Allahina

Influenced by some of my favorite electronic artists - Bonobo, O'Flynn, Barry Can't Swim, and BICEP, UK's Archie Holmes' is definitely someone to be excited about.

Archie has made a name for himself in the club scene of Edinburgh by quite a few supporting well-known artists including Fort Romeau and has taken the stage over in various clubs around the world - from the Alps to Cambodia. I imagine those travels have influenced his sound as his new single "Allahina" feels like something I would love to play along my next journey in Asia.

The 4 minutes and 26 seconds long electronic gem is a dynamic and genre-defying single that blends live sax samples, hard-hitting drum breaks, and euphoric melodies. The song received praise from BBC Introducing and has been described by Honor Morrison "fresh and free from any trends that may constrict it". Something I 100% stand by.

The saxophone samples bring a lively and organic feel to the track, while the pulsating drum breaks create a strong sense of momentum and energy. I absolutely love how this feels both euphoric and calm.

While this is the first time I heard Archie's sound, he's going on the top of my artists to be excited about in 2023. I appreciate the refusal to adhere to any particular musical conventions or trends, which makes this composition absolutely staggering.