Monterey J unveils the vivid new single ‘South Side Fantasy’ featuring Southsidefinn, teasing the upcoming sophomore album Welcome 2 South London.
South London’s rich cultural and musical landscape comes alive in ‘South Side Fantasy,’ the vibrant new single from jazz and neo-soul artist Monterey J, released on May 16. Featuring a compelling guest verse from local rapper Southsidefinn, the track marks the first offering from Monterey J’s upcoming sophomore album Welcome 2 South London—a genre-spanning, immersive portrait of the creative energy coursing through the city’s southern districts.
Blending elements of jazz, neo-soul, and hip-hop, ‘South Side Fantasy’ is a textured and atmospheric composition that fuses soaring saxophone, shimmering keys, and warm bass with Monterey J’s elegant lead vocals. The result is a layered soundscape that mirrors the pulse and personality of the place it pays homage to.
Produced by Grammy-nominated Teo Marangon, best known for his work on Keyon Harrold’s Foreverland, the single was recorded across Cable Street Studios and the floating Lightship 95 studio. It features a handpicked ensemble of South London talent, including Joey Robbins on drums, Tay Harvey on bass, Dan McConkey on tenor sax, and a standout verse from Southsidefinn that adds a raw, poetic edge.
Speaking about the single, Monterey J explains: “South Side Fantasy” paints the colours of South London on a rich musical canvas. I was trying to capture the sounds, cultures, and experiences of living in this part of the city and turn them into music; to me, this song is what plays in my head as I’m walking along the Thames heading to a local Jam session: it captures the excitement, the passion, and the struggles of living the so-called ‘art life’.
Musically, I experimented with glueing different sections together which is kind of like travelling through different neighbourhoods in London: you get the more chaotic free-jazz intro, the hip-hop grooves of the verses, and the more contemplative tones of the outro. I recorded this piece at Cable Street Studios and Lightship 95 employing some of my favourite musicians and friends of the local scene while also trying to replicate some of the tones of some of my favourite records (such as “Bitches Brew” by Miles Davis).”
With roots in both Italy and London, Monterey J has carved a distinctive lane in the UK music scene through his experimental blend of genres and his collaborative spirit. His 2023 debut album The Root garnered media coverage from outlets including Illustrate Magazine and Hoxton Radio, while his live performances—at venues like 91 Living Room, Two Palms, CLF Art Lounge, and The Cavendish Arms—have earned him a growing following. He has also appeared in showcases curated by artists such as Greentea Peng, further establishing his presence in London’s neo-soul and jazz scenes.