An accomplished DJ, radio presenter, podcaster and all-round new music mastermind, Shell Zenner is a person you want to know if you’re a budding new band.
With a knack for spotting emerging talent before it’s quite bobbed to the surface, Shell’s shows on Amazing Radio and XS Manchester, alongside her work with BBC Introducing, have her cemented as the new tune champion to rival all new tune champions.
Who better to make us a playlist?
Working Men's Club - White Rooms And People
Working between Manchester and West Yorkshire is always exceptionally exciting. There are so many spirited and incredibly talented artists blowing up right now such as The Lounge Society, The Goa Express, Blanketman, Document and more. Todmorden band Working Men's Club have been leading the charge, they exploded on to the music scene last year and were swiftly signed by Heavenly and will be dropping their debut album this year. CANNOT WAIT.
Jon Hopkins & Kelly Lee Owens - Luminous Spaces
In a world that seems frankly a little crackers right now, music can be the moment of zen we need to live in the moment, close our eyes and let the vibes wash over us, I honestly can't think of a better tune than this recent collaboration from Jon Hopkins and Kelly Lee Owens to fit the bill, uplifting and relaxing in equal measure, and absolutely the best escapism you could ask for right now.
Sfven - Flowerbeds
Caught between the sheets and flowerbeds is not your everyday lyric, but these aren't everyday times and Sfven certainly knows how to write a rousing banger!
Gotts Street Park - Favourite Kind Of Girl
The smooth grooves from Gotts Street Park's latest track completely stopped me in my tracks, smooth as silk, with their unmistakeable cinematic style, Favourite Kind Of Girl is completely dreamy.
Musumba - Drifting
I remember hearing the demo of this track and was as blown away then as I am now! Musumba is just 16 years old, and her songs are incredibly mature. The Bradford artist worked on this song with Ben Matravers and its got Bens magic touch throughout the production. ‘People come and go sometimes, drifting in and out like tides’, the lyricism is so relatable, and I just love her so much!
Squid - Sludge
I've been a HUGE fan of Squid for a while and was psyched to be part of the Momentum judging panel that awarded them funding. Their incredibly edgy live sets and sounds have been essential fuel to my ears for the last year. I’m so hyped to see they've signed to Warp Records for this latest release, 'Sludge'.
Porij - Closer
My favourite Manchester funksters are Porij. I swear their live sets are pretty much a full-on rave, always the best covers too, including the Prodigy and more! Their effortless sound is just the tonic for these isolated times, dance around your kitchen, why don't ya?
Julia Bardo - Please Don't Tell Me
I've been waiting for Julia Bardo's Phase EP for a while and I’m so glad it's finally here! The gorgeous EP is reminiscent of early Cate Le Bon. Julia's lilting tones coupled with a vintage sound shine through to bring the sunshine to any dreary day.
The Orielles - Space Samba (Disco Volador Theme)
I, for one, would happily relocate to a new planet called Bobbi's Second World for a bit of a Disco Volador right now, with views of the Euro Borealis and a bit of Space Samba, I think I’ve found Utopia. YES PLEASE.
VC Pines - Bluebirds
VC Pines is a treasure that I’ve completely adored since witnessing his Leeds Festival performance last year. Slick production, incredible lyrics and the perfect alt-soul soundtrack with added brass for good measure. Wow.
