Latest Posts

The Jesus and Mary Chain – Damage and Joy

April 18, 2017

To look at the kinds of new and exciting music, both locally and nationally, that’s been emerging, one would have taken notice of the resurgence that post-punk of the late 70s and 80s has played. At the center of this has been The Jesus and Mary Chain. Fronted by brothers, Jim and William Reid, they released their first record, Psychocandy in 1985, but the band had been on hiatus since 1998/99, after their record Munki was released. However, The band have recently come back together and released a brand new record, titled, Damage and Joy, on March 24th. There’s always a certain trepidation when a band gets back together and releases a new album. The questions arise as to why; short on money, can they still play, what drives their creativity? One really interesting aspect of Damage and Joy is how it doesn’t sound dated, or more precisely, the way[...]

Shrinking Minds – “Something Better”

April 14, 2017

Liverpool’s Shrinking Minds perfect whiny garage rock in their latest single “Something Better.” What sounds like defiant teenage rebellion is actually a unique mix of encouragement and nostalgia. The UK trio have made a name for themselves as a band to watch, with a reputation for energetic live performances and numerous mentions on BBC Radio 1. It’s cheeky and assertive, but doesn’t take itself too seriously. Take in the bottled vitality that is “Something Better” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/306352296″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Dama Scout – “Paper Boy”

April 14, 2017

Delivering hazy indie rock with guitar-driven edge, UK trio Dama Scout lose touch with reality in their track “Paper Boy.” Through a series of visceral imagery, the band wanders the line between sugary dream pop and edgy psychedelica, namely by way of grungy guitar lines, fuzzy distortion, and airy vocals. This song is auditory quicksand, continually immersing the listener until its final echoing strains have you sunk. This track is the follow up to Dama Scout’s two recent single releases “Forget It’s Good” and “All In Too,” and is set to be a part of RIP Records’ compilation RIP Introduces, on track to reach completion in 2018. Until then, catch “Paper Boy” along with other fan favorites via the label’s monthly releases on soundcloud and beyond. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/315004662″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Ellex Bree – “Signs”

April 14, 2017

Singer-songwriter Ellex Bree exudes an underlying intensity in her latest folk-inspired track “Signs.” Through an array of soul-infused harmonies, idyllic lyricism, and holistic acoustic guitar, Bree weaves together a rustic web of striking imagery and heartfelt confession. Drawing inspiration from experiences roaming through the California wilderness, she holds on to a stripped, natural approach to production while exploring topics of transition, discovery, and love. Taking to heart artists like Feist, Ben Gibbard, and Sia, there’s an invigorating quality to Ellex Bree’s music that has something for everyone. Find more of her ethereal meanderings on her newly released debut EP Holdfast. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/314989391″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Dead Language – “The Man Who Killed My Father”

April 14, 2017

Australian indie-pop sensation Dominic Price, AKA Dead Language brings the party to a funeral (literally) in his latest video for the track “The Man Who Killed My Father.” The video features an energetic karaoke-style sing along set at the protagonist’s father’s funeral, slowly shifting from teary eyes to shaking hips. The song itself explores some dark subject matter, but manages to keep it light and animated with classic pop and disco-inspired themes, which is all the more reinforced through the solemnly playful video. “The Man Who Killed My Father” precedes Dead Language’s upcoming album release for Like Heart, set to drop on April 26th.

Tinnedfruit – “Sad Boys”

April 14, 2017

Garage rock trio Tinnedfruit hits hard with the video for their single “Sad Boys.” The track comes off as a flat out sprint to the finish line, fueled with angst-ridden energy and punk influence. In the brief span of under 2 minutes, Tinnedfuit wallow in their woes through a stark bravado of youthful aggression. It fleshes out all worries and acts as a timely and intense stress reliever. If you like what you’re hearing, head over to the band’s bandcamp to take in their recent album release Sorry Guys in its entirety.

D-Pulse – “Anna”

April 14, 2017

Russian electropop dreamers D-Pulse channel fluid ambience in their track “Anna.” The song captures all that is soothing while encapsulating funk, gradually adding distinct motifs and building melodically until the song’s eventual distortion-laden finale. “Anna” is the second single from the band’s upcoming album and really takes advantage of the dynamic and evolutionary abilities of electronic production. It’s gentle and mystical, but manages to continually add a new element of intrigue, be it a rhythmic bass line, an angelic synth melody, or a striking guitar solo. Take in the video for “Anna” below, and catch D-Pulse’s sophomore album Serpentine out now as of April 7th.

Ojai – “All I Can Ask”

April 14, 2017

Frontman Michael Hulstein’s solo project Ojai has morphed into a full-band endeavor, further reinforced by the release of “All I Can Ask,” the first single from the band’s upcoming LP On The Mend. It’s a valiant take on sleepy indie rock, with lackadaisical vocals, bright chord progressions, and shimmery drum lines. With all the makings of lazy day in the sun, this track comes just in time for the turn of the seasons. More from Ojai can be found on Spotify, and be sure to check out the new album scheduled for release on May 5th. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/311461595″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

ISOMERS – “Entropy”

April 14, 2017

Vancouver’s ISOMERS brings the subtlety of indie/alternative to synth-intensive electropop in his latest single “Entropy.” As composer/producer/musician Ian Somers’ brainchild, ISOMERS’ tracks seem to hold on to a genuine and heartfelt quality that can sometimes get lost in intensely electronic settings. His tracks often feature friendly collaborations and this track is no exception, including backup vocals from Natasha Thursk of Catlow and Kurt Dahle of The New Pornographers, and Michael Hardy on synths. “Entropy” is the fourth single from ISOMERS, and promises to bring a sense of smooth destruction, as the track is so aptly named for. Take it for a spin below.

American Low Return with “settle_down”

April 13, 2017

Buffalo garage pop group American Low have been rather quiet for a while, but frontman Mike Brady has reemerged with a more stripped down approach with their new single “settle_down.” The track is pop infused Americana, combining a folky compositional vibe with a polished and radio friendly production. Its a fun little tune, complete with uptempo strummed acoustic guitars, shaker and tambourine accents, a catchy melody and just the right amount of speaker candy. Check out the song below and keep up to date with American Low over on Facebook. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/315782702″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Lucky Dice – “Memoirs”

April 12, 2017

Boston’s Lucky Dice plays politician perfectly in the video for his single “Memoirs.” Dice mirrors the passion, desire, grind and conviction of an upstart politician with that of the dedicated rapper that he is. “Memoirs” is just that, the diary of a rapper that concedes he hasn’t made it quite yet, but is honest and optimistic. The instrumental, courtesy of Bertz, is filled with that soul and hopefulness captured in Dice’s lyrics. “Memoirs” is the perfect single to represent Dice’s new project, Memoirs of a Starving Artist (M.O.S.A.). Give it a listen below.

The Band Ice Cream – “Sand Dunes”

April 12, 2017

“Dirty, fuzzy, slightly stupid rock n’ roll” – their words, not ours. Real talk, we’re actually fans of San Fran quartet The Band Ice Cream, specifically their new jam, “Sand Dunes.” It’s spastic and screamy with a mid-song break in intensity… Most importantly, it’s a fun listen. Definitely recommended for fans of Attic Abasement, Cursive, or Cloud Nothings. Pick up a copy of their latest, Classically Trained, here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/273112846″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Mojave Nomads – “Strange Love”

April 12, 2017

Mojave Nomads are a quintet from Utah whose “Strange Love” mysteriously appeared in our inbox… It quickly found its way into our hearts, touting a unique vocal delivery and effervescent indie pop vibes that are nothing short of irresistible. This song reminds us of the light-hearted pop of Foster the People or Grouplove – check it out. If you’re feeling it, click here to support Mojave Nomads. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/312338408″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Employee of the Year – “Ivy (Frank Ocean Cover)”

April 12, 2017

Who doesn’t love a good cover song? The Frenchmen in Employee of the Year took a whack at Frank Ocean’s “Ivy” and we appreciate their take on it. Ocean’s version is delicate and soulful – EOTY have injected it with some serious EDM flavor, adding swelling synths and a skipping electronica beat for good measure They’re offering a free download via the widget below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/312614279″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Pronto Mama – “Double-Speak”

April 12, 2017

“Double-Speak” has been wafting through the speakers at the buffaBLOG offices lately, and for good reason. Pronto Mama is the band in question – between the frantic and jazzy drumbeats, ambient soundscapes, and simmering delivery, this Glaswegian sextet reminds us of Frightened Rabbit, Anathallo, and Foals. A dose of introspective lyrics is the cherry on top. Learn more about Pronto Mama here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/312308106″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]