B-Side Guys

Welcome to New Music Weekend on bsideguys.com, where we dive into the freshest sounds and emerging talents shaping the music scene. Each weekend, we bring you a carefully curated selection of new tracks that stand out for their originality, artistic expression, and ability to push boundaries. From the gritty energy of indie rock to the soulful depths of singer-songwriters, our compilation is a celebration of diversity and innovation in music. Whether you’re a fan of pulsating rhythms, haunting melodies, or groundbreaking soundscapes, there’s something here for every ear. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let’s explore the sonic wonders of this New Music Weekend.

Dune Moss – “Lullaby Please Don’t Lie”

“Lullaby Please Don’t Lie” by Dune Moss is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the transition from the innocence of childhood to the complexities of adulthood. Dune’s multifaceted musicality, inspired by her nomadic and nature-immersed upbringing, imbues the song with a mystical quality that resonates with the soulful depths of alt-pop. The track begins with a gentle, haunting piano, setting a tone of childlike simplicity before it evolves into a profound statement on self-realization and the courage to embrace one’s truth.

The song’s lyrics, “Tell me that the faeries fly / Tell me that God is real,” juxtapose the enchanting beliefs of childhood with the stark realities of adult life, creating a poignant narrative of internal conflict and discovery. Dune’s vocals, whispered with vulnerability and later soaring with raw emotion, capture the essence of this struggle. The instrumentation, including the dark-hued strings and the climactic crescendo, mirrors the emotional journey of the song, from introspection to an empowered declaration of self. “Lullaby Please Don’t Lie” is not just a song; it’s a journey through the layers of one’s being, a call to witness and embrace one’s own story with all its facets.

Hornsbee – “Wish I Had Not Said That” (J.J. Cale cover)

Hornsbee’s rendition of J.J. Cale’s “Wish I Had Not Said That” is a masterful homage that transforms the original into a realm of psychedelic rock and alt-pop. The Los Angeles-based Erick Eiser, under the moniker Hornsbee, infuses the track with a moody and chill ambience, reminiscent of the works of Air and Kurt Vile. Co-produced with the Oscar and GRAMMY-nominated Emile Mosseri, and mixed by Alf Briat of AIR, the cover stands as a testament to Hornsbee’s skillful reinterpretation and production prowess.

The song’s arrangement offers a fresh take on Cale’s classic, with a soundscape that blends ethereal synthesizers with dreamy, layered vocals. The lyrics, “Wish I had not said that, baby / If I could only close you out of my mind,” are delivered with a new depth and resonance, reflecting Hornsbee’s ability to imbue the song with a contemporary feel while honoring its original essence. The cover is not just a tribute; it’s an artistic statement, showcasing Hornsbee’s talent for reimagining and revitalizing classics with a modern touch. This version of “Wish I Had Not Said That” is a journey through nostalgia and innovation, an auditory experience that both soothes and captivates.

Ashley Elle – “Spring Street”

“Spring Street,” the upcoming single from singer-songwriter Ashley Elle, is a poignant reflection of personal upheaval, encapsulating the emotional fallout of her parents’ separation. Set against the backdrop of indie-pop and adult contemporary, Ashley’s heartfelt lyricism and classic vocal style resonate with a raw honesty that is both touching and profound. Scheduled for release on December 6th, this track marks her most personal work to date, offering a glimpse into the depths of familial change and its impact on her and her siblings.

Ashley’s approach to songwriting shines in “Spring Street,” where the lyrics are not just words but pieces of her soul, drawn directly from her journal during a time of intense personal turmoil. The final vocals, imbued with real and raw emotion, carry the weight of her experience, delivering a powerful and relatable narrative. The song’s composition, blending Ashley’s innate musicality with the expertise of her collaborators, creates a sound that is both contemporary and timeless. It’s a track that not only showcases Ashley’s growth as an artist but also her courage as a storyteller, inviting listeners into her world of heartbreak, maturity, and self-discovery. “Spring Street” is more than a song; it’s a heartfelt journey through the complexities of life, love, and mental health, offering solace and understanding to anyone who has navigated similar paths.

Old Heavy Hands – “The Flood”

“The Flood,” a standout track from Old Heavy Hands’ upcoming album “Small Fires,” is a gripping narrative that melds Americana with alt-country, echoing the soulful essence of acts like Drive-By Truckers and Jason Isbell. Hailing from Greensboro, NC, the band brings to life their y’allternative sound in a song that captures the essence of resilience and rebirth. Produced by Danny Fonorow and engineered by the legendary Mitch Easter, “The Flood” is a testament to the band’s journey through life’s tumultuous waters, from surviving cancer and overcoming addiction to building families and sharing stages with renowned artists.

Nate Hall’s voice, raw and emotive, cuts through the cacophony of organ and horns, giving “The Flood” a gospel-like quality. The song’s lyrics, “Storms come and they go / The wind will always blow / Just tried to hold on tight / We’ll make it on through this night,” speak to the enduring human spirit in the face of life’s inevitable trials. This is not just a track about survival; it’s an anthem of hope and the cyclical nature of existence. The biblical imagery of cleansing floods and the promise of new beginnings is masterfully woven into the fabric of the song, creating a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. “The Flood” is more than a piece of music; it’s a story of life’s ebb and flow, a reminder that even in the darkest storms, there’s a chance to hold on and emerge stronger.