B-Side Guys

Welcome to B-Side Guys’ Weekly New Releases, where every week we dive into the latest and greatest in music. Our mission is to unearth those hidden gems that might otherwise slip through the cracks, alongside some of the most anticipated drops from the biggest names in the industry. From the raw energy of underground indie rock to the smooth rhythms of neo-soul, our curated selection aims to bring a diverse range of sounds to your ears. Whether you’re searching for your next favorite song or just looking to expand your musical horizons, you’ve come to the right place. So sit back, plug in, and get ready to explore the freshest tracks that this week has to offer. Let’s see what’s spinning on the turntable this time around!

THE GOA EXPRESS – “It’s Never Been Better”

The Goa Express strides confidently onto the indie rock stage with their debut self-titled album, marked by the standout track “It’s Never Been Better.” This song, a nostalgic nod to summers past, gushes with a vigorous blend of jangling guitars and hearty drums, creating a landscape both familiar and exhilarating. The Goa Express, comprising James Douglas Clarke, Joe Clarke, Joey Stein, Naham Muzaffar, and Sam Launder, craft a sound that’s a cocktail of early Supergrass’ unbridled energy, the Psychedelic Furs’ rhythmical prowess, and the La’s melodic daydreams. Their sound, though reflective of these influences, is uniquely their own – a testament to their cohesive artistry and shared history.

Recorded in Raglan, Wales, under the guidance of Damon Minchella and Tom Manning, “It’s Never Been Better” encapsulates the essence of their entire album – an exploration of youth, friendship, and the longing for escape. The song throbs with a palpable urgency, the kind that grabs you by the collar and demands your attention. It’s a track that revels in its own anthemic nature, hoisting itself on the shoulders of its predecessors while gazing determinedly at the future. The band’s time spent in the rural shadows of Northern England’s industrial heartland is evident here; their music is a vivid patchwork of their upbringing, brimming with tales of late nights and adolescent adventures. “It’s Never Been Better” is not just an introduction to The Goa Express but a promise of their potential, a pledge of more rousing narratives and sonic adventures to come.

bail bonds – “CALIFORNIA KING”

In “CALIFORNIA KING,” bail bonds ventures into a thought-provoking exploration of surviving and navigating the complexities of late capitalism in America, where the thin line between compromise and loss of self becomes a central theme. This track, the first of the triptych titled “Triptych 001: The Bluebird,” resonates with the raw, unfiltered energy akin to artists like Jean Dawson and Eyedress, yet carves out its distinct narrative space. It’s an energetic yet introspective indie rock piece that delves into the sacrifices and moral gymnastics required to thrive in a system that often feels inescapably flawed.

The song is a poignant love letter, not just to a significant other, but to the concept of love as a saving grace in a world marred by materialism and existential dread. The lyrics, “chasing blood money like a bloodhound / cure my depression when you come ’round,” encapsulate the duality of striving for success in a flawed system while clinging to personal relationships as the ultimate salvation. This track is more than a critique of the societal structure; it’s an affirmation that love and human connection can provide meaning and redemption, even in the bleakest of circumstances. Set to drop on Cyber Monday, a day emblematic of consumerism, “CALIFORNIA KING” is a timely reminder of the constant tug-of-war between personal values and societal expectations. It’s a sonic journey that’s both reflective and forward-looking, capturing the essence of a generation striving to find balance in a world where everything, including one’s soul, seems up for sale.

Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes – “AFTER ALL”

“AFTER ALL,” the new release by Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes, distills the essence of indie rock’s exuberance with the reflective depth of alternative rock. This track, a prelude to their forthcoming album “HIGH LIFE,” encapsulates the band’s dynamic energy and Ellsworth’s gift for blending diverse musical styles. It’s a song that reflects their journey, showcasing a maturity and complexity that comes from years of exploring and redefining the musical landscape.

The song’s sound is a vibrant blend of catchy hooks and rich, layered instrumentation, signature to Ellsworth’s style. With a rhythm that’s both infectious and nuanced, it captures the listener’s attention from the first note. The band’s ability to weave complex arrangements with accessible melodies demonstrates their mastery in balancing indie rock’s playful spontaneity with the thoughtful intricacy of alternative rock. “AFTER ALL” is not just a track; it’s an embodiment of Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes’ continuous evolution as artists, a testament to their ability to create music that resonates with both depth and immediacy.

Magenta Moon – “Perceive Yourself”

Magenta Moon’s “Perceive Yourself” is a testament to the power of indie rock and alt-pop to convey deeply personal and universal themes. This track, a gem from the Los Angeles-based duo, intertwines melodic grace with poignant lyrics to deliver a powerful message of self-acceptance and self-love. As a musical exploration of one’s journey towards self-realization, the song stands out for its ability to resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level.

Elaina Whitesell’s lead vocals, backed by Joey Petrarca’s guitar harmonies, create a sonic landscape that is both enchanting and grounding. The pair’s chemistry is palpable, infusing the track with an authenticity that elevates its message. “Perceive Yourself” encourages listeners to embrace their own stories, affirming that every step, regardless of its nature, contributes to the larger narrative of their lives. The meticulous mixing by Andrew Solis and mastering by Nick Townsend, coupled with Patrick Mannella’s rhythmic drums, ensure that the song is not just heard but felt. The upcoming music video by Miguel Vite promises to extend this narrative, offering a visual complement to Magenta Moon’s auditory storytelling.

Chelsea Reed – “Dominic”

In her latest track “Dominic,” Chelsea Reed delves into the complexities of human behavior with a piercing clarity, wrapped in the vibrant energy of indie pop and alt pop. The song emerges from a place of personal frustration, a response to a conversation with a male friend whose external blame game inspired Reed to channel her emotions into music. The result is a song that’s both introspective and universally relatable, showcasing Reed’s ability to turn personal experiences into compelling lyrical narratives.

“Dominic” unfolds with a rhythmic vivacity, driven by Reed’s powerful piano chords and emotive vocals, reminiscent of Sara Bareilles and Ben Folds. The lyrics, “Dominic it’s adding up / Sorry for yourself again,” and “You don’t have love in your heart,” are direct and impactful, revealing the depth of Reed’s songwriting skills. The chorus, “How do you keep it honest? / Everyone’s trying to win,” is not just catchy but also thought-provoking, posing questions about honesty and self-awareness in a world where everyone is seemingly in a race to the top. Reed’s talent lies in her ability to weave complex emotional themes into melodies that are both accessible and deeply resonant. “Dominic” is more than a song; it’s a reflection on the human condition, encouraging listeners to look inward and recognize the love (or lack thereof) in their hearts.

Charlie & Margot – “Giving Up”

In “Giving Up,” Charlie & Margot, the solo project of New Jersey native Matteo DeBenedetti, presents a rich homage to ’90s alt-rock with a modern slacker rock twist. The track, part of a series of self-recorded, mixed, and mastered songs, channels the spirit of influential bands like Weezer and The Smashing Pumpkins, while infusing it with Matteo’s distinct creative voice. The result is a song that not only respects its roots but also pushes the boundaries of the genre into new territories.

The song’s texture is layered with gritty guitars and a driving rhythm section, capturing the essence of alternative rock’s golden era. Matteo’s vocal delivery, raw and earnest, perfectly complements the nostalgic yet fresh sound of the track. “Giving Up” stands out for its ability to balance a sense of introspective lyricism with the unbridled energy of rock, a testament to Matteo’s decade-long experience in the DIY circuit. This track is not just a piece of music; it’s a reflection of Matteo’s journey as a musician and a nod to the transformative power of self-expression through songwriting.

Sadie Ava – “Say You Want Me”

“Say You Want Me,” the latest single from Portland-based artist Sadie Ava, is a poignant exploration of vulnerability and longing, wrapped in the emotive tapestry of alt-pop and adult contemporary. Ava’s multifaceted talent shines through in this track, where she not only wrote and sang but also played every instrument, from the drums to the banjo. Produced by Barrett Jones at Seattle’s Laundry Room Studios, the song carries the weight of an artist’s solitary reflection on unspoken desires and the risks of opening oneself to possible rejection.

The song opens with the haunting line “My heart a bitter chance, laid out on your front steps,” instantly setting a mood of raw, unfiltered emotion. Ava’s voice, rich and resonant, carries the narrative with a depth that echoes artists like Adele and Jessie Ware. The lyrics, “One look across the bar, tell me what you’re thinking,” capture the tension of the unspoken, the silent questions that hang in the air between two people. Ava’s ability to blend traditional instruments with contemporary sounds creates a track that is both timeless and fresh. The chorus, “Do you want me? Say you want me,” is a powerful plea for clarity in a world of uncertainties, a moment of vulnerability that resonates with anyone who has ever questioned where they stand in someone else’s heart.