#Ayla Tesler-Mabé

[thepermanentrainpress]

New Music Video: "Haven't Seen Much Of U Lately!" - Ayla Tesler-Mabé

[rolloroberson]

What a wonderful talent Ayla is!!

[thepermanentrainpress]

UNDER THE RADAR: FEBRUARY 2023

1) Francis Arevalo - “I Can’t Wait”

A searing passion and power defines Arevalo’s new single. Reworked and refined, it was written about “facing one’s own mortality after a difficult mental health struggle,” and circles around notions of commitment, purpose and community. His cultural, lived experiences and advocacy for mental health and BIPOC artists are reflected in his work; he has agency over decisions made in the present, and chooses to forge ahead while being a rally cry for those around him. It’s a groovy hip hop track with cascading live instruments (drums, guitar, bass, keys, turntables) and fervent delivery—I’m not surprised to read that he has a slam poetry background.   

I am not a big rap/hip hop listener, but I was drawn towards the uplifting wordplay (“we could be brave with the hurt / you’re here / there is reason for birth”) that is not just about oneself, but both blood and chosen family. Manifesting dreams requires clarity, visualization, gratitude and mindfulness, traits that aren’t lacking in this artist. Expect his debut album 0427 Act I: HEATCHECK! this April. 

Written by: Chloe Hoy

2) Ayla Tesler-Mabé - “Give Me A Sign?”

This track has a very funky and upbeat sound. It's a powerful mix of R&B, rock, and even jazz, creating a soulful style. There's a lot of pep and energy in both the music and vocals here. Ayla expresses herself with a tone of voice and emotion mature beyond her years. The lyrics tell a tale of a relationship that isn't all it should be - the singer really wants things to be all they could be, if the other party could just "give me a sign." This is a song with a timeless vibe finely engineered for a very enjoyable listen. 

This is her debut single as a solo artist and it shows a lot of spirit and promise. It's a great introduction that will leave one hooked. If this is just a first taste of her upcoming EP, I'm very excited to see what else is to come.

Written by: Cazzy Lewchuk

3) Stay Lunar - “i like it when you’re around”

I just love Stay Lunar—they create all-around winners. A song celebrating friendship and the comfort and love received during times of need, it still has a bright glow. Heavier on the guitars and drums, it comes off as more of a peppier indie rock cut as opposed to their pop-centered, synth-laden past. It can be hard to express our feelings to those around us, much less be honest with ourselves; the ebb and flow is heard in the tone, narrating long-term adversity (“i know it's over but we're living in it / some things they take a while to leave”) and the striking contrast between solitude and company.

It’s so easy to be enveloped in their music. The Bristol band is set to release an EP later this year.

Written by: Chloe Hoy

4) Trina Kae - "Paris in the Fall”

Enamored in a new place of possibility at every corner, the Okanagan’s Trina Kae has fond memories of backpacking around the world post-college. Set in Paris, the song captures wonder and discovery in beauty only found through travel—and maybe some accompanying spirits ("Remember when you were dreaming beside the Seine / Lost again in a cabernet lens”). Her breathy voice cuts deep as it’s almost woeful in tone, nostalgic in the “glow of being immersed in the moment.” I like the alt pop layering; not flashy but achieves the airy and wistful mood it intends with sharp beats entering midway through.

In addition, the use of lyrics in French strengthens the story and reflection. “Paris in the Fall” is appropriately dramatic, but with the magic and intoxicating feeling of an unfamiliar and culturally rich city. Kae’s debut album Narrative is out now.

Written by: Chloe Hoy

5) Flint - “Days & Nights”

Embodying a carefree spirit and a license to party, Tony Rosenberg and Peter Jenner encourage you to leave your troubles at the door. The Brisbane rockers have a controlled punch to their rock n’ roll. It’s anthemic while giving off an air of intrigue, a fast bass line and lyrics that are sang as self-assured statements. The pair has a fun musical style – a matured tone but a refusal to settle (“rearranged my focus and handed in my notice”). “Days & Nights” is a reminder that older and wiser are not always synonymous in life, and good times will triumph if we prioritize them.

Days & Nights by Flint.

Written by: Chloe Hoy

6) Glow Motive - “Show Me You're Here” 

This song does the not-easy task of being soft with a low tempo, but also groovy and complexly crafted. The complicated arrangement is appropriate for the subject matter - a meditation on grief and trying to find their presence in dealing with the loss of a family member. It is layered and clearly recorded with love and sincerity. One can really hear the difficult, sometimes contradictory feelings in the singers’ vocals as they strive to communicate with the departed. Not a second is wasted as the pitch and harmonies evolve, the music bridges, and the time signature switches. It's a wave of emotion that will move the listener, creating a pleasant yet poignant sound.

This is the first single released by Glow Motive, a collaboration between emerging artists Anjalica Solomon and Oceaan Pendharkar. This collective has highlighted and enhanced their identities within the brown, queer local musician community. I'm sure this is just the beginning of beautiful art as represented by them, with a bright future ahead.

Show Me You're Here by Glow Motive

Written by: Cazzy Lewchuk