Latest Posts

Sulene – “What We Had”

January 30, 2017

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”

January 30, 2017

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”

January 29, 2017

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”

January 29, 2017

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)”

January 29, 2017

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”

January 29, 2017

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”

January 28, 2017

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” /]

PLAZA – “Origami”

January 28, 2017

UK band PLAZA bring to light the musical result of a suppressed teen angst in their single “Origami.” They start strong with sparse instrumentation and soft vocal lines, then hurdle into distortion-heavy guitars and grungy vocals. They know the formula and they’re sticking to it. It’s gloomy and it’s pleading; it’s harsh and it’s angular, a full spectrum of emotion in one dynamic rock song. “Origami” is all about looking for an escape in the face of rapidly approaching adulthood, made clear from the first guitar strum to the last drum hit. Have a listen to “take [yourself] away from it all” and look out for more PLAZA this April. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/303132738″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Fejká – “Moonlight”

January 28, 2017

We’re enjoying the subtle pulse of “Moonlight,” the debut single from German prodigy Fejká. “Moonlight” features a moody and atmospheric melody but is relatively instrumental. This one gives us a unique vibe – equal parts mystery and danceability. You can purchase “Moonlight” on iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/148983822″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Snowball II – “Anais & Me”

January 28, 2017

L.A.’s Snowball II brings back the glory of the 90’s with their latest single “Anais & Me.” This full-fledged pursuit of indie rock bears marks of the garage and punk of yesteryear, bringing us back to rock in all of its pre-millennium splendor. Band leader/producer Jackson Wargo takes DIY to a whole new level, without giving any indication of an indie production. The track features hypnotic rhythm guitars and a punchy bass line, all tied together with jam-based vocals. A time-honored tale of boy meets girl, boy tries to win over girl through song about having her figured out. Take a trip down memory lane with “Anais & Me” and stick around for Flashes of Quincy out mid-February this year. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/298700333″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

closely – “Years”

January 27, 2017

Toronto trio closely is up to something… “Years” sounds truly unique – a minimalistic song that could be the 2017 reincarnation of Prince’s “Kiss.” “Years” is packed with reverbed-out vocal samples, snappy falsetto, and lush electronic drums. Trust us when we say it’s something you have to hear for yourself. Check them out on the ‘Gram too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/297739495″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

joan – “Take Me On”

January 27, 2017

Indie-pop duo joan may be newbies in the game, but they are off to a strong start with the release of their premiere single “Take Me On.” The melding of eighties instrumentals with 90’s funk gives joan an old-school feel, with a dash of modern electronic influence. Co-produced and mixed by Tim Pagnotta, the track definitely draws parallels to hit-makers like Walk the Moon and Saint Motel. It takes on the classic theme of exciting love and makes it a party; two of music’s favorite things. Jump on the wagon soon, joan is bound to make a name among the big dogs and it’s only a matter of time. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/304166099″ 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 Dahmers – “Night Crawler”

January 27, 2017

The spooky new single “Night Crawler” off The Dahmers upcoming album is a haunting conglomerate of grungy garage punk and indie rock for headbangers and horror-film fanatics. The band livens up lo-fi with tension-heavy themes and spunky guitar lines, along with some strategically placed clap tracks and screams. Despite the dark theme, this track unbeatably energetic and all-around exciting to listen to. Presumably taking the namesake of the famed serial killer-cannibal extraordinaire, The Dahmers are setting themselves up for a lengthy career of lighthearted horror punk. If you just can’t get enough, be sure to check out their album In the Dead of Night out March 24th on Lövely Records. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301806380″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Julie Byrne – Not Even Happiness

January 27, 2017

There’s something about the songcraft of downstate-based singer-songwriter Julie Byrne that appeals to more than just the ears. Her music, at once spectral and tangible, whisks the listener to Byrne’s weightless place of soft melodies and personal experience. And it is this very suspension in which Byrne spends most of her latest album, Not Even Happiness. A sprawling musical simplicity contrasts the album’s deepest exploration of feeling, in what can be considered one of the most striking collections of songs so far this year. Musically, Byrne channels artists like Cat Power, Leonard Cohen, and Sufjan Stevens, all of whom with music that shares innate, personal elements. Not Even Happiness uses that element liberally, with tracks that explore the places, namely the Pacific Northwest, and feelings of Byrne’s most recent years. The expansive skies and ebbing tides of this record almost purposefully paint it a faint blue, with songs that breathe[...]

Oya Paya – “Just Around The Bend”

January 27, 2017

Mmmm, we’re feeling “Just Around The Bend” from Liverpool trio Oya Paya. Spiraling minimalist guitars provide the backbone for Oya Paya’s true gift – their catchy vocal melodies and pleasant harmonies. Those of you who enjoy Pinback, Death Cab’s early catalog, or Attic Abasement should like this one a lot. Check them out on Instagram too. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/301040036″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]