Get ready for the next installment of Min Melon Mix Ups, your destination for the freshest and finest in new music. From irresistible toe-tapping rhythms to soul-stirring harmonies, our meticulously crafted collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re itching to hit the dance floor, dive into deep emotions, or bask in the soothing sounds of indie melodies, we’ve got your musical cravings covered. So kick back, unwind, and allow us to sweep you away on an enchanting expedition through our exceptional assortment of new tracks!
ZZ Ward’s independent journey unfolds with ‘On One’, featuring Jean Deaux. It’s a track that thrives on hip-hop beats and a powerful message inspired by her experience as a new mother. The music video continues the unique artist’s trend of narrative-rich visuals, fusing music and film seamlessly. From blues-inspired beginnings, this sound has evolved into a dynamic fusion of genres. ‘Dirty Shine’ echoes her embrace of authenticity, symbolized by her iconic fedoras. With newfound motherhood and independence, ZZ Ward navigates her artistic journey and engages with her fan community on a deeper level. ‘Dirty Shine’ also features on a genre-blurring album of the same name, out now.
“The concept of ‘dirty shine’ is larger than the record. When I put out my first album, my fans and I started saying we are ‘dirty shine.’ It was about embracing who you are—we are all dirty, a little rough around the edges. I’ve always had this vibe, but I feel like this time in my life is like ‘dirty shine’ on steroids. I can fully be myself, and nothing can stop me.”
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Mancunian masked duo Cooper T, signed to Foundation Music, release their debut EP, SAPIENS, along with the visually striking single ‘Original’. With an indie heritage and a futuristic outlook, they encapsulate Manchester’s contemporary vibe. Their genre-defying sound, influenced by the likes of LVLZ and Children of Zeus, resonates with both guitars and synths, fusing classic and modern elements. Featuring a punk funk vibe reminiscent of CAN, ‘Original’ challenges creative integrity in a visually engaging music video shot in Manchester. The EP’s tracks, co-produced by Dubphizix, embody political undertones, capturing the essence of urban life while solidifying Cooper T as a powerful live act.
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MYRANDAS embrace their Caribbean roots and deliver a vibrant splash of Latin culture with their debut Spanish single, ‘Cuando Te Vi’. Formerly known for their rebellious rock tracks, the Cuban-American act infuses the Los Angeles spirit into this summer anthem. Latin grooves, lively guitar riffs, and infectious vocals seamlessly intertwine, offering a fresh perspective on the urbano genre. ‘Cuando Te Vi’ captures the exhilaration of new experiences, reflecting the band’s desire to inspire joy and movement through music. MYRANDAS’ transition from rock to Latin music showcases their artistic versatility, shaping a promising path for the future.
“It’s a song that captures the special connection and energy we feel when experiencing something for the first time. It embodies the irresistible joy that comes with it.”
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Elle Baez ignites the music scene with her self-written Latin-pop release ‘Fuego’, which serves as a celebratory homage to her father and abuelo, who realized the American Dream after immigrating from the Dominican Republic. The song seamlessly blends Spanglish lyrics, modern pop synths, and timeless Latin sounds that Elle grew up dancing to at family gatherings. Produced by Chris Del Camino and featuring live performances by Latin Grammy winners and notable musicians, ‘Fuego’ is a reflection of the brilliant diversity and creativity found in the Latin-American community.
“I have held Fuego so close to my heart for so many years. It tells not only my story, but the story of those who came before me and made it possible for me to the be the confident woman and artist I am today. I am a curvy fierce Latina and I will continue to shine my light.The fire of mi comunidad that has set me ablaze keeps me going. My dad grew up on a farm in Ocoa and to see the life he has made makes me see that anything is impossible.”
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Preparing the release of his upcoming album, Running Away, Jeremy Voltz shares an exhilarating preview with ‘Superhero’. Produced by Oliver Charles, the track brims with an upbeat, playful aura while conveying a message of hidden strength and self-discovery. Jeremy’s distinctive blend of rock and pop, characterized by his masterful electric guitar, drives the song’s melodic core. The lyrics inspire an exploration of untapped potential, encapsulating the notion that trying itself is heroic. With an infectious groove and soulful vocals, ‘Superhero’ radiates an internal confidence that’s both empowering and uplifting. Anticipation is running high for Jeremy Voltz’s album.
“The music told us what the song was about. That maybe deep down you have a secret super power you haven’t unlocked yet, and you just need to try. And that the trying is the part that makes you a superhero – to show up for yourself and bring it.”
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Hailing from Los Angeles, Kanwal defies convention with his unapologetic energy, as you’ll hear in ‘Tuggin’ Me Back’. Keeping within his self-style “rage funk” genre, this track is a testament to his multicultural upbringing, merging Indian, Russian, and American influences into a genre-blurring sonic experience. Kanwal’s fusion of distorted vocals, gritty basslines, and textured synths generates an enthralling atmosphere, amplified by reversed guitar slides and vivid sound effects. ‘Tuggin’ Me Back’ captures a snapshot in time on self-discovery.
“Rage funk is where all the unconventional, unsavory emotions and desires live. It where the raw, odd parts of our psyche get stuffed, beneath layers of constructed identity and social expectation. Kendrick Lamar’s TPAB is rage funk, but so is M.I.A’s arular, Beyonce’s Lemonade, and James Brown’s “Please Please Please”. Raw emotion manifests differently for everyone. For me, it’s about expressing the sides of myself that other people think are outlandish, or don’t fit together. Rage Funk is also about giving a voice to aggression that, for a long time, I didn’t feel comfortable acknowledging.”
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Amid the pandemic, Lee Fitzjames crafted an EP and award-winning music videos across New Zealand, Sweden, and the USA, where she’s now based. A versatile artist, Lee is an actor, director, singer, and musician who seamlessly merges these roles in single and music video ‘Think Bout’. Drawing comparisons to FKA Twigs and contemporary R&B talents, this track delves into the complexities of connection as an immigrant, an homage to the modern struggles of forming bonds. Its evolution, impacted by the pandemic, mirrors this creative’s tenacity, showcased in the vivid video crafted against all odds.
“Thinkin Bout…is a homage to the modern difficulties of making connections when you’re an immigrant. I wrote the song on a classic guitar one night, when I caught myself falling in love with a Swede…I called it “4AM Ellipsis”, wondering if we could ever enter into a relationship before we’d inevitably get separated The video project started in January 2020. I found my dream choreographer and dancers in New York City and we had rehearsed 16 counts of choreography. I flew back to Sweden with the view to go back and shoot everything in March 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic broke out. I was stuck in Sweden for several months and could only fly back to the USA via a third country, due to immigration laws. Two and a half years later, I was finally able to return to NYC but the choreographer and her dancers aren’t available. I was torn between waiting for another opportunity or moving forward myself as I didn’t know whether I’d be able to return to NYC ever again. So I choreographed. I devised the work while in Los Angeles and met the dancers in NYC. We shot with the renown dance cinematographer Jacob Hiss and worked with production designer Polanco Wilber to create the stunning set.”
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South Sudan punk rockers Angel of Discord step out of their comfort zone with ‘LIE 4 U’. In a departure from their usual sound, this is their first venture into the dance genre. The track showcases their commitment to DIY production and promotion, staying true to their punk roots. Influenced by rock legends like Nirvana and Frank Zappa, they bring a unique flavor to dance music. ‘LIE 4 U’ is a gritty, raw dance track that pulses with energy. It’s a testament to their ethos of ethical, non-corporate music production. Angel of Discord’s willingness to experiment and cross genres is commendable, and this release is a bold step in that direction.
“We are South Sudan we are a punk rock band. We also make chainsaw art. This is our first attempt at a collaborative dance song.”
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Another artist preparing the release of their forthcoming album is Robert LaRoche. His latest single ‘Steal Your Heart’ is a tantalizing taster of the unreleased Forevermore LP. It masterfully fuses alt-country, folk, and pop-rock, offering a familiar yet refreshingly distinctive musical experience. From the initial drumbeat to the final guitar note, it’s a compelling sonic journey filled with infectious energy and undeniable charm. Thematically, ‘Steal Your Heart’ is a beautiful love story marked by personal vulnerability, rendering the lyrics relatable and deeply moving. His earnest tenor voice infuses each word with authenticity and emotion, exploring themes of love, loss, redemption, and hope. Robert LaRoche delivers a musical experience that is both heartfelt and memorable.
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Cristine Capitulo’s journey from attorney to singer-songwriter is a testament to the pursuit of passion and self-discovery. Her latest single ‘Tell Me’ dives deep into the realm of dramatic relationship-based music, delivering a relatable storyline and ear-pleasing vocals. The song’s emotive quality shines through with thudding drums, booming bass, and a blend of retro soul and contemporary R&B elements. It’s the kind of track you’ll find yourself replaying, especially when someone occupies your thoughts. Cristine’s transition from her legal career to music underscores the importance of self-identity and breaking free from societal expectations to follow one’s dreams. ‘Tell Me’ not only showcases her musical talent but also speaks to the universal experience of longing and love, making it a compelling addition to the R&B and pop music scene.
“This is the type of song you can replay and sing along to when you can’t get someone out of your mind.”
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Written during the isolating days of lockdown, Alex James’ ‘My Imagination’ beautifully encapsulates the feelings of love, longing, and the ache of separation. It’s a compelling debut in which James weaves a vivid narrative of yearning for a loved one, painting a picture of imagined moments in a smoky room together. The song is a melodic journey filled with dark, sweeping synths, ethereal vocals, and impactful beats, drawing inspiration from luminaries like Always Never, The Weeknd, and Aaryan Shah. Hailing from Argentina, James’ music speaks to the universal emotions of love and distance, making ‘My Imagination’ a hauntingly romantic and relatable tune for anyone who’s experienced the trials of separation.
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PURPLE MELON 