Friday Night Flow – The Fey, Serious Klein, Ben Laver, Jesse Jo Stark, Sabeel Azam

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The Fey – “The Cool”

This indie-rock tune from The Fey is a heartfelt ode to love and devotion. The dreamy vocals, coupled with the upbeat tempo, create a feeling of bliss and contentment. “Undo the chains and clear your mind, never to waste your precious time,” sings the lead vocalist, inviting the listener to let go of their worries and embrace the moment. The lyrics tell a story of two people deeply in love, willing to do anything for each other. “You lit a fuse to my heart, she’s broken right through the cool,” they sing, capturing the feeling of being swept away by love. Overall, “The Cool” is a catchy and uplifting track that celebrates the beauty of love and human connection, a perfect Friday night reminder.

Serious Klein – “Should Have Known”

Serious Klein’s song “Should’ve Known” speaks to the regrets of not being able to see the signs in life. The track’s intro emphasizes how life can be a teacher, but it can also be a challenge. The song’s first verse touches on the lessons that the artist could have learned from the waves in the ocean and the motions of people around him, but he failed to recognize them. He wishes he had taken the shot of the potion that would have allowed him to see the bigger picture. The song’s hook, featuring Roméo Testa, talks about waiting for a miracle, which is never worth the time, and wanting something spiritual to help unwind. The bridge speaks of the struggle to be free, fight the negative forces and spread peace. The song’s overall message is about appreciating life and living it to the fullest, regardless of the situation, because we only have one life to live. So get off my blog and go live, just save this track to your phone first.

Ben Laver feat. Vian Izak – “Save My Heart”

“Save My Heart” is a beautifully crafted piano ballad that delivers a poignant message. The delicate piano chords set the tone for Izak’s soulful and emotive vocals, which are layered. The lyrics are heartfelt and relatable, touching on themes of vulnerability, trust, and the fear of losing someone you love. Izak’s voice soars during the chorus, creating an ethereal atmosphere that pulls the listener in and tugs at the heartstrings. Overall, “Save My Heart” is a powerful and captivating song that showcases Izak’s songwriting and vocal abilities. It’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates heartfelt and authentic music.

Jesse Jo Stark – “Dandelion”

“Dandelion” by Jesse Jo Stark is a mesmerizing blend of folk and rock, showcasing the artist’s incredible vocal range and dynamic songwriting abilities. The raw and stripped-down instrumentation creates an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in, while the hauntingly beautiful melody lingers long after the song has ended. Stark’s lyrics are introspective and deeply personal, exploring themes of self-discovery and the fleeting nature of love. The sparse instrumentation provides the perfect backdrop for Stark’s soulful voice, which conveys a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion. Overall, “Dandelion” is a powerful and haunting track that showcases Jesse Jo Stark’s immense talent and potential as an artist.

Sabeel Azam – Midday Madness

Sabeel Azam’s “Midday Madness” is a hauntingly beautiful shoegaze track that showcases the artist’s undeniable talent. The song was released posthumously by his brother and serves as a testament to Azam’s incredible musical ability. With its dreamy guitar riffs and ethereal vocals, “Midday Madness” creates an otherworldly atmosphere that draws the listener in and leaves them feeling completely entranced. The track is a true masterpiece of shoegaze, perfectly capturing the genre’s signature sound while also showcasing Azam’s unique artistic vision. Overall, “Midday Madness” is a stunning tribute to an incredibly talented musician, and a must-listen for any fans of shoegaze or dream pop.

Weekend Wrap Up – Prateek Kuhad, SitiveSen, Space Baby, Richie Branco, and Nathan-Paul

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Prateek Kuhad – “with you/for you”

Prateek Kuhad’s release “with you/for you” is a mesmerizing blend of indie-pop and acoustic ballads that showcase his musical prowess and introspective songwriting. The song is a perfect companion for quiet contemplation, with Kuhad’s soothing vocals and poetic lyrics weaving stories of love, longing, and self-discovery. Kuhad’s ability to evoke nostalgia and capture the essence of human relationships is on full display here, making “with you/for you” a must-listen for fans of thoughtful, intimate music. Overall, Prateek Kuhad has delivered a stunning work that solidifies his place as one of India’s most talented singer-songwriters. His musical inspirations are summed up in his press kit: “After high school, I moved to New York to attend NYU, and that’s when I discovered Elliott Smith” explains Kuhad. “His music changed everything for me. It was all I listened to my entire freshman year. After that, I started listening to Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie along with newer artists like Laura Marling and Fleet Foxes. It inspired me to get serious about the guitar and begin writing my own songs.”

SitiveSen – “We Belong In Love”

Sitivesen’s “We Belong In Love” is a charming and upbeat indie-pop anthem that celebrates the joy and beauty of being in love. The song features a catchy and infectious melody that’s sure to get stuck in your head, along with Sitivesen’s smooth and soulful vocals that convey a sense of sincerity and warmth. The production is top-notch, with the bright and lively instrumentation perfectly complementing the song’s optimistic and romantic lyrics. “We Belong In Love” is a feel-good tune that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re driving down the highway with the windows down or dancing with your significant other in the living room. Overall, Sitivesen has crafted a delightful and uplifting track that’s sure to put a smile on your face and make you believe in the power of love.

Space Baby – “Insufficient Funds”

“Insufficient Funds” by Space Baby is a politically charged hip-hop track with a dope old-school G-Funk beat. The track features a groovy bassline and keyboard riffs, which add a classic G-Funk vibe to the production. The lyrics touch on themes of financial struggles and the economic system, highlighting the frustration of living in a society where money is a necessity even for basic needs. The combination of the politically charged lyrics and the classic G-Funk beat creates a unique and engaging listening experience while delivering a strong social message. Overall, “Insufficient Funds” is a standout hip hop track that showcases Space Baby’s talent as a rapper and songwriter, while shedding light on the need for systemic change to address the financial struggles faced by many in our society.

Richie Branco – “Fight Me”

Branco mentioned some of his influences were Fleet Foxes and The Beatles, and while that mashup doesn’t seem apparent immediately, I can’t help but hear it on subsequent listens. The song’s production features flowy guitar riffs, melodic vocal harmonies, and a driving beat that adds to the energy and urgency of the track. The lyrics, touch on themes of personal growth and self-reflection, specifically in the context of a romantic relationship. The honesty and rawness of the lyrics are reflected in Branco’s delivery, which has a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth that matches the subject matter. Overall, “Fight Me” is an emotive indie-rock track that showcases Richie Branco’s ability to combine personal storytelling with dynamic and engaging production.

Nathan-Paul – “Thinkin Bout Ya”

Let’s slow things down a bit to end things up here. “Thinkin Bout Ya” by Nathan-Paul is a smooth jazz track that showcases the artist’s skills on the saxophone. The song’s production features a relaxing and smooth melody, with a laid-back beat that creates a chilled-out vibe. Nathan-Paul’s saxophone playing is impressive, delivering smooth and soulful melodies that flow seamlessly throughout the track. The song’s overall sound creates a relaxing and effervescent atmosphere that is perfect for winding down and unwinding after a long day. Overall, “Thinkin Bout Ya” is a well-crafted jazz track that showcases Nathan-Paul’s talent as a saxophonist, and is sure to delight fans of the genre.

Weekend Wrap Up – Flaurel

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Flaurel – “The Thinker”

“The Thinker” is a dreamy and introspective song by Flaurel that showcases the singer’s soulful vocals and poetic songwriting. The track features a minimalist production, with sparse instrumentation and atmospheric soundscapes that create a meditative and contemplative mood.

Lyrically, “The Thinker” explores themes of self-reflection, uncertainty, and finding one’s place in the world. The song’s lyrics touch on the struggles of making difficult decisions and grappling with the consequences of those choices.

Musically, the track is driven by Flaurel’s emotive vocals, which are backed by a gentle acoustic guitar and ethereal synth pads. The song’s production creates a sense of spaciousness and tranquility that complements the introspective lyrics.

Overall, “The Thinker” is a well-crafted and emotive song that will appeal to fans of introspective indie music. Flaurel’s soulful vocals and poetic songwriting make for a captivating listening experience that invites the listener to reflect on their own inner thoughts and feelings.

Little Quirks – “I Told You So”

“I Told You So” is an upbeat and catchy indie-pop track by Little Quirks that showcases the band’s distinctive harmonies and playful instrumentation. The song features a lively production, with jangly guitars, energetic drumming, and infectious handclaps that create a feel-good vibe.

Lyrically, “I Told You So” is a playful and cheeky breakup song that explores the aftermath of a failed relationship. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of regret, frustration, and the satisfaction of being proved right.

Musically, the track is driven by the band’s tight harmonies, which are backed by a bright and energetic instrumental arrangement. The song’s production creates a sense of fun and lightheartedness that complements the playful lyrics.

Overall, “I Told You So” is a well-crafted and infectious indie-pop song that will appeal to fans of upbeat and catchy music. Little Quirks’ tight harmonies and playful instrumentation make for a fun and engaging listening experience that is sure to get listeners dancing and singing along.

Austin Basham – “Elephants”

“Elephants” by Austin Basham is a haunting and emotive folk song that showcases the singer’s soulful vocals and evocative songwriting. The track features a minimalist production, with delicate acoustic guitar picking and atmospheric strings that create a sense of intimacy and introspection.

Lyrically, “Elephants” is a poignant and introspective song that explores themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. The song’s lyrics touch on the idea of holding onto memories and experiences, even as they slip away over time.

Musically, the track is driven by Austin Basham’s heartfelt vocals, which are backed by a sparse and ethereal instrumental arrangement. The song’s production creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that complements the introspective lyrics.

Overall, “Elephants” is a beautifully crafted folk song that will appeal to fans of emotive and soulful music. Austin Basham’s soulful vocals and evocative songwriting make for a captivating listening experience that invites the listener to reflect on their own memories and experiences.

Video of the Day – “Brothers Never Lie” by Anthony Lazaro

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Anthony Lazaro’s “Brothers Never Lie” is a heartfelt and moving tribute to the power of friendship and loyalty. The song, released in 2018, showcases Lazaro’s undeniable talent as both a songwriter and performer.

The track opens with a simple yet effective acoustic guitar riff that sets the stage for Lazaro’s soulful vocals. His delivery is emotive and passionate, conveying a deep sense of connection and camaraderie. The lyrics, while exploring universal themes of brotherhood, offer a fresh and poignant take on the topic. The chorus, with its powerful refrain of “brothers never lie,” captures the essence of trust and loyalty that lies at the heart of the song.

The production of “Brothers Never Lie” is lush and textured, offering a perfect complement to Lazaro’s vocals. The instrumentation builds gradually throughout the track, creating a powerful and emotional listening experience. The use of strings and subtle percussion adds a sense of grandeur and drama, making the track feel epic and cinematic.

What makes “Brothers Never Lie” truly special, however, is its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. The song’s message of trust, loyalty, and the enduring power of friendship is something that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s a reminder that, no matter how difficult life may get, having someone by your side who you can count on is truly invaluable.

In conclusion, “Brothers Never Lie” by Anthony Lazaro is a powerful and moving tribute to the importance of friendship and loyalty. Its emotive vocals, lush production, and poignant lyrics make for an unforgettable listening experience. The song’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal level is a testament to its universal appeal, and its message of brotherhood and trust is something that will continue to resonate for years to come.

Mid-Week Mixdown – Jen Awad, Timmy Tortuga, Schaefer Llana, Zach Kleisinger, and Owlbiter

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If you’re anything like me, you rarely are just listening to one artist or even genre. That’s why a couple of times per week I put together a mix of some of my favorite songs at the moment regardless of genre for you to sample and enjoy.

Jen Awad – “Break A Man”

A full band playing in matching outfits in a seedy alleyway along with a cop interaction cutaway that features Jen telling the officer to “watch your fucking head?” I guess that’s a music video Yahtzee for Jen Awad and her 2018 single “Break A Man.” Those band mates aren’t just there for looks either, this full brass section and back up singers really create an impressively full sound, and of course, Jen herself carries this song with strong full-throated vocals that make you feel like she’s laid out the perfect blue print for “how to break a man,” though some of us without that level of swag could struggle a bit more.

Despite its August 2018 release date, “Break A Man” has far too many views, likes, and comments, and I’m hoping my readers can do something about that. This song is simply too fun for you folks to miss, and if you like this one, you have to check out the rest of Awad’s discography because she’s just getting started.

Press release: This half Egyptian, half Peruvian powerhouse delivers the kneecap melting soul and sass of Sharon Jones combined with an in-your-face swagger reminiscent of Tina Turner. Self taught on vocals, piano, guitar and bass, Jen also pens the lyrics to all of her material. 

Timmy Tortuga – “Pace”

Sometimes music is meant to be purely melodic, an easy listen to play in the background. “Pace” by Timmy Tortuga is not that. Instead, it’s a song meant to be experienced as an experience. From the very beginning, we find ourselves in the mind of a speaker stuck in traffic, suffering from a bit of road rage. The dissonant and speed-shifting synth in the background staccatos perfectly in line with that feeling of being late, and amping up emotionally as more and more tiny straws begin to stack upon the camel’s back.

The track itself feels almost as much skit as music, and yet once the ethereal vocoder kicks in after the frantic anxiety of the first half of the song, it’s impossible not to empathize with the speaker when he says “That’s the first deep breath I’ve taken in 5 years.” Something about the moody atmosphere created gives the listener just as much peace as Tortuga’s character at that moment, and allows us to ride it out with him through the end of the song, at least until the anxiety returns. Don’t miss your train.

Press release: Timmy Tortuga is an evolving artist from a small town called Sayreville in New Jersey. The motto is “K.I.S.S.” Keep It Simple Stupid! Currently, he is creating out of the Lower East Side of NYC and producing and recording his projects on a lake front studio in North Jersey!

Schaefer Llana – “Angel”

Anyone that knows me knows that I am way too into sad girl music for a 32-year-old man. Luckily, there are no rules, so I’m shamelessly listening to “Angel” by Schaefer Llana on repeat every single time I go for a winter walk lately. Schaefer grew up in Mississippi and cut her teeth musically in school plays and church productions, but the twenty-something has carved a niche all her own at this point. While her voice and punk-ish aesthetic certainly shine in this song, my favorite part is undoubtedly the angsty lyricism.

Don’t act like you’re innocent, don’t be offended when I call you out
As a liar and you know it
You wanted to be alone, well how’s that go when everybody knows
You went back to her the next minute

I don’t understand but I don’t want to
And I am not surprised because I know you
I am not okay but I will be
I forgive you but I won’t forget how you hurt me

Schaefer Llana – “Angel”

I think the simplicity of “I don’t understand, but I don’t want to,” just hits on that depressive malaise better than almost any line I’ve heard in a long time.

Press Release: The first demo for 49 Ceiling Tiles was recorded for her friend Starlin Browning’s college production class. The results were so good they decided to make a whole record together, holing up with fellow musicians at Dial Back Sound in Water Valley, Mississippi, exemplifying the house show ethos of “playing music with your friends, for your friends.” 

Zach Kleisinger – “Darling, Just Breathe”

Zach Kleisinger’s Symposium was one of the most overlooked albums of 2018 in my opinion. With a unique voice that is perfectly scratchy, a sound that’s perfectly folky, and lyrics that stand up to repeat listens, “Darling, Just Breathe” is just one of many great tracks from the release. Kleisinger perhaps sums it up best when he calls the album, “a gathering of entities aiming to share their thoughts on a particular subject—me. And yet, it is me who is revisited through these entities, for as much as I may recognize ‘them,’ at all times I know ‘they are me.’ If this sounds needlessly self-absorbed, it’s because it is.”

I would disagree with Kleisinger’s assessment that the songs are too self-absorbed, all the best art is somehow a reflection of the artist, and there’s no shame in recognizing your own shapes in what you’ve created.

Show it all,
Show it all to me.

‘cause i was alone when i met you,
And you saw that sadness in my eye,
Now i see it in yours;
But darling, just breathe,
Darling, just breathe.

Zach Kleisinger – “Darling Just Breathe”
Zach Kleisinger’s Their Symposium is available on vinyl.

Owlbiter – “Roof of the World”

Let’s keep the easy listening vibe going with Owlbiter’s “Roof Of The World,” which combines folk-style vocals with beautiful musical arrangements built around piano and horns. The track comes off of Owlbiter’s 2018 EP Stud Farm which features 5 beautiful songs just like this one. Perhaps my favorite part of “Roof of the World” comes in the final minute when the music takes over the entire mood of the song, and the horns and vocalizations build up to a peak before fading out in the final seconds. This captures the imagery of the subject of the song being “on the roof of the world” as the instruments almost coax out the stars and dreams themselves in that moment.

After the 2018 album, Owlbiter’s Matt Cascella hasn’t updated his SoundCloud or Spotify any further, but we hope he’s still making music, and we’d love to hear any new projects one day should they arise.

Mid Day Music Blast : Aubrey Haddard – “Charley”

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We’re here with a mid-day bluesy ballad that would fit in right along with Kate Bush’s discography, but with her own personal flair that keeps me coming back to this song for the last 4 years. As Haddard says in the refrain, “I can’t get you out of my head.” The Brooklyn-based Haddard put together an impressive debut with her 2018 album Blue Part. While Haddard released two singles prior to the album, it quickly became clear that “Charley” was the true show-stopper.

With a voice that sounds straight out of a smokey late-night lounge, Haddard pines after “Charley” with her voice pleading with them to come back around and appease the desire that’s got them stuck in the singer’s head. To me, this perfectly captures that new relationship energy that we can so often get sucked up in when we’re excited about a new connection and obsess a bit over getting our fill.

That’s not even to mention the emotional build musically in this one. The guitar work keeps it simple enough that it never overpowers Haddard’s voice, but the riff itself is catchy and keeps you humming it long after the 2:33 song has drifted away. Another nice touch is the background almost angelic vocalizing that builds up to the song’s crescendo before Haddard fades us out with excellent control.

Charley, oh could we go back, just 24 hours

24 hours is all I need

I could see you, I could meet you

One more time, one more time

What’s going on? I was sitting around and now

I can’t get you out of my head…

Aubrey Haddard – “Charley”
Haddard’s newest album Awake and Talking (2022) is available everywhere.

Video of the Day: Passenger – Heart to Love

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Sometimes the submissions I receive are from artists that are just starting out and have very little name recognition, and trust me I love those submissions, then sometimes Passenger’s publicist sends a music video. This song, and accompanying video immediately grabbed my attention because it scratches that itch of pop/indie that hits me just right on a morning walk or time spent journaling with a cup of coffee. Put plainly, it’s an earworm with a melancholic tinge that mixes well on this early January winter morning in Denver.

My first thought as the verses begin was “this is certainly a Passenger song,” and I mean that in the best way possible. Michael David Rosenberg aka Passenger has the well-produced and upbeat sad song dialed in to the point that many artists could only dream of. The message of the song is relatable for many who have navigated the dating waters in the modern world, constantly restarting the “search for a heart to love,” that Rosenberg talks about so eloquently. The video itself is simple but captures the feeling of being lost in a crowd, both literally and with the song’s content as the speaker continually wades through the crowd in search of his one and only.

I’ve been hopelessly clutching up for something I can hold
I’ve been lying in the dark with no light in my soul
I’ve been rummaging around in the rain and the cold
I’ve been searching for diamonds in a pile of coal
I’ve been searching for diamonds in a pile of coal


-Passenger “Heart to Love”
Full album Runaway available on vinyl

Caleb’s Weekly Favorites: No Kind Of Rider – “Sophia”, Coyle Girelli – “Never Thought I’d See You Again”, Sam Ryder – “Little One”

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Hey guys,

If you’re like me, you don’t really just focus on one genre of music when there is so much awesome variety out there. This post is meant to hit on 3 of my favorite songs that I just can’t get out of my head this week, regardless of genre. If you like, or already know one of these artists, stick around and check out the others, expand your horizons a bit.

No Kind of Rider – “Sophia”

All of us lazy logicals

We leave our hearts behind

They tell you when you’re young

Don’t be so blind

“Sophia” – No Kind Of Rider

:30 seconds in, when the beat drops, is when I start to transcend to outer space on this song. This song immediately hooked me with it’s unique vocals that give me a bit of a mix between some 80s synth song but also touches of Panic! At The Disco playfulness. The most relateable part of this song is the seeming angst over aging, and wondering what the consequences will be. How many nights of fun and freedom can we really have before we are the old person at the club? It’s something that begins to hit you as you enter your 3rd decade (or it did for me), and while I still love to go out with friends, there is a sense that we can’t necessarily go on like that forever, but there’s certainly some fun in trying. “Now the old is done/traded for the young.”

Bio: No Kind of Rider is an American five-piece indie rock/electronic band based in Portland, OR. Their debut album “Savage Coast” (2018) blends indie rock, shoegaze, r&b and electronica influences. The close-knit group met while teenagers in Tulsa, OK and write songs in conflict – both chaotic and intricately calculated. “Savage Coast” finds those boys now older and wiser – four of the five band members lost their fathers during the album’s completion and while the gravity of loss is fully explored as a theme, “Savage Coast” isn’t content to remain in despair. In the album’s ending track, “Autumn”, seeds of new hope take root as Samuel Alexander (lead vocals/guitar) sings with resolve, “We all have to die, to be reborn”.

Coyle Girelli – “Never Thought I’d See You Again”

But I never thought id see you again

Looking as pretty as you did back then

And it caught me off guard

Like a dagger through the heart

Cos I never thought id see you again

“Never Thought I’d See You Again” – Coyle Girelli

Coyle Girelli is an artist we’ve been wanting to feature for a long, long time, and it’s easy to see why. Mixing classic style that sounds like it belongs on a vinyl playing in your dad’s sitting room in the 60s, with modern aesthetics, Girelli gives that nostalgic feeling that’s hard to fully put into words. It gives me chill bumps everytime he let’s out “I never thought I’d see you again.” The song is so relateable for anyone who has ever tried to move on and focus on themsevles, only to get sucked back in by someone’s charm, even if they aren’t the best thing for you. If nothing else, this song is a “dagger through the heart.”

Bio: Coyle Girelli is an English multi-platinum selling composer, singer, songwriter, record producer and multi-instrumentalist. Formerly frontman of Your Vegas and The Chevin he released his debut solo album, Love Kills, in 2018. He has written songs for BTS, Macklemore, Robin Schulz, Westlife and many others, including the BTS worldwide number 1 single “heartbeat”[1] and co-composed songs for the record breaking French musicals Robin des Bois and Les Trois Mousquetaires

Sam Ryder – “Little One”

Wait, don’t feel bad
You did well to love and be loved back
So don’t be so cold dear
You weren’t the only one left down here
You knew it all along
Full speed around the sun

“Little One” – Sam Ryder

Another incredible song that builds in a truly epic way. The crescendo when he belts “I know you yearn for someone” with the quick drop to “I yearn for you” is so heart wrenching I couldn’t help but restart the song immediately after it ended to feel that build and rug pull one more time. Sam Ryder has crafted the feeling of really caring about someone, and having no hard feelings, but still feeling a sense of loss that your love seems to be unrequited. Here’s to hoping we all have good luck in 2022 in being around people who yearn for us as much as we yearn for them.

Bio: Sam Ryder is a singer/songwriter and producer out of of small town outside of London. Sam spent over 10 years touring in the rock world which brought him placements on Billboard charts, songs featured on TV shows and films, and playing shows in over 20 different countries. A couple years ago, Sam took a step back from the band world to develop his own solo project and pursue other creative ventures. Those ventures ended up having him co-found the brand Lone Wolves Creative and the plant-based Lone Wolves Cafe.

Until next week,

Caleb

Weeknight Wind Down: John Steam Jr. – Let It Go

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if you’re diggin’ holes to fit your casket

you might fall in and break your neck

there is a way out of your darkness

i’m fucking sure i’d place a bet

Let it go

whatever once did bite your neck

just shake it off don’t turn your head – no more

Cut the rope

release the anchor from your boat


Good evening B-Side Beauties! It’s been a while. Let’s get this thing going again shall we? Today I have a song that I’ve been jamming to for a couple of years now from the esteemed John Steam Jr. Don’t confuse it with that other “Let It Go” jam (not that I’m hating on that one, it was a banger), but John’s version does have a similar message for the R-rated crowd. Let that shit go. I posted my favorite lines at the beginning of this post. In the forever bleakness that many of us have experienced since March 2020, this stanza reminds us that we’re still getting older and we still have life left to live. If we continually focus on the casket, don’t be surprised if we fall into it, but if we can shake off our troubles, and try to find a positive outlook for the future, maybe there’s a way out of this mess, “I’m fuckin sure, I’d place a bet.”

Let John Steam Jr.’s punky vocals and driving acoustic songs sing you to a peaceful evening; I know I will. Until next time,

Caleb

The Flock: Caleb’s Weekly Favorites Oct. 16th: Pkwy, Charles Edison, Farewell Company

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*This first paragraph is a copy of a previously written synopsis of the point behind the new section, The Flock.*

We have two goals here with our blog and our podcast; we want to help you find a bunch of new artists that you love, and we also want to support those artists. We came up with a new idea for a post where we post several artists in one big post. That way, it helps everyone. If you come here because you love one artist, you’ve got five more that you’re probably going to love now. That helps you load up your playlist with tracks that will impress your friends, and it also helps the artists hit untapped markets and possibly network with likeminded artists they didn’t know existed. Without further ado, I present “The Flock.”

Pkwy – “Punisher”

“Slackers are acting tough
Born in Los Angeles
Light up a Camel Crush just for fun
Poems on bathroom stalls
High as shit playing Smash Bros Brawl
Throwing a bowling ball down the road”

This song is super chill. It reminds me a ton of college. I took up the bad habit of smoking, and my go to (other than cloves) were Camel Crush. I picked those because you could crush them for people who wanted menthols. It was completely about the social aspect. This song is just so simply beautiful. It captures the fun, insecurity, and rebelliousness of youth in a way that takes itself the perfect amount of seriously. The band says that the song actually reflects the story of the band somewhat. They all met in their teens, and have fond memories, including throwing a literal bright orange bowling ball down the road with the word “PUNISHER” written on it. If you can’t relate to this song, we probably wouldn’t have been friends in high school.

Also, the EP that Punisher is included on is now out! Released this last Tuesday: pkwy.bandcamp.com/album/giant-2. You guys should definitely go give these guys some money, so they can buy Camel Crush cigs. Those bitches get expensive.

 

Charles Edison – “My Mother”

“I can’t make a track and say I’m paying for your house
But Hopefully you hear this still and it’ll make you proud
I ain’t made it yet but I bet you think I could
I hope you worry less now that I’m safe and living good
You said you felt like you must’ve gone wrong
But you showed me how to raise a child – you knew it all along,”

I always get emotional with “momma” songs. I guess that’s not really a genre, but I think you know what I mean. This song is so deeply heartfelt. There’s a moment in the first verse where he says, “as far as I’m concerned, you ain’t never been a step mum”, and you can tell that’s true because up until that point, it seemed like he was talking about a connection as deep as any I’ve ever heard. It’s obvious the woman has made a huge impact on him, and he feels guilty for the ways he hasn’t lived up to her example or expectations. Now that he’s becoming a parent himself, it seems obvious that this is causing him to reflect about his own hopes and dreams for a child, how they can go awry, and how their are still plenty of positives instilled in him, even if he made mistakes. It’s really a beautiful sentiment. That’s not even to mention the excellent sample and background vocals. This song is just incredible.

Bio: Charles is a producer & rapper from South London, pairing intricately layered, immersive beats with a raw & honest vocal style that has seen him be compared to other British Urban music acts such as Akala, Beardyman, Mike Skinner, and Loyle Carner. Charles often draws on his experiences with mental health and addiction to result in refreshingly honest and relatable hip-hop.

Friede Merz – “ALBION”

“Albion, Albion
You made me wanna carpe the fuck out of this diem”

Well you can’t beat that opening. This video is really interesting. I especially like the Elvis costume, but the whole thing works nicely on a budget. It’s a good way to lean into a scatter plot ode to a place, by representing various aspects, both seriously, and mostly ironically. There’s definitely a lot to like from Friede, who does everything on this song, from instrumentals, to singing, to production. The artist describes the vibe as: “Whatever you do feels good to me.” That’s the spirit.”

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Farewell Company – “Gulf Breeze Motel”

“I ain’t living right, I’m barely keeping the pace
And I’m so far from you now
I know I’m gonna be late
Well take your time no one’s waiting on you to change
No one’s waiting on anything

Hey what’s the hurry
Time’s keeping you locked down so tight babe
I know you work, just make it something worth your life
What’s the use in finding the truth if you’re gonna go and waste the news
I’ll be singing ‘bout a brand new day til I turn blue”

This song has been on several of my playlists for a couple of months now. It’s beautifully twangy and existential. What I really like about the existential aspect is that it doesn’t quite waver into despair. It is constantly mentioning a “brand new day” in a hopeful way that promises a better tomorrow, despite whatever negative may be going on in front of you right now. It kind of seems to put a sense of worth on personal responsibility. “No one’s waiting on you to change.” It’s up to us to care about what we do with our time here, not anyone else. It’s really a beautiful message, packaged in a catchy blues song.

Bio: Formed in early 2017 by a few close friends and siblings living in Nashville, TN, Farewell Company is a soulful, southern rock ’n’ roll band.

In just three days, the six piece recorded their first LP ‘Waiting On Anything’ to analog tape at a gem of a studio in East Nashville called The Bomb Shelter.

 

-Caleb