Latest Posts

Dwayne Applewhite – “23”

August 25, 2016

Dwayne Applewhite is a smooth operator. Coming off of the successful Pharaogamo project, the rapper  is dropping quality, multi-faceted tracks left and right. The talented MC uses his soft voice to do double duty as both a rapper and a singer. Songs like “4AM Meditation” feature more of this melodic singing from the 23-year-old, but on “23” he saves his chops for a memorable chorus and sticks to the floetry for his verses. “23” is both a celebration and a warning. Applewhite is proud of where he’s at at just 23, but the demons he’s overcome for now are just waiting in the mist. He feels trapped by his surroundings, and questions his faith in it all with lines like”Why do these Jesus pieces got me puzzled?” He’s introspective, weary, and chocked full of profound thoughts. Here’s to hoping Applewhite reflects on his future years with the same diligence as “23.”

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[...]

Stress Dolls Release Debut Single

August 23, 2016

Stress Dolls is the new reincarnation of Buffalo band Wolf which sought a name change and new members. Lead singer Chelsea O’Donnell still fronts the group with her Ben Walsh-like yowl. The new band brandishes a fresh sound with dreamy guitar leads, solid drums and bass, and a traditional alternative/pop mix in the band’s debut single “Pills.” Stress Dolls echo groups like Tigers Jaw and Polar Bear Club. Kudos to Stress Dolls for writing a song about pills that focuses on their healing tendencies rather than their fun. The smart lyrics point out that atop medical troubles still sits your everyday crushing defeats and self-degradation that must be overcame. “But with those pills,” sings O’Donnell, “he’s found his way…” Put on your leather jackets, wear your hearts on your sleeves, and prepare for a straightforward powerhouse with a unique vocal twist. Listen to “Pills” below or purchase it here.

Chevron Bloom – EP

August 22, 2016

Buffalo-based indie rock act, Chevron Bloom’s released their debut EP earlier this month. The 4-track EP, aptly titled EP, was recorded in Geneseo, at Temperamental Recordings. In the band’s debut effort, the trio has crafted a tight set of tunes with psychedelic overtones. Each song, though short in nature, still goes through several different shifts throughout its runtime. The EP varies between moments of straight ahead rock and spaced-out meandering. They meld together elements of psychedelic pop, heavy alt. rock and shoegaze, and every transition through styles is seamless. Throughout, the vocals are light and airy, floating overtop of the arrangements, at times like they are barely there. The snare drum is front and center for most of it, sitting comfortably right in the middle of the mix, a consistent and heavy presence through each dynamic shift. In fact, it’s the snare drum that kicks off the record. Opener “Home?” begins[...]

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” /]