New Music

Decide – “The Powerless”

August 25, 2016

Demonstrated by the strength of the ironically powerful lead single “The Powerless,” rapper Decide‘s Struggle Inside EP is a motivating, empowering hip hop project. The five-track prepper focuses on day-to-day struggles we face, from struggles with work, to relationship woes, finally settling on closer “The Powerless.” Decide holds no punches as he calls for people to get off their asses and chase what they want. It begins with the line “Imagine me doing nothing just sitting around, looking at wall trying to figure something out.” He remains direct with his bars, and isn’t a fan of feeling sorry for one’s self. Production on the EP is varied, courtesy of the beatmaker Anno Domini Nation. “Rap Shit” has the bombastic thumps and charming piano keys of a Dr. Dre song. “Illusion of Choice” is both cloudy and epic. But “The Powerless” is classic hip hop. Chopped up vocal samples comprise the main[...]

Dutch Criminal Record – “On The Fence”

August 21, 2016

“An indie song about indecision, full of chiming riffs, booming bass and nimble drums.” If this typically describes things that are up your alley, Dutch Criminal Record is the band for you. The quartet’s indie rock is impossibly tight and springy. We think you should start with “On The Fence,” especially if you’re a fan of Foals, Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, or Kaiser Chiefs. “On The Fence” is available via Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/268588859″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Ghost Wave – “Honeypunch”

August 21, 2016

Ghost Wave is a New Zealand-based act who have been creating some interesting music. The duo has been exploring the sonic possibilities of their psychedelic sound by adding an electronic focus to their warbling, retro-sounding songs. We think “Honeypunch” is where you should start – swirling organs, pulsing synths, and cosmic vocals pepper the track. Recommended to fans of the 1960s or Tame Impala. Radio Norfolk is out now via Flying Nun Records. Buy it here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/243637210″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

Wild & Free – “Life On Jupiter”

August 19, 2016

Combining the multi-instrumentalist talents of producers Drew Kramer and George Cochrane, dance act Wild & Free fearlessly explores the space between disco, house, and pop music. The duo puts a strong emphasis on meticulous percussion, dreamy vocals, and a wide spectrum of unexpected textures. We dug “Life On Jupiter” for its good vibes and undeniable beat. “Life On Jupiter” is free if you head over to Soundcloud. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/275765915″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

HALFNOISE – “In The Summer”

August 19, 2016

Last time we checked in with HALFNOISE, we were getting down to the shimmery indie-pop of “Know The Feeling” which has since been streamed 250,000+ times. His latest is “In The Summer,” a laid back jam that continues Ferro’s penchant for hooky and summery electrorock. Ferro’s solo sound makes the most of his epic talent on the skins (he used to drum for Paramore) by combining it with electronic elements, and warm, charming vocals. “In The Summer” is available via a variety of formats. Check it out via YouTube below.

Bad Wave – “3AM”

August 19, 2016

We first heard about Miami/LA hybrid act Bad Wave with their exhilarating track, “Extraordinary.” The duo is back, this time with the retro synth tones of “3AM.” Despite living in the same building, the dudes in Bad Wave create music via email, just like synth legends The Postal Service. Their techy-bromance has resulted in the creation of exciting electro-tinged “death reggae” (their words, not ours). Give “3AM” a listen below or via Spotify. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/275829549″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Eriel Indigo – “Perfect Lie (feat. Hannah Fraser)”

August 19, 2016

The profoundly aquatic electronica of tellingly-named Eriel Indigo and her creative partner Hannah Fraser resulted in their chill new track, “Perfect Lie.” The duo states, “…All love is sacred. All life is precious. Let the ocean and her inhabitants remind you how to surrender to the divine flow and to live and let live, to free one another to love who and how we choose, and to not only accept, but embrace each other exactly as we are.” Well said ladies. Their electronica is reminiscent of Ellie Goulding or La Roux. “Perfect Lie” is free if you’re willing to swing by Soundcloud. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/275497884″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

BRAIN TAN – “New Light”

August 19, 2016

Brooklyn synth pop act BRAIN TAN is here to wow you with “New Light.” After a popular cover of Taylor Swift’s “Style,” “New Light” introduces us to BRAIN TAN’s use of 80s style vibes and lush synths. It’s the first single from his upcoming EP, due out in September. Perfect for fans of Neon Indian, M83, and Ghost Beach will be pleased. “New Light” can be purchased on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/275608824″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Sad Panda/BVRNOUT – “For You (ft. Kiva)”

August 18, 2016

Together, Sad Panda and BVRNOUT bring an emotional future bass masterpiece, topped off with some fresh vocals from Kiva. “For You” is a powerful EDM song that features an emotional break, memorable vocals, and an epic bass drop. What more do you need to know? Now you must check it out below. “For You” is free if you’re willing to venture off to Soundcloud. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/276962072″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Clyde Hill – “Brand New (feat. Lilianna Wilde)”

August 18, 2016

Seattle-born electronic artist Clyde Hill’s latest EDM release is entitled “Brand New.” Hot off the heels of his previous hit, “Cascade,” “Brand New” features infectious keyboard leads and the lilting vocals of LA-based singer Lilianna Wilde. Fans of Timbaland and Kaskade are bound to be pleased by Clyde’s summery vibes. Head over to Soundcloud for a free download of “Brand New.” [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/275468401″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

TRASH – “Give Up”

August 18, 2016

“If only all rubbish smelt so sweet.” Genius! TRASH is a spry quartet from Chesterfield who won us over with the shimmery indie punk of “Give Up.” The young Brits specialize in jangly guitar pop speckled with waves of lo-fi brilliance. With only two years experience under their belt, the band is already appearing at a number of festival dates this year. Recommended for fans of Cloud Nothings, Tapes N’ Tapes, or Yuck. “Give Up” is out now via Clue Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/274679068″ 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 Electric Sons – “Cool”

August 18, 2016

Pop masterminds The Electric Sons want to get you moving, and “Cool” has all the right vibes. Their smooth brand of electropop is a kaleidoscope of imaginative lyrics and infectious hooks that are sure leave you feeling starstruck. “Cool” is a chill-out jam about keeping a level head under pressure. Their summery pop vibes bring to mind Daft Punk, late-90s boy bands, and Bruno Mars. “Cool” is on iTunes. You know what to do! [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/274731256″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Geowulf – “Saltwater”

August 18, 2016

Beachpoppers Geowulf have us swooning over their breezy, funk-tinged anthem, “Saltwater.” Their use of lush, reverb-soaked vocals and whirling organ-tone synths evoke a soothing, vintage vibe despite their very relevant approach to indie rock. The duo makes breezy, carefree summer-pop a la Alvvays, Beach House, and Best Coast. “Saltwater” is available on a bunch of formats – check them all out here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/274672240″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Bridesmen – “Empty”

August 18, 2016

You might recognize Kenton Chen from his work with HOLYCHILD, Ben Folds, or Rozzi Crane. You may have also seen him on NBC’s the Sing-Off and Postmodern Jukebox. His new solo project is called Bridesmen, and it’s a radical departure from his jazz and a cappella roots. He explores the darker side of human nature and how to be a good person in a world that ostracizes you, i.e. “a bridesman at a wedding.” Keep your eyes open for Bridesmen’s debut EP, coming soon. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/271319637″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Micah Manaitai – “Låhi Amerikanu”

August 18, 2016

Micah Manaitai is a 21-year-old multi-instrumentalist born in Guam, raised in St. Louis, and currently stationed in LA. Manaitai blends the warmth of 1970s Pacific Island music with the attitude and experimentation of today’s indie rock musicians. Micah owes just as much to Tame Impala as he does to the Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau. Manaitai’s Modern Sounds in Island and Popular Music is available for “pay what you want” on Bandcamp. We recommend starting with “Låhi Amerikanu.” [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/269692034″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]