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BILLCS New Music Report – November 8/23 with new releases by @Cobimusic #Trans-CanadaHighwaymen @NeroUK @MattBoylanSmith @CapitalCities @JerinJamesmusic #LouisPax and @Koussmusic

Recently, Spotify announced that it will demonetize tracks with 1,000 plays or less, which will come as a shock for those folks who have got used to casually adding their latest work to streaming platforms for listeners to find. I think this is a good thing because there are other platforms for independent performers to grow their audiences, to the point where their songs can attract enough people on streaming services to make a bit of money. Another new policy also puts a stop to individuals spamming Spotify’s platform with other recorded stuff that isn’t music, as well as fining distributors and labels for adding fraudulent product to the service.

Independent artists struggling to get 1,000 plays on a song will have to resort to more promotion of their music to blogs and influencers as a prelude to streaming platform play. Those who are serious about it will not give up. Those who have been adding their songs to Spotify just on a whim will need to do a rethink.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits, which take us back to the 1986-87 era. And in case you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the latest BILLCS Top 30.

As you may have noticed last week, I’ve decided to no longer use the words “Spotlighting” or “Featuring” because in truth all of the songs are worth checking out, or else I wouldn’t be writing about them!

The BILLCS New Music Report is always a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me at through my social media links right here.

COBI, “Where We Belong”

“Where We Belong” is the powerful ballad companion piece that I’ve been awaiting from L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi for his song “Telepathic Powers”, the dreamy, bluesy release from earlier in the year which reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30. “Where We Belong” is the kind of song that draws a hush over a crowd. With the majority of the song solely piano and voice, its grounded story is comforting and reassuring to those who are feeling lost and alone, driven by Cobi’s passionate vocal. And just wait for Cobi’s lucid guitar work later in the song to really lift it up and bring it home. Don’t miss this one.

TRANS-CANADA HIGHWAYMEN, “Undun”

The Trans-Canada Highwaymen is a new Canadian supergroup comprising biz veterans Moe Berg (Pursuit of Happiness), Chris Murphy (Sloan), Craig Northey (The Odds) and Steven Page (ex-Barenaked Ladies), which means that their album of covers of largely Canadian hits, appropriately titled Explosive Hits Vol. 1 (love the K-Tel-inspired cover art!), is well worth checking out. While these talented guys put their spin on a variety of pop songs by April Wine, Michel Pagliaro, Paul Anka, The Stampeders, and even a well-done update of the DeFranco Family’s 1973 smash “Heartbeat – It’s A Lovebeat”, it’s their take on The Guess Who’s 1969 international hit “Undun”, with lead vocal by Steven Page, that stands out the most. The spirit and urgency of the original are there, minus the psychedelic undertones of that era, and Steven’s vocal is outstanding. All of the guys get their opportunities to shine on the album, which is highly recommended for any of their fans as well as lovers of Canadian music in general.

NERO, “Truth”

For many long-time electronic music fans, British trio Nero ranks with the best artists in the genre. They’ve been together for over 20 years, and their most recognizable work appeared over a decade ago, culminating in a Grammy (along with pal Skrillex) for best remixed (non-classical) recording of their UK #1 smash “Promises”. Their second album Between II Worlds became a North American #1 electronic dance chart hit in 2015, and after that members worked on solo projects and raised families. Only last year did they surprise fans and resurface on Deadmau5’s tour, and have since started releasing new music again. The propulsive dubstep banger “Truth” follows up “Renegade” (with R.L. Grime) and comes from Nero’s upcoming long-awaited third album Into The Unknown. It’s a busy, clever track that will jar you with its push-pull rhythm and otherworldly vocal. “Truth” is a gleaming, futuristic forecast of what electronic music has in store for us.

MATT BOYLAN-SMITH, “The Only Eyes I’ve Ever Known”

It’s been a while since I first introduced you to indie Australian singer/songwriter Matt Boylan-Smith, who is back with his lovely tribute to family, “The Only Eyes I’ve Ever Known”. As much as it fits alongside the folk-pop of artists like The Lumineers, “Only Eyes” has wider appeal, a cross between Newton Faulkner and Ed Sheeran with a few dashes of The Waterboys and The Proclaimers. Matt’s songwriting leaves you hanging on each verse as his story unfolds, and the chorus becomes a singalong that you’ll wait to hear again and again. Folk-influenced pop has been making great strides these past few years to get back into the public consciousness and stay there, instead of being led by a handful of successful one-off’s, and artists like Matt will help it get there.

CAPITAL CITIES, “Skeleton Man”

L.A. based duo Capital Cities follow up their first releases in about 5 years, “Together” (with Bobby Nourmand, reached #12 on the BILLCS Top 30) and “Summertime with U” (with former member Spencer Ludwig, which I also wrote about a while back), with the danceable bop “Skeleton Man”. Its bright and funky synth pop melody accompanied by trumpet – courtesy once again of Spencer Ludwig, who may as well use “Safe and Sound” as his middle name – as well as xylophone effects that are part of a bounty of sounds and flourishes for you to absorb. Ryan and Sebu keep it light with bone references throughout. Smooth production and fluid harmonies make it easy to invest some time with “Skeleton Man”. The group has made the song available on their website for free download for now so get it while you can by clicking on the following song title: “Skeleton Man”.

JERIN JAMES, “Wildfire”

“Wildfire” follows up L.A.-based electronic producer Jerin James’ recent release “Fly Away”, which I wrote about a while back, and both come from his forthcoming album. “Wildfire” is an imaginative and melodic track featuring an uncredited female vocalist singing a brief set of lyrics that frame the song. It has loads of sync possibilities for scenes in video games, action films or documentaries. “Wildfire” develops a distinct impression for the listener as the vocal evolves into a convincing and compelling distorted effect, and ultimately lets us conjure up whatever appropriate imagery will go with the flow.

LOUIS PAX, “this is not america (i heard it on the news)”

Swedish pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with a new EP called in case I don’t see ya, pt. 1, which includes the previous singles “The Road Back” and “in case I don’t see ya”. “this is not america” is a thought-provoking song depicting contemporary America as seen through the eyes of Europeans on the news. America is often seen as the example to follow for the rest of the world, and the song is critical about whether or not that should be the case. Sometimes the most obvious path is not the one to take and we need to reflect and choose what’s right for us regardless of popularity. So yes, “this is not america” seems a little more downbeat than usual to start, but the melody and Oscar Reingsdahl’s vocal make it rise part way, allowing the song to finish on a high, upbeat note. Louis Pax continue to portray themselves through their music as a tight often introspective band that wears its good intentions on its sleeves.

KOUSS, ANNA KLINE, “Can’t Go Back”

As readers of this blog will know, you were first tipped off to “Can’t Go Back” by my online radio buddy Hunter Wilbur, who designated it as his Pick of the Week a few weeks back. And with repeated plays at my end, I’ve found that I’ve been enjoying it too. Kouss is a DJ/producer and multi-instrumentalist from south Florida who experienced being signed to a major label as part of a band. An accident in 2020 left him unable to play drums for an extended period, during which he developed his production skills. “Can’t Go Back” is actually Kouss’ debut release, a slick pop/dance single for him featuring a fine vocal from Nashville-based, Ohio-born Anna Kline, who has written hundreds of songs and is a sought-after top-liner. The result is a catchy slice of ear candy that you’ll find yourself playing on repeat. It’s always nice to be in on a debut single and “Can’t Go Back” is off to a solid start for Kouss.

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 30 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

“Curfew” by Australian indie rock quintet Moonwood from their EP Curfew Hours

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”.

“Gone Forever” is by Windsor, Ontario artist MELØ

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.

“Big Sky, MT” is by Nashville-based acoustic trio The Arcadian Wild

“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.

Robbie Robertson – Somewhere Down The Crazy River (1987)
Billy Ocean – There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry) (1986)
Bruce Hornsby and The Range – The Way It Is (1986)
Atlantic Starr – Always (1987)
Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam – Lost In Emotion (1987)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Steve Angello & WH0’s “What You Need” is the chart’s new #1

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Bright Light Bright Light’s “Down To One”, accompanied by a fun horror movie-themed video, rises 12-5 as the Fastest Riser for a second chart in a row

#BILLCSTop30 #678 – November 6/23

Although my ears have been tuned to songs in other genres for the past few weeks, the outbreak of great dance releases at the end of summer is showing its presence on the new BILLCS Top 30.

Here’s the link to the online version of the chart: BILLCS Top 30

Here’s the link to my Spotify playlist of the chart: Chart Playlist

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below as they are increasingly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded.

Swedish House Mafia’s Steve Angello gets his first #1 as a solo artist and label owner with “What You Need” on his Size Records imprint. As part of SHM, Steve reached #1 in 2012 with “Don’t You Worry Child”. “What You Need” is also the first #1 for UK mystery producers WH0. As I mentioned previously, the song contains a sublime sample of the disco hit “Gotta Keep Dancing” by Carrie Lucas.

Claiming the runner up spot is “Want My Lovin'” (5-2), the other sensational retrotastic house track by British producers Marvel Riot and American R&B/pop/dance singer MOYA. It samples Felix’s 1992 gem “Don’t You Want Me” as the instrumental hook.

Denver-based producer Voyajer is up another notch with “Come Around” climbing 4-3.

L.A.’s Michael Medrano gets a personal best on the chart as the deliciously innuendo-laden “Disco Sleaze” (in its raw and uncut remix) rises 6-4. Michael recently shot his first video for his single “Karma”. To finally see the disco dad behind the music in action, click on the photo below.

For the second chart in a row, Bright Light Bright Light’s “Down To One” is the Fastest Riser, soaring 12-5, becoming BLx2’s 10th Top 5 entry on the chart.

The second entry into the Top 10 is the first for both artists. Sweden’s John Dahlbäck and Nashville’s Davis Mallory climb 13-10 with the uplifting “Top of the World”.

Although it was a Top 20 hit in the UK in the summer, I can’t get enough of the bop that is the ALTÉGO remix of Tom Grennan’s “How Does It Feel”. The song has been rising slowly but breaks through and moves 19-13.

Miami producer Gt_ofice has a flurry of activity happening with his two recent singles. “Can’t Deny” (above), with JAYEM and Alix Robson, charges up 21-16, while “Feels Like Us” (below), the breezy end of summer song with ALWZ SNNY and Robbie Rosen, climbs 29-23.

Not to be discounted is the immensely enjoyable single by Chicago producer Pete Cho called “Fan of You” which moves up 22-17.

With the release of his new album Golden causing all kinds of waves this past week, BTS’ Jung Kook and new BFF Jack Harlow move up 26-20 with “3D”.

While it hardly seems like long ago that “Antidote” graced the chart (peaking at #10), Audien returns with the super-infectious “Superhero” at #26. The uncredited vocalist is co-writer and British singer Joe Jury, who was credited on Audien’s big dance radio hit “Drifting Away” last year. Look for “Superhero” to make short work of the dance radio charts too.

In at #27 is the first entry for Australia-based rockers Moonwood with “Curfew” from their smashing new EP Curfew Hours. The band is actually a hybrid of Australian, American and Canadian talent.

Spain’s The Boy From The South recently returned home from a huge tour of Mexico and some South American countries, which included many stops at radio stations. He has more gigs planned in Barcelona and London, and his latest good-natured grower of a song “Man Down” (#28) should help take him through to them.

Rounding out the new entries at #29 is the deep house track “Sacredly” by Washington DC producer and frequent blog visitor Manila Killa and vocalist/songwriter Linney. It’s Manila Killa’s 5th chart entry, with “Dusk” (with Lights) reaching #2 last year, and it’s Linney’s 3rd visit, reaching #3 previously singing Gareth Emery & NASH’s 2020 entry “Yesterday”.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!

Radio GTA

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. EST and Sunday mornings at 2:00 AM EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 30 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations but is anchored at Mix88.ca on Saturdays beginning at 8pm EST. You can hear recent episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

BILLCS New Music Report – November 1/23 bringing you new songs by Audien, YEBBA, Benedict Cork, Vion Konger & Lusso, Kacey Fifield, MELO, Modern Machines and NOANNE

I’ll let the music do the talking this week. I hope you continue to enjoy the refreshing selection of new tunes I bring to you every week.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits, which this week teleport us back to 1974. You’ll also find out what the BILLCS Top 30 looked like 23 years ago!

I’ve made one change to the Report. I’ve decided to no longer use the words “Spotlighting” or “Featuring” because in truth all of the songs are worth checking out, or else I wouldn’t be writing about them!

The BILLCS New Music Report is always a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me at through my social media links right here.

AUDIEN, “Superhero”

“Superhero” is bound to be a new festival favourite by electronic dance producer Audien, who continues to have another great year with releases following his #1 dance radio hit “Antidote”. If you know his song from last year, “Drifting Away”, you’ll instantly recognize the uncredited vocal – and why it’s uncredited is puzzling – of British singer/songwriter Joe Jury, who is also one of the co-writers. Joe’s vocal is delightfully dreamy and the early 2010’s throwback piano house melody is just the tonic that a lot of us need right now. Cue the cell phone flashlights, “Superhero” tugs at those emotional strings and should be taking over dance music charts anytime soon.

YEBBA, “Waterfall (I Adore You)”

She’s got one of the best voices on the pop scene since she emerged in 2016, with a Grammy Award to whit, and Nebraska-born YEBBA is back with her first new studio recording of 2023, the dreamy alternative pop ballad “Waterfall (I Adore You)”. It’s a welcome diversion from her often complex and personal songs, which formed the basis of her 2021 album Dawn. We all get caught up in the moment at the time and don’t want to change the mood, preferring it to linger as long as it possibly can. YEBBA knows that she has to follow her own lead and calls out naysayers right from the get-go. Her vocal is pristine and the song is a soulful foray into infatuation, supported by relaxing backdrop of bright melodies. Let’s hope that YEBBA doesn’t slip away for another year without more new music. “Waterfall (I Adore You)” definitely begs for more.

BENEDICT CORK, “Soulmates”

Following up his late 2022 release “Dream of You” (which peaked at #7 on the BILLCS Top 30), Hertfordshire-born Benedict Cork brings us the inspiring “Soulmates”. Benedict is now so recognizable as a singer, songwriter and pianist that “Soulmates” is really a sum of all of the best of what he does. His voice soars, the piano twinkles, and the words transport us elsewhere where we may just have a soulmate. For those of us who only dream of such a thing, the song is very fanciful, and for those of us who once had one, or thought we had one, it gives us hope that someone else is waiting for us. “Soulmates” is top notch stuff, and you can be assured you’ll be humming along all winter.

VION KONGER, LUSSO, “Wait For The Drums”

If you’re looking for a heavy banger that will test the power of your biggest speakers, then “Wait For The Drums” by Russian producer Vion Konger and rising NYC producer/remixer Lusso will leave you mighty satisfied. “Drums” has to be one of the hardest hitting deep house songs of the year, a relentless, loud production full of bounce that leaves no stone unturned. Think of producers like Hardwell, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, and Timmy Trumpet when they just let loose – “Wait For The Drums” is dynamic and fun, and will certainly leave you breathless on the dance floor.

KACEY FIFIELD, “Vegas”

“Vegas” is the latest release from Kacey Fifield, recently relocated to NYC from L.A., an edgier, more provocative electronic pop song than what we’ve heard from her recently. It follows the lead of previous single “Self Sabotage” and its refreshing, uncluttered and vulnerable story. Instead of self-reflection, “Vegas” focuses on the young playboys types who start sordid lives with gambling and drugs, and revealing them when they cheat on their girlfriends. The straight-forward melody is memorable, and “Vegas” is once again a stalwart collaboration between Kacey and Robbie Rosen, who also produced.

MELØ, “Memento” (as featured in the short-film “Farewell For Now”, above)

Windsor-based alternative artist MELØ has released an EP and its accompanying short film called “Farewell For Now”. The film is about a life well-lived, obstacles (such as blindness), loss (specifically of his father), as well as hope, adapting and moving on. It’s beautifully shot and nuanced, taking its time to unfold its sad and touching story, a collaborative work by MELØ with his family and friends. The EP consists of three songs, “Sleep Alone”, the interlude “Exit Stage Light”, and “Memento”. The shift to “Memento” in the film is riveting, like those turning points in life where you abruptly realize that you simply must do something. The infectious guitar/synth melody reminds me of BT and Tori Amos’ “Blue Skies” meeting songs by new wave groups like New Order half way. It’s one of MELØ’s most compelling songs to date. There are a lot of take away’s from “Farewell For Now”, and “Memento” is an impressive bridge to whatever’s next.

MODERN MACHINES, “Brooklyn”

With a nod to his current home, NYC’s Modern Machines (aka Dimitry Mak) brings us “Brooklyn”, a fast-paced house track with an irresistible and invigorating melody. The use of an uncredited repeated female vocal sample here is effective and the brevity and euphoric nature of the song allow the repetition to work for the song rather than against it. Modern Machines has been honing his craft for the best part of the last decade, often as a remixer (such as for The Knocks and Foster The People’s “Ride or Die”) but also with his originals, which have been released on many of the biggest dance labels. This has allowed him to play the best of North American dance clubs and festivals while maintaining a steady social media presence, lately on the Threads app. “Brooklyn” is an enjoyable rave up that club DJ’s shouldn’t miss out on.

NOANNE, “Goodwill”

“Goodwill” is an unconventionally theatrical slice of alternative pop brought to you by Prague-based singer/songwriter/actress NOANNE. Choosing to be an enigma, she lets her music and images do the talking, and there is lots to talk about in the video for “Goodwill”. Based on the premises that “the road to hell is paved with good intentions”, the story of love gone sour is full of dramatic and startling images, stunning cinematography (much of it through the use of AI), and compelling direction. In it NOANNE has a anti-hero presence like Madonna had in some of her videos, while her vocal tones at times recall the power of Annie Lennox. “Goodwill” is bold and fanciful, especially for those of you who enjoy their engaging pop songs with a strong dose of melodrama.