Last time we checked in with Cheem, they were hot off the release of their 15-song epic, DOWNHILL. We’re jazzed to announce they’re back with more ear candy, this time with the poppy goodness of “Shine Sprite.” Cheem has an uncanny ability to mix funky rhythms with math-rock guitars, all wrapped up in a shiny pop-song package. Fans of Minus the Bear, Weatherbox, or Dryjacket will surely enjoy this. Cheem is on Bandcamp. Snag their new single while it’s HOT.
Melby is a psych-pop project out of Stockholm. The buffaBLOG offices have been jamming out to “Reject” lately – a simmering slice of indie-pop that pairs a bouyant bass line with dreamy guitars and vocals. The song itself is about being fed up with a loved one and the frustrating process of letting that anger build. We’ve all been there Melby! “Reject” is out now via Rama Lama Records.
We’re happy to hear that synth-funk trio Friendly Fires is making a bangin’ comeback. “Love Like Waves” is a swimmy, summery jam, packed full of the feel-good tropical vibes and fun synth work they’ve become well-known for. Their music video is a gigantic party, an apt visualization of their made-for-partying style. There’s lots of ways to enjoy this one – check them all out here.
Golan is a very talented trio hailing from Romania. We’re digging their latest offering, “Rocket Love,” which also got the full music video treatment from Sander Houtkruijer. The music video is an interesting watch, juxtaposing handheld camcorder footage with realistic HD compliments… But beyond the cinematography, this is a simmering, vaguely-moody song meant for chilling face. Get the full experience below. There are lots of listening options for “Rocket Love” – check them all out here.
“Dying Well” is an incredibly dynamic new track from Swedish outfit of Judith, proclaimed to be forerunners of “fringe punk,” a burgeoning genre characterized by an assertive blend of rock, punk and indie elements. The track just barely exceeds 2 minutes, but it inevitably will take a hold of any listener with its vivaciousness, essentially gripping them by the shirt collar and pinning them against a wall—in a metaphorical sense, of course. The band’s forthcoming 4-song EP is set to be released at some point sooner than later.
On their new track “astrology,” Los Angeles-based duo standards lay down their stake as a new hope for the overlooked genre of math rock pioneered by groups like Slint. The entirely instrumental tune is a textbook example of intricate musicianship. It doubles alongside that distinction as a lovably freewheeling interplay of fluttering guitar, ebullient bass and feverish drumming. The band is touring the west coast this summer, a venture arriving upon the release of their newly released eponymous EP. standards by standards
“Get Out Homehow” gallops out of the starting gates like a prize-winning stallion, making the name of the Australian duo responsible that much more fitting. The song chugs along like a charged-up selection from Sleater-Kinney’s eminent back catalog, as it presents a burst of distortion and fast paced rhythm. As An Horse carry on with a tour of North America in support of the first music they’ve released since 2011. The past handful of years had been marred by disconcerting family matters and exhaustion from traveling. Nonetheless, they’re back, and they haven’t missed a beat.
“Since I Saw You” is, with certainty, a danceable treasure from Norwegian pop twosome Alfred Hall. The track gets going right from the start, employing a funky rhythm that hits a perfect middle ground between leisurely and energetic. The chorus, accentuating a reunion with someone the narrator hadn’t crossed paths with in some time, brings about a sense of life’s unpredictability and unsuredness. The wondrous lines of guitar work coexisting with this sentiment are undeniably beautiful and welcomed with open ears. As the song fades out, a longing for more beyond three and a half minutes is sure to be felt.
“Sundried Mind,” a recently released track from Binghamton-hailing, Buffalo-centered rockers The Tins, commences with some guitar sliding and noodling that sets a majestic tone. This short intro carries over to a catchy and light yet full-sounding melody. Like the rest of the band’s latest album-length effort, a self-titled release, the track was produced by Robby Takac, the long-time bassist for The Goo Goo Dolls. His hand in the inflection of the tune and his overall association with The Tins lends an apparent influence of that veteran Buffalo group’s anthemic, endearing songwriting qualities. “Sundried Mind” retains a hard-hitting burst throughout that’ll undoubtedly entice any listener to take the day ahead by storm.
Whisperhawk (aka Michael Gross) is a Native American singer/songwriter whose “Summer Song” caught our attention for its upbeat, summery vibes… Turns out the song is actually a “heart-warming tale of the end of the world,” but that’s neither here nor there. Beyond the apocalyptic lyrics, jangly guitars and slide flourishes pepper this song and compliment Gross’ sunny delivery and disposition. “Summer Song” is also available for purchase via Bandcamp.
Denver act Modern Leisure won us over with their laid-back, schmoozy take on indie rock… “Girls in Black” is a poignant reflection on dating life in your 20s; it’s coupled with a unique, baby-blue-motif music video that takes aim at pretentiousness. Get lost in the mid-tempo thump of the bass and the summery acoustic guitar accompaniment – this one is perfect for chilling out on a muggy summer afternoon. “Girls in Black” is currently available on Bandcamp. Snag it before Super Sad Rom-Com comes out next month.
Chi Runner is a mysterious new artist from… somewhere mysterious. But we can’t help but dig the opening track off of their latest EP, Melodynamic. “Gravity” is a chilled-out but angsty lesson in electronic beats, falsetto flourishes, and emotional lyrical delivery. Get down to this one if you’re into Tame Impala or Shelf Nunny. Chi Runner is also on Spotify – freshen up that playlist with a phat new addition.
Brand new indie/electronica act THRILL YOU KILL YOU is the latest project from former DJ/producer Fei-Fei. “Never Even Really” is an energetic song that was fully written, produced, and engineered by Fei-Fei herself. About the process, she says, “I’m proud that I recorded vocals in my bathroom on a cheap mic. It’s weird, it’s raw, and a little twisted, but it’s all me. We dig it too – so will fans of CHVRCHES or Shiny Toy Guns. Want to know more? Get down to the lyric video here.
Brisbane-based trio Terra Pines combine elements of grunge, shoegaze, punk, and the general spirit of the 90s into their palatable blend of indie rock. Case in point, their latest single “Dream Big…” Stuffed full of fuzzed-out guitars and off-in-the-distance vocals, “Dream Big” tackles that age-old experience of reconciling one’s dreams with the reality that things might not go according to plan. Heavy – figuratively, literally, and musically. Terra Pines has their stuff available via Bandcamp.
Brace yourself! “Wave At Your Grave” is a chunky, speaker-shredding jam from Texan solo act No Cares, aka JP Pfertner. “Grave” brings together the bombastic elements of Jay Reatard, The Presidents of the United States of America, and WAVVES in the form of chunky guitars, exciting rolling drum beats, and a general raucous spirit. We think it’s sure to get your blood pumping. Give No Cares some love on the ‘Gram.