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Australian-born musician James Atlas is shaking up the music scene with a sound that uniquely blends intricate rhythms, introspective lyrics, and catchy melodies. His latest single, "Retail Therapy," captures the essence of his artistic evolution, reflecting a fascinating interplay between personal experiences and broader themes.

"Retail Therapy" was inspired by Atlas's visit to the Dubai Mall, an experience that left a lasting impression on him. "I was sent the arrangement after leaving that huge shopping mall, and I’d just never seen anything like it," he recalls. The grandeur of the mall influenced the music's feel, leading him to create a song that intertwines his observations about shopping with a commentary on his own "shopping addiction." He describes the song as a "hit of dopamine," emphasizing its upbeat and lively nature.

Writing "Retail Therapy" proved to be a cathartic experience for Atlas. He envisioned the song as an anthem, picturing how people might interact and chant it in a club setting. "It kind of became like an anthem" he explains, highlighting the fun he had during the creative process.

Collaboration was key in bringing this song to life, as Atlas worked closely with producer DJ Server. While Atlas contributed ideas, DJ Server handled the full arrangement. "You can hear the sound of credit card swiping and cash registers as little hidden Easter eggs," Atlas notes, illustrating the thoughtful details embedded in the track.

Atlas's influences are as diverse as his musical background. Having spent ten years as a drummer while studying jazz and playing in various genres, he draws from a wide array of inspirations. "I can draw from everything now," he states, emphasizing how his eclectic experiences shape his music.

The essence of "Retail Therapy" extends beyond mere entertainment. Atlas hopes listeners take away a sense of enjoyment from life, even when it comes to material possessions. He encourages a nuanced view: "You can kind of see it in two different ways," he explains. The song can be interpreted as a critique of consumerism or as a celebration of the joy found in treating oneself.

Since its release, "Retail Therapy" has garnered positive reactions, with interest from record labels and listeners alike. "People have said it's like a hit of pure dopamine," he shares, reflecting the song's vibrant energy and production quality.

Atlas's life experiences across different continents have also played a significant role in shaping his sound. "I lived in San Francisco for 10 years, and that’s definitely influenced me," he mentions. The city's diverse culture and vibrant atmosphere have broadened his artistic perspective.

As an artist, Atlas describes himself as "ever evolving," always open to trying different styles. His fascination with space also informs his music, as he incorporates space samples and effects into his songwriting. "I just became really interested in more of a lush soundscape," he explains, showcasing his desire to experiment with different tonalities.

Before meeting the producer who would help him refine his sound, Atlas's journey was marked by personal exploration. He started writing songs on the acoustic guitar after a break from music, rediscovering his passion. "I just started writing songs, and then all these songs started coming out of me," he recalls.

Support from fans, friends, and family has been incredible for Atlas, boosting his confidence and affirming that he is heading in the right direction. "Some of the reviews have been really insanely good," he says, reflecting on the positive feedback he has received.

Looking ahead, "Retail Therapy" is just the beginning. It will be the first single from his self-titled album, set to drop next year, with plans to release a single every month leading up to the album's full release. For Atlas, the highlight of his music career thus far has been the creation of this album, marking a significant milestone in his evolving journey as an artist.

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Marla Lewis might not be a name that everyone immediately recognizes, but she has spent years building a remarkable career that has earned her a loyal global fan base, countless streams, and even a Grammy Award for Best Children’s CD. Today, Music-News had the chance to talk with Marla about her new single “Kill The Lights,” a smooth, feel-good jazz track that captures the magic of walking through New York City in winter with a warm smile on your face.




Tell us about Marla Lewis?
Born in New Jersey, wrote my first song at the tender age of 12 called “Hopeless Love” (LOL). From the time I could talk, music has always been my closest friend. I sang and played guitar in clubs, got disenchanted, went back to school for my Masters, and became an English as a Second Language teacher in a Harlem elementary school for 23 years. That’s when I started writing songs for kids, to help them learn English. I released two children’s albums, WE ALL LAUGH IN THE SAME LANGUAGE and I LOVE TO TALK TO PLANTS. One tune from PLANTS, called “Leap of Faith,” appears on a Grammy-winning Children’s CD called ALL ABOUT BULLIES... BIG AND SMALL, with my incredible friend and producer, Bob Stander.

Who are some of your musical influences? What else inspires you?
Ella Fitzgerald, the Beatles, Michael Franks, Phoebe Snow, Carole King, to name a few. My mom aspired to be a jazz singer, so we had lots of Big Band music playing in the house. Besides music, the rhythm of conversation inspires me.

Congrats on the release of “Kill the Lights”! We love it. What’s the story behind the song?
Thanks so much! Bob (my producer) said to me, “We need another R&B flavored song with a catchy chorus.” So, I played around with a new idea about love on the rebound. I wrote the lyrics first, a very rough draft, and put music to it - that’s how songs usually evolve for me. I was really “in the zone” when I was working on this one, fiddling around with it until it felt complete. The song went through many incarnations before I got the “actors in a play” metaphor right. I don’t think it’s autobiographical – unless it’s about an affair that I’ve totally forgotten about!

Who is one artist you’d love to tour with?
Nora Jones! Oh, yes!

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not doing music?
Walking the dogs, hanging out with friends, watching a great TV series.

What's the 2022 plans for your musical journey?
I want to continue live streaming - it’s fun! My show is called “Marla in La La Land.” You can tune in every Wednesday evening at 7:30 PM Eastern. I already have enough songs for my next smooth jazz album, and I’m calling it, “Livin’ the Dream.” The songs are very socially conscious – I can’t write in a bubble any longer, with what’s going on in the world. I hope to record and release that album in 2022. And perhaps, I’ll muster the courage to do live shows!

How can our readers find you online?
Lots of places! First, my website: www.marlalewis.com
My Facebook group: MarlaTheMuse
My YouTube channels: Smooth Jazz I Children’s

Twitch I LinkedIn I Twitter I Instagram I Spotify I Apple Music
 
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