New Music

The Fuzzy Crystals – “The King Is Dead”

L.A. six-piece The Fuzzy Crystals channels their inner flower child in the band’s new track “The King Is Dead.” This is modern psychedelic rock in its purest form. Featuring inspiring guitar solos, groove-heavy bass, and a cacophony of vocal harmonies, this is the kind of politically-charged aural journey we’ve been yearning for for decades. The song is complex, and plainly depicts an evolution of an idea, ending with a note of optimism. Holding true to their vintage sound, the band’s second album was completely recorded live with analog technology, only delving into digital when the final mixes were converted to audio files. Join The Fuzzy Crystals on their journey back in time below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/311453923″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Bleeding Knees Club – “Chew the Gum”

Australia’s Bleeding Knees Club sends metaphoric spitballs our way with the band’s latest single “Chew the Gum.” The song is the epitome of sleazy garage-pop. It centers around the idea of growing out of your old self and the things you once enjoyed. Frontman Alex Walls puts it as “It’s about over-doing things that are fun, to the point that it’s not fun at all anymore. Chewing the gum till there’s no flavor left, and it just tastes gross.” Featuring grungy rhythm guitars, crisp drum lines, and punkified vocals, this song packs a punch in a sickeningly sweet kind of way. If you want more where that came from, keep an eye out for the band’s upcoming EP Chew The Gum to be released April 14th.

Headphone Hair – “Bleeding Game”

Headphone Hair is the moniker of Ian Walters, a 6th grade History and Science teacher from Oakland. Outside of the classroom, his passion is music, and we dig his latest single “Bleeding Game.” It caught our ears for his hushed falsetto (a la Bon Iver) and use of left-field instrumentals like xylophone and trombone… Plus, it was all recorded in his classroom in one marathon session (and sounds pretty killer regardless). If you’re feeling generous, you can contribute to Bleeding Game’s Kickstarter here.

Rich List – “Esha Ness”

A little bit of history for y’all – Esha Ness was the name of a race horse that ran the second-fastest time in history, and famously “won” a race that never was. Electro-pop activists Rich List have cleverly turned that experience into a metaphor for the human condition… But we dig it for its retro stylings and clever use of 80s-style synth work. Fans of the 1980s, Duran Duran or Tears for Fears will like this one. “Esha Ness” is available via a variety of formats. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/308682788″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

B O K E H – “Don’t Leave The Fire”

We think you should check out B O K E H (sic), the alter-ego for Berlin-based solo artist Chloë Lewer. The video for “Don’t Leave The Fire” is a glorious look at what might be a dancefloor/go-kart track hybrid, juxtaposing shots of B O K E H racing around the track with segments of her marching around with her squad. Beyond the epic video, B O K E H specializes in electropop tunes with a distinct nod to the 1980s influences – we think you’ll dig it a lot. If you like this song, support it by following this link.

Evan Wize – “Bad Habits”

“Bad Habits” has been a hit at the buffaBLOG offices lately, and for good reason. Evan Wize is an electropop whiz kid from Philadelphia. We recommend the sultry groove of his latest song, “Bad Habits.” Wize combines mysterious chords and menacing funk-bass with accessible lyrics and a pop-minded approach… All in all, a worthwhile listen. Give Evan a follow on Instagram too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/310279776″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Wyldest – “The Poet”

We’re over here grooving to the latest dream pop jam from London power trio, Wyldest. Swirly guitars, hushed vocals, and a deeply groovy drum beat permeate this track… This is one of those jams that isn’t an outright dance banger, but still gets your body moving in its own, understated way. Fans of Warpaint and Blonde Redhead will definitely jive with this one. Be sure to add “The Poet” to your Spotify playlist too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/310953935″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Rosie Tucker – “Fault Lines”

Singer-songwriter Rosie Tucker crafts her brand of indie-rock with a bit of a DIY edge in her latest single “Fault Lines.” The song is chuck-full of gently soulful vocals, twangy guitar lines, and lax drum beats. It revolves around the idea of feeling alone in the sun-soaked utopia that is Los Angeles, and how to find solace in that. For fans of Waxahatchee, Frankie Cosmos, and Alex G, you won’t want to miss this. Catch up on Rosie’s last album Lowlight and more from the indie songstress at her website. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/307932236″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Rudie Edwards – “Lover Like You”

Britain’s Rudie Edwards takes us on a journey through movement and color in her music video for the single “Lover Like You.” The song itself is reminiscent of 90’s R&B with a rock-meets-disco edge. It’s seductive, idealized, and full of energy. This is pure pop shot straight through the bloodstream, but manages to be different than anything we’ve heard in recent history. As Edwards puts it; “The mission is to wake people up…I want to make some bloody noise that doesn’t sound like all of the other bloody noise out there.” It’s pretty fair to say she’s bringing something new to the table, and we for one hope there’s more where that came from. Take in the visual experience that is “Lover Like You” below.

Brandon Thomas De La Cruz – “New Wave”

Portland’s Brandon Thomas De La Cruz takes an artistic approach as an acoustic singer-songwriter in his track “New Wave.” This song, as well as others on the upcoming album, was inspired by artists and poets like Rainer Maria Rilke and Picasso, conjuring strong imagery and vivid anecdotes. De La Cruz’s gentle vocals and tender acoustic guitar strumming lend to his picturesque musings, while leaving the rest to the listener’s interpretation. The full album, I Am Calling For My Lover is due to be released on March 24th, and promises to be full of dreamy symbolism much like this track. Test the waters with “New Wave” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/294356351″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Dulio – “Nostalgia Web”

Mike Toohey’s latest musical endeavor, Dulio is bringing a post-punk rock flare to indie rock with his latest single “Nostalgia Web.” Toohey made his initial mark through prior projects like Brett and Friday Night Boys, and is back to make waves with his latest stroke of genius. The track covers the classic struggle of finding an outlet for downtime when balancing personal and professional relationships. It’s all tied together with boomy baritone vocals, whimsical synths, and electrifying drum lines. If you like what you hear, stay tuned for Dulio’s debut EP, available on cassette next month via Prince George Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/305842163″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Crystal Bats – “Anyone”

After riding the high of their hugely popular single “Falling in Love,” Crystal Bats is back with the widely anticipated “Anyone.” This track takes us back to a time when cosmic synth was king, fueled by powerhouse guitar solos and overcast vocals. A taste of 80’s synth-pop at it’s finest, with a modern glow. “It’s a song about the regrets of a failing relationship, and how sometimes you can feel like you’re just fulfilling a role in someone’s life, rather than being wanted for who you are – you could be anyone,” says the duo. Crystal Bat’s last track nudged them on the road to fame, and we’re pulling for another million streams for the retro songsters with “Anyone.” Help them on their way by listening below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/309790795″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Quiet the Pilot – “Red Dolphin”

Drenched in a summery haze, Quiet the Pilot’s smoother-than-molasses single “Red Dolphin” hammers home a seasonal lethargy brought on by devotion to the sun. The L.A. natives conjure up comparisons to Portugal. The Man and Cage The Elephant, with a bit more of a sleepy, west coast flare. Frontman Ryan Moore’s vocals are steeped in reverb and seem to swirl on with each phrase, all while bright guitar lines and mellow percussion set the tone. If you’re hungry for more, head over to Quiet the Pilot’s soundcloud for extra sweet, balmy vibes [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/307874184″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Fire in the Radio – “New Air”

Fresh off the press, Philadelphia’s Fire in the Radio unveil the precursor to their upcoming sophomore album with single “New Air.” The band hits the ground running with hefty guitar lines, kinetic drums, and a lively contrast of sweet and sludgy vocals. It’s a testament to their tried and true grade of indie-punk, drawing elements from shoegaze, new wave, and grunge into the mix. Quality over quantity is the motto for the new album, and “New Air” is already a testament to the group’s attention to detail and creative elemental layering. Have a listen below, and keep an eye out for Fire in the Radio’s second album, out May 5th on Wednesday Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/305337068″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Azure Blue – “New Moon (ft. Tangela)”

Stockholm’s Azure Blue is bringing summery vibes our way just in time for spring break with his latest track “New Moon” featuring Tangela. It’s a provocative mix of tropical house inspired electro-pop and dreamy indie pop, featuring soothing falsetto, rhythmic synths, and electrifying percussion. There’s something undoubtedly idealistic about the song, depicting a romanticized relationship based around fighting the system that’s strangely addictive. See for yourself below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/306820363″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]