Latest Posts

of Judith – “Dying Well”

June 6, 2018

“Dying Well” is an incredibly dynamic new track from Swedish outfit of Judith, proclaimed to be forerunners of “fringe punk,” a burgeoning genre characterized by an assertive blend of rock, punk and indie elements. The track just barely exceeds 2 minutes, but it inevitably will take a hold of any listener with its vivaciousness, essentially gripping them by the shirt collar and pinning them against a wall—in a metaphorical sense, of course. The band’s forthcoming 4-song EP is set to be released at some point sooner than later.

standards – “astrology”

June 5, 2018

On their new track “astrology,” Los Angeles-based duo standards lay down their stake as a new hope for the overlooked genre of math rock pioneered by groups like Slint. The entirely instrumental tune is a textbook example of intricate musicianship. It doubles alongside that distinction as a lovably freewheeling interplay of fluttering guitar, ebullient bass and feverish drumming. The band is touring the west coast this summer, a venture arriving upon the release of their newly released eponymous EP. standards by standards

An Horse – “Get Out Somehow”

June 5, 2018

“Get Out Homehow” gallops out of the starting gates like a prize-winning stallion, making the name of the Australian duo responsible that much more fitting. The song chugs along like a charged-up selection from Sleater-Kinney’s eminent back catalog, as it presents a burst of distortion and fast paced rhythm. As An Horse carry on with a tour of North America in support of the first music they’ve released since 2011. The past handful of years had been marred by disconcerting family matters and exhaustion from traveling. Nonetheless, they’re back, and they haven’t missed a beat.

Alfred Hall – “Since I Saw You”

June 5, 2018

“Since I Saw You” is, with certainty, a danceable treasure from Norwegian pop twosome Alfred Hall. The track gets going right from the start, employing a funky rhythm that hits a perfect middle ground between leisurely and energetic. The chorus, accentuating a reunion with someone the narrator hadn’t crossed paths with in some time, brings about a sense of life’s unpredictability and unsuredness. The wondrous lines of guitar work coexisting with this sentiment are undeniably beautiful and welcomed with open ears. As the song fades out, a longing for more beyond three and a half minutes is sure to be felt.

The Tins – “Sundried Mind”

June 5, 2018

“Sundried Mind,” a recently released track from Binghamton-hailing, Buffalo-centered rockers The Tins, commences with some guitar sliding and noodling that sets a majestic tone. This short intro carries over to a catchy and light yet full-sounding melody. Like the rest of the band’s latest album-length effort, a self-titled release, the track was produced by Robby Takac, the long-time bassist for The Goo Goo Dolls. His hand in the inflection of the tune and his overall association with The Tins lends an apparent influence of that veteran Buffalo group’s anthemic, endearing songwriting qualities. “Sundried Mind” retains a hard-hitting burst throughout that’ll undoubtedly entice any listener to take the day ahead by storm.

Hit Bargain – “Hell Is Real”

April 26, 2018

Los Angeles punk rockers Hit Bargain’s “Hell Is Real” comes at you with breakneck speed and its power in full bloom. The guitar line running through the track is remarkably catchy, while every other role being played here is fulfilled to unflinching, magnificent effect. Listen to the track below:

okaywill – “pretend”

April 26, 2018

okaywill’s new track “pretend” is certifiably a choice cut. The tune balances its heaviness instrumentally, brought on by popping drums and penetrating bass, with a gentle, angelic vocal presence. Listen to “pretend” below:

Iain Belcher – “Becomes Us”

April 26, 2018

Iain Belcher creates a wave of relaxation with the down-to-earth alternative rock glory of “Becomes Us.” Shades of Real Estate and Modest Mouse abounding, the song is perfect for a warm-weather hangout. The lyrics fit the mood, acting as abstract visions and phrases that could be interpreted freely, like the sway of the song’s melody. The last 30 seconds change the tone a bit, offering up an eerie but interesting conclusion that takes the listener back into reality after three minutes of utter bliss. Check out “Becomes Us,” from the album Clear Future, below: Clear Future by Iain Belcher

The Hats – “Nobody Does It Like We Do”

April 26, 2018

“Nobody Does It Like We Do,” a new track from The Hats, carries the torch of great training montage soundtracks, with a dramatic and retro-sounding opening of keyboard and guitar that would get anyone pumped up. The song transitions into a section of computerized wonder, with automated vocals bringing in a more modern spin about a minute into the runtime. “Nobody Does It Like We Do” doesn’t contain much variation or progression throughout in regards to its melody, but no matter—the feel is beyond exhilarating and doesn’t ever even remotely close to the territory of boredom. Listen to this riveting jam below:

Julien Earle – “The Ones”

April 26, 2018

Julien Earle, an up-and-coming house producer from Washington, D.C., has recently let the public in on a new tune entitled “The Ones.” The song sustains an effervescent vibe despite lyrics of heartbreak and hatred. Chopped-up and pitch-altered vocal samples run in abundance here and give the track extra character, as do the crisp beat drops featured throughout. Check out “The Ones” below:

Tonight: Beams

April 26, 2018

Tonight Canadian rockers Beams will pack a punch for their show at Mohawk Place. Fresh off the release of their second full-length album Teach Me to Love, the Toronto group has polished up an energy-laden sound best described as psychedelic rock mixed with indie folk and perhaps a small glimpse into the world of bluegrass—the implementation of a banjo works it ever so slightly toward that direction. Beams will be accompanied by the smooth-as-silk but heavy-hitting brand of Buffalo’s dreambeaches and the masterful cello stylings of Katie Weissman. Doors at 7pm with $7 admission. Teach Me to Love by Beams

Tonight: The Mountain Goats

April 20, 2018

Tonight Californian indie veterans The Mountain Goats will be performing in Asbury Hall at Babeville, located on 341 Delaware Ave. The Mountain Goats will certainly come fully equipped with their emotionally resonating, catchy-as-all-get-out melodies and brilliant, folksy lyrics. Chicago-based experimental band Dead Rider will perform the opening set. The doors open at 7 pm.  General admission tickets are $25 at Ticketfly.com and purchasable through Babeville’s box office or the door. All ages are welcome. Marsh Witch Visions by The Mountain Goats

Mr. Husband – “DREAMDRIVER”

April 17, 2018

“DREAMDRIVER” by Mr. Husband, the project led by Maryland songwriter Kenny Tompkins, is a crisp, melodic and affecting tune marked with subtle bits of wistfulness. The track was recorded during a 5-hour live-in-studio session on the day of Tom Petty’s passing, and just like the late, great Petty himself, Mr. Husband is able to craft a riveting 3-minute tune rife with pop sensibilities and genuine emotion. “DREAMDRIVER” is the first single released from Mr. Husband’s impending album SILVERTONE. Listen below: SILVERTONE by Mr. Husband

Native Language – “Lights Across the Water”

April 17, 2018

“Lights Across the Water” adopts a sound similar to the kind that propped up the catalog of Australian indie forebearers The Go-Betweens decades ago: an elegant, sophisticated melody carries through with clear-cut precision and power. Native Language, the Chicago-based trio behind this here gem, are on the rise and in control of their sound, knowing full well how to craft a resonating anthem with high replay value. Check out “Lights Across the Water” below: Lights Across The Water by Native Language

Frøkedal – “I Don’t Care”

April 16, 2018

“I Don’t Care,” a new song from Norwegian folk-rock singer-songwriter Anne Lise Frøkedal, is surely as splendid and catchy a little ditty as you’ll come across today, as it expounds a pervading sense of innocence and excitement. It shows shades of She & Him in its playful tone but rocks just a little bit harder. Despite its upbeat jangle, a burst of attitude, set to the theme of moving beyond troubles of the past, can’t help but push through. Frøkedal’s upcoming sophomore album, entitled How We Made It, is slated for an August 31 release.