This weekend, the sunshine truly cranked up the heat, transforming my corner of the UK into a sweltering paradise, complete with a thick layer of humidity that enveloped everything. Amidst this sunny bliss, I realized it was the perfect opportunity to refresh my summer playlist with some exciting new tracks. I dove into my music library, eagerly searching for tunes that could match the vibrant energy of the season. Just when I was feeling pressed for options, I stumbled upon Max Barskih, who is currently making waves with his promotional campaign for his highly anticipated English-spoken album. It was serendipitous that he released “Sound of Bloom” right now. This track perfectly encapsulates the sultry, groove-laden essence of summer, with its infectious rhythms and captivating melodies. It’s a true masterpiece that seamlessly blends warmth and energy, making it an essential addition to any summertime soundtrack.

The Ukrainian pop sensation’s recent tracks, “Stomach Butterflies” and “Someone New,” mark an exciting phase in his artistic evolution. Each release enriches his creative journey, showcasing a remarkable transformation. These latest songs illustrate Max’s ability to traverse a spectrum of sounds—from poignant ballads to infectious dance pop, and finally, to a chilled, club-ready vibe that captivates listeners. This dynamic range not only highlights his versatility but also promises an exhilarating musical experience.

“It is extremely important for me to charge people – so that they feel the summer. A summer that carries the flowering of not only flowers, but also the soul. When you want to feel the dance, when you want to dissolve in music.” says Max on “Sound of Bloom“.

“Sound of Bloom” not only captures the essence of summer but also brims with palpable desire. Lyrically, it feels as if Max has drawn directly from Troye Sivan‘s playbook, weaving evocative narratives that resonate deeply. Meanwhile, the laid-back sonic quality perfectly mirrors the style often used by Sweden’s Darin. This impressive string of releases undeniably demonstrates that sometimes, number three truly is a charm.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Much to the excitement of fans around the globe, Max will embark on an exhilarating tour later this year. The USA and Canada leg kicks off in October, promising electrifying performances that you won’t want to miss. The European and UK tour will follow in November. And culminates in a highly anticipated stop at the Clapham Grand in London on November 21st. Secure your tickets now to be part of this incredible journey! Ticket information HERE.

Connect with Max Barskih

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxBarskihOfficialPage

X: https://x.com/MaxBarskih

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/max_barskih/

The post Listen to “Sound of Bloom” by Max Barskih appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

For some time now, it has been eagerly anticipated in this music blog that Ukrainian pop sensation Max Barskih would fulfill his promise of releasing an English-speaking album. Despite numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, exciting developments are finally emerging. With the recent release of the captivating track “Stomach Butterflies” and the equally impressive new song “Someone New,” it’s clear that the long-awaited album project is back on track.

Nevertheless, a statement reveals this album is still a work in progress. And further states that the project crafted from a wealth of musical material Max has gathered over recent years. Furthermore, he is collaborating with an array of talented producers and musicians from all corners of the globe. Thus, meaning each new track will significantly enrich his artistic transformation. Above all, this ongoing creative journey underscores his dedication to delivering an album that not only showcases his evolution as an artist but undoubtedly will resonate powerfully with audiences everywhere.

“Someone New” serves as the emotional counterpoint to the recent single “Stomach Butterflies,” revealing hidden aspects and desires of the human soul.

“It’s about that moment after a breakup when emotions come crashing in waves: first love, then anger, disappointment, and finally the cutting truth. You’ve been betrayed. You’ve given your heart to the wrong person. But this song isn’t about pain for pain’s sake—it’s about acceptance, letting go, and moving forward. I want listeners to see themselves in this story because we’ve all been there,” explains the singer about the premiere.

Max’s latest electrifying electro-pop release, “Someone New,” boldly confronts the bittersweet aftermath of love’s demise. With raw honesty and emotional depth, the track resonates powerfully with listeners, tapping into feelings that many have experienced. It beautifully encapsulates the struggle of navigating the remnants of a fading romance, ultimately transforming pain into a journey of enlightenment and growth. This compelling exploration invites audiences to reflect on their own heartaches, making it not just a song, but a universal anthem of resilience and moving forward.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Much to the excitement of fans around the globe, Max will embark on an exhilarating tour later this year. The USA and Canada leg kicks off in October, promising electrifying performances that you won’t want to miss. The European and UK tour will follow in November. And culminates in a highly anticipated stop at the Clapham Grand in London on November 21st. Secure your tickets now to be part of this incredible journey! Ticket information HERE.

Connect with Max Barskih
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxBarskihOfficialPage
X: https://x.com/MaxBarskih
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/max_barskih/

The post Watch “Someone New” by Max Barskih appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Max Barskih has recently unveiled his newest track “SLAY” during the USA and Canada leg of his world tour. This electrifying song with English lyrics has already become a fan favourite. And for good reason – it’s an anthem to personal freedom that resonates with audiences from all backgrounds. What’s even more impressive is that the track has a subtle hip-hop influence, paying homage to the genre’s roots in the Bronx. Don’t miss out on this must-listen song that perfectly blends together different styles and cultures.

Max’s latest track “Slay” packs a powerful message about diversity and individuality, reminding us that each of us has a unique light to shine. Through his commanding vocal delivery, Max takes listeners on a two-minute journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The track’s thundering bassline adds to the overall impact, making it a standout piece in Max’s discography. While Max’s tracks are typically thoughtful and introspective, “Slay” showcases a different side of his artistry, one that is equally compelling and captivating. It’s clear that Max is a truly versatile artist, and “Slay” is a testament to his ability to push boundaries and deliver a meaningful message.

To share some of the Max Barskih live performance experience, the video clip that was released in support of “Slay.” Is in fact an extract clip from the current tour.

Barskih’s show “Zorepad” is a musical extravaganza. Not only does it showcase new songs, but it also includes the best hits and tracks of the artist’s 15-year career. What’s even more commendable is that the show is for a charitable cause. With part of the profits going towards the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Attending the concert is not just a means of entertainment but also a way to contribute towards a noble cause. Let’s support Barskih in his efforts to make a positive impact on society.

Connect with Max Barskih
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxBarskihOfficialPage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaxBarskih
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/max_barskih/

The post Watch “Slay” by Max Barskih appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

We best recognise Ukrainian music sensation Max Barskih for his incendiary pop tracks. Of late, though, I have seen him experiment with different music styles because of his plans to launch on an international level. Things started out great with the song “Just Fly.” And again with the follow-up release, “Tequila Sunrise“. However, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. Together with the resulting war between these countries. Understandably has seen Max shelve the plans he had for the music, at least for the time being. Consequently, this year he has refocused. And is putting out tracks that reflect his thoughts on and that bring to our attention the situations faced by the people of Ukraine during the current conflict with Russia.

The songs “There Will Be Spring“, “Wait For Me,” “Ukraine” and “Rhyme” featuring the singer Etolubov are all recorded presumably in Ukrainian. It is quite a turnaround that with his last release of 2022, “Before We Say Goodbye,” he shares this as only his second English-spoken track of the year. In my view, the song is among his most tender and poignant offerings.

Upon the release of “Before We Say Goodbye” Max said…

“With the beginning of winter, I wanted to create a soundtrack for the New Year. Because despite the pain and longing accumulated over a long time, we continue to laugh through tears, try to enjoy life and thank new dawns and sunsets”.

Throughout the song lyrics, there are references to being forced apart from a lover. As well as, questions about what the future holds. The lyrics build a picture of finding contentment in a relationship but also of uncertainty because of being caught in a distressing situation that they have no control over. Moreover, the tone is hopeful and a poignant celebration to love.

In the song “Before We Say Goodbye” Max Barskih wants us to feel something quietly, just for a moment. Even without the suitably subdued video of Max walking while snow starts to fall. He has me rendered silent and in a thoughtful mood.

Connect with Max Barskih
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxBarskihOfficialPage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaxBarskih
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/max_barskih/

The post Watch “Before We Say Goodbye” by Max Barskih appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Writing about boy bands has become an all-too-rare occurrence. Namely, since 2016 when One Direction went on an indefinite hiatus. The consequence was that a ripple effect ensued, signalling a decline in this type of music group setup. However, in Ukraine, they didn’t receive the memo about boy bands being an outdated concept. Like us at EQ Music Blog, the Ukrainians haven’t lost faith in the boy band template having a resurgence soon. In fact, the singer-songwriter Max Barskih shared a post on Instagram a few days ago that alerted me to the group Dside Band.

To avoid confusion with noughties Irish boy band D-Side. The Ukrainian group when performing, incorporates “band” into their name. Proclaimed as Ukraine’s first boy band in 2018, this has made them somewhat of a pop phenomenon in the country.

Lately, two new singers joined Dside Band, they appear in the group’s latest offering, “Zvukami“. (“Musically” when translated into English).

About “Zvukami” the band comments…

“Our song carries the healing power of music and love, which is designed to fill our days and nights with life, inspire to new heights, be a guide between those who lost each other in the chaos of war”.

Although the band works in the electronic pop genre with “Zvukami,” they evoke a moodier sonic soundscape on the track covering an enveloping sense of darkness. While I wish this song was sung in English. Since the music video provides English subtitles, I have a vague understanding of what is being expressed in the song. It is a declaration of love. Where they are speaking to their lovers, confessing that they miss them when they spend time apart.

Dside Band is vastly different to UK, Irish and American boy bands. In that, the brand of pop takes on a darker musicality. On the flip side of the coin, one area where the Ukrainian boys follow the same formula as other boy band setups. They implement choreographed dance sequences into their performances. Dside Band are smooth movers, and they remind me of what I am missing out on since boy bands took a backstep from emerging on the new music scene.

Connect with Dside Band
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSIDE.BAND.UKRAINE
Twitter: https://twitter.com/band_dside
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dside_band/

The post We wish this Song Was In English “Zvukami” by Dside Band appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

It is a year since the Ukrainian pop sensation Max Barskih shared the track “Just Fly“. And where we were excited by the news of plans to launch his career on an international footing. Understandably since the tensions and the Russian invasion of the country, releasing new music has been less of a priority at this time for Max. With the anniversary of the “Just Fly” single release, a significant milestone for the Ukrainian singer-songwriter is marked. An announcement from Max that the English-Language album he has been working on this past year is about to kick off a new era for the pop superstar. One where Max is switching his popstar name to that of MICK SUNDAY.

In his announcement, he writes,

“I want to share my thoughts with you. This war brought great changes to my life”. He begins. “Feeling negative emotions and constant stress, you seem to forget about the existence of joy, happiness and love. I made the decision to create the future today, and to take you with me. Where the wildest dreams are possible”.

The first official single under his new MICK SUNDAY moniker is the track “I Feel Good“.

I have come to know what the music of Max Barskih sounds like. The style embraced by MICK SUNDAY, however, is a different matter altogether. From the offset, it is apparent that with this new venture, MICK SUNDAY arrives in creative, pop experiment mode. When he said about this new project…

“I feel that now is the time to share these experiments with you. And I hope this music can put a smile on your face and put you in a good mood”.

…MICK SUNDAY lives up to these intentions.

The song is funk-edged pop and glitzy and a world apart from the cool electronic pop efforts of Max Barskih. I think MICK SUNDAY may have gotten hold of a memo stating the Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars song “Uptown Funk” as being popular the world over. On “I Feel Good“, MICK emulates joyful, danceable pop similar to the Ronson, Mars, 2014 smash hit.

It is difficult to form an opinion about a new project based on just one song. I am not fully under the spell of this one quite yet, although trying to keep an open mind for now. Unquestionably, I love the music video that supports this release. It has vibrancy and energy. And is dripping in high-end visuals depicting living life to excess.

The rollout of new music has started. It will be interesting to see how Europe and the rest of the world respond to these English-spoken releases.

Connect with MICK SUNDAY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1430266990801728/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MickSundayWorld
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MickSundayWorld/

The post EMERGING ARTIST: MICK SUNDAY appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Surprise everyone! Guess our readers might not have expected to see this from us yet, but. We decided to get our year-end summing up tied up early this year, simply because why not. We have put together another “This Beat Is Poptronik” playlist for your listening pleasure. Dive in for a listen HERE.

To be honest, 2021 was another challenging twelve months that we don’t wish to dwell on too much. Know we are thankful for science and for Covid vaccines. The return of live music, the arts and all entertainment events. (i.e. the core of what lies at the heart of EQ Music Blog).

Our year-end 2021 playlist is choc-full with over 15 hours of killer, pop, electronic and alternative tracks. You’ll find everything from massive hits to indie gems.

We hope your ears are ready for the poptasticness of “This Is Beat Is Poptronik – Year-End 2021” edition which awaits you …

You will find established artists such as Years and Years, Kylie, MARINA, Sigrid, CHVRCHES, Troye Sivan and Charli XCX. Alongside the best break out acts of 2021, (in our opinion) Kim Petras, Griff, Mimi Webb, Baby Queen, Self Esteem, Holly Humberstone, Gracey and Alfie Templeman.

As you would expect, there is a healthy sprinkling of our long-time blog favourites also making appearances. Max Barskih, Sergey Lazarev, Avec Sans, morgxn, Greyson Chance, Darin, Hayley Kiyoko, Autoheart and Allie X, to name but a few.

I could give a shout out to many more names featured on the playlist. Yet, I am going to nip this summary in the bud. Stopping short before I traverse the line of sounding like I am making, crazy long-ass acceptance speech. As is the done thing at the Oscar’s.

Music has been our saviour. Our friend in times of need. Our comfort in times of struggle. We curated this playlist with only this thought in our minds. That you, our readers, discover some great tunes and artists that you might have overlooked in 2021.

We give thanks to all the artists who helped us through 2021. You are all stars in our eyes.

The post Stream it: “This Beat Is Poptronik – Year-end 2021” appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

When hearing the announcement this summer that plans were in place to launch our favourite Ukrainian pop megastar Max Barskih internationally – our feelings were both a mixture of delight and surprise. We have always thought Max has the necessary credentials and artist profile that befit that of a global pop phenom. And have often questioned why his bid for international megastardom has always seemingly been on the back step.

In August, Max made a bold move when he released “Just Fly” being stylistically very different. The vibe, being a modern take on doo-wop, combined with pop sensibilities was showing everyone he is a versatile artist and accomplished mission one. So it is on with the next step, which is, again quite, different. “Tequila Sunrise” is an intoxicating offering. Somewhat moody and notably Hurts, like, (by way of comparison) – a step into the alt-pop arena.

Max describes the song as being…

“This song is special for me. She is about magnetism between people. About the pain and the dance that will end one way or another. But while the music is playing, the two dissolve into each other.”

The Alan Badoev directed music video approach is more of an art form and less outwardly provocative. But nonetheless. Intimate and sizzling with sexual chemistry. i.e. there is a lot of PDA being expressed. Couples, getting very steamy and into one another. They are brought together by sensual music and a dirty dancing creation.

As I predicted in my blog post for “Just Fly“. I do feel “Tequila Sunrise” exhibits a music style that resonates better with a UK audience. Too bad for us, that Max Barskih did not release this one last week when he was over here in London. We would have so loved to have seen this one played live.

Yes, EQ was there at the London show. Raj made it down to the packed and sold-out gig at Scala. The tickets were a whack load of money as well, £110 each. Raj thought to catch a few highlights for us to take a look at.

Interesting facts:

95% of the show was sung by Max in Ukrainian – no full English songs.

The show was a love letter to his Ukrainian, Russian and Eastern European fans in London.

I have it on good authority from Raj. During the gig, Max mentioned that the next album is sung in English only. Perhaps the Scala show was the last hurrah before the focus switches on the English language market.

To tell the truth, I cannot stop watching this clip. Because I can absolutely feel there was lots of energy in the room.

Do you feel it also?

The post Watch “Tequila Sunrise” by Max Barskih appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

We (at EQ Music Blog – Raj and I) have been saying for years that Max Barskih is the best music artist, if not THE hottest we know about from The Ukraine. Even though he mainly sings in Russian and very rarely sings in English. We stamped our EQ mark of approval on him years ago.

The thing is, we have always thought the rest of Europe needed to catch onto Max in the same way as what happened with Sergey Lazarev. We have waited nearly a decade since first becoming aware of him, nonetheless, we are excited by the news Max has plans to launch his career internationally. (But begs the question we will see him at Eurovision?). The dreamiest outcome is, of course, we a guaranteed more singles will be sung in English. In what is the start of a new era, he just released the track “Just Fly” and a supporting video.

Stylewise, the track is a gigantic departure for Max. In that, it is not of the electro-pop stylings we usually recognise him for. But of a whole new pop sound, instead. Whereas, normally I wouldn’t give a doo wop song the time of day. Knowing Max made this song, purely because of wanting to cheer up the world, makes it that much OK and cooler, to me.

“Just Fly” is a summery song about being open to experiencing new possibilities. A positive mantra that the singer is taking on board himself as he embarks on his next career goal of becoming internationally renowned.

If like us, you know his older stuff. You’ll appreciate that with the newer stuff he is showing us how versatile an artist he is. While also allowing us to see a super fun side that we haven’t seen before. It is a bold move. The track is already being picked up in Germany, Romania, Switzerland, Hungary and Poland. At the moment the UK seems to be blissfully unaware. I think we should watch this space, though. I have faith Max Barskih is going to hit the Uk like a bolt out of the blue as we (EQ Music Blog) have always hoped he would.

“Just Fly” is a satisfying start, although my gut feeling is maybe he will impact more here on the next single. If it means he might finally be popping over to the UK on a visit, for a concert even… consider us all swoony and passed out, just thinking about it.

Connect with Max Barskih
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxBarskihOfficialPage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaxBarskih
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/max_barskih/

The post Watch “Just Fly” by Max Barskih appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Candidate for video of the year coming through. And a much different look for the Ukrainian singer-songwriter Max Barskih. October 2020, saw Max release his very electro-dance album “1990.” Earlier during the year, he released the English spoken track “Silence” his first euro-house styled effort. He has been massively productive throughout the lockdowns and also had another project on the go with the acclaimed Russian singer Yulia Zivert. A much talked about, track, called “BESTSELLER” had been in the works for exactly one year. “More than six months were spent on the song, the rest of the time was taken by the work on the video.” A statement issued online confirms.

Judging by the number of posts teased about the release, Max has been very keen to share “BESTSELLER.” The song itself is very cinematic EDM in its styling and has a definite club, dance style and feel that sprung up during the 1990s. Although the Barskih x Zivert track is colossal in stature, the music video is a whole other level of epic.

The Alan Badoev footage depicts Max and Zivert’s story of loneliness in the style of cyberpunk. “The modern world is rapidly losing tactility, people voluntarily digitize their feelings and emotions, exchanging them for likes and ratings on social networks. Hundreds of thousands of photographs today replace the touch and warmth of a kiss.” A statement about the release reads.

After a year of being encouraged to carry out our socializing by using online software, apps and tools. The message stemming from “BESTSELLER” is a more poignant one than ever. The digital world has its benefits but nothing can replace the experience of physical human interaction. These are one-of-a-kind emotions and cannot be replicated by even the newest advancements in A.I. A lesson that has really been driven home by the pandemic.

Alan, Max and Zivert made a very cool music video that really throws this situation under the spotlight.

Connect with Max Barskih
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxBarskihOfficialPage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaxBarskih
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/max_barskih/

Connect with Zivert
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zivertmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_zivert/

The post Watch “BESTSELLER” by Max Barskih & Zivert appeared first on EQ Music Blog.