TRACK REVIEW: Signal- All Night — Music Musings & Such

TRACK REVIEW:

Signal

All Night

9.6/10

All Night is available at:

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/all-night-single/id1120268749

RELEASE DATE: 5^th June 2016

GENRES: Hip-Hop; Rap; Grime

PRODUCER:

Jay Picasso

(http://starcitystudios.co.uk/)

ORIGIN:

Basingstoke, U.K.

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OVER the course of my musical searches...

I am always keen to find an artist who is raw and real: a person(s) that brings you down to street-level. Of course, a lot of musicians are open and original: bringing you into their hearts and minds; without barrier or shield. What I mean (in my search) is something hard-hitting and cutting-edge: sounds that get straight into the brain like a bullet; musicians that have that drive, confidence, and hunger. Before I come to my featured artists- who is one of the most fascinating acts in the underground- it is worth looking at the U.K. Hip-Hop/Grime/Rap scene; the way to get exposure in the modern market; which acts are going to make their mark in 2017. I am a huge fan of British Grime and Rap: that which brings in Hip-Hop- from both the U.K. and U.S. - brings it together in a riotous rhapsody. I am one of those people who feels music peaked in the ‘90s: the finest decade of music we have ever seen. Whether something was in the air; there was a rebellion against the 1980s- although some life-changing music was created then- I am not certain. If the ‘00s didn’t live up the hype: the first-half of the decade some of this country’s most innovative artists shine and amaze. Dizzee Rascal and The Streets are two acts I have mentioned a lot in my blog- and shall ‘bore’ you one more time with. Dylan and Mike (the men behind the monikers) brought their unique and unmistakable voices to British Hip-Hop: their Grime and Rap styles amazed critics and changed the face of British (and world) music. Dizzee Rascal emerged fresh-faced from the streets of East London: Bow was home for Dylan Mills; the backdrop to many of his songs- he brought you right into his experiences and life; the sounds, sensations and characters of the street.

His peerless debut, Boy in da Corner, displayed immense maturity, intelligence and confidence- from someone who was a teenager when the album came out. Lascivious girls, gang culture and London life sat with redemptive tales and introspective moments: a staggering, flawless album that (rightfully) scooped a Mercury Prize in 2003. The Streets’ Mike Skinner arrived a year before Dizzee Rascal. His debut album, Original Pirate Material, introduced the Birmingham musician to the world. That conversation style and witty lyrics- geezers getting fired up and late-night drinking; modern society and what defines it- were all aired and explored. Another unbelievable debut that saw Skinner go onto create an even finer album: A Grand Don’t Come for Free showcased unstoppable genius. Both artists have since capitulated- Dizzee Rascal is on sabbatical- looking for new inspiration- whilst The Streets have called time. The legacy of The Street and Dizzee Rascal found a band of young (mainly men) explode onto the scene. Modern heroes like Lethal Bizzle, Skepta; Kano, Tine Tempah and Stormzy have shaped and moulded British Hip-Hop. Whether predominantly Grime- in the case of Skepta and Kano- or something Hip-Hop/Rap-influenced- Lethal Bizzle and Tine Tempah- there are plenty of options.

Perhaps the quality is not up to 2002-2004 regency: the sound of U.K. Grime and Hip-Hop has evolved. Whether music school-trained- as is the case with my featured artist- or via the streets- each artist has their own distinct take on the genres. Upcoming forces such as Jay Prince- the East London lad’s Soul-inflected tales of disenfranchised youth have drawn comparisons with Kendrick Lamar- are getting critics interested and compelled. Novelist is a Lewisham-born Grime/Hip-Hop star that has listened to Skepta and Wiley- a swaggering, multi-talented artist that is primed for big things. Little Simz- A.K.A. Simbi Ajikawo- has caught the ear of the mainstream press with her music; has played a string of dates in the U.S.- someone encouraging more women to take up Grime and Hip-Hop. Before I carry on this point- and raise a couple of new ones- let me introduce Signal to you:

“Signal the future of the UK urban music scene hails from Basingstoke. A ‘90s boy, inspired by Eminem, Biggie, along with the Grime scene legends Dizzee Rascal, Skepta and Boy Better Know. He started writing at the age of 14 and has been working his way towards aligning himself with the greats. He’s already performed at major events supporting well known acts like Chipmunk, Kano, Wretch 32, Scorcher, Sneakbo and Krept & Konan. To date, he has 4 mixtape releases under his belt which has been well received and has led to him building a strong local following.

Signal has always had a strong passion for music and took up the vocation studying Music Technology at college and graduating with a Music Production degree at The Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford.

When it comes to performing Signal is no stranger to the stage. With many successful appearances performing on the main stage at Basingstoke Live 2012, 2014 and 2015, where it was very evident he has the backing of people from his home town. He regularly showcases his skills at local Basingstoke clubs and open mic sessions. The young rapper has also branched out and has performed in Camden, Oxford and Reading. One of the highlights from doing shows was the winning of the Vocal Networking competition in November 2013, followed by securing a place at the finals of Reading’s Got Talent in 2014 and 2016. Signal also finished 4th out of 70 contestants in the Croydon With Talent final 2015. This activity got him noticed by management agencies and in 2013 he was signed to ‘Titans Entertainment’, who specialises in representing emerging talent. Signal recently left Titans Entertainment as he felt it was the right career move.

The future is very bright and exciting for Signal. His 5^th release ‘Make It Happen E.P.’ is now available to download from iTunes and all digital stores. The material clearly shows the growth of his artistry and the evolution of his music. The first single from the EP ‘Make It Happen’, the title track and is arguably his best work to date. The song has already been picked up by radio stations and B.B.C. Introducing: The South. Most recently Signal featured in the Basingstoke Gazette, promoting the E.P., future plans and releases. This can be found via www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/leisure/music/13465608.Local_rapper_Signal_releases_new_single/

The hunger continues…”

Daniel Amps- Signal’s creator- can be added to the above list. He is a musician on the rise, gathering pace. I have been checking out the likes of Nick Brewer- the Essex lad spits lyrics of death (of a close friend) and modern youth- and his talent. If you are familiar with him- Gerald Jacobs is another name to investigate- Signal will be well-worth your time. Based around Basingstoke- having performed across Reading and the south a lot- All Night is a typically assured and nuanced cut. Following the success and momentum of Make it Happen (Signal’s latest E.P.) a lot of people have been buzzing about the new single. Given his proximity to London- a short drive from the capital- one wonders whether Amps will be tempted by the bright lights, expensive beer, and busy streets. A city that provides inspiration to all musicians: it is somewhere I yearn to be; the natural Mecca for those with ambition and a love of music.

He seems pretty comfortable and happy where he is; it is something to think about. With London homing some wonderful Grime and Hip-Hop artists: Signal would fit effortlessly into the groove; find a lot of support and contemporaries. His tracks of love, relations and self-discovery have seen him catch the ear of B.B.C. Introducing Berkshire and local radio- this is only the beginning of things. Signal is a very modern-day musician in every sense. Having cut his teeth at A.C.M.- Academy of Contemporary Music- he blends that education with observations of life’s realities: whether chasing girls or avoiding trouble; making it in the world or protecting someone close- every track has that distinct flair and confidence; another side to an eager and ambitious young artist. Always exceptional assured and controlled- one of those vocalists that owns a song without sounding too cocky- All Night sees Signal create a sensational track of attraction and flirtation; a natural self-confidence and desire- a track that gets the mind racing and the feet tapping. Amps is a savvy and intelligent talent that pushes his music out there. Whether giving interviews or getting his music in D.J. hands: someone with that desire to succeed and be recognised. Whether sharing music across social media or performing live: there is no stopping the Basingstoke native.

Music is a competitive and hard industry. You need a lot of money, self-belief, and fortitude: develop a thick skin and be prepared for a lot of graft. Those who have the talent and discipline will succeed: it may take a while but you will get there eventually. Signal has already laid down his gauntlet and showed what a force he is. A Grime/Hip-Hop artist with a down-to-Earth personality and impressive consistency- he is someone you can expect to hear in years to come. Some have derided modern-day British Grime for not being able to compete with the U.S. Dylan Mills and Mike Skinner may have put Britain on the map by 2004: the last decade-or-so has seen America overtake us. With the likes of Signal charging large: I would not count your chickens just yet. As we get nearer to 2017- how long before Christmas decorations are in the shops?!- (bloggers and journalists like me) are seeing which artists will define the next calendar year. Grime artists like Kano are in hot form- his previous albums have not exploited his full talent- and there is a desire for something edgier, heavier and honest. Kate Tempest and Wiley- two of our most innovative and accomplished Rap/Hip-Hop musicians- have new albums coming out (Wiley this year; Tempest next year, perhaps). It is great hearing the stalwarts of music impress and stun- Radiohead’s latest album, for instance- but I am excited about the ‘underground’ musicians and their movements. Signal is watching and keen to join the fray: it will not be too long before he joins the pantheon of British Grime/Hip-Hop.

It is going to be a busy and vital next few months for Signal. When new music is released- and you have a solid reputation- eyes and ears are alert; possibilities open up and new fans emerge. All Night has been widely shared and viewed across social media- it is available to buy on iTunes, too. Whether (the song) forms the basis of a future E.P. - or is a stand-alone single- we will have to wait. I’d like to think we could see a four/five-track E.P. before the year’s end. With every Signal song, you get a new angle and side: something impassioned, thought-provoking and exceptional. All Night has prurient interest and a single-minded approach- our man turning on the flirt- its sense of confidence is to be commended. It is not a lewd or shallow song- we see too often- but a window into Signal’s current creativity drive. Let’s hope this momentum and inspiration leads to more songs and output. For those new to the Basingstoke man- and want an indication into how his music has changed and developed- you would do good to investigate his E.P., Make it Happen. The natural flows and stunning production back an artist with impressive work-rate and talent. The 6-track collection boasts incredible wordplay from a rapper/Grime artist who sound completely dedicated and in the zone- that sort of confidence usually takes many years to materialise; making the E.P. a hugely impressive and accomplished work. Make it Happen’s title track (feat. Willow Wonder) starts with a jagged, juddering opening. The song looks at getting a job and making it happen: following dreams and grabbing your goals.

The rhymes are fast and hard- influence from London Grime artists like Wretch 32 and Stormzy- boasting immense confidence and talent. People have our man’s ringtone and download it (the song tells); there is that blend of cockiness and level-head: few artists can balance that so expertly. The lines have a quotable nature and you find yourself repeating the words. Willow Wonder adds chocolate-smooth, soulful and hard-hitting mixtures. Our hero will make it happen and work all night; he puts the effort in and will reach for the sky. Launching the #KrackOn hashtag- the motto and tag of Signal- the hero (will be) spitting bars and seduce the clubs (with his “African queen”). Other tracks across Make It Happen see collaborators like Ruby Grixti (Taste It) and Eclipse (Leave This Girl) bring new colour and sides to the music. Signal shows his malleability and flexibility: able to work with varied singers and not steal focus; a performer who is effortless and comfortable around others.

This impressive approach (makes the E.P.) a stunning work. Songs look at grafting for your dreams- Work Rate and the title track- and relationship issues. All Night is the most confident and assured track from Signal. The track changes older themes to something more sexual and relationship-based; that key message still focuses on obtaining what you desire. The rhymes are even more varied, riveting and transfixing. Complete with a more unique and distinct sound; the production is bigger and more atmospheric- it mixes polish and street grittiness. Every single/work sees Signal grow in strength and push himself to the maximum. His E.P. - he has also released four mixtapes and a recent single, Dam Freestyle- was lauded and celebrated because of its dexterity, personality, and flexibility- how it could change course and pace without losing its identity and core. All Night surpasses Make It Happen (if that is even possible) and demonstrates how on-form and incredible Signal is- a supremo of the asphalt opera. This determination- praise and recognition have probably given Signal a boost- is infectious. Maybe a modern-day Boy in da Corner-cum-Original Pirate Material will arrive? I could see a concept-type album come: one where Signal takes us on a tour of the cities and nightlife; the people we all recognize; issues around money, love and success- all delivered with that inimitable and engrossing (supremo) strut. Songs like All Night and Make It Happen could fit into that concept/conceit: giving Signal food for thought, perhaps…?

Throwing down some stalking beats- a hollow, sparse hit that comes; waits for a few seconds before coming back- fuses with shimmering, ripe electronics. Keen to not shear the wheels off- and create intrigue and ceremony in the opening seconds- there is an urgency and drama from the off. All Night strikes to life and pulls the listener in. Distorted vocals and a church bell inject some twilight mystique to things- an odd aside that gives the song new dimension and layers. Whilst a wordless vocal haunts in the background; the electronics buzz and stutter: such a busy and physical introduction. You are brought into the song and made to think and feel right from the opening gambit. We get a snapshot of James Blake- that Electronic/Dream-Pop combination- that quickly dissipates. So many emotions and ideas are thrown in without overcrowding the music. Signal lays down his marker and ensures All Night is an instantly memorable track. I was picturing late-night walking around the city (London, perhaps) and something teasing and tempting. Whether searching for a club to while the hours; a girl to hook up with: there is something exciting, youthful and contemporary- the sound of a young man looking for a good time. Those echoed, disturbing vocals- giving the early stages depth, instancy, and darkness- layer with an early mantra (“If you wanna roll”). Our hero is speaking to a girl- or maybe all the women out there- with a confident shout-out. His stamina and endurance are not up for debate- “We can go all night”- and there is that need for closeness, satisfaction, and togetherness.

Whether he has a particular girl in his head- laying down his best lines and moving in- or walking around town: you are on his side and (strangely) compelled. In the first seconds, the mood is quite chill; the vibe is cool and relaxed. The introduction threw sounds and elements into the fold: that hard and alpha male-like electronic thud; the sensual and intense beat; those strange, hypnotic vocal interjections. Once Signal laid down his mandate- a man who has bravado and confidence; someone legendary with the ladies- the pace changes. Signal transforms from soulful seducer to hard-on rapper. Bleeding and scarred- a vivid and sexualised vision; ideas of lovers enraptured and contorting- the birds and bees are leaving. It might not be scientific and Shakespearian: our hero is ready for action; the sweat is dripping from his lips. Michael Jackson-dropping references- Billie Jean and Beat It are cleverly name-checked and mutated- and social media references- “Text, Tweet it”; hashtag and WhatsApp “when you need it”- come into the fray. The rhymes are spat with determination and hustle. Inside this sensual melisma- one imagines our man has already made one conquest- Signal is taking us through a tour of his night. He is cold and sick inside- maybe a warning; one feels like he is not overly-sincere- and that sense of confidence keeps riding high. From 1982-Michael Jackson to modern-day technology- the girl can post and promote her dalliance- your head doesn’t get a chance to rest. Intense and hot as the images he is laying down: the composition is hard and defiant; sticking its chest out and driving the vocal through.

Lesser songs bury the vocal or put liquidy splats and too-reckless beats together- assuming that will augment the lyrics and add emotion. Jay Picasso is an accomplished producer that brings the best from Signal. The song brings us into Sal’s- a local club or acquaintance? - when our man owes you (“I owe you!”). The two (entranced in dance and abandonment) will be pumping in the background- not as sexual as you’d imagine- and get lost in the music. In the song’s video: our man walks the streets pursuing a girl. Played by Sara Parker- http://www.starnow.co.uk/saraparker8/: a multi-talented model and actress- she is coquettish and refuting his advantages. Maybe having seen boys come and go- assuming Signal is one of those types- Parker gives a sly smile and backs off- you know she will succumb to that confidence and engaging charm. In-between the two-hander; our man is seen rapping on a rooftop: laying down his philosophies and projecting with immense drive and vigour. All Night grows harder and more compelling as time elapses. Showing how exceptionally skilled he is: the wordplay is stunning; so many different ideas and scenes come together; everything hits the mark with ease.

Wrestling metaphor comes in- tapping-out and grappling on the mat- implying what is to come. Our boy has a single-minded voyage and wants the girl. Our heroine (in the video) is letting her resistance down. Whether friends or former sweethearts: Signal is getting through to her and proving an attractive proposition. Keen to take her into the unpredictability and electricity of the night: numbers are exchanged and the heat is on. The duo is vibing and clicking, no doubt. Essences of Skepta and Kano can be heard- artists important to Signal. All Night could easily fit into their catalogue. Amps displays a comparative talent and naturalness. The sharp and bold words- replete with underlying ambiguity- will get listeners engaged and jumping. All Night is an instant and unmistakable hit: something that could be adopted by B.B.C. Radio 1 and underground stations- plenty around London would take it on- and translate in the U.S. Able to go all night: one wonders whether sex or togetherness is being assessed. It may be my naivety- and the assumption sex is the natural desire- but there is a need for connection and vibe; bonding with someone and having fun (dancing and clubbing). Maybe an amalgamation of the two: so many different sights, emotions and sensations approach the senses. All highlighted by Signal’s endless confidence: All Night never loses a step or misses a beat.

Our heroine- Parker goes to her trendy flat (alright for some!) and is a girl from the other side of the tracks, perhaps- seems coy but pleased. She has quite an expensive and luxurious life- I know Signal would have had this in mind before the video was conceived- whilst our hero has a more restricted and working-class life- having to live on the estates and exist more modestly. Reading texts and kicking-back: the gorgeous heroine has been seduced and hooked- things are about to get intense! Before another militaristic assault: the chorus comes in with a laid-back and cool-as-f*** groove. Bringing the swagger of Grime and Hip-Hop together with the sharpness and assiduity of Rap- it is a brief respite that gives the listener a chance to recharge and reflect. When he is back on the microphone- the story has progressed to the bedroom; that first date is over- the girl is showing off (“Clothes off”) next to the bed. Handcuffs and a “Karma Sutra robot” are thrown in. With our girl- the video sees Parker posing and pouting; flirting and intoxicating, to say the least- only in heels and a smile; the sweat and steam levels rise; one of the most visceral and sexual statements is put out there. The twisted limbs and down-and-dirty vibe is never overdone or crass. Signal gives things such a likability and (almost gentlemanly) approach: you are always rooting for him and never feel cold. The “Bedroom gangster”- whether references our girl or hero- is ready for action: down on the sheets and taking control. Inventive language and eye-catching imagery show no profanity or crudeness. Signal is an inventive and skilled writer who can talk about sex and passion without it seeming laddish and immature. Floating in “like Casper” and making love “in anger”- that bond of T.V./popular culture and physical directness adds layers and intensity. As you catch your breath- in the video; Parker plays with her hair as she chats with Signal (on the phone); the two have a definite bond and connection- the chorus comes back in to provide gravity and grounding. The chorus becomes more relevant and imperious- our heroine (in the video) tries on dresses as Signal approaches her flat- you brace yourself for another round of quick-fire lines; the boy grows more ‘up for it’ and brash; never too forceful or cloying.

That mandate and proclamation have been laid down- just what is in mind; how he wants things to go down- and we have reached the bedroom (Parker and Signal exchange furtive glances before heading to her room). “I’m Jack and you’re my pumpkin” leaves little to the imagination- an example of Signal’s way with words- as the two tease, laugh and kiss. Somewhere- as it is said- there is always rubbing. Their coming-together is never XXX cinema: it has passion to it but definitely errs on the ‘not-suitable-for-all-the-family’ side of things. The gloves and clothing are off- one of the video’s most memorable and evocative moments arrives at the 2:56 mark- and things get properly hot. The final minute sees the chorus roll back in- gaining new nuance and meaning- and a post-coital reflection. The echoed, distorted vocals are reintroduced; parped brass and scuffled beats fight it out; the mood remains spellbound and dramatic. If the video leaves some mystery- Parker sweeps aside her hair and bites her lip; Signal walks away (both are in the street) and you wonder whether they will see each other again- the song is more conclusive. Our hero has enjoyed an unforgettable experience and you feel like it was just a one-off thing. Maybe the allure and beauty of the girl will draw him back in: given the explosion and bond between them, can we ever rule it out?

Assessing things- after the dust has settled- one has a lot to take in. The chorus is one of the most unescapable and unforgettable of this year. It will stick in your mind and you are helpless (when listening to the song again) and will sing along, proudly. An immediate and bonding mantra- designed to get the crowds chanting; hands and voices aloft- it is simple and effective. The verses are delivered with intensity and passion. You listen to All Night over and over to get to the bottom of things: relive those images and let your imagination conspire and imagine. That allure and addictiveness runs in tandem with the song’s theme: that sexual pull and thrilling relationship. The listener- like the song’s heroine- is powerless and will submit to Signal’s charm and prowess. Even if you think you have All Night sussed out- simply about sex and getting the girl into bed?- there is depth and mystique. Something about the song digs beneath the surface and gets you thinking- such a strange thing but that is the power of a truly remarkable artist. (On a side-note: it would be great to see Amps and Parker work together again; they have a natural click and chemistry in the video). Jay Picasso brings All Night to the precipice- ensuring it is as hard-hitting and formidable as possible. Muscular, swaggering and impassioned: Picasso is a veritable artist (see what I did, there?) who adds shine and buff but keeps things real, gritty and dirty. I hope the duo works together soon as they have a close affinity and chemistry. Once said and done: All Night marks the arrival of (one of Britain’s) hottest and most talented Grime/Hip-Hop artists. It is the beginning of a glistening future.

It is clear Signal (Daniel Amps) has found his nice and vocation. There are few out there that are natural-born musicians: absolutely determined of who they are and what they want to do. Many musicians discover their ‘calling’ over years; some lose the faith and struggle for identity- no such issue with Signal. Even from those earliest recording you can hear that lust and assuredness. Genres like Grime and Hip-Hop (Rap too) are not seen as mainstream and radio-friendly. Acts like Skepta, Wretch 32 and Kano are trying to change that transgression. Britain is unsettled and becoming more uncertain. Whether the looming (and never-ending) threat of terrorism and violence; the changing nature of our population and streets; the vibrancy and chaos of modern youth- it is to this generation’s musicians to make sense and articulate this variation and reality. Signal’s latest single has its tongue in cheek and radar primed. The sweat and decibel levels rise as our hero spits her words and rides high: someone who will not stop until he gets what he wants; that confidence and determination explodes through. During a recent interview with B.B.C. Introducing Berkshire, Signal documented his musical career and plans for the future. Filled with optimism and passion- you can feel that desire and intensity. Recent performances in Camden (part of the U.K. Unsigned Hype gig at Lockside) impressed the capital’s music-loving devotees. Reading’s Got Talent saw Amps bring his armory to Berkshire: accruing new fans and attention; more positive steps from a rising star.

The press has been impressive- if slightly localized right now- but will grow in the coming years. Each month sees Signal amass followers and praise; people are responding to the music. The antithesis of the safe and bland Pop charts- the same themes and pedestrian sounds being peddled- it is rewarding discovering a musician that stands in the mind. Signal wants the young generation to keep at it- he said this in the B.B.C. Introducing’ interview- and focus their minds. So many become disenchanted and disheartened by the hurdles music throws. Too many musicians want instant rewards- thinking their talent should be acknowledged instantly- but that is not a realistic goal. Every year, music becomes more competitive and hard: with Signal blossoming and succeeding; he will give guidance and leadership to new musicians coming through. On June 17^th he plays Junction Music (Purple Turtle, Reading) from 7-10pm. The following day, he takes to the Nor Lye Music Festival. On 9^th July, Signal will be part of the Basingstoke Live Festival- playing a small afternoon set. If you have not caught Signal live: I would urge you to see him and experience his engaging, blood-rushing music first-hand. Hooking up with Jay Picasso: Signal is in rude form; at the top of his game- he has never sounded quite as motivated and ready. I would love to see Daniel Amps take his music to London- either to live or regular gigs- as that is where you can gain the most exposure and support.

All Night leads on from Make It Happen and pushes Signal out-front- the E.P. saw him collaborate with other artists for most tracks- and embrace carnal pleasures and desire. Never displaying braggadocio or luridness: there is a blend of humour, cheekiness, and confidence- few will be able to hear the song without a smile creeping onto the face. Inside the lyrics, you find a young musician who can turn a phrase and create indelible lines- those you quote back and get lodged in the brain. The composition is infectious and rushing; the vocal skillful and urgent- all these ingredients go into a superb and authoritative song. There is no news whether a Signal E.P. will be out before the end of the year. I know Amps is busy promoting and performing. Following the reaction to All Night- the song has been posted to social media- that backing will surely create confidence and fresh impetus. A natural collaborator- who can blend with any other musician with ease- there will be those lining up, for sure. There will be no rush; plenty of options await Signal. The U.S. may lead the Hip-Hop/Rap agenda. Musicians like Kendrick Lamar seem untouchable right now. One of music’s defined geniuses: we do not have anyone (in the U.K.) that boasts that degree of talent and ability.

The upcoming generation of British Grime/Hip-Hop stars are taking inspiration from the U.S. (the likes of Kendrick Lamar) and producing some phenomenal music. I can see Grime and Hip-Hop becoming more popularised and present in the coming year. Talented, ambitious artists (like Signal) are adding colour, vivacity, and real-life insight; a window into the realities of day-to-day life. A lot of modern music deals with subjects in a detached manner: musicians cloak emotions in metaphor and simile. Grime (Hip-Hop and Rap) artists are unafraid to be naked and direct: ensure their songs do not beat around the bush. Whether this transformation and change occur in the coming years- Grime might take longer to assimilate into the public consciousness- it will be interesting to see. Signal is an artist as honest and hard-working as they come. Somebody who deserves a lot more success and adulation: All Night is a song that will get his name out to stations and venues; those who can help push his music. Producers, singers, and journalists will take note and keep a watchful eye: just how far can the young artist go? Judging by the quality- and hugely positive public reaction- to his latest single...