Hailing from Washington, DC, artist AJ Solaris has been making a unique brand of alternative pop music under the M4TR moniker since starting the project back in 2016. With a sound described as apocalyptic electronic grooves from alternative futures, M4TR brings together elements of new wave, synthpop, disco, funk, soul, reggae and rap into a forward-thinking musical output.
First unveiling the M4TR sound in 2018 via the debut EP, Eightysixfortyfive, he’s since delivered an incredible catalogue of work across multiple singles, EPs and full-length record. Bringing his sound alive on stage, between 2022 and 2024, he played with a live band featuring singer Laura Cook, Mark Davenport on vocals and guitar, Rich Andrews on bass and drummer Owen Williams.
Since 2017, M4TR has become a staple in the live music scene, performing at venues like Jammin Java, The Renegade, Pearl Street Warehouse and Songbyrd Cafe. Festivals and events such as Adams Morgan Porchfest and the Launch Music Festival has also seen him win over live audiences and in December last year, the he released M4TR LIVE, an album recorded during a performance at Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia.
Now, with the upcoming release of the highly anticipated studio album, Love Is The Revolution, M4TR is set to deliver a concept album that explores the nature of love and themes ranging from grief and friendship to heartbreak and connection. Ahead of the highly anticipated album, he brings us the perfect taste of his sound with his single titled “Hooks,” a song which originally landed in September 2022 and has since become a firm fan favourite.
Jumping straight into a grooving disco-inflected rhythm, bouncy bass lines and the crisp snap of the beat forms a slick backdrop for M4TR’s smooth vocal leads to thread instantly catchy hooks above. Casting an engaging sound that’s infectious and danceable in equal measure, cut with poignant lyricism, “Hooks” serves up a memorable jam that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
With silky vocal harmonies adding a shimmering quality to the mix while the beat maintains a steady rhythmic pulse, the arrangement progresses with intricate, funky guitar rhythms and immersive string textures, resulting in a delightful bop full of superb songwriting and exquisite performance. With his eagerly awaited forthcoming record on the horizon, 2025 is set to be another thrilling year for the compelling musical adventure of M4TR.
Listen to Hooks below
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