It’s time for another edition of Min Melon Mix Ups, where we bring you the latest and greatest in new music. From foot-tapping beats to heartwarming melodies, we have it all in this carefully curated selection. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, feel the emotions, or unwind with some indie tunes, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey with our magnificent mix of new music!
MAR, also known as Marina, shares her latest single, ‘Mama I Don’t Wanna Play The Blues Anymore’. The Canadian artist’s musical journey began at the age of ten when she started playing the guitar. Her solo career kicked off in 2017, marked by winning the Imagine Festival in Croatia. With a unique fusion of influences, her debut album Calling Out came out in 2019, followed by the sophomore album Soanyway River in 2023. Now based in London, MAR has been hosting open mic nights and building a supportive music community. The new single is a poignant reflection on her experiences and emotions during a burnout in the past year.
“I think this track is what you would really like to hear in your playlist, as it is a very intimate and emotional folk song that you can play anytime as it is a very easy going and catchy song.”
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Singer-songwriter Sam Drysdale delves into the roots of his musical style with his upcoming EP, Bonnie’s Sad Songs. Stripping down to the core of his songwriting, Sam emphasises raw emotionality and intimate melodies, showcasing a return to the passion that ignited his musical journey. The title-track ‘Bonnie’ draws inspiration from Bonnie Parker, exploring Clyde’s perspective as he follows the captivating yet dangerous woman he loves. Produced by the award-winning artist Joey Verskotzi, ‘Bonnie’ exudes a timeless quality, resonating with the EP’s theme of love requiring significant sacrifice. Sam Drysdale’s narrative-driven songs promise a powerful and emotionally charged musical experience.
“That film really highlighted Bonnie’s role as the principal antagonist in their whole story. I loved the idea of writing a song from Clyde’s perspective as he followed around this beautiful, evil woman that he loved. Even if it killed him.”
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Liverpool-born artist BANNERS collaborates with Lily Meola on a duet version of ‘Perfectly Broken’. With roots in Liverpool Cathedral’s choir and familial ties to renowned producer Ken Nelson, BANNERS’ musical journey has spanned over a billion streams and notable achievements. Lily Meola’s enchanting vocals add a new dimension to the song, creating a harmonious blend that elevates the emotive quality. BANNERS expresses pride in the collaboration, praising Lily Meola’s contribution for bringing a beautiful, raw emotion and an additional layer of meaning to ‘Perfectly Broken’, transforming it into a cinematic and emotionally resonant piece.
“I love Lily’s vocals on ‘Perfectly Broken. “It’s a song about two halves coming together to create one beautiful thing and that’s what she’s done. I didn’t know the song needed it until I heard her voice but now I think ‘Perfectly Broken’ would feel a little lost without her. She’s brought a beautiful, raw emotion that adds a whole new layer of meaning. I love the new dimension she’s brought to it. I was already really proud of ‘Perfectly Broken’ and now I love it even more.” – BANNNERS
“BANNERS is such a wonderful artist, so getting to sing on one of his songs was very exciting for me. This one in particular feels like it belongs in a movie. It’s so cinematic and his voice is just the crème de la crème.” – Lily Meola
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Lecroque unfolds his musical journey from Portugal to Switzerland, blending influences from Disney and gaming. As the lead singer of One Day Remains, he pursued his musical dreams, eventually teaming up with producer Matthias Hillebrand-Gonzalez. Lecroque’s unique storytelling style draws inspiration from diving, finding tranquility underwater to spark song ideas. With a penchant for catchy and uplifting tunes, his single ‘NOPE!’ delivers a bold message—know your worth and don’t let anyone undermine your value. Lecroque’s music, shaped by diverse experiences, carries an unmistakable blend of attitude and authenticity, reinforcing the mantra of self-appreciation.
“Know your worth and don’t letting anybody mess with your feelings. If people don’t appreciate who you are, you really don’t want them in your life!”
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The Collection, led by David Wimbish, cultivates a distinctive musical language intertwined with their unbreakable bond. Hailing from North Carolina, the band values interpersonal connections as much as their music. Their journey, marked by tens of millions of streams and extensive touring, led to their 2022 signing with Nettwerk Music Group. Renowned for spirited performances and festival appearances, The Collection prioritizes community and empowerment. Their single ‘Spark of Hope’ from the upcoming album, reflects on the resilient flame of hope amidst life’s challenges, embodying the band’s ethos of supporting and connecting with their listeners.
“I started to analyze how I feel about life, as someone who is often optimistic about projects, but not about my own mental state or health or future, and realized I don’t feel like someone who drowns in hope, but I’m not void of it either. I always try to at least carry a little spark of it, just enough to see in the darkness, and hope it’s enough to get me through. I wrote this song while we were in the studio, after almost a year of trying to write it and failing. It came together in a half hour and we recorded it the next day, with the lights low, during a thunderstorm.”
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Calum Scott makes a triumphant return with his latest single ‘Lighthouse’, a soulful pop anthem that exhibits his boldness and confidence. Produced by the Nocturns (Charlie Martin and Joe Housley), known for their work with artists like Lauv and Anne-Marie, the track combines storytelling and powerful vocals. ‘Lighthouse’ is a love song of epic proportions, exploring themes of hope and devotion. Calum’s captivating voice, coupled with radiant piano work and pulsating rhythms, creates a lush and luminous sonic landscape. The song reflects a personal journey, highlighting the importance of connection and finding light in the darkness.
“‘Lighthouse’ is a story about light in the darkness, the hope on the horizon, even if it’s in the distance and almost out of view it reminds you of what’s important and what makes you feel safe. It was written at a time when I was missing home and just getting a FaceTime or a text can be that lighthouse for me. I really pushed my limits to record the vocals on this, tried to sing with as much passion and raw emotion as I could – the production really helped with that and makes the story feel monstrous and powerful and will fill the stadiums I’m about to sing at whilst supporting Ed Sheeran!”
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PURPLE MELON 