Latest Posts

Tonight: Bayside

November 29, 2018

Legendary punk act Bayside is making a special acoustic appearance tonight at The Tralf. After the success of their first acoustic EP (released over 10 years ago now!), Bayside has returned with a fresh new batch of acoustic takes on both fan-favorite songs and a few deep cuts. Rather than a simple acoustic take, fans should expect a complete re-imagining of these songs. Joining them tonight are special guests, GOLDS. Tonight’s show is $25 at the door. Doors open at 8pm, music starts at 9pm. This particular show is 21+, but 16+ can get in with a parent.

West Ferry – Bit

November 26, 2018

Sure, the four-song Bit may have come out in July… But what really matters is that West Ferry is back, and they’re ready to hit the ground running now. This emoish/pop-punkish quartet is touting a fresh new lineup and a batch of songs that were recorded by Paul Besch at Quiet Country Audio. There’s certainly a drunk, sad-boy rock approach here (their terms, not ours), but there’s also a surfy, 00’s garage-rock tinge to their songs. It’s an interesting juxtaposition – one that’s certainly worth 15 minutes of your time. “Weed Rage” encapsulates the prototypical twenty-something rage, in this case, induced by a weed coma. Despite the marijuana haze, it’s a surprisingly upbeat guitar-driven number about almost getting in a fight, but bailing at just the right time. Title-track “Bit” is also an EP highlight; again, West Ferry utilizes bright, major chords, complimentary lead guitar riffs, and some bass solo theatrics to get[...]

Tonight: Druse

November 13, 2018

Sugar City is being savagely taken over by Rochester tonight, featuring a double-whammy headliner via post-hardcore act DRUSE and mathy-emo kingpins Taking Meds. They will be joined by the equally excellent California Cousins and the swimmy, shoegaze-tinged Carpool; both bands have been making waves lately in the emo scene (see our album of the week nods here and here). Tonight’s show is at Sugar City – get there by 7pm to catch all of the bands. We couldn’t find a price, but we’ve provided a link to the Facebook event here. A friendly reminder that Sugar City is an all-ages, drug and alcohol free space. My Moon is Always Full Promo by Taking Meds

Rosemary Fairweather – “MTV”

November 3, 2018

Rosemary Fairweather is a dreamy alt-pop artist whose “MTV” has been making waves in all the right ways lately. An irresistible bassline provides a funky back beat as Rosemary’s lilting voice lulls you into a dreamy daze. About the song, Rosemary says, “‘MTV’ was written very late at night, after I had been watching hours of footage from programs past like Post Modern. I was particularly excited to find one of my idols – Andy Partridge of XTC – hosting an episode, and felt there was a pop song sitting in that feeling.” Keep up with Rosemary’s goings-on via her IG.

Felines – “Too Tight”

November 3, 2018

Copenhagen-based trio Felines combine dreamy pop elements with driven, garage-rock tones on their latest offering, “Too Tight.” A driving bassline forms the backbone of this song, peppered with mysterious vocals, and what can only be described as bursts of chaotic noise. The lo-fi aesthetic is what really drives this one home – have a listen for yourself below. Felines’ latest album, Saying it Twice Makes it Real, is out now via Crunchy Frog and Burger Records. Saying It Twice Makes It Real by Felines

Tonight: Honey COMA

November 3, 2018

Honey COMA is hosting an evening of what promises to be very emotional music tonight. The trio specializes in dark, brooding indie rock with painfully introspective lyrics – case in point, debut EP 7 Songs. Joining them tonight are alt-punk, queer-core trio Tina Panic Noise and a performance from San Antōn (aka Tony Flaminio of Lemuria, Failures’ Union, and Mallwalkers fame). Tonight’s show is at Mohawk Place – doors are at 8pm. Bring $5. 7 Songs by honey COMA

Elemantra Releases Trippy Music Video for “Such Tiny Fish”

November 2, 2018

Salamanca quartet Elemantra channel the spirit of post-rock bands like Sense Field and Appleseed Cast and mix it with an alternative 90s sound that evokes Smashing Pumpkins and Sunny Day Real Estate. Their latest release is the full-length To Know Better, which features the single, “Such Tiny Fish.” In the seven-plus minute song, the group spans the gamut from riff-rock to subtle ambiance, accompanied by a soothing (and vaguely trippy) music video featuring a serene aquarium. Elemantra aims to please, and there is certainly something here for everyone – check out the music video below. Elemantra’s debut album, To Know Better, is available now on Bandcamp.

Luc – “Don’t Hide Away”

October 30, 2018

Synth duo Luc took a more upbeat approach to their third single of the year. Eschewing their typical dark, cinematic aesthetic, “Don’t Hide Away” is a danceable groover, combining a throbbing bass line with undulating synth lines and a buttery smooth vocal delivery. Definitely worth a listen – check it out via the widget below. Luc’s got you covered – check out all the ways to consume “Don’t Hide Away” here.

Elovay – “Extra Unmotivated”

October 30, 2018

Elovay is bursting with sunny, California energy. “Extra Unmotivated” is a perfect surf-pop jam from this surf-punk quartet, who teamed up with Grammy nominated producer Billy Mohler (Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, Awolnation, Macy Gray, Liz Phair) in his Venice Beach studio to cut their latest EP. This one truly embodies the West Coast – be sure to check it out below. “Extra Unmotivated” is everywhere – check out your listening options here.

Bessie Turner – “Nino”

October 30, 2018

“Nino” is easy-going indie rock at its best, and we have Bessie Turner to thank. Fans of Snail Mail, Soccer Mommy, or Angel Olsen will certainly dig this one – the lightly-driven guitar and springy bass compliment Turner’s vocals perfectly. About the song, Turner states, “Life can overwhelm and consume everybody and having someone there to give you a push or a boost is sometimes all it takes.” Well-said Bessie; be sure to jam out on “Nino” below. Bessie’s music is available in lots of places – check them all out here.

MUNYA – “Some More”

October 28, 2018

“Other-worldly” is a good descriptor for the songs that fly out of MUNYA. “I don’t really understand how I make music,” she says, “I feel like it’s coming from another world.” “Some More” certainly falls into that category, combining borderline spooky synth work with MUNYA’s ethereal presence. The song itself is a slacker’s lament about the often claustrophobic (yet meaningless) expectations of society. Check it out for yourself below. MUNYA is also on Spotify – add her to your next playlist.

Fanclub – “Reflection”

October 28, 2018

Fanclub is Austin, TX’s newest trio… Well, maybe not literally, but they are fresh and fun, as evidenced by “Reflection.” Inspired by twee pop, synth pop, and dream pop (are you sensing a pattern here?), Fanclub combines “beauty and pain into a lo-fi, melodic aesthetic.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Be sure to catch them at SXSW after they release their debut EP later this year. Don’t be shy – add them on Spotify.

The Bigness – “The Rest of the Sky”

October 28, 2018

We couldn’t help but relate strongly to the premise behind Philly power-pop quartet The Bigness‘ latest offering, the hooky “The Rest of the Sky.” The song is about having a passion that the rest of your life seems to be beating out of you. The excellent music video creates an intimate portrait of each band member, proving that you can always find a way to squeeze said passion into your life. Well done Bigness – be sure to watch their passion project below.

Noah Chenfeld – “Lucy”

October 28, 2018

Noah Chenfeld‘s latest indietronica jam is the cheeky “Lucy.” Taking inspiration from modern day hitmakers like Foster The People or Arcade Fire, “Lucy” pairs a whispy synth lead with funky bass lines and dancy electronic beats. After listening, we’re left with an earworm; wondering if the titular Lucy did, in fact, do it. Decide for yourself by listening below. Keep up with Noah’s going-ons on the IG.

Tonight: The Ataris

October 28, 2018

Whether it’s the earnest emo-punk of “In This Diary” or the monumental hit cover of “Boys of Summer,” So Long Astoria was truly one of the most influential albums of 2003. The Ataris have made their way to Buffalo today to relive the early aughts in celebration of the 15th anniversary of their landmark album. Tonight’s show is $20. Doors open at 6pm at Mohawk Place – bring your ID or no entry. A friendly reminder that this is an 18+ show.