The Blessed Madonna returns with new two-track EP, ‘Carry Me Higher’ – a collaboration with Joy Anonymous, featuring the vocals of US soul singer & multi-instrumentalist, Danielle Ponder.
Comprised of two new tracks – ‘Carry Me Higher’ and ‘Something Doesn’t Feel Right’ – released as 7”, 10” and demo versions, the record was originally recorded in sessions in NYC with Joy Anonymous’ Hen while The Blessed Madonna was stateside for her residency at Chicago’s Smartbar; the legendary club where she first cut her teeth as a DJ, selector and curator.
The release of ‘Carry Me Higher’ bookends a year that’s seen The Blessed Madonna reaffirm her position as one of dance music’s most iconic and celebrated artists. From landmark sets at Sonar, where she debuted her ‘Club Within A Club’ concept, Warehouse Project and Boiler Room – she played live from Bali – to playing 3x sets at Glastonbury in June, including a live BBC R1 Essential Mix with Annie Mac & salute and a secret set with Fred again.., 2023 has been another banner year. She also released anthemic single ‘Mercy’ ft. Jacob Lusk of imitable, much-lauded three-piece, Gabriels, and ‘F*** What You Heard’ featuring UK Garage cult hero, Todd Edwards – both to critical acclaim.
Joy Anonymous, fresh from releasing their new album ‘Cult Classics’ in October – a follow up to 2021 debut LP, ‘Human Again’ – have enjoyed a breakout 2023. The London based duo work through the lens of building community and spreading joy with their music – a mantra that’s taken them on tour with good friend Fred again.. and play in support of The Streets this autumn, as well as both DJ and collaborate with everyone from Four Tet to Skrillex.
Rising US soul & RnB star Danielle Ponder has enjoyed a whirlwind 2023 of her own. After leaving her career in law to pursue a music career less than two years ago, she released her debut album ‘Some Of Us Are Brave’ in 2022 and has since performed live on US TV (Seth Meyers), made her Lollapalooza festival debut and embarked on a 30+ date US tour earlier this spring.
The Blessed Madonna, Joy Anonymous & Danielle Ponder - Carry Me Higher10
Summary
The Blessed Madonna, Joy Anonymous & Danielle Ponder exquisite collaboration Carry Me Higher is a magnificent slice of proper house music with stunning Afro House style drums and brilliant percussion with organic flavor, deep basslines, thumping kicks and superb guitar riffs along with atmospheric pads and warm strings. Of course what really stands out is the amazing vocal that shines bright and attract you on the dance floor instantly. The passionate delivery and the whole performance is simply so good that works like a treat when the DJ is ready to carry the listeners for a nice journey full of sweaty nights and sexy beats. Just press play and if u don't start dancing in your chair instantly u should check your ears please. #PureGold Love IT
10.0
Overall Score
Beat and Rhythm10
Basslines and Groove10
Melody 10
Synths 10
Breakdown10
Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment10
Intensity, Drive and Energy10
Sound-design and Arrangement10
Overall Atmosphere10
Goosebumps / Shivers moments10
Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments10
Originality and Inventiveness10
Radio Friendly10
Vocals & lyrics10
You can’t get this memorable track out of your head10
It has potential to become an anthem or a classic10