New Music

MELT – “Rewind”

MELT’S newest single “Rewind” off the band’s new album is the current earworm for emo enthusiasts and lo-fi lovers alike. The New Jersey-based foursome tells the tried and true tale of youthful restlessness coupled with nostalgia over lost love. Through waves of hazy, layered vocals, singer Dylan White laments the best of times over a bedrock of powerful guitar arpeggios and a steady drumbeat. This song has all the makings of the soundtrack to a good Friday night existential crisis. If you’re hungry for more, the full album Riffer drops today via Danger Collective Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/292590871″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /] Written by Cassandra Dailey

Father John Misty – “Holy Hell”

Funny story: went for my long overdue physical the other day (it’s been a few years, and the one I had scheduled in March got postponed after my heart attack… d’oh!) and the nurse had a few recently added extra questions at the end. “These last 2 weeks… have you felt depressed or unable to feel joy or enjoyment? Anxious and unable to sleep? We’re asking everybody.” I had to bust out laughing and respond “well… those are some loaded questions…”* Clearly the last two weeks have been a little rough, and unlike anything I can remember (fact: I’m in my early 40’s and I ain’t ever seen fecal matter like this before), probably because two weeks ago the course of this country was set for DANGEROUS WATERS, and folks are trying to cope with the new now however they can. Some folks are probably still on the couch staring into[...]

Governor – “Headphones”

Boston act Governor just released their debut single, “Headphones,” and we think it’s worth your time. “Headphones” is just one of the songs on their most recent release, A Commonwealth Songbook, which came out earlier this month. The band uses straight forward indie rock with tinges of wonk to sculpt a style similar to Death Cab for Cutie or Modest Mouse. Check out Governor on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289627070″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Scott Quinn – “Delicate”

Scott Quinn‘s “Delicate” is a jam that we think you should have on your radar. Combining swelling synth pads, blippy drums, and an overall swimmy atmosphere, Quinn crafts r&b laced electronica.  About the song, Quinn says, “Delicate is about the realization that we are all mortal and only have a short time on this earth. So rather than working yourself into the ground doing a job you don’t enjoy, prioritize the important things; family, friends and exploring your passions.” Scott Quinn’s stuff can be purchased via iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/287135163″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Stevie Talks – “LYM (Leave Your Man)”

We recommend the latest from Costa Mesa solo act Stevie Talks – “LYM (Leave Your Man)” is an unapologetic indie pop song about “a girl with a boyfriend.” Stevie’s song is catchy and innocent with an adult contemporary. This one would appeal to  fans of The Front Bottoms, Owl City, or The Honorary Title would like Stevie. Stream the song via Soundcloud below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289761368″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Saint Best – “Pacific Girls”

We dig Saint Best‘s new song, “Pacific Girls.” The song has a campy and summery 80s-pop vibe which reminds us of the long lost summer. About the track, the band says, “‘Pacific Girls’ is about the positive and negative sides of a turbulent relationship; about being attracted to something that you very well know isn’t necessarily good for you.” Very relatable. Fans of Madonna or Duran Duran would surely love Saint Best. Check out their video for “Pacific Girls” below.

Stephen Douglas Wolfe – “The Animals”

Syracuse singer/songwriter Stephen Douglas Wolfe caught our attention with the hushed indie pop of “The Animals.” Stephen pairs rolling percussion beats with intricate guitar work and his distinctly smooth baritone delivery. Wolfe crafts perfect music for the burgeoning winter scene. “The Animals” would appeal to fans of Local Natives, Bon Iver, or  Minus the Bear. Check Stephen Douglas Wolfe out on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/287034342″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

The Dig – “Bleeding Heart (You Are The One)”

We last checked in with “The Dig” when we suggested their quirky synth pop jam, “Simple Love.” We are revisiting them this week because we like their latest release, “Bleeding Heart (You Are The One).” The Dig combine modern synthpop vibes with fifties-style lyrics and melodies, falling somewhere between the golden oldies and MGMT. You can purchase “Bleeding Heart (You Are The One)” on a variety of platforms. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/293197236″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Saro – “Test”

LA artist Saro hit us up with his bumping new single, “Test,” and we feel compelled to share it with you all. “Test” is a menacing track, featuring masterful synth work, sweeping vocal melodies, and strong pop hooks. Try not to get amped while listening to the arpeggiated bassline that propels the chorus. Recommended for fans of Bruno Mars, Ellie Goulding, or CHVRCHES. Give Saro some love on Instagram. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289762806″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Fellow Hollow – “Aisles”

Fellow Hollow is the intimate folk act featuring Luke Elliot Fleeman and Andrew Gavin Williams. “Aisles” made its way into our ear canals this week and we think it’s worth a listen. Fleeman and Williams combine gentle, layered vocals over simple and beautiful acoustic guitar tracks. For fans of Bon Iver or Elliott Smith. Y’all should check out Fellow Hollow on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289160911″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Henry Green – “Closer”

Henry Green caught our ears (just barely, this stuff is) with the minimalistic indie pop of “Closer.” Green’s brand of singer/songwriter pop is extremely gentle and understated a la Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, or Radiohead’s quietest numbers. We especially dig the borderline Latin percussion. Check out “Closer” on iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289604137″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

George Hollow – “New Boy George (feat. Nabes)”

Pittsburgh rapper George Hollow was raised on a farm outside of the city. That unique perspective has seen Hollow constantly working to develop his own sound, blending his country roots and interest in psychedelic music into hip hop, creating what he calls “Cosmic Cowboy Music.” Don’t let his down-home look fool you, George has mad flow. Check George out on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289144278″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Darling James – “God’s Graffiti”

Melbourne act Darling James hit us up with their latest, “God’s Graffiti.” Opening with a series of intense guitar blasts, “God’s Graffiti” quickly morphs into an infectious beat, highlighting Darling James’ understated delivery. The song is catchy on a pop level, but is also littered with exotic instrumentation. Fans of Foster the People, Grouplove, or Mikal Cronin will feel right at home. Keep your eyes open for Darling James’ debut EP, due out November 18th. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/288904173″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Oldman Boykid – “Bygones”

Oldman Boykid is the moniker of Californian singer/songwriter Daniel Freeman. His latest jam “Bygones” caught our ear for its left-of-field approach. Freeman’s work combines woozy soundscapes, hushed vocal harmonies, and swelling, downtempo beats. The abstract approach produces a calming effect and inspires a search for narrative and imagery among its listeners. Think Moby or Fatboy Slim. Oldman Boykid is on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/288097818″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Dad Legs – “Trash Island”

Costa Mesa act Dad Legs sent us the lighthearted surf rock of “Trash Island” and it brightened up our day. If you’re looking for a fun little ditty about waking up on an island made out of literal trash – you’re in the right place. Their lighthearted approach to surf rock is refreshing and reminiscent of Wavves or Cloud Nothings. Dad Legs is on Bandcamp for a “pay what you want” rate. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289061917″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]