Alternative Pop from Agon Branza

Born in Lisbon and now based in London, Agon Branza is an award winning singer-songwriter making his own distinct style of pop music. Taking influence from his time studying cinema and music for film, he threads deep storytelling lyricism into his compositions that often centre around the context of social justice.

As a child, he was considered a misfit for listening to Björk at school, however his sonic aspirations came full circle when years later he caught the attention of Björk’s percussionist Manu Delago and got to perform with him in 2019. Just one of many highlights to his already decorated musical career, he’s also shared the stage with artists such as Kelly Lee Owens, Patrick Watson, Jools Holland, the BBC Orchestra, Emeli Sandé, Nitin Sawhney, Katie Melua, Guy Garvey of Elbow, Rick Astley, Cerys Matthews, among many others.

Working as a producer, he’s collaborated with the likes of Steinsdotter and reaching #5 on the UK Club Charts, Heren Wolf, Ana de Llor, Faultress and Tsinder Ash, earning radio support for his creations. With his own music, he’s penned a five part series of piano pieces under the name Gonçalo Abrantes, being included in three of Nils Frahm’s Piano Day playlists, as well as winning a Cannes Silver Lion and a Best Soundtrack award for his TV advertising works.

Now, after releasing his debut single “Glitter Guns” as Agon Branza in 2020, he brings us his sophomore release with the new track titled “Some People”. Written as an honest and personal reflection about discrimination, he shares on the single, “As a queer person, I have come to realise that putting on a mask is usually harmful and that stepping away from certain people and discussions is crucial to preserve my mental health.”

Adding, “Some People was my way of writing about the inability of many people to mirror themselves and reason with less formulaic ways of living. This inability leads to counter-arguments born of religious beliefs, fear (of the self and of change), and lack of exposure, used to deflect and diminish the other.”

Laying down a stunning ballad-esque sound that lets his cinematic and classical background shine through, his smooth vocals soar delicately carrying his moving lyricism. Crafting a sonic journey that gradually evolves into a dreamy electronic soundscape, with his second single Agon Branza showcases his breathtaking vocal ability as well as his accomplished songwriting prowess.

Listen to Some People below

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