Only five months ago, Belgian duo Archie X’s maiden single Loud Boy made a big impression. On me, at least, and I launched my most powerful promotional weapon: I made it the Carte Blanche Music Wildcard. This means a song is highlighted on my blog for a whole week. And then… nothing much happened, really. A bloody shame, I still think it’s one of the strongest debuts in recent years.

But, one can also win a match in the second half. And Charline D’Hoore and Tom Lodewyckx’ sophomore single Karma Sucks is another winner! Even though it’s a totally different track than their first.

Karma Sucks is a dreamier affair. Its first part reminds me a bit of one of 2013’s finest moments: Everything At Once by Lenka. Throughout the song, the production is ace. The combination of an acoustic piano with a subtle electronic beat and dosed vocal effects is accessible, but with an edge. People with ears on their head will put this on their (radio and streaming) playlists.

For those still in doubt: Archie X’s very first band repetition ever will be live streamed on their Facebook page, Saturday 6 February at noon. How about that for self-confidence?

Recommended as well:
Archie X – Loud Boy

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Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.