Latest Posts

Telempathy Releases Grungy New Single, “Dream Life”

Buffalo solo act Telempathy recently released her second single, a grungy tune she calls “Dream Life.” She recently spent some time at GCR with Jay Zubricky recording her latest effort, an EP titled Temple of Music. We dig Telempathy’s use of fuzzed-out, straightforward guitar riffs combined with catchy female vocals. Fans of Field Mouse, Tancred, or Hop Along should listen to this immediately. Temple of Music is due out on February 28th. Till then, Telempathy is on Instagram too – give her a follow. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304216373″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Steakhouse Orchestra – “Interpolace”

“Interpolace” off of Steakhouse Orchestra’s new album Post-Shag is all funk with just a hint of distortion and spacey-electronica in all the right places. The vocals seep in gradually, creating the illusion of an approaching storm, while instrumentals churn on and build off each other other below. It starts off safe and endearing, intensifying to a feisty finale full of grit. This track is all the more impressive considering the band produced the whole album with no edits, sticking to a sense of musical authenticity we haven’t seen in a while. Check out Post-Shag for the full effect. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/296127338″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Magdalena Bay – “Neon”

Magdalena Bay (or, if you’re feeling froggy, Magbae), have a real smoove jam on their hands… We think you should check out their new single, “Neon.” “Neon” is inspired by roller disco and synth pop ballads from the 1980s, and it shows. Magbae is all about the male/female vocals, a deep groovy beat, and undeniably catchy hooks. Be sure to add “Neon” to your Spotify playlist. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/302223080″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Mutual Friends Release Video for “Instant Gratification”

Buffalo synth-pop quartet Mutual Friends debuted a new music video today for “Instant Gratification.” Directed by Nolan Whipple, the video has a calm, introspective nature that parallels “Instant Gratification’s” longing, low-key vibes. Frontman Kevin Scoma’s impressive acting debut had us feeling nostalgic as we watched him travel longingly throughout some notable Buffalo-based scenery. Check it out via the widget below. If you’re digging “Instant Gratification,” be sure to swing by Bandcamp and download it.

Close Ties Release Bedroom Pop Debut

Close Ties is a pretty unique act within the Buffalo music scene.  Their five song EP, titled “Nothing really shocks me anymore.,” dropped earlier this month and is an impressive debut to the scene. The EP was written and recorded by Matt Walker in his basement with vocalist Natalie Colucci, later to be mixed and mastered by Buffalo uberproducer Jay Zubricky at GCR Audio. “Nothing really shocks me anymore.,”  as a whole is reminiscent of modern pop punk / emo-tinged acts like Tigers Jaw, Adventures, and especially The Front Bottoms, notably on the single, “Church in the Morning.”  This standout track showcases Colucci’s immense talent for lyrics and telling a story. “Church in the Morning” is all about staying in on a Saturday night because of a family commitment the next day that you aren’t super pumped about. The duo utilizes overtly personal lyrics and while driving acoustic guitar builds up into a climax where bouncy[...]

Craig Finn – “Preludes”

Hold Steady fans rejoice! Iconic frontman Craig Finn is back with some new jams, and we’re happy to give you a sneak peek of his first “Preludes.” “Preludes” is a more melodic jam than what you might be used to, but still treats the listener to Finn’s iconic delivery. Give ‘er a listen below. Finn’s next release, We All Want The Same Things, is due out on March 24th.

treasureseason – “The Rush”

Scandinavian pop duo treasureseason has caught our attention with their latest single, “The Rush.” Combining quasi-tropical beats, twinkling guitars, and a haunting earworm chorus melody, “The Rush” is mysterious, dreamy, and danceable all at once. Give it a spin below and let the 80s vibes rush over you. “The Rush” is available via iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/300939901″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Green Slime – The Vesta Rose EP

Buffalo two piece, Green Slime construct an energetic throwback experience on their new EP, The Vesta Rose, a follow up to their self titled full-length LP from September. Blending together grunge, indie, and pop-punk, the duo consisting of brothers, Eric Ellman on guitars/vocals and Blake Ellman on drums, aim to recall a particular moment in rock history while also adding a bit of modernity. Green Slime’s primary vein on this new EP is grunge, and it’s something the band is able to manipulate well. The tone of the guitar has a guttural quality to it that really captures that 90s grunge grit that became a staple of the genre. Especially here, that tone is needed, not only to evoke the genre, but in order to fill up all the sparseness that exists. As a two piece, the band consists only of a guitarist and a drummer. Unlike a group like[...]

Sulene – “What We Had”

South African-New York artist Sulene has created an infectiously relatable hit with “What We Had,” the precursor to her upcoming album. Sulene’s self-deemed “nostalgia pop” brings to life a forlorn reminiscence of the past through snapshot imagery and the catchiest of hooks. Her smooth vocals may be the only indication of melancholy as they hover over upbeat drum lines and snappy synths, landing somewhere between a party anthem and a soulful lament. Sulene has no shortage of music biz experience in working with Nate Ruess, Betty Who, and Candy Hearts, along with her own work, and she seems to pay homage to all past relationships built through this track. This is the kind of song to put on when you’re not sure what to listen to, as you will undoubtedly find something in it that you needed to hear. Keep an eye out for Sulene’s upcoming album Strange, out later[...]

Rosie Carney – “Awake Me”

In a cocoon of soft acoustic ambience, Rosie Carney sets the scene for the personal profession that is her single “Awake Me.” Carney brings some subtle folky twangs to her singer-songwriter style, relaying an honest and down to earth feel, as she sings “I’ve been a fool for more than half of my life / I’ve tried to hide.” Her knack for lyricism belies her years, while she paints a vivid picture with soft-spoken imagery. Rosie Carney has all the makings of the next Joni Mitchell-meets-Julien Baker; be sure to sink into “Awake Me” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304098610″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Jessie Early – “Heart”

Who doesn’t love a good pop gem? Nashville native Jessie Early hit us up with “Heart,” which has all the hallmarks of a great pop song… Think swirling 80s-inspired synth-pop goodness, electronic drums, and Early’s lilting singer-songwriter presence. Let’s just say Jessie Early’s record would fit comfortably on a shelf next to Lorde, Jessie J, or Ellie Goulding. Check out Jessie’s website too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301888554″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Reyna – “Matinee”

A couple of Milwaukee-based sisters make up indie-pop act Reyna – we think you should check out their latest song, “Matinee.” About the song, Reyna says, “After trying to maintain an international, long-distance relationship for over eight months and finding out I had been cheated on… I put those feelings into ‘Matinee’ saying you don’t need me, you don’t want me, but wait till you see me doing better than you.” Catchy, and revenge oriented – well said, ladies. Reyna’s stuff is on Spotify too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303324510″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JW Ridley – “Everything (Deathless)”

JW Ridley is a recently-discovered bedroom pop artist from London. We’re really feeling his latest jam, “Everything (Deathless).” Fans of Radiohead’s frantic feel, Tame Impala’s psychadelic tinge, and moody 80s indie like The Cure will dig this one for sure. If you’re feeling it, “Everything (Deathless)” is available in vinyl. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301722890″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

High Waisted – “Trust”

NYC faux-surfers High Waisted bring the 1960s to mind on their latest offering, “Trust.” The band mixes vintage 60s visuals and vibes with modern pop sentiment, which should appeal strongly to fans of Alvvays, Allah Las, and Best Coast. Did we mention they’ve been called NME Magazine’s “buzz band to watch” and were declared “the ultimate party band” by GQ? Check out the “lost footage” of the band in their video for “Trust” below.

Rees Finley – “The Band Broke Up”

For those of us feeling stuck in a rut, Rees Finley has been there, and has crafted an ode to the downtrodden in his latest track “The Band Broke Up.” Through a chronicle of relatable personal anecdotes, Finley serenades us into catharsis. The song features an endearing whistle track to keep it light, along with various classic pop elements that make this song infectious. This one-man band is proof of the light at the end of the tunnel that is one of life’s many low points, and he lays it all out on the table for everyone to see. This is easy listening at its finest – so plug in and remember, it only gets better from here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303331148″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]