New Music

PATHS – “Neoprene”

Burgeoning one-woman synth-pop act PATHS is breaking into the alternative electropop scene with the release of her single “Neoprene.” Drawing influence from Jamie XX, St. Vincent, and HAIM, PATHS merges soothing vocals with upbeat synth clusters and strident percussive elements. The result is a carefully stratified soundscape that manages to be both aurally stimulating and easy on the ears. Expect to hear more from newcomer PATHS soon, as she takes on her live debut February 16th at Output in Belfast, Northern Ireland. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303346895″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Ainsley Farrell – “Lady Long Hair”

Through folky twangs and subdued vocals, singer-songwriter Ainsley Farrell surmises the mysterious nature of dreams in “Lady Long Hair.” Drawing influence from powerhouse female vocalists like Aretha Franklin and Big Mama Thornton, Farrell marries the blues with her brand of folk-infused indie pop. Known for drawing inspiration from her dreams and personal inquisitions, Farrell tells the tale of Lady Long Hair; a weathered yet misunderstood women who often appears in her dreams. She tells a story while attempting to interpret it herself, and the result is a dynamic and wistful four-minute devotement that’s beautifully unsettling. Take in Ainsley Farrell’s subconscious musings below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/302310598″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Saturday Drive – “Heart Stop”

Saturday Drive brings a touch of 90’s garage rock back to life in their song “Heart Stop.” If you’re a fan of Counting Crows mixed with the punk infusions of Go Radio, you’ll feel right at home with this track. The New Jersey natives meld jam guitars with unique mixture of pop-punk-meets-folk vocals, bringing nothing but good vibes to this upbeat tune. The song simultaneously acts as a pep talk and a cry for help, which Is addressed as a dialogue between two people in the track’s video. The video itself plays upon themes of contrast with the use of color, featuring two characters interacting while the band performs the soundtrack on the scene’s TV set. It’s playful, with distinct sincerity. Get the full visual experience below.

Lunch Ladies – “Pick Yourself Up”

Dreamy indie-pop quartet Lunch Ladies sends some words of motivation your way with their track “Pick Yourself Up.” It’s a toss up between the sun-drenched guitar riffs and the ethereally harmonized vocals as to which aspect of the song is most impressive, so we’ll settle for a tie. This track is essentially a reality check, but the endearingly scolding kind a mother gives her toddler the first time they scrape their knee. Letting you know reality is harsh, but don’t let that get to you. Dig into “Pick Yourself Up”, and stay tuned for the debut album Down on Sunset Strip, due March 10th via Good Eye Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304063879″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Glassio – “Search and Destroy”

Soul-infused “Search & Destroy” is the latest brand of electropop from New York duo Glassio. The song is a politically-charged response, encapsulating feelings of uncertainty and unease by channeling an upbeat gospel chorus into a reshaped Iggy Pop war anthem. It dismisses hate by romanticizing it. Through a unique mix of electronic soundscapes and soothingly haunting vocals, this track has a way of swallowing you whole, ultimately emerging more at peace than before. Dive into some wholesome discontent with Glassio below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/302905706″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Robat – “Seeds”

Minneapolis five-piece Robat has spearheaded the release of their debut album with the single “Seeds.” This is some DIY indie rock at its finest, featuring mellow vocals, dialoging guitars, and snappy percussion. Singer Alex Wright intones “lost but on the loose / sunflower seeds and evergreens / fractions of our youth,” effectively striking a chord with all the sad kids struggling with the sense of stagnation that comes with aging – we’ve all been there. It’s a heartfelt outcry to hold onto recklessness and naivety, while soothing all your cares away. If you like what you hear, be sure to catch more of Robat’s latest album, Tiny. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301330891″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Mac DeMarco – “This Old Dog”

The wonderful, “jizz jazzy” Mac DeMarco just announced the release of a new album called This Old Dog. Along with the release came a few teasers including the title track. Noticeably different is the acoustic guitar found in this song. It’s still very chill Mac DeMarco, but there’s something more serious about it. After Another One, this was to be expected. The chorus is ordained with either slimy keys or an effected slide guitar. Whatever the instrument, it bounces between ears. Easy going bass rumbles your ear drums. The percussion is simple. The ride really carries the listener away – its sizzle like popcorn kernels against a metal bowl. DeMarco’s tessitura falls within its usual range. “This old dog ain’t about to forget all we’ve had and all that’s next,” is the most alluring line of the new tune. It is simple but endearing and enough to ring true to[...]

L.A. Spring – “Heart and Soul”

L.A. Spring brings out a rousing ode to the loved and lost venues of London in their single “Heart and Soul.” A sore subject for many Londoners, this song encapsulates the anger surrounding these closures and what that will mean for the arts. The band uses an iron-clad method of vibrant synth and a groove-laden bass line to express their despondency, with a desire to return to roots that are quickly disappearing. This song is a call to arms disguised as the next soft rock jam. All it takes is one listen. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/305161408″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Steakhouse Orchestra – “Interpolace”

“Interpolace” off of Steakhouse Orchestra’s new album Post-Shag is all funk with just a hint of distortion and spacey-electronica in all the right places. The vocals seep in gradually, creating the illusion of an approaching storm, while instrumentals churn on and build off each other other below. It starts off safe and endearing, intensifying to a feisty finale full of grit. This track is all the more impressive considering the band produced the whole album with no edits, sticking to a sense of musical authenticity we haven’t seen in a while. Check out Post-Shag for the full effect. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/296127338″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Magdalena Bay – “Neon”

Magdalena Bay (or, if you’re feeling froggy, Magbae), have a real smoove jam on their hands… We think you should check out their new single, “Neon.” “Neon” is inspired by roller disco and synth pop ballads from the 1980s, and it shows. Magbae is all about the male/female vocals, a deep groovy beat, and undeniably catchy hooks. Be sure to add “Neon” to your Spotify playlist. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/302223080″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Craig Finn – “Preludes”

Hold Steady fans rejoice! Iconic frontman Craig Finn is back with some new jams, and we’re happy to give you a sneak peek of his first “Preludes.” “Preludes” is a more melodic jam than what you might be used to, but still treats the listener to Finn’s iconic delivery. Give ‘er a listen below. Finn’s next release, We All Want The Same Things, is due out on March 24th.

treasureseason – “The Rush”

Scandinavian pop duo treasureseason has caught our attention with their latest single, “The Rush.” Combining quasi-tropical beats, twinkling guitars, and a haunting earworm chorus melody, “The Rush” is mysterious, dreamy, and danceable all at once. Give it a spin below and let the 80s vibes rush over you. “The Rush” is available via iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/300939901″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Sulene – “What We Had”

South African-New York artist Sulene has created an infectiously relatable hit with “What We Had,” the precursor to her upcoming album. Sulene’s self-deemed “nostalgia pop” brings to life a forlorn reminiscence of the past through snapshot imagery and the catchiest of hooks. Her smooth vocals may be the only indication of melancholy as they hover over upbeat drum lines and snappy synths, landing somewhere between a party anthem and a soulful lament. Sulene has no shortage of music biz experience in working with Nate Ruess, Betty Who, and Candy Hearts, along with her own work, and she seems to pay homage to all past relationships built through this track. This is the kind of song to put on when you’re not sure what to listen to, as you will undoubtedly find something in it that you needed to hear. Keep an eye out for Sulene’s upcoming album Strange, out later[...]

Rosie Carney – “Awake Me”

In a cocoon of soft acoustic ambience, Rosie Carney sets the scene for the personal profession that is her single “Awake Me.” Carney brings some subtle folky twangs to her singer-songwriter style, relaying an honest and down to earth feel, as she sings “I’ve been a fool for more than half of my life / I’ve tried to hide.” Her knack for lyricism belies her years, while she paints a vivid picture with soft-spoken imagery. Rosie Carney has all the makings of the next Joni Mitchell-meets-Julien Baker; be sure to sink into “Awake Me” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304098610″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Jessie Early – “Heart”

Who doesn’t love a good pop gem? Nashville native Jessie Early hit us up with “Heart,” which has all the hallmarks of a great pop song… Think swirling 80s-inspired synth-pop goodness, electronic drums, and Early’s lilting singer-songwriter presence. Let’s just say Jessie Early’s record would fit comfortably on a shelf next to Lorde, Jessie J, or Ellie Goulding. Check out Jessie’s website too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301888554″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]