New Music

Magdalena Bay – “Neon”

February 1, 2017

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”

January 31, 2017

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”

January 31, 2017

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”

January 30, 2017

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”

January 30, 2017

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”

January 29, 2017

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” /]

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” /]