Nikhita ‘Lake Karachay’
‘Lake Karachay’ is the new single from rising Scottish artist Nikhita. Set to feature on her debut EP ‘Solace’ out on 4th April, the artist blends languid neo-soul and cosmic R&B to create a sound that is ethereal, intimate and utterly radiant. Her luminous vocals, reminiscent of Cleo Soul, take centre stage, guiding us through the dreamy, delicate soundscapes behind.
Talking about the single, Nikhita says “it was inspired by the most toxic lake in the world. The lake in Russia was used as a nuclear dumping ground in the 1950s, and later covered up with concrete to avoid further pollution. Whilst I was writing, I had surrounded myself with a lot of toxic people. Hearing the story of the lake one day, I sympathised with this body of water, feeling used, and like an emotionally polluted dumping ground. I chose to make this the opening track of the EP because to me, it’s an almost comical foresight for some following songs on the project- like a ‘’don’t get yourself into these situations!’’ warning from an older me.”
Marcus Engwall ‘Dear Woman Love’
Introducing Marcus Engwall, a Swedish-Indonesian singer-songwriter living in Glasgow. With a debut EP called ‘Glacial Pace’ on the way on 21st February, he has shared a new preview single called ‘Dear Woman Love’ – a delicate track that shows deftness of touch and gorgeous musicality. Led by his stunning falsetto, it’s a track that caught our attention on first listen – evoking the likes of Todd Rundgren and Mac DeMarco in its hypnotic yet wholly unique soundscapes.
Tamzene ‘Something Right’
Opening her account for 2025, Tamzene has shared a new single called ‘Something Right’. Picking up where her last EP ‘In Any Weather’ left off, the track begins as a soft, soulful ballad before opening up into an upbeat pop moment – carried by lively, reggae-inspired rhythms and catchy choruses. Filled with gratitude and sunny optimism, it’s an uplifting return.
Kyle Falconer ‘The One I Love The Most’
Kyle Falconer’s ‘The One I Love The Most’ is a collection of songs from his vast back catalogue, all of which are named after women and have been newly reworked in acoustic form.
Named after a lyric taken from The View fan favourite ‘5 Rebeccas’, ‘The One I Love The Most’ features songs spanning almost two decades: from the unrequited love of ‘Claudia’ (from the band’s #1 debut album ‘Hats Off To The Buskers’) through to the lovelorn ‘Dixie’ (the original of which featured on last year’s Top 10 return ‘Exorcism of Youth’).
Along the way, the album also reinvents highlights from his two solo albums ‘No Thank You’ and ‘No Love Songs For Laura’, while he tackles more complex, personal themes on the likes of ‘Laura’.
Recorded from his Alicante retreat at La Sierra Casa, it’s a luscious collection that shines a light on his exquisite songwriting and soulful vocals, beyond all the production and indie-rock heft. And while it may not have the pace and raucous atmosphere we’re used to, it’s an impressive songbook that demonstrates his undeniable consistency and musicianship.
The Castros ’50 Pence’
’50 Pence’ is The Castros’ first release of the year, a festival-ready crowd pleaser reminiscent of 90’s Britpop vibes. The Fife-based quintet made waves in 2024 strengthening their live presence with various appearances under their belt, such as gracing the stage at Glasgow’s infamous Barrowlands as part of our Tenement Trail lineup alongside the likes of Majesty Palm, SLIX, Overpass and Declan Welsh.
The band comment, “”50 Pence” comes from a place of raw emotion. It’s about loving someone who’s amazing despite the chaos that surrounds them, particularly the madness of their family members. The verses are dark, heavy with the weight of the family dynamic— each verse dedicated to a different family member with a brief description to paint the picture. But then, the chorus brings in a contrast.”
Having recently announced a headline show at Sneaky Petes this year, The Castros also take to a sold out King Tut’s on February 7th in support of Sergeant one their comeback shows, as well as an Aberdeen support slot with Mickey 9s at Tunnels on May 9th.
Check out our full playlist, featuring new tracks from Inhaler, Squid, Courtney Barnett and more.
