New Music

Poster Parents – “Hostility”

Garage-punk quartet Poster Parents grapple with passivity in their latest single, “Hostility.” The Phoenix, AZ natives combine punk rock angst with mellower indie rock instrumentals, giving the track a bite that’s still easy enough to swallow. Citing inspiration from the likes of PUP and Joyce Manor, the troupe harness the quiet intricacy only indie musicians can bring, alongside a raucous energy that never quits. If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to check out Poster Parents’ bandcamp page for more from the band, including their debut EP Demo. “Hostility” could be just the boost of sonic caffeine you need to get through the day.

Vandelux, Marc 7 – “That Look”

The collaboration between Vandelux and Jurassic 5’s Marc 7 is testament to musical worlds colliding, blending a classic hip hop flow with pulsing electronica in their track “That Look.” This partnership stemmed from Vandelux’s original remix of Jurassic 5’s track “What’s Golden,” eventually bringing the two together and resulting in what will soon be a full collaborative album. Whatever these guys are doing in the studio, it seems to be working. Get a feel for their evolutionary brand of electro-hip-hop below, and stay tuned for more tracks from Vandelux and Marc 7 on the horizon.

Bacall, FrankK – “Ferarra”

A funky electropop collaboration between Swedish producer Bacall and solo artist FrankK has produced the catchiest of summer tracks with “Ferarra.” The single acts as commentary on today’s instagram-driven fame and the carefully posed artificialness of it all. Since 2016, Bacall has created a name for himself around the house and EDM scene, charting high on Swedish radio with his single “Africa.” This track could give that record a run for its money, combining 1970s disco-pop with sunny electronica, amidst FrankK’s dynamic vocal stylings that know how to draw out an impact. This could certainly be the start of a long and prosperous partnership, and only time will tell what the duo come up with next. In the meantime, get a taste for “Ferarra” below.

Massage – “Lydia”

Some of the best bands stem from a group of friends hanging out and playing around with instruments in their spare time. That pretty much sums up the story of Massage, a band of five pals in L.A. that seemed to come together both accidentally and out of necessity. Their mellow brand of indie rock features rolling melody lines and meandering guitar tracks, specifically in the band’s recent single “Lydia.” There’s a perceivable 90s rock touch to the song’s production, while simultaneously paying homage to Massage’s musical idols like The Feelies, Twerps, and The Go-Betweens. It’s got a campy, down-to-earth quality that will have you singing along in no time. Check out “Lydia” in all its homespun garage rock glory below, and be on the lookout for the band’s upcoming LP, Oh Boy.

Ben Browning – “Even Though”

Riding the high of his recently released sophomore album, Australian producer Ben Browning scouts his sound as a solo artist with title track “Even Though.” Drawing a perceivable tie to the melodic stylings of ‘70s psychedelia hit makers like Paul McCartney and Brian Wilson, Browning’s sound lands somewhere between breezy surf rock and spacey psych-pop. Harmonized vocals lines dive through waves of synth, bubbly guitars, and cavernous percussion, becoming more and more celestial with each passing beat. The track’s vintage sound is due in part to rewound tape effects, adding only to the song’s prismatic quality. As his second full-length release, Browning is setting the tone for his trademark aside from his work with Cut Copy, and we’re liking what we hear so far. Test the waters with this track below, and find the rest of Even Though here.

Oliver Tree – “Movement (Back Talk Remix)”

Back Talk sent us over a phat remix of Oliver Tree’s “Movement” and we couldn’t help but recommend it to y’all. “Movement” is a true party anthem, mixing the fervor of the Beastie Boys’ delivery with modern-day dance-electronica vibes. If you’re trying to get amped, look no further – give Back Talk a stream via the widget below. Back Talk has a lot to offer – check it all out via Spotify.

Cyndy Fike – “Peppermint”

You might recognize “Peppermint” from its recent placement in the Facebook show “Strangers,” but we like this cute little jam from LA singer/songwriter Cyndy Fike regardless. Pairing upbeat keyboard chords with Fike’s saccharine lyrics, “Peppermint” is the kind of lighthearted pop jam meant for low-key summer hangs. Cyndy is a pretty prolific artist – check out her discography here.

Say Brave – “Make My Day (feat. Mira)”

Upon first listen, you’ll probably recognize the chorus of “Make My Day” from chill electronica act Say Brave. “Make My Day” is a straight-up remake of the unmistakable 1989 classic, “Pump Up The Jam” by Belgian act Technotronic… But Say Brave brings a contemporary, 2018 spin to the track – utilizing blippy drums and a pleasant, tropical vibe. There are lots of different ways to listen to “Make My Day” – check them all out here.

Charles Fauna – “Wait To Come Over”

Last time we checked in with Charles Fauna, he was a featured artist on Glassio’s banger “Morning House.” This time around, we’re smitten with his latest offer, “Wait To Come Over.” Fauna pairs his ethereal delivery with ghostly synths and an infectious dance beat… Keep your eyes open for Eulogy, his debut EP, due out August 17th. Need a little Fauna in your life? Check out his Spotify.

Chain – “Colder”

Prolific Portland songwriter Teal Bluestone is at it again, this time with a new indie-rock act, Chain. “Colder” is a perfect debut… Reminiscent of Camp Cope, Cursive, or Pedro the Lion, “Colder” combines stark and clean indie-rock guitar work with Teal’s melancholy (yet soothing) vocal work. Teal’s vocal refrain of “You’re not my baby” is sure to haunt you throughout your day. Chain’s EP will be out later this year via Good Cheer Records – till then, check out all the good stuff on their Soundcloud.

Yellow Radio – “Have Some Fun”

Yellow Radio know what’s up… The latest single from the French duo, “Have Some Fun,” is a delightfully straightforward rock song about, well, having fun. Pairing an impressive bass riff with ooh-oohs and standard guitar riffage, this is the kind of easily-digestible rock song meant for happy summer afternoons. Yellow Radio has a bunch of content on YouTube too – check it out here.

Ladada – “Heaven On The Rocks”

Ladada is the new project from Virginia Beach-dweller Josiah Schlater (who you may recognize from his time in MAE, We Are Trees, and Jake Clemons). Schlater’s “Heaven On The Rocks” is a sunny, garage-pop jam full of wailing guitar leads and jangly rhythm tracks. Inspired by a relaxing tube trip down the James River (occasionally interrupted by a jab from an underwater rock), “Heaven on the Rocks” juxtaposes the idyllic with hints of pain – check it out below. “Heaven On The Rocks” is available now via Gold Robot Records.

Mickey Kojak – “Get Out”

Blippy and smooth; retro-esque but contemporary – “Get Out” is a brand new, ear-catching release from Australian synth-popper Mickey Kojak. Featuring 8-bit keyboard tones and a memorable chorus refrain, Kojak is nothing short of slaying it on this tune. Cherry-on-top? The retro synth solo in lieu of your typical guitar solo theatrics. Bravo Mickey, don’t sleep on this one – check it out via the widget below. “Get Out” is all over the interweb – check out the many listening/purchasing options here.

Late Verlane – “Roll Like A Dummy”

Swedish wunderkind Late Verlane (aka Viktor Persson) sent over his absolute banger of a debut song, “Roll Like A Dummy.” Paring hazy arpeggios with mid-tempo drums and synth flourishes, the song is an ode to “[the] angst and distress of always wanting to be accepted, but also the struggle of trying to break those chains and enjoy life on your own terms.” Best of all – Persson’s smooth vocal timbre, which ride perfectly on top of the solid mix. Add “Roll Like A Dummy” to your Spotify playlist.

Cannons – “Round and Round”

Try to imagine a perfect blend of MGMT and early-Grimes… Add a splash of smart pop songwriting and touches of funk; now you’ve arrived at the sound of future-boogie trio Cannons. We’re recommending their latest, “Round and Round.” It’s a bouncy tune, lush with synthy bass and lots of reverb flourishes. Give it a listen and get lost in the washy goodness. Like what you hear? Buy it on iTunes.