Sunday Spin: New Releases From NIKI, Tempalay, Gabe Watkins, and DOOR PLANT
Sunday Spin is EnVi‘s weekly music showcase, where we bring you the hottest global hits in our curated playlist. Join us every Sunday for new music that sets the perfect tone for your upcoming week.
We’re kicking off May with great music from across the globe. From pre-summer bops to bad bitch anthems, Team EnVi has got it all lined up — just for you — in this week’s Sunday Spin!
Genin wa Jibun ni Aru. – “Mania”
Like monsters only seeking fun, Japanese avant-garde septet Genin wa Jibun ni Aru. (GNJB) arrive with a craving for unity in their pop-rock single “Mania.” GNJB delve into the psyche of a composed madness over their long-awaited love for another. Throughout the track, the unit’s vocals are altered to capture this disorientating yet vexing emotion and their intense affection. Renowned for their distinctive sound in the J-pop scene, the unit puts together a riveting soundscape driven by the instrumental rock-influenced tune mixed with modern-pop undertones. The music video further amplifies both the lyricism and the concept of serene insanity, as viewers witness the seven members display their excessive forms of affections. GNJB’s enchantment with butterflies evolves into a crooked affinity and spotlights the darkness behind the group’s declaration of desire, passion, and loyalty to the one they strongly wish to unite with. Highlighted in their hooking chorus, the unit performs a “doting dance,” where the members synchronize their hand movements and smoothly transition to intertwine with one another. This choreography moment reflects their lyrics to signify their gluttonous temperament towards this love.
Rees Gonzales – “Maybe I’m Tired”
At just 21 years old, Rees Gonzales stands out from the typical college student. Balancing his studies as an architecture student with a rising career as a singer-songwriter, producer, and vocalist of indie band Doughbaby, Gonzales pours his heart into his music. His latest bedroom-pop track, “Maybe I’m Tired,” dives into the complexities of exhaustion and mental fatigue while struggling to navigate life’s challenges. With introspective lyrics that resonate deeply, the Filipino artist captures the essence of waking up on a lonely Saturday morning, feeling overwhelmed by the weight of the world. Throughout heartfelt verses and catchy chorus, Gonzales expresses the internal struggle of battling exhaustion while also struggling with frustration and uncertainty. Gonzales has crafted his own distinct sound that wraps listeners in tranquil melodies, inviting a sense of comfort with his song’s relatable lyrics. With an impressive discography of almost 50 tracks in just three years, Gonzales continues to captivate audiences with his authentic approach to music. As he releases a new song each month, Gonzales’ unwavering dedication to his craft shines bright.
tie a tie – “RUN RUN RUN”
Tie a tie, the dynamic male alternative rock duo from Thailand, has returned with their first release of 2024, “RUN RUN RUN.” Having debuted in 2018, they recently unveiled their latest English single brimming with lively energy, fast-paced rhythm, and funky guitar riffs. The duo dives into a fusion of alt-rock and funky grooves, blending experimental sounds that add layers of depth and allure to their music. With “RUN RUN RUN,” tie a tie delivers an anthem that encapsulates the restless essence of a relationship coming to its end yet yearning for reconciliation. Meak’s impassioned vocals and guitar flair, accompanied by Breakiad’s deft guitar work, create a synergy that fills the track with intertwined brilliance. For fans of alternative music seeking to broaden their horizons, tie a tie is an act not to be overlooked. As they continue to evolve their sound, “RUN RUN RUN” stands as a testament to their boundless creativity and talent.
NIKI – “Too Much Of A Good Thing”
Looking for the perfect summer song for your playlist? Look no further as NIKI delivers her laid back groovy single “Too Much Of A Good Thing.” Serving as the first track of her upcoming third full-length album Buzz, the indie singer shows off a new sound as she adopts the alternative indie genre for her rock-toned track. Blended with the catchy bassline and low tone rhythm percussion, the song takes a direction towards psychedelic funk with its blurry and soft band instruments and NIKI’s slurred and low vocals. Backing the track’s hip beats, a new form of love is unraveled as NIKI sings of desire and the excitement that comes with newfound love. Self-claimed to be one her best albums to date, Buzz holds stories written throughout the randomest moments in the artist’s life from the past few years.
Ceara Cavalieri – “That’s My Bitch”
Ceara Cavalieri’s latest track, “That’s My Bitch,” is a powerful anthem of empowerment and liberation. Inspired by her best friend’s journey through a toxic relationship, Cavalieri wrote an upbeat pop-rock anthem. She celebrates resilience and self-love, affirming how her friend — and listeners — are better off without the negativity of an unworthy romantic partner. With lines such as “she’s independent” and “doesn’t need no man or attention,” the song serves as a bold declaration of strength and confidence. “That’s My Bitch” joins Cavalieri’s roster of 10 singles, offering listeners a high-energy track perfect for blasting, singing along, and dancing with friends. Fans of Cavalieri will have the chance to experience her electrifying energy live as she hits the road on tour across the UK and Europe with Leah Kate, beginning on May 6.
Gabe Watkins – “moon & stars”
The R&B-infused pop sound of Gabe Watkin’s “moon & stars” perfectly captures the essence of love. The lyrics express enduring affection as Watkins sings about love through late July evenings and summer skies. The song’s chorus conveys a readiness to go to the ends of the universe for love, evoking a heartfelt sense of longing and devotion. In the accompanying music video set in a black and blue hue, Watkins evokes a sense of solitude and introspection. As the lyrics speak of love and desire, the visual portrayal of Watkins and his love interest as silhouettes adds a layer of depth to the song’s heart-wrenching impact. “Moon & stars” offers a glimpse into Watkin’s upcoming EP. The Australian-Thai musician, based in Bangkok, draws inspiration from indie-pop and alternative music, which have been integral to his musical upbringing. With influences spanning from Mac Miller to Fleetwood Mac, Watkin’s distinctive style blends warmth and intimacy with lively melodies, ensuring an EP that is both innovative and authentic.
Tempalay – “預言者 (SOBA)”
Just two weeks since the release of their single “NEHAN”, three-membered Japanese band, Tempalay, released their groovy single “預言者 (SOBA),” the sixth track on their latest full length album ((ika)), which translates literally to the word “prophet” on May 1. “預言者 (SOBA)” is a chill jazzy track with a catchy chorus and smooth instrumental. The vocalists AAAMYYY and Ohara harmonize together about being a prophet and seeing a better future ahead that they’d like to visit. The music video released alongside the track also conveys this futuristic yet longing vibe. The members are seen in a barren backdrop save for their instruments, some equipment, and the fractured images of them as they perform. The grainy texture of the recording really hits on that nostalgic vibe, while the members sing longingly into their mics.
Tempalay released their first EP, From Japan, in 2016 before solidifying their sound and members in 2019 with the release of their album With Love From the 21 Century. The group mainly focuses on a more jazzy and synth-heavy sound while still staying connected to their alternative roots. Since their debut, Tempalay has toured, performed in festivals, and continue to consistently release music. If you’re an alternative music lover that’s looking for something unique, then Tempalay might just be the band for you!
DOOR PLANT – “Strawberry Jam”
In need of a nostalgic smooth jam for those late night drives? Five-membered Thai indie male band, DOOR PLANT, have your back. On April 29, the band released their romantic single “Strawberry Jam” along with its music video. The vocalist, Phum, croons over a wistful guitar about becoming a morning person if only to see the tender smile of their lover in the morning light. With a grainy, black and white visual to accompany the gentle instrumental, that feeling of timeless love really shines through as he lilts “I wanna be close to you […] you know, we can’t be apart.”
DOOR PLANT debuted on March 15, 2021 with their single “Her,” and since then, they have released a slew of songs that, despite all sounding vastly different, share that air of wistfulness. The group prides itself on sharing their experience no matter the genre, wanting to bring a refreshing force that helps their listeners feel at ease, much like an indoor plant. With their growing discography and genreless sound, they have a song for everyone and are doing just that.
Other tracks in this week’s Sunday Spin playlist include “HEYA” by IVE, “Flip that Coin” by The KingDom, and “SHORTCUT” by NEVONE. Listen to everything mentioned and more, curated by Team EnVi only for you on Spotify.
Want more of the latest releases? Check out our previous Sunday Spin here!
