Chi Runner is a mysterious new artist from… somewhere mysterious. But we can’t help but dig the opening track off of their latest EP, Melodynamic. “Gravity” is a chilled-out but angsty lesson in electronic beats, falsetto flourishes, and emotional lyrical delivery. Get down to this one if you’re into Tame Impala or Shelf Nunny. Chi Runner is also on Spotify – freshen up that playlist with a phat new addition.
Brand new indie/electronica act THRILL YOU KILL YOU is the latest project from former DJ/producer Fei-Fei. “Never Even Really” is an energetic song that was fully written, produced, and engineered by Fei-Fei herself. About the process, she says, “I’m proud that I recorded vocals in my bathroom on a cheap mic. It’s weird, it’s raw, and a little twisted, but it’s all me. We dig it too – so will fans of CHVRCHES or Shiny Toy Guns. Want to know more? Get down to the lyric video here.
Brisbane-based trio Terra Pines combine elements of grunge, shoegaze, punk, and the general spirit of the 90s into their palatable blend of indie rock. Case in point, their latest single “Dream Big…” Stuffed full of fuzzed-out guitars and off-in-the-distance vocals, “Dream Big” tackles that age-old experience of reconciling one’s dreams with the reality that things might not go according to plan. Heavy – figuratively, literally, and musically. Terra Pines has their stuff available via Bandcamp.
Brace yourself! “Wave At Your Grave” is a chunky, speaker-shredding jam from Texan solo act No Cares, aka JP Pfertner. “Grave” brings together the bombastic elements of Jay Reatard, The Presidents of the United States of America, and WAVVES in the form of chunky guitars, exciting rolling drum beats, and a general raucous spirit. We think it’s sure to get your blood pumping. Give No Cares some love on the ‘Gram.
Provoker surprised us with their surprisingly tasteful take on a combination of goth, post-punk, and punk. We recommend you start with their latest offering, the dark-wave punk of “Dark Angel.” the spine of this track is the thundering, overdriven bass that trudges along faithfully, but there is magic all throughout this track… Whether its the slacker-esque vocals, electronic drums, or sparse (but tasteful) guitar, this band sounds like a unique mix of The Cure, She Wants Revenge, and Joy Division. Visit their Bandcamp page for purchasing/listening options.
Don’t be scared! Despite the foreboding name, the sounds that Philly DIY artist Spooky Forest create are actually quite inviting. We’re recommending you start with his latest jam, the smooth electronic-laced indie-pop of “Escape Artist.” With a swirly, chilled-out sound reminiscent of Portugal. The Man and Cold War Kids with a hint of Washed Out, this one’s sure to give you good vibes. Check it out via the widget below. If you like what you hear, be sure to visit Spooky’s Bandcamp.
Guilt Coins is a rock band consisting of four dudes spread between Essex and London. They came together to craft the smart indie-punk of our latest recommendation, “Iza Crime.” The lo-fi, “band-in-action” shots of their music video supplement the frantic guitar work of their music perfectly… Be sure to stick around for the cool, stuttered ending. Fans of Bloc Party, Kasabian, or even Cloud Nothings will enjoy this one. Interested? Check the Coins out on iTunes.
Heavy is good. Discord is life. Tonight promises to be a masterful combination of both, featuring a set from the Atlantan duo 68. There’s something to be said about the sheer noise that can come out of this duo, whose work is propelled by gravelly vocals and sinewy guitar riffs. 68 is gearing up for a new album, Two Parts Viper, out June 2nd. Rounding out the lineup is the newly-minted heavy-hitting act American Nosebleed, as well as sets from Squatch and Out Last. Tonight’s show is $12. Doors are at 7pm. A friendly reminder that Sugar City is a drug and alcohol free space.
Djinn City came at us with a really unique jam called “Year.” Inspired by a traditional Tatar children’s rhyme, “Year” was specifically crafted to resemble a traditional Tatar pop record. We dig it because it’s truly a catchy track, full of funk, pop, and electronica influences, not to mention the romantic lyrical content. Give it a listen below. Djinn City has a Bandcamp page where you can purchase their music – you know what to do.
Mating Ritual has been a staple on buffaBLOG over the last few months, and for good reason. Their upcoming release, Light Myself On Fire, is full of fun, indietronica bangers; case in point, the title-track. The LA duo pairs retro drum-machine stutters with plucky guitar work and whistling synth leads. The resulting sparseness of the arrangement is profound – be sure to have a listen for yourself via the widget below. Light Myself On Fire, comes out May 4, 2018, via Smooth Jaws.
Jangle-popper Andrew Younker is sure to captivate your mind with the ethereal vibes on his latest LP, Well Wishes. We’re highlighting the pensiveness of “Oracle Girl,” which pairs a frantic, electronic drumbeat with ghostly synth textures and Younker’s reverb-drenched vocals. Stick around for the dope synth breakdown mid-song. Well Wishes is available via Bandcamp for a very affordable price. Well Wishes by Andrew Younker
Gothy, 80s vibes permeate this new track from Glasgow quartet The Ninth Wave. “Swallow Me” dives deeply into the darker side of human nature, exploring all the nooks and crannies of a manipulative relationship through reverb-laden drums and sharp, vintage synth work. About the tellingly-named track, The Ninth Wave says: “For the victim, the realization of the situation they are in is hard to swallow…” Like what you hear? Buy it here.
Lonely Benson is all about crafting music to relax to – case in point, his new single “Let It Go.” Boasting beachy vibes, groovy guitar work, and modulated vocals, this feel-good-jam is perfect for the burgeoning warm weather. Benson’s million+ streams on Spotify don’t lie – give “Let It Go” a spin, sit back, and enjoy. Lonely Benson has a Bandcamp – be sure to swing by if you’re interested.
London’s River Fury are here to please your ears with a brand new indie-rock jam. “21st Century Man” has all the hallmarks of a perfect indie rock song – an incredible chorus, noodly guitar work, and a driving rhythm section. Hush-hush vocals and an undeniable pop approach add the cherry-on-top. Give it a listen via the widget below – you won’t regret it. “21st Century Man” is being offered for free via Bandcamp – check it out.
Melbourne’s Bollard are up to something angular… We recommend checking out their newest single “En Bloc.” Pairing a discordant guitar riff with garage rock vibes and Hold Steady-esque sprechgesang vocals, this quartet have crafted something delightfully left-field. Fans of Pile or LVL UP should check these guys out. “En Bloc” is available on Bandcamp. Check it out. Trawlers by Bollard