent sometimes of mid-80’s Europop, one that you can foresee club goers enjoying a lot on the dance floor.

COBI, “Island In My Mind”

Life moves in strange ways as the lyrics of “Island In My Mind” reflect upon, from the mind and music of L.A.-based, Minnesota-bred singer/songwriter Cobi, whose song and video “Don’t You Cry For Me” have received millions of plays since its release in 2016. Continuing his solo career five years after departing from the Boston collective Gentlemen Hall, and following up his two-part EP Songs From The Ashes, Cobi offers a strong but more nuanced performance this time around to go hand-in-hand with those ages-old weighty thoughts that temper everyone’s minds – birth, death, why? But the music is definitely uplifting which will make “Island In My Mind” a focal point in Cobi’s live show, to which I hope he will return and look forward to seeing, perhaps in 2020.

MOKITA, “colorblind”

I could write endlessly about how I’ve been impressed by the music of Nashville singer, songwriter and producer Mokita in 2019, particularly “Kiss and Tell” and “London”, both of which reached #3 on my personal chart. “colorblind” continues with another of Mokita’s unique perspectives when you’re down and out, feeling that the magic and colour is gone from the world, and you just find yourself drifting without purpose. Like a lot of his other songs, “colorblind” still has a positive side to it, and like his recent EP 4201, it should be sought out by fans of great pop music.

HONEY BEARD, “Like A Fire”

Honey Beard is an award-winning Toronto-based indie duo who create electronic alternative pop that’s a shade darker than usual, definitely rooted in new wave circa 1980 by artists such as Depeche Mode, Visage, Ultravox, and early Spandau Ballet. As sung by Gary J. Conlon with synths from Tom Bell, “Like A Fire” is a compelling new song which will be part of the forthcoming EP Whispers Of Light, which you can order on Bandcamp. With other more current influences like M83, Honey Beard will definitely appeal to those who like their electronic pop with progressive touches and complex layers. “Like A Fire” definitely pulls you into its sublime chorus and it’s interesting how Gary’s voice tends to meld into the music sometimes instead of always being front and centre.

DIFFERENT HEAVEN, “History Of Us”

Fresh from his appearance in 10/10 blog #5 with “Strangers”, Spanish producer Different Heaven follows up that song with “History Of Us”. As you might anticipate, it’s a retrospective about a relationship that is no longer, puncuated by melodic Europop vibes and a powerful isolated vocal break by the uncredited singer that totally makes (and concludes) the song. “History Of Us” starts out as a straight forward pop song and by sticking with it, the song ends up being something special by the end, which to me is well worth the wait.

ADAM KAHATI and GABI SKLAR, “Tell Me”

Following up the tropical flavoured “Let You Go”, NYC producer and songwriter Adam Kahati offers a melodic house track that would sound as great on the radio as it would in clubs. It features the distinct voice of co-writer Gabi Sklar, who would sound fine alongside recent releases by Lennon Stella or Maty Noyes, and would appeal to fans of Lana Del Rey. “Tell Me” has a restless arrangement and doesn’t stay in one musical place too often, which definitely makes the song go much brisker after the first 45 seconds or so. Some fine synth work with percussive elements go a long way too.

VANESSA FORERO, “La Catrina”

“La Catrina” is a folk song about the famous female skeleton figure that is synonymous with La Dia De Los Muertos in Spanish culture. The song about that figure and its special significance to a girl by Colombian-British singer/songwriter Vanessa Forero is set to an entertaining stop-motion animation video that definitely recalls the spirit of the Oscar-winning animated movie “Coco”. It’s a great story and well-worth watching, with a lively vocal by la Vanessa.

AEORO, “Crushing On You”

Part fairy tale, part romance novel but always ‘fun and flirty’ as described by the singer herself, “Crushing On You” is a gentle and positive new song guaranteed to make you smile by southern Florida-based singer, songwriter and producer Aeoro. There are definite shades of Christina Aguilera and Mariah Carey in Aeoro’s voice, and also like both, she is a songwriter who definitely uses her wordsmith skills to perk up your ears in “Crushing On You”. You should know that Aeoro is also a huge rock music fan so you can anticipate influences from the likes of Alanis Morissette to creep into future releases.

#BILLCSTop30 #487 – July 11, 2016

The new edition of my personal chart is one of my favourites of 2016. It was difficult to compile in many ways, and there’s also so much great new music out that it makes it challenging to create only a list of 30 favourites. This is also causing songs to exit the chart sooner perhaps than in recent years – many used to last the full 10 appearances (20 weeks). But onward and upward with this post highlighting a number of the songs 🙂

The Top 10

He apparently has something new in the works, but right now I cannot get enough of L.A.-based singer/songwriter Brandon Skeie’s “So Bad” in either its original (above) or its swirling remixed version by EDWYNN x TIKAL and Spirix (below). This was the easy part of compiling the chart – “So Bad” nails #1 hands down and will be difficult to dislodge!

The runner up is the timelessly summery “Dreamin'” by the UK’s Embody featuring vocalist Camden Cox. It’s one to play at your beach parties 🙂

One of the more out-of-the-ordinary songs on the chart is “Sound Of Home” by Canadians Sterling Grove and vocalist Ellyn Woods, which in its deep house remix by Chicago’s Snøwmass climbs 6-4.

Rounding out the Top 5 is the enjoyable funky business that is “Get It On” by NYC producer/performer/remixer Jenaux, who is also making headway with his 80’s influenced rework of Gramatik’s “Native Son”, which I wrote about recently. “Get It On” rises 8-5.

More people need to discover the vivid Kat Krazy remix of Tom Odell’s “Magnetised” which leaps 11-6; you can find the original on Tom’s second album Wrong Crowd.

Speaking of Kat Krazy, the British duo end up with two new Top 10 entries, the second being their collaboration with American vocalist Johnny Stimson on “Run Run”, which jumps 14-9. That piano riff will get you every time!

Movin’ On Up

Tony Moran and Jason Walker are making many joyful waves together on the chart with “So Happy”, as the #1 Billboard Club Chart hit soars 18-12.

The fastest riser on the chart is one of the most decidedly different, a heartbreaking EDM song that has a refrain that you’ll either find haunting or daft. Nonetheless young producers/remixers LZRD and Spirix have got a great thing going on with “Take Me Apart”, featuring a beautiful vocal by singer Remmi, and it vaults 23-14, heading in no time to the Top 10! Spirix is already up top with his co-remix of “So Bad”; more to come from this talented young man – like tomorrow!

There’s been renewed interest on the music website Hype Machine this past weekend for Bryce Fox’s fine “Burn Fast” in its Koni remix, which continues to rise 17-15.

Rain Man is all over the Billboard Dance Radio charts with his reflective “Bring Back The Summer”, featuring powerful vocalist Oly in its INSTRUM remix. It moves up 20-16.

The exuberant deep house sound of Chicago’s Megaphonix is on display with “Open Your Mind”, which climbs 25-20.

I really enjoy the softer progressive soul sound that Brandyn Burnette has used in his song “Worship” from the State I’m In EP. It advances 28-21 – only the humble beginning 🙂

Four Debuts

There was no way that I could miss adding “Her And Him” by Mi Disguise and Rouse to the chart, from their soulful and danceable mixtape NGHT LFE. It’s a romantic saga for the club world 🙂 “Her And Him” bows at #23.

It’s been in the wings for a while, but L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi, formerly of Gentlemen Hall and more recently a featured vocalist on the Above & Beyond acoustic tour, arrives on the chart with “Don’t You Cry For Me”. The song was originally titled “Darker Than Dawn” when I wrote about it a while back. Newly christened, this compellingly old-school bluesy pop song debuts at #24. It follows up last year’s “Walking Through The Fire”, which reached #12.

Following #21 “Worship” is the title track from Brandyn Burnette’s State I’m In EP. It’s such a timely song given recent current events, and everyone should think twice about how they really feel and how it affects the world around them. “State I’m In” premieres at #26, making it three songs on the chart for Brandyn, including “Made Of Dreams”, which peaked at #5.

https://soundcloud.com/brandynburnette/state-im-in

Another one that’s been waiting to make its move, and is a perfect companion piece to both #19 “Stronger” by Nik Ernst and “Open Your Mind” by Megaphonix at #20 is the British house sound of “Limits” by Australia-based Brit Latchmere featuring singer Andreas Liberos. It debuts at #27 and is a free download.

https://soundcloud.com/latchmeresound/limits-feat-andreas-liberos

Listen to the songs or watch the videos using the links on the pictures on the pretty and detailed web edition of my chart. Go on, have a look and listen/watch

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! Click on this link to take you there, and follow me on Spotify: BILLCS Top 30 Songs

http://www.planetradio.ca is back! Listen for my Pick of the Week at 2:20/6:20/10:20 AM/PM EST most days Monday through Sunday, and my flashbacks to a Toronto Top 10 of yesteryear return this Tuesday evening at 9pm EST

Lush and soulful pop from @Cobimusic with “Darker Than Dawn”

COBI, “Darker Than Dawn”

The former singer with Gentlemen Hall follows up last year’s “Walking Through The Fire” with a lush, soulful charmer called “Darker Than Dawn”. To me this is Cobi’s most unique piece of music yet, full of old school R&B and blues influences in both vocals and rhythm as well as contemporary electronica that wouldn’t sound out of place next to James Blake. It all makes “Darker Than Dawn” another wonderfully cathartic and personal affair, and it’s no wonder that his versatility has afforded the popular EDM duo Above & Beyond to select him as a vocalist on their current tour. Give a listen above and pick up the song on iTunes!

Cobi sings with Above & Beyond in Toronto at Massey Hall on Saturday May 14 & Sunday May 15.