New Music

Reyna – “Matinee”

January 29, 2017

A couple of Milwaukee-based sisters make up indie-pop act Reyna – we think you should check out their latest song, “Matinee.” About the song, Reyna says, “After trying to maintain an international, long-distance relationship for over eight months and finding out I had been cheated on… I put those feelings into ‘Matinee’ saying you don’t need me, you don’t want me, but wait till you see me doing better than you.” Catchy, and revenge oriented – well said, ladies. Reyna’s stuff is on Spotify too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303324510″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JW Ridley – “Everything (Deathless)”

January 29, 2017

JW Ridley is a recently-discovered bedroom pop artist from London. We’re really feeling his latest jam, “Everything (Deathless).” Fans of Radiohead’s frantic feel, Tame Impala’s psychadelic tinge, and moody 80s indie like The Cure will dig this one for sure. If you’re feeling it, “Everything (Deathless)” is available in vinyl. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301722890″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

High Waisted – “Trust”

January 29, 2017

NYC faux-surfers High Waisted bring the 1960s to mind on their latest offering, “Trust.” The band mixes vintage 60s visuals and vibes with modern pop sentiment, which should appeal strongly to fans of Alvvays, Allah Las, and Best Coast. Did we mention they’ve been called NME Magazine’s “buzz band to watch” and were declared “the ultimate party band” by GQ? Check out the “lost footage” of the band in their video for “Trust” below.

Rees Finley – “The Band Broke Up”

January 28, 2017

For those of us feeling stuck in a rut, Rees Finley has been there, and has crafted an ode to the downtrodden in his latest track “The Band Broke Up.” Through a chronicle of relatable personal anecdotes, Finley serenades us into catharsis. The song features an endearing whistle track to keep it light, along with various classic pop elements that make this song infectious. This one-man band is proof of the light at the end of the tunnel that is one of life’s many low points, and he lays it all out on the table for everyone to see. This is easy listening at its finest – so plug in and remember, it only gets better from here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303331148″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

PLAZA – “Origami”

January 28, 2017

UK band PLAZA bring to light the musical result of a suppressed teen angst in their single “Origami.” They start strong with sparse instrumentation and soft vocal lines, then hurdle into distortion-heavy guitars and grungy vocals. They know the formula and they’re sticking to it. It’s gloomy and it’s pleading; it’s harsh and it’s angular, a full spectrum of emotion in one dynamic rock song. “Origami” is all about looking for an escape in the face of rapidly approaching adulthood, made clear from the first guitar strum to the last drum hit. Have a listen to “take [yourself] away from it all” and look out for more PLAZA this April. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303132738″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Fejká – “Moonlight”

January 28, 2017

We’re enjoying the subtle pulse of “Moonlight,” the debut single from German prodigy Fejká. “Moonlight” features a moody and atmospheric melody but is relatively instrumental. This one gives us a unique vibe – equal parts mystery and danceability. You can purchase “Moonlight” on iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/148983822″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Snowball II – “Anais & Me”

January 28, 2017

L.A.’s Snowball II brings back the glory of the 90’s with their latest single “Anais & Me.” This full-fledged pursuit of indie rock bears marks of the garage and punk of yesteryear, bringing us back to rock in all of its pre-millennium splendor. Band leader/producer Jackson Wargo takes DIY to a whole new level, without giving any indication of an indie production. The track features hypnotic rhythm guitars and a punchy bass line, all tied together with jam-based vocals. A time-honored tale of boy meets girl, boy tries to win over girl through song about having her figured out. Take a trip down memory lane with “Anais & Me” and stick around for Flashes of Quincy out mid-February this year. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/298700333″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

closely – “Years”

January 27, 2017

Toronto trio closely is up to something… “Years” sounds truly unique – a minimalistic song that could be the 2017 reincarnation of Prince’s “Kiss.” “Years” is packed with reverbed-out vocal samples, snappy falsetto, and lush electronic drums. Trust us when we say it’s something you have to hear for yourself. Check them out on the ‘Gram too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/297739495″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

joan – “Take Me On”

January 27, 2017

Indie-pop duo joan may be newbies in the game, but they are off to a strong start with the release of their premiere single “Take Me On.” The melding of eighties instrumentals with 90’s funk gives joan an old-school feel, with a dash of modern electronic influence. Co-produced and mixed by Tim Pagnotta, the track definitely draws parallels to hit-makers like Walk the Moon and Saint Motel. It takes on the classic theme of exciting love and makes it a party; two of music’s favorite things. Jump on the wagon soon, joan is bound to make a name among the big dogs and it’s only a matter of time. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304166099″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

The Dahmers – “Night Crawler”

January 27, 2017

The spooky new single “Night Crawler” off The Dahmers upcoming album is a haunting conglomerate of grungy garage punk and indie rock for headbangers and horror-film fanatics. The band livens up lo-fi with tension-heavy themes and spunky guitar lines, along with some strategically placed clap tracks and screams. Despite the dark theme, this track unbeatably energetic and all-around exciting to listen to. Presumably taking the namesake of the famed serial killer-cannibal extraordinaire, The Dahmers are setting themselves up for a lengthy career of lighthearted horror punk. If you just can’t get enough, be sure to check out their album In the Dead of Night out March 24th on Lövely Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301806380″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Oya Paya – “Just Around The Bend”

January 27, 2017

Mmmm, we’re feeling “Just Around The Bend” from Liverpool trio Oya Paya. Spiraling minimalist guitars provide the backbone for Oya Paya’s true gift – their catchy vocal melodies and pleasant harmonies. Those of you who enjoy Pinback, Death Cab’s early catalog, or Attic Abasement should like this one a lot. Check them out on Instagram too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301040036″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Father John Misty – “Pure Comedy”

January 25, 2017

At this point this almost qualifies as “housekeeping” but yes Father John Misty (aka Josh Tillman) dropped the title track of his forthcoming third album the other day, and “Pure Comedy” more than lives up the hype. For those just tuning in, it appears that liberal democracy/American democracy/the West/western civilization is collapsing all around us in real time, and Josh isn’t immune to that growing sense of dread, hence this devastatingly trenchant piece of art from his Father John Misty alter ego, even though that constructed duality too seems to be collapsing. The video, directed by Matthew Daniel Siskin  is already in the running for “video of the year” (in my dreams) thanks to it’s almost ecstatic depressiveness and up to the minute black humor, and the fact that it sums up the existential quagmire of 2017 perfectly.  Pure Comedy arrives April 7, and hopefully a tour will be announced, including hopefully a[...]

True Moon – “Sugar”

January 24, 2017

True Moon is a Swedish act making frantic post-punk tunes with a raw approach. We think you should start with “Sugar,” a dark wave jam with a tendency to creep up on the listener. Starting with a jittery drumbeat and droning noises, the track eventually explodes into an epic and catchy chorus. Fans of Joy Division or Dum Dum Girls will be very pleased. “Sugar” is available for streaming via Spotify. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301418870″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Hedge Fund – “Hot & Lonely”

January 24, 2017

Hedge Fund is an Australian duo making 80s influenced alt-rock with a modern twist. Like Fleetwood Mac, The White Stripes, and Die Antwoord before them, Hedge Fund started as a creative and complicated partnership between two lovers. The result sounds a little like Talking Heads, The Cure, and Pat Benatar with a lot of extra swagger. We think you should start with “Hot & Lonely.” Be sure to check out Hedge Fund’s website too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303277212″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Ansible – “Rest Of Our Lives”

January 23, 2017

80’s pop inspired twosome Ansible bring a nostalgia for the past with a neo-synthpop flare in their latest single “Rest Of Our Lives.” The track invokes a theme right out of a 1980’s romcom, shouldering the last-stitch effort at a failing relationship before giving it up entirely. They craft their sound through a measured mix of lulling vocals, pulsing synth, and a pinch of distortion. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Tears For Fears and Genesis (post Peter Gabriel,) Ansible take their own spin on the genre, if only a few decades behind. This track may have retro influences but still manages to bring in an inventive and contemporary sound. Join the time warp and take a listen to “Rest Of Our Lives” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/281019783″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]