Jeeni Blog

Helping the next generation of talent to build a global fanbase

Maple Sky - 'Wearing Red' Single Review

/ By Doug Phillips
Maple Sky - 'Wearing Red' Single Review

As the first track on their self-titled EP, ‘Wearing Red’ is the perfect sonic epitome for the smooth jazz inspired outfit, Maple Sky. The track sets the pace and the grand standards the group has built as a means of reinventing the lounge jazz sound with modern approaches and mindsets. 

From as early as the introductory descending piano sequence, ‘Wearing Red’ conjures up an inviting and seductive smokey cabaret nightclub in which the listener watches as well as listens. Maple Sky paints this vivid imagery by borrowing the romantics of 50s and 60s lounge jazz such as the more upbeat cuts like ‘Happy Talk’ and ‘Little Unhappy Boy’ from Nancy Wilson and Cannonball Adderly’s collaboration from 1962. 

The track’s stylistic lyric video (available, here) uses more cozy coffee shop imagery like a steaming cup, a laptop, and sketched illustrations; certainly a more modern take on a jazz setting. Romantic and warmly illustrated imagery in the animated video acts as a perfect display of the track’s dreamy lyrics. 

This group has been giving Jeeni’s jazz channel substance and flair since October last year, with their light-hearted and accessible variety of smooth jazz. Their sweet name is a perfect title for their dulcet, honeyed melodies and musicianship and we can’t wait to see what they do next. If you're a jazz artist, consider joining ranks with the likes of Maple Sky and become a part of Jeeni's jazz channel, where we can promote and support you as a blossoming artist.

Check out ‘Wearing Red’ now, on Jeeni: https://jeeni.com/m0xmhvftkita/

How can Jeeni support artists like Maple Sky  

JEENI is a multi-channel platform for original entertainment on demand. We’re a direct service between creatives and the global audience.  

• We give creatives, independent artists and performers a showcase for their talent and services. And they keep 100% of everything they make.  
• We empower our audience and reward them every step of the way.  
• We promise to treat our members ethically, fairly, honestly and with respect.  
• Access to artist liaison and a supportive marketing team. 

Check out Maple Sky’s Jeeni showcase here: https://jeeni.com/showcase/maple-sky/ 

09
Feb

Nnaomi - ‘Hate Me’ Single Review

Nnaomi evokes even more emotion and sentiment with her swirling, impactful and atmospheric new single, ‘Hate Me’.   This new single from Nnaomi should certainly be praised for its daring and experimental nature. Currently, RnB and neo-soul are genres that are often at risk of being represented in incredibly dull and uninspired forms. Dragging structures, tired performances and bland instrumentation plagues the style, especially in the mainstream. Which is why a progressive, texturally interesting and innovative RnB single like ‘Hate Me’ is so important for that corner of contemporary music; it displays that even a genre that has travelled as far as RnB still has room to change, adapt and evolve.  The track begins with a lo-fi aesthetic due to the old home video tape that crackles over the opening piano. This nostalgic tone is then instantly contexualised with the opening lyrics, “Reminiscing on old days.” I think this clear emotive intention and focus from Nnaomi powers this single and is the main reason why the alternative creative choices work so well.  The filtering bass synth introduced near the middle is used as an early hint that these retrospective thoughts could be too much to deal with and are at risk of overwhelming her. This is then interrupted by Nnaomi trying to explain herself. The moment she sings “explain”, the intense bass is silenced, as is the emotional use of reverb and echo on her voice. This is a fantastic example of a production technique being repurposed as a narrative device.  At just over 2 minutes long, this track still manages to progress so organically and timely; it takes its time to set the pace and tone of the story told in the lyrics. At the climax of the track, it feels like Nnaomi’s painful memories begin to swirl more unstably around her head as samples and synths begin to distort, warp and spin around the stereo space. These flittering pieces of audio eventually start to drown out Nnaomi’s voice which paints a tragic image of her thoughts and guilt becoming overpowering and too much to process.  The production prowess needed to craft such a powerful, yet carefully crafted wall of noise is impressive and brave, considering that Nnaomi’s voice is so delicate and vulnerable on this track. The dissonant and wild synths heard towards the end are kept in a cage just big enough to have a volatile effect but small enough as to not overpower too much in the mix.  The direction Nnaomi decided to go with this track is obviously genius however, the only way I could imagine it becoming more impactful is if the crescendo of noise grew even more and briefly took over completely before clearing out and finally letting her breathe.  Nnaomi has now contributed two tracks to Jeeni’s RnB channel and we look forward to expanding the channel with similarly brilliant tracks in the future. Nnaomi has been a keen member of Jeeni’s mission for several months now. She sat down for an ‘Inside Story’ interview last summer at Victorious Festival in which she mentions her influences and favourite artists which ranges from Tyler, The Creator to Whitney Houston. Jeeni would love to flood our RnB channel with more acts just like Nnaomi, so reach out to us on social media if you'd like to contribute your work to Jeeni's library of talent: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeenimusic/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeenimusic   Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeenimusic   Check out Nnaomi's showcase on Jeeni: https://jeeni.com/showcase/nnaomi/   How can Jeeni support artists like Nnaomi?   JEENI is a multi-channel platform for original entertainment on demand. We’re a direct service between creatives and the global audience.   • We give creatives, independent artists and performers a showcase for their talent and services. And they keep 100% of everything they make.  • We empower our audience and reward them every step of the way.  • We promise to treat our members ethically, fairly, honestly and with respect.  • Access to artist liaison and a supportive marketing team. 

11
Jun

Inside Story with Keithian

Kethian is a Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Actor and Producer based in the US and who performed his song ‘Communicate’ in the JAM Festival collaboration in April.  Kethian is relaxing in his Californian back yard as the interview with Kate takes place. “You recorded your track ‘Communicate’ live from your home studio for the JAM Festival, we have all faced the technical difficulties of working from home over the last year, but did you face any whilst recording?” she asks.  He says that there were not any technical issues as such but recording at home always presents some issues, for example the neighbour had the lawnmower on but luckily, he didn’t think we could hear.  His song ‘Communicate’ is beautiful and very emotive. When asked about his inspiration for writing it, he said that it came from his friend, who so sadly committed suicide, and so the song was an open letter to this friend, as well as anyone else that is struggling and needs to communicate as it is one of those things that “you actually have to do to feel better or to get your thoughts out, so that’s exactly what that song was about.” Kethian was born in New Orleans into a “showbizzy family.” Kate asks about what influence their work had on him as a child growing up and how it inspired his music and career.  He grew up in Louisiana and Texas, “New Orleans is just full of music, everywhere you go”, his parents were in music as well as his grandparents so making music for him was something that “just happened, I’ve never known any different.” Kethian was previously signed to a major record label, but has ended up going independent, Kate asks why he made this decision  “It wasn’t really the best experience. I figured if I went independent, I could give myself the better experience, and control creativity and stuff like that, and now that I’m my own everything, I’m able to understand myself more as an artist, what I need, what I want, how I want to promote, or what songs I want to choose” he shouts excitedly. In 2018 Kethian was working on music for Rhianna, he said “it was one of those things that just happened, although she hasn’t actually released the music yet and I wish I had some insider knowledge as to when she will, but I don’t! Basically, after I left the label, I was a writer and producer...I was writing for various artists and one of them said ‘this is gonna be for Rhianna’ and I was like ‘what?!’ and that’s how it happened. I met the [person] that I work with now and produce most of my music with currently and it has just been cohesive since then.” Kethian is currently raising investment for his next project: “It makes me feel really good as an artist when someone invests in me because it means that they believe in me as an artist, and as an art, a lot of our motivation and motivators are to make people happy and just to feel something or have an outlet, so to be supported in this way makes me feel so much more confident.” In response to this comment, Kate explains what Jeeni is: a platform for new and upcoming artists which seeks to support them in the best way possible and asks Kethian what his advice would be for aspiring artists that are just starting out. “Simply be the best artist that you can be and be the most you can be in life for you. It’s one of those things…being an artist is so giving, you walk around with your art, you are your art, and so when someone says something a little different or a little insane, it touches you more…just be confident, stay close to your art and stay close to you as a person and just love every bit of it.” What can we expect from him in the future?  He expresses his excitement in regard to doing more shows with Jeeni and is hopeful for the future of live shows and touring as the world returns to normality after the Covid-19 pandemic.  He says that he ultimately wants to “put out as much music as my fans want me to and as much as I want.” Through AmplifyX, one of our collaborators from the JAM festival, Kethian is working on his new EP called Green Clouds which is due at the end of May and you can invest now. To find out more about Kethian, listen to his music and invest, please visit https://jeeni.com/showcase/keithian/

25
Feb

Weekly Round-Up #10

The latest developments and additions to Jeeni!  New Artists join Jeeni!  New and interesting artists fuels Jeeni's mission, and with the latest additions or talent musicians, that mission is stronger than ever; Luca Chessa: “Luca Chessa Is a passionate and committed music professional, with the talent and drive to succeed. Growing up amongst the vibrant and diverse music scene in Italy, and studying music in London was an environment full of inspiration and stimulation for Luca to feed off. Luca has been gigging alongside different artists as a band member, as well as a session player, playing Rock, Funk, Pop, Blues and R&B.”  Check out his Jeeni Showcase here: https://jeeni.com/showcase/ghopvxaildzq/?view=about   Jada Freeman: “Jada Freeman is a singer-songwriter/producer from East London. She combines her distinctive British tone with captivating RnB lyrics and melodies, creating catchy hooks for her audience to sing along to. Her lyrics delve into topics such as love, the importance of self-worth and the overall tribulations of day-to-day life. A few of her influences are Jhene Aiko, Erykah Badu, and Lilly Allen.”  Here’s the link for Jada’s Showcase: https://jeeni.com/showcase/adkcmyfeevyu/   Big Frank: “Big Frank is a Hip Hop producer from Cornwall, based in London. Since moving to the city in 2017 he has worked as a producer and engineer, and established his sound. His style is a blend of classic Hip Hop sounds, and experimental textures. Expect more releases with the UK underground's best rappers and singers in 2022.”  Big Frank’s Jeeni showcase: https://jeeni.com/showcase/bigfrank/?view=about   WesLi D:  “Hailing from North West London, artist and producer WesLi D brings a refreshing take to UK underground and alternative rap using a blend of styles; from melodic and bouncy to somber and thoughtful, his expression is not limited sonically by any means.”  Here is WesLi D’s showcase on Jeeni: https://jeeni.com/showcase/ctq6hi7bzb6e/?view=about   Pat Spencer:  “Raised in Bexleyheath, South East London, 23-year-old Pat Spencer has been exponentially growing his music career and experience since his promising musical journey began during the summer of 2021.”  Check out Pat’s showcase on Jeeni here: https://jeeni.com/showcase/patspencer/?view=about   New Content Contributed to Jeeni’s Database of Talent!  This host of new Jeeni artists brought with them some of their incredible new music as well as other Jeeni artists which has broadened Jeeni’s database of art massively:  WesLi D - ‘Walk Of Life’ Single:  “‘Walk of Life’ is an enjoyable and upbeat track by WesLi D that presents themes of time and personal growth. The artist reflects on taking time to search and find himself throughout his journey in life as well as not letting his dreams pass him by. This track is relatable for the listener as it describes the growth and changes of a person travelling through life to figure themselves out.”  Check out this chill single here: https://jeeni.com/walk-of-life-wesli-d/   Pat Spencer & Joe Sach - ‘Alive & Surviving’ EP:  Pat Spencer’s collaboration with Jeeni artist, Joe Sach “results in a sweet and layered three-track project.” Pat Spencer’s sweet lyrics and vocal talent provide the heart to this project, while producer, Joe Sach forms the body, with day-dreamy and mellow instrumentals.  Check out the review of ‘Alive & Surviving’ here: https://jeeni.com/blog/pat-spencer-joesach-alive-surviving-ep-review/   Check out Pat Spencer’s showcase on Jeeni: https://jeeni.com/showcase/patspencer/?view=videos   Big Frank & MazeyJune - ‘Sun Outside’ Single:  “This chilled out hip-hop callback from Big Frank beckons the summer with the help of MazeyJune’s soulful voice. ‘Sun Outside’ sees Frank with his staple effortlessly serene and well-rounded beats accompanying MazeyJune’s free-flowing, enchanting melodies.”  Check out Jeeni’s review of ‘Sun Outside’ here: https://jeeni.com/blog/big-frank-mazeyjune-sun-outside-single-review-blog-jeeni/   Check out the single here: https://jeeni.com/sun-outside-mazeyjune-and-big-frank/   Jada Freeman - ‘Vibe With Me’, ‘Illusions’, ‘Willingly’, ‘You’re Not the One’, ‘Devil in the White Cloak’ and ‘Trippin’’ Singles collection: Jada Freeman has contributed all six of her incredible singles, including 2021’s ‘Vibe With Me’, “a seductive, inviting and playful single from Jada Freeman. The track has hugely diversified her style and expanded expectations for her work ever since.” After featuring on Jeeni artist, Ace Bermuda’s debut single, Jada joined Jeeni shortly after the review of the track was published on Jeeni’s blog page.  And check out the full review of ‘Vibe With Me’: https://jeeni.com/blog/jada-freeman-vibe-with-me-single-review/   Check out her showcase here: https://jeeni.com/showcase/adkcmyfeevyu/   Ariana May - ‘First Love’ Album:  Classically trained singer and composer, Ariana May has recently released the entirety of her debut album, ‘First Love’ on Jeeni. “The album of piano compositions: ‘First Love’, charts an emotional voyage through the depths of the heart. The album possesses a combination of nostalgic, poignant and optimistic pieces that each reflect different stages of a relationship and, on a deeper level, of our mercurial emotions as we experience the elasticity and unpredictability of life.”  Check out Ariana’s incredible showcase here: https://jeeni.com/showcase/arianamay/   Giack Bazz – ‘Giack Bazz Is Not Famous’ Exclusive Single:  Giack Bazz is an alternative Rock singer-songwriter based in London. Giack takes the listener on a tour inside his mind, criticising society and discussing mental health, from love to loss.” ‘Giack Bazz Is Not Famous’ is the title track of Giack’s 2018 album. Deliberately present only on the vinyl edition and now, Jeeni, this single is an exciting and fresh take on indie rock.  Check out the exclusive single here: https://jeeni.com/giack-bazz-is-not-famous-giack-bazz/   New Artist Focus blogs:  In addition to 4 new review blogs, two new biographical, ‘Artist Focus’ blogs have been added to Jeeni’s blog page, https://jeeni.com/blog/ . Alana Sukul: https://jeeni.com/blog/alana-sukul-artist-focus-blog-jeeni/   “Brand new to Jeeni, Alana Sukul has contributed five new tracks to several of our channels due to her music casting such a huge stylistic net. Stirring together funk, dancehall and electronic ingredients, Alana Sukul is rapidly building momentum with her unique take on modern pop.”  Cassius Gray: https://jeeni.com/blog/artist-focus-cassius-gray-blog-jeeni/   “Cassius Gray has expanded and diversified Jeeni’s hip-hop, rap and RnB channels with six incredible tracks, each one different to the last and totally refreshing. With casual, effortless rhymes and relatable vibes, Cassius Gray is making huge waves in the UK jazz rap scene.”  Reach out to the Jeeni marketing team at doug@jeeni.com or ella@jeeni.com.   Make sure you’re following us on social media to keep up to date with new releases from our artists, our blogs and any job openings.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeenimusic/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeenimusic    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeenimusic    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/33222018/admin/