A selection of ACM’s finest artists, hand-picked from a range of this month’s latest tracks. Discover more on the This Is ACM playlist!
China Bears – I’ve Never Met Anyone Like You
Somewhere between Villagers and Radiohead, China Bears’ new single I’ve Never Met Anyone Like You is the latest in a line of critically adored releases. This addition to ACM’s top tracks, whose title doubles as the name of their November headline tour, is an ode to the challenges of new love. It starts softly, before breaking into an uplifting chorus with vocalist Ivan’s melodious vocals echoing throughout the track, backed up by the rest of the band’s fierce instrumentals. Catch them at their next show at the Sebright Arms on the 4th September before their upcoming tour, and keep up to date on all their shows via their Facebook.
Eva Lina – Head In The Clouds
ACM alumna Eva-Lina is a Swedish electro/dance artist with a sound that leans towards Tove-Lo and Lorde. With a truly unique aesthetic that has run throughout all of her releases, Eva-Lina’s new single, Head in the Clouds, is a pop song that is guaranteed to stay with you for the whole weekend. This song just exudes an IDGAF attitude to other people’s opinions and it’s doubtful that Head in the Clouds will be the last time Eva-Lina will appear on ACM’s top 10 songs. Keep up to date with her upcoming releases on her Facebook.
Jimmi Herbert – Shape of the sound
It’s easy to understand the comparisons to Bowie as soon as Jimmi Herbert’s new single Shape of the Sound starts. Utterly laid back funk from the first note, ACM student Jimmi’s idiosyncratic style is all over this track and will get you moving no matter what. Becoming less dreamy as it moves into a feature from rapper and producer Chase Klassic, Shape of the Sound takes an unexpected and well placed turn while staying funky throughout. One to watch, there are big things on the horizon for Jimmi Herbert, follow him on Facebook.
Little Grim – All On Black
Little Grim’s new single, All on Black, is the kind of song that will just keep showing up on your playlists while you pine until you get to see it live. Opening to a deceptively calm intro, the song’s vocal gymnastics throughout are the perfect instrument for the song’s sharp, catchy lyrics. With influences from a broad range of artists including Alt-J and Imagine Dragons, there’s no single genre you could put All on Black into. Fresh off the back of an outstanding headline set at The Old Blue Last, keep an eye on their Facebook for their next show.
Cruel World – GVO
Cruel World is the debut single from Cameron Owden and Adam Daisley, collectively known as GVO. The track opens with a riff and vocals reminiscent of Interpol, somehow simultaneously catchy and subdued, becoming more upbeat as it progresses through to a lively chorus. This is a minimalist track that builds to a crescendo and breaks at exactly the right moment. A cracking start from GVO, who promise a lot more to come. Keep an eye on them on their Instagram.
Céline & The Blue – Hide In Your World
The follow up to Céline & The Blue’s debut single Just You, Hide in Your World is more rooted in jazz than its predecessor but just as brilliant. Led by Céline’s startling vocals, this is a feel good summer track made to be turned up as you strut out of work on Friday. Beautifully produced, there’s so much going on in Hide in Your World you can’t just listen to it once if you want to take it all in. You should be planning to head down to the band’s next show at The Boileroom on September 7th and following them on Facebook in the meantime.
Owen Petch – Serotonin
This isn’t the first time that ACM Guildford student Owen Petch has come to the attention of ACM’s top tracks, and his new single Serotonin is a welcome new addition. Owen’s sound is unique, combining electro-pop with an almost hip hop beat while sampling from Blink 182’s Adam’s Song. Visit his website and check out his upcoming shows and socials.
Lucas Ramsell – Where to begin
If you need to get pumped quickly, this should be your new go-to song. ACM artist Lucas Ramsell raps over a catchy, dance beat in his new single Where to Begin? As a multi-talented artist, Ramsell often incorporates acoustic elements to his tracks, but has opted to go for complete electronic production this time round and has created a summer banger. Head to his Spotify to check out more of his music.
Gatvol – Random Fear:
Gatvol is something of a rarity these days, a genuinely great alt-rock band. Their new single Random Fear incorporates intense metal riffs and double kicks run throughout, framing Sam McPherson’s outstanding vocals. Seriously, his range is incredible! From just a couple of bars in, you can imagine yourself in the crowd; if Gatvol’s live energy is even half of what they put into their singles, their live shows must be amazing. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for all upcoming shows including their headlining ACM Freshers Gig.
Emma Rosso – Found Me
Found Me cuts a sombre opening in contrast to its uplifting lyrics, before breaking into a powerful chorus. Contained in this song are ACM alumna Emma Rosso’s sincere vocals and well crafted songwriting, combining to produce a beautiful R&B ballad. After establishing herself as a talented artist with previous releases like Rainbow and Water, Rosso’s recently released Found Me is the kind of song you turn to when you need a boost. Check out Emma’s website which has links to all her socials.
