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VVOES – “Days Are Numbered”

May 11, 2016

You might be surprised to hear that VVOES are a Texan quartet who eschew their country-loving peers for something a bit more sophisticated. In fact, VVOES is more of a reverb-laden punk act that could be contemporaries with the likes of Ariel Pink, GIRLS, or DIIV. “Days Are Numbered” has been blasting from our speakers – it sounds fresh, contemporary, and vaguely synthy despite these dudes being guitar driven indie rockers. VVOES is working on a four-song EP that will be out shortly. Until then, you can enjoy “Days Are Numbered” for a very reasonable “pay what you want” rate here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/262166723″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Night Palms – “Clinch Mountain Part II”

May 11, 2016

Night Palms is a Lancaster trio whose music sounds like a new age take on 1970s rock n roll. Despite their UK roots, “Clinch Mountain Part II” sounds dusky and mysterious, like something you’d hear in a saloon or driving down a dusty old highway in the middle of the night. Fans of Night Palms might also like Echo & The Bunnymen, Crosby, Stills, & Nash, or Timber Timbre. You can pick up “Clinch Mountain Part II” on Night Palms’ Bandcamp page. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/261678384″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Cold Blue Kid – “Way Out”

May 11, 2016

Cold Blue Kid is a Chicago quartet specializing in experimental indie rock tunes. Their latest offering, “Way Out,” starts out like a peppy surf-punk number but quickly turns into something understated and warm. Eventually the song turns crunchy in a muddled, 90s-influenced fashion (and who can argue with the 1990s?). Cold Blue Kid’s latest EP can be found on Soundcloud here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/playlists/217896709″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

Richie Quake – “Clarice”

May 11, 2016

I first discovered Brooklyn crooner Richie Quake via Syracuse-based live-sessions series, VHS Sessions. I regularly keep up with the series as they feature some of the very best up-and-coming acts traveling through central NY. In the video, Richie Quake was the last on the set of a collective of emcees called 99 Sublime. Although the others were immensely talented, Richie’s song “Worth” was incredible and I immediately downloaded everything I could get my hands on. Fast forward to a couple weeks ago, RIchie has a new single off of a forthcoming album out, “Clarice” The new single is inspired from 90’s thriller Silence of the Lambs. RIchie Quake’s soulful new school R&B paired with some pure mood inducing smooth sax make this song a go-to for your next “I have to impress this girl” mix. Check out “Clarice” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/258685749″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Idle Pilot – “Questionable Status”

May 10, 2016

Idle Pilot (formerly Currents) had a name-change debacle last year which has luckily since been resolved. The name change didn’t stop them at all; they’ve kept their heads held high and got right back in the studio to record their second LP, You Are Presently Looking Upwards. “Questionable Status” is the group’s first glimpse at their particular brand of angular, 90s-inspired indie punk. Idle Pilot would appeal to fans of Drive Like Jehu, Fugazi, Rites of Spring. Idle Pilot’s next release will be out next month on Ocelot Records. You can preorder You Are Presently Looking Upwards here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/257494903″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Cool Sounds – “Shake”

May 10, 2016

Jazz-gaze act Cool Sounds creates smooth, strangely nostalgic music. Hailing for Melbourne, the quartet’s new single, “Shake,” has us yearning for more. Cool Sounds switches seamlessly from breezy guitar-pop to somber, jazz-infused indie rock, driven by the band’s use of a breathy saxophone. Fans of Here We Go Magic, 1970’s jazz-pop, or The National would dig this. Cool Sounds’ debut LP is due out later this year, but in the meantime check out “Shake” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/260936828″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Sixties Future Release New Single

May 10, 2016

I’m not sure exactly what Sixties Future‘s name eludes to, but I believe “the future of 60s music” is a safe bet. With a lead singer Chris Couche sounding like The Boss himself, this group fronts a powerful, unabashed, Americana rock and roll that makes you want to hop on the loud, happy bandwagon. Mellow organ, big guitars, warm bass, and wispy slide guitar meld together forming the various body parts of “Bulletproof.” Opposite to the name, a common theme within the tune is the fear of dying alone. For a song that begins with distant calls from guitars and vocal chords, “Bulletproof” confidently strides forward until the end, leaving the listener “stoking the fire,” ready and wanting more. Have a listen to the single below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/262563933″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Sam Beam & Jesca Hoop – Love Letter for Fire

May 10, 2016

Singer-songwriter heavyweight Sam Beam (know mostly as Iron & Wine) has released another collaborative work, titled Love Letter for Fire. After 2015’s joint effort with Band of Horses’ Ben Bridwell, Beam has teamed up with singer-songwriter Jesca Hoop, who is known for her experimentation with different genres. The result is a record of imaginative and heartfelt acoustic indie-folk that is both lively and melancholy. Their unique perspectives as composers compliment each other well. Musically, Beam’s jazzier tendencies are on display alongside Hoop’s experimental indie side. They find common ground with their inherent passion for both classic and modern folk music, offering floating arrangements with fingerpicked acoustic guitars and soft strings. Both singers posses a tender and soothing voice that gently cradles their poetic lyricism. Every composition is raw and rustic, featuring sparse percussion, complimentary violin and ornamental piano as add-ons to the predominant base of guitar and vocals. Tracks like[...]

Stranded Mermaid – “Lynx”

May 9, 2016

Stranded Mermaid are a Swedish band inspired by odd instruments, dreamy soundscapes, and percussive beats. “Lynx” immediately caught our ears for sounding primal, almost like a tribal chant. That shouldn’t be surprising, as SM’s latest release is titled Pagan Rituals I: Animal Worship. Their songs explore the instinctual relationship between human and animal characteristics. You can pick up Pagan Rituals I: Animal Worship from on iTunes. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/259810563″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

HALA – “Club Soda”

May 9, 2016

HALA‘s slacker rock game is strong. Incredibly strong. “Club Soda” is the first single from HALA’s upcoming release, written while isolated inside during a brutal Detroit winter. “Club Soda” is a love song, with lyrics such as, “You’re not my club soda, you’re my fancy wine.” Sure it’s a bit tongue and cheek (and yes, there are a few puns), but we think HALA’s intentions are pure. We also really like his song. HALA’s new album, Spoonfed, will be out on May 13th via Balaclava Records. Till then, enjoy the smooth VHS vid for “Club Soda” below or check out his discography here.  

Gold Spectacles – “Even”

May 9, 2016

Once the weather is nice all I want to do is listen to is pop, and London-based producers Gold Spectacles have just what I need. The duo’s latest single “Even” is a slice of dream-pop heaven, with gentle funk-y bass, heavy sample work, and baroque undertones. Don’t let the song’s lighthearted vibe deceive you, “Even” is all about obsession into delusion. Fans of Hess is More,  Black Light Dinner Party, or laid Passion Pit would be into Gold Spectacles. The pair’s debut EP Flaws and Vision is out at the end of the month via Specky Records, but in the mean time check out “Even” below. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/258415361″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

THØSS – “The Meter”

May 8, 2016

UK’s THØSS just released “The Meter,” a bouncy explosion of soaring harmonies and sunny guitars. THØSS is just coming down from the high achieved with of his initial hit, “IWITW,” which amassed over 350,000 total plays. We think “The Meter” is destined for similar success. THØSS very well might be the architect of your song of the summer with they way he plays with start/stop rhythms, colorful melodies, and catchy falsetto delivery. RIYL Darwin Deez, Jukebox the Ghost, or Scissor Sisters. “The Meter” is the second song from THØSS’ upcoming release, Benchwarmer, due out later this year. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/259976126″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Graveyard Club – “Nightcrawler”

May 8, 2016

Graveyard Club is a Minneapolis quartet who seem to be taken by all things occult. Beyond the haunting keyboards layered throughout their dark brand of synthpop lies an interest in sci-fi, 50s crooners, and 80s-style pop. “Nightcrawler” is the perfect amalgamation of these interests, having literally been recorded in a 19th century haunted mansion. One listen to “Nightcrawler” and you’ll begin to notice the gothic and romantic imagery worm its way into your ears. You can pick up “Nightcrawler” from Graveyard Club’s Bandcamp page here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/255748461″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Ohms – “Changed My Face”

May 7, 2016

Blending together fast tempos, gritty feminist punk, and a tinge of sparkly glam, Melbourne’s Ohms are a visceral female-fronted punk experience. The quartet’s “Changed My Face” caught our attention earlier this week, taking note from other bands with fellow “I-don’t-effing-care” front-women like Courtney Love, Veruca Salt, or L7. “Changed My Face” is about using plastic surgery as a crutch to avoid dealing with deeper issues (here’s looking at you, MJ). Ohms’ newest untitled offering can be found here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/257897813″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Leitbur – “I Need You”

May 7, 2016

LA’s Leitbur (pronounced light-brrr) is on a roll, producing perfect nu-80s synthpop. They recently released a stellar LP, Antique Travelers. Track three, “I Need You,” is a feel-good summer jam if there ever was one, combining retro beats, catchy synth lines, and a huge chorus. What’s more, the song is celebrating the duo’s upcoming marriage. Judging by “I Need You,” we think they’re starting off on the right foot. We think you’d like Leitbur if you’re a fan of Chvrches, M83, or any music released in the year 1984. You can pick up Antique Travelers here. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/258477489″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]