New York–based alt-pop singer-songwriter Lauren Minear returns with “Perfect Girl,” a razor-sharp, darkly playful exploration of what it means to be a woman expected to shapeshift endlessly to please others. Written from the perspective of a fictional, satirical character, the track leans into the absurdity of “perfection” and the way chasing it strips away humanity in the process.
Built on deliberately hard, robotic production choices, “Perfect Girl” captures the inhumanity of trying to be universally palatable. Minear originally drafted the song in 2021, but it found its true place during the creation of her new album, Boxing Day (released October 17th), a project rooted in anger, honesty, and reclamation. At a co-writing retreat, the track came fully into focus with the help of Dan Weeks, Dan Barrenechea, and Leah Wheatley, who pushed the melody and arrangement into sharper, more subversive territory.
Hamilton, ON blues-rock outfit Thomas Duxbury and New Mother Nature share “Istanbul” — an energetic, riff-driven release that pairs upbeat, sun-soaked guitar work with deeply melancholic reflection. Equal parts homesick postcard and blues-rock catharsis, the track captures the ache of being split between places, people, and past lives.
“I wrote the song when I was living abroad and feeling homesick,” Duxbury explains. “Before I left for Scotland, I was standing in my driveway talking with my buddy Bruce – who plays keys on this track/bass with us live – and we chatted about potentially doing a trip to Istanbul while I was in Europe. That’s where the line I’m leaving but my heart’s still full, I can’t wait to see you in Istanbul came from. Fast forward about a month – I’m sitting in my dorm room with my guitar, playing what eventually became the riff for this song. I’m writing some words about being alone, feeling away from home… but I can’t find a chorus. Then that memory of the driveway comes to me and I think, ‘that’s the line.’”
Sydney based Electro juggernaut Emma Bass has just released her intoxicating new single called ‘Sweet Dejavu’, which premiered exclusively via
AAA Backstage.
‘Sweet Dejavu’ captures the magnetic tension between desire and distance that fleeting moment where passion burns bright, even knowing it won’t last. Blending punchy, haunting vocals with deep, rolling UK garage basslines and crisp two-step percussion, the track embodies the Emma Bass signature style: raw emotion wrapped in underground rhythm.
Emma Bass brings an electrifying energy perfectly suited for a Saturday night under the stars. Known for her bold, groove-driven sound, she blends UK Garage, House, and TECH with a signature flair that feels right at home on a dance floor. Emma stands out for her dynamic live performance style. Her sets weave together rolling club rhythms, underground textures, and her own powerful vocals, creating an atmosphere that’s both intimate and high-energy — a combination that elevates any show into a full sensory experience.
Emma’s collaboration with Nemo on the renowned Be Rich Records made a striking impact on the ARIA Club Chart, leading her into a successful national tour across Australia. From festival stages to iconic venues like HQ Adelaide, she’s developed a reputation for bringing crowds together with her infectious presence and unmistakable sound.
New single ‘Sweet Dejavu’ is available on all major online stores and streaming services.
