Latest Posts

Father John Misty – “Holy Hell”

November 23, 2016

Funny story: went for my long overdue physical the other day (it’s been a few years, and the one I had scheduled in March got postponed after my heart attack… d’oh!) and the nurse had a few recently added extra questions at the end. “These last 2 weeks… have you felt depressed or unable to feel joy or enjoyment? Anxious and unable to sleep? We’re asking everybody.” I had to bust out laughing and respond “well… those are some loaded questions…”* Clearly the last two weeks have been a little rough, and unlike anything I can remember (fact: I’m in my early 40’s and I ain’t ever seen fecal matter like this before), probably because two weeks ago the course of this country was set for DANGEROUS WATERS, and folks are trying to cope with the new now however they can. Some folks are probably still on the couch staring into[...]

Governor – “Headphones”

November 23, 2016

Boston act Governor just released their debut single, “Headphones,” and we think it’s worth your time. “Headphones” is just one of the songs on their most recent release, A Commonwealth Songbook, which came out earlier this month. The band uses straight forward indie rock with tinges of wonk to sculpt a style similar to Death Cab for Cutie or Modest Mouse. Check out Governor on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289627070″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Scott Quinn – “Delicate”

November 23, 2016

Scott Quinn‘s “Delicate” is a jam that we think you should have on your radar. Combining swelling synth pads, blippy drums, and an overall swimmy atmosphere, Quinn crafts r&b laced electronica.  About the song, Quinn says, “Delicate is about the realization that we are all mortal and only have a short time on this earth. So rather than working yourself into the ground doing a job you don’t enjoy, prioritize the important things; family, friends and exploring your passions.” Scott Quinn’s stuff can be purchased via iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/287135163″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Dave Monks – All Signs Point to Yes

November 23, 2016

Dave Monks, better known as the long-haired frontman of Canada’s own Tokyo Police Club, split from the others to record six really solid acoustic songs under the title All Signs Point to Yes. Each track is as touching as the next: Whether the tunes are about the unpredictable future or heartbreak blues, this collection has what it takes to make you feel connected. Driving, laying around, or easy listening suits All Signs Point to Yes best. The EP kicks off with “Vegas,” probably the most happy of all the songs. This one is about being with the partner of your dreams despite outside uncertainty. The lyrics speak highly of deep love and how far it can carry you. The guitar strums are mostly offbeat upstrokes and Monks sings in his unassuming baritone. A key lead in the middle of the song helps it sail. Clapping ensues shortly after, forcing some[...]

Stevie Talks – “LYM (Leave Your Man)”

November 22, 2016

We recommend the latest from Costa Mesa solo act Stevie Talks – “LYM (Leave Your Man)” is an unapologetic indie pop song about “a girl with a boyfriend.” Stevie’s song is catchy and innocent with an adult contemporary. This one would appeal to  fans of The Front Bottoms, Owl City, or The Honorary Title would like Stevie. Stream the song via Soundcloud below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289761368″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Saint Best – “Pacific Girls”

November 22, 2016

We dig Saint Best‘s new song, “Pacific Girls.” The song has a campy and summery 80s-pop vibe which reminds us of the long lost summer. About the track, the band says, “‘Pacific Girls’ is about the positive and negative sides of a turbulent relationship; about being attracted to something that you very well know isn’t necessarily good for you.” Very relatable. Fans of Madonna or Duran Duran would surely love Saint Best. Check out their video for “Pacific Girls” below.

Stephen Douglas Wolfe – “The Animals”

November 22, 2016

Syracuse singer/songwriter Stephen Douglas Wolfe caught our attention with the hushed indie pop of “The Animals.” Stephen pairs rolling percussion beats with intricate guitar work and his distinctly smooth baritone delivery. Wolfe crafts perfect music for the burgeoning winter scene. “The Animals” would appeal to fans of Local Natives, Bon Iver, or  Minus the Bear. Check Stephen Douglas Wolfe out on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/287034342″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

The Dig – “Bleeding Heart (You Are The One)”

November 22, 2016

We last checked in with “The Dig” when we suggested their quirky synth pop jam, “Simple Love.” We are revisiting them this week because we like their latest release, “Bleeding Heart (You Are The One).” The Dig combine modern synthpop vibes with fifties-style lyrics and melodies, falling somewhere between the golden oldies and MGMT. You can purchase “Bleeding Heart (You Are The One)” on a variety of platforms. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/293197236″ 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 Rust Belt Brigade Releases Debut EP

November 22, 2016

The Rust Belt Brigade is a new, acoustic folk-punk act from rust belt capital of the world, Buffalo, NY. The duo is Victor Castillo (ex-Lancer) and Trevor Jennings – utilizing only an acoustic guitar and a cajon, the duo create succinct, sing-songy anthems that fall somewhere on the spectrum between Against Me!, Frank Turner, and  Hot Water Music… or perhaps an infectiously fun song you would expect to hear at the end of a Jackass movie. Recorded at Flower House Studios, Castillo and Jennings’ focus on straightforward storytelling and brutal honesty. Their songs touch on themes of alcoholism, unbridled anger, anxiety, and more. Castillo’s gravely voice is distinct as ever and acts as a raucous rally cry for the downtrodden. Their three-song EP is available on Bandcamp for a “name your price” option. In the meantime, check out our fav track from the EP, “Fight the Fright.”

KOPPS Share New Single “I LOL @ U”

November 18, 2016

Right now during these surreal and uncertain times, when we needed something like this the most, KOPPS has delivered a sonic judo chop to the senses with their bonkers new single “I LOL @ U.”  A riot of 80’s electronica, 90’s sass, ulterior motives, and super sweet ear candy, this psychedelic head rush from our good friends from Rochester doesn’t play around. That goes for the accompanying lyric video, which is beautifully executed and viciously trippy (if not unduly mean to ice cream), proving again that KOPPS is the whole package. You can catch KOPPS December 3 at Anthology in Rochester when they join Joywave, The Demos, Harmonica Lewinski, Mikaela Davis, Secret Pizza, Pleistocene and pretty much the rest of Rochester’s indie scene to play a benefit for Tim Avery, a booker and essential scene impressario battling cancer. Tickets are $20. Show goes 2pm to midnight.  

Saro – “Test”

November 17, 2016

LA artist Saro hit us up with his bumping new single, “Test,” and we feel compelled to share it with you all. “Test” is a menacing track, featuring masterful synth work, sweeping vocal melodies, and strong pop hooks. Try not to get amped while listening to the arpeggiated bassline that propels the chorus. Recommended for fans of Bruno Mars, Ellie Goulding, or CHVRCHES. Give Saro some love on Instagram. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289762806″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Fellow Hollow – “Aisles”

November 17, 2016

Fellow Hollow is the intimate folk act featuring Luke Elliot Fleeman and Andrew Gavin Williams. “Aisles” made its way into our ear canals this week and we think it’s worth a listen. Fleeman and Williams combine gentle, layered vocals over simple and beautiful acoustic guitar tracks. For fans of Bon Iver or Elliott Smith. Y’all should check out Fellow Hollow on Bandcamp. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289160911″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Jim James – Eternally Even

November 17, 2016

The mystical lead-singer and principal songwriter of My Morning Jacket, Jim James, has released a new solo album. Titled Eternally Even, it follows his 2013 solo debut Regions of Light and Sound of God and comes just a year after MMJ’s latest The Waterfall. The new record is a groovy and polished trip through multi-dimensional soundscapes. Here, James lets his soul influences shine through more than he has for most of his career. He expands upon the sound MMJ fleshed out on their last record, as well as some elements that, as producer, he helped Ray LaMontagne discover on his most recent effort, Ouroboros. It’s a focused and refined output; one that cohesively and infectiously joins R&B with psychedelia, and funk with prog. Its essentially Marvin Gaye meets Pink Floyd. James has a mesmerizing voice, no matter the lyrical content or musical mood. He sings lower, almost whispering at times,[...]

honey COMA – 7 Songs

November 14, 2016

With such an active, buzzing music scene, collaboration between Buffalo’s local artists is practically unavoidable. Once you take into account the sheer amount of comradery, diversity, and artistry within our fine city, you’re left with nothing but unbridled potential. With that said, it should come as no surprise that Buffalo’s latest local supergroup—honey COMA—has hit the ground full-sprint with their debut effort 7 Songs. Recorded and mixed by Elliott Douglas at Old Bear Studios and mastered by Paul Besch at Quiet Country Audo, honey COMA’s 7 Songs is our Album of the Week. Safe to say I didn’t expect for a second that the sum of equal parts Norelle Christiani (Mallwalkers), Bryan Johnson (Bryan Johnson & Family), and Tom Burtless (Humble Braggers) would end up being a dreary blend of postrock, tense emo-alternative, and slowcore. I mean, take Mallwalkers—an unapologetically raucous dance punk group, toss in BryJo’s fun beach pop[...]

Henry Green – “Closer”

November 13, 2016

Henry Green caught our ears (just barely, this stuff is) with the minimalistic indie pop of “Closer.” Green’s brand of singer/songwriter pop is extremely gentle and understated a la Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, or Radiohead’s quietest numbers. We especially dig the borderline Latin percussion. Check out “Closer” on iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/289604137″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]