Garage rock outfit Nightmen are back with a second album, set forth by their latest single “Ahahahah (Oh No.)” It’s all sludgy vocal lines, rhythm guitars, and kinetic drum lines. The group hails from Sweden, branding themselves as a topic of interest with their fusion of captivating pop with energetic indie-rock. Hyper and striking with a hint of an edge. Keep your eyes peeled for Nightmen’s upcoming album Can’t Avoid Success out April 7th via Lövely Records.
Indie pop artist Gothic Tropic makes a splash with her latest video for the single “How Life Works.” The L.A. songstress melds stimulating pop with a hair of psychedelia, painting a picture of pure summer haze. The song speaks on that feeling of trying to appease everyone, but losing sight of yourself a bit in the process. The video plays upon this by representing a wayward character searching for the mystical creature Chullachaqui, featuring a sun-soaked vintage California with a soap opera-sequel storyline. Look for more from Gothic Tropic in the coming months, with her debut album Fast or Feast dropping May 19th.
“Living Room” by Austin four-piece Alex Napping is a soft place to land on the road to figuring out adulthood. The first single off the band’s upcoming sophomore album, “Living Room” encompasses the twangy guitars, warm vocals, and placid drum beats associated with the best of indie rock and DIY, while still sounding polished and compelling. It speaks on remaining true to yourself, while addressing the romantic expectations of others. It’s defiant but rings of heartfelt divulgence. If this band has won you over like they have me, get ready for the release of their new album Mise En Place, out May 5th via Father/Daughter Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/306405052″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Danish indie-rock outfit Masasolo links 70’s pop influences with bright synths and lofty guitar tracks in their single “On My Own.” Off the band’s debut EP Breakup, this song touches on an assertion of independence after a failed relationship, and the sense of dignified freedom that comes with it. Taking cues from the likes of Connan Mockasin and Mac Demarco, “On My Own” features guitar-centric melodies and sloping vocals that are reminiscent of rock’s heydays. It’s packed with energy but still comes across as tentative and emotive. See for yourself below, and dive into Breakup for more from Masasolo.
“Ashes to Snow” by LA artist Lucian is the synth-pop jam of the week. The track features a thumping bass line and a cacophony of wispy vocals that has you enveloped by the first beat of the chorus. It’s moody and introspective in all the right ways. This song is featured in Good Kids, a comedy on the ascent into adulthood that Lucian has provided the soundtrack to. Expect more from Lucian on the electronic front in the near future. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/305990786″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
London’s Formation has claimed their space as the band to watch this year with the release of their single “A Friend.” Through bombastic percussive interjections, chant-like vocals, and soaring synths, the track is a fiery thrash into catharsis. The video, directed by Davis Silas, reflects this strikingly through a bloody fist-fight on the London Tube, blurring distinctions between rage and affection; friend and adversary. It’s scathing and it’s undisguised, melding cutting visuals with anthemic swells. If this track has you hooked, be sure to check out Formation’s upcoming debut album, Look At The Powerful People, out March 24th.
Brother-sister duo The Fontaines bring a touch of funk to their brand of new-wave pop in their latest single “Evaporate.” It’s coy and evasive, as singer Charlotte Fontaine intones “I want but I don’t need / Let me remind you this is a catch and release.” In a flurry of salient guitar themes, powerhouse bass lines, and seductively murmured vocals, this track grabs hold of you and refuses to let go. This band is sure to be one to watch at their live debut at this year’s SXSW, but until then be sure to vibe to “Evaporate” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/306489842″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Steven Benjamins crafts the latest upbeat, yet calming tune through his single “Silence.” The Toronto native creates a new meaning for singer-songwriter, with an electrified twist that remains endearing and peaceful. “Silence” is an anthem of reassurance, stringing powerful phrases together to emanate nothing but soothing encouragement. Benjamins is currently cranking out singles left and right, so if you like what you hear be sure to stay tuned for another single coming to a set of speakers near you. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/306463237″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
UK four-piece Karma Club introduces their upcoming album with the release of their debut single “Timelines.” Garnering inspiration from The Cure, Foals and Bombay Bicycle Club, among others, this track is all spunky bass lines and crisp guitar melodies. It’s a brew of the best of indie-pop with a tinge of grungy distortion and groove-laden rhythms. The band’s debut EP Smile, It’s Good For You is due out March 31st on Funnel Music, but until then we recommend jamming to this track for the long haul. You’ll be glad you did. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/305384105″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Looking for some indie psychedelica to get you through the day? Look no further than Charlotte & Magon’s latest track “The Game.” The Parisian duo’s single features hazy synths, wispy vocals, and delicate guitar lines as they journey through a gender-bending, dusky afternoon in the track’s video. It’s authentically eccentric, channeling the likes of Ariel Pink and Mac Demarco. Delve into more Charlotte & Magon through their various EPs on bandcamp.
New Hartford’s Sweet William delves into some feel-good indie rock in their track “My Connection.” The band consists of Mike Cotter on various instrumentation, with Sam Goodwin on vocals. It’s as grassroots DIY as can be, all recorded from the guys’ basement, and features commanding guitar fills, light percussion, and catchy hooks. The song embodies the happy-go-lucky lifestyle, encouraging acting on gut feelings and letting go. For more good vibes make sure to check out Sweet William’s album What You Feel. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304207474″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Indie singer/songwriter Foresteater harnesses some sweetly-psychedelic forces with his new single “Big Deceiver.” The song begrudges the infuriatingly fake friend often found in today’s online-centric culture, but manages to make it sound like an endearing love song through upbeat melody lines, syrupy harmonies, and conscientious guitar interjections. It’s thoughtful and cutting, encapsulated in the most enamoring of tunes. For more of Foresteater, check out his debut EP Nightlife of the Exploding Heads. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/305884574″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Flagship’s latest video for the single “Mexican Jackpot” is a vivid play on light, color, and soft edges. Directed by Michael Polish, the video immerses you in a band practice-meets-kid’s party that looks like nothing but a good time. All of this, while strident guitar chords, ponderous bass lines, and pleading vocals provide the soundtrack. A Grade-A indie-rock tune brought to life on the small screen. If you like what you see, or hear for that matter, be sure to check out the band’s second album The Electric Man, out March 10th via Bright Antenna Records.
LA songster Blair has teamed up with New York act argonaut&wasp to deliver his latest single “Planetary.” The track features rhythmic synths, layered harmonies, and an awe-inspiring guitar solo to end on a high note. It’s funky in all the right places, while sustaining classic electropop elements. Post 8-month hiatus, Blair is back and gaining momentum on the streaming front with his last two singles. It seems only fair to say “Planetary” will lead to no exceptions. See for yourself below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304479113″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Bjarke Bendsen’s latest brainchild Rainbrother slips into folk-rock with his latest single “Blue.” The project was formed after returning home from a European tour with his former band The Migrant, recalling Bendsen to his musical roots. Drawing inspiration from Pink Floyd and Bon Iver, Rainbrother combines introspective guitar lines and lyrical narrative to craft moving songs. “Blue” is no exception, featuring heartening instrumentals and velvety smooth vocals. For more of Rainbrother, head over to bandcamp to hear his brand new album Tales From The Drought.