B-Side Guys

Welcome back to bsideguys.com’s New Music Releases, where this week, we’re playing catch-up! December was a whirlwind of festivities and a bustling end to the year, which meant we had our hands full. But fear not, music aficionados, because we haven’t forgotten about the gems that surfaced during this hectic period. This edition is dedicated to unearthing those tracks that might have slipped under the radar amidst the holiday craze. From the soul-stirring strums of indie artists to the electric beats of up-and-coming pop sensations, we’ve got a backlog of auditory delights waiting for you. So, grab your favorite headphones, find a comfy spot, and join us as we rewind and dive into the plethora of musical treasures that December brought us. It’s time to explore, rediscover, and maybe even fall in love with some late-year releases that deserve a spot on your playlist. Let the catch-up session begin!

Ken Arthur Odom - “Hold On (Let Go)”

Ken Arthur Odom’s “Hold On (Let Go)” is a poignant embodiment of his journey, blending the emotive depth of emo and alternative rock with a singer-songwriter’s introspection. The track resonates with the influence of artists like Sufjan Stevens and Elliott Smith, striking a balance between vulnerability and resilience. Born from a period of profound life changes, including ending his marriage and leaving his fireman career, Odom’s lyrics “Don’t look back / Everything you had was never yours at all,” speak to the universal experience of navigating loss and transformation. The song’s structure, with its repeating motifs of ‘Hold on’ and ‘Let go,’ mirrors the internal struggle between clinging to the past and embracing the future, a theme that is deeply rooted in Odom’s personal story of traveling across Europe and recording in the solitude of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.

The track is both a personal reflection and a universal message about enduring life’s changes. Odom’s voice, carrying a mix of strength and vulnerability, along with minimal yet impactful instrumentation, adds to the song’s introspective narrative. The chorus “Hold on / Let go” acts as a mantra, encapsulating the duality of holding onto hope while learning to release. “Hold On (Let Go)” is not just a song; it’s a journey through Odom’s transformative experiences, offering solace and understanding to anyone navigating their path of self-discovery and renewal.

Pine Barons – “Electric Fingertips”

Pine Barons’ “Electric Fingertips” is an invigorating addition to the indie and dream pop landscape, echoing the experimental spirit of Animal Collective with a touch of Fishmans’ melodic sensibility. The song, the final Pine Barons release of 2023, skillfully balances moody undertones with an underlying sense of happiness. Its dreamlike quality is accentuated by lyrics that explore themes of escapism and existential wonder. The repetitive line, “I don’t wanna wake up now,” acts as a refrain that captures a desire to remain in a surreal, almost ethereal state, where the constraints of reality are blurred, and the fantastical becomes tangible.

Musically, “Electric Fingertips” is a masterclass in blending whimsical soundscapes with thoughtful lyricism. The song’s structure oscillates between the celestial (“Under the moonlight”) and the mundane (“I saw your body down there too”), creating a tapestry of sound that is both enchanting and grounded. Pine Barons have crafted a track that not only resonates with the listener on a sonic level but also invites them into a reflective headspace. As a culminating piece for the year, it showcases the band’s evolving sound and their ability to weave complex emotional themes into their music.

The Republic of Wolves – “Nightjar”

The Republic of Wolves makes a striking return with “Nightjar,” the leading single from their new EP “Why Would Anyone Want to Live This Long?” The track heralds the Long Island-based emo-rock band’s resurgence after a significant hiatus, showcasing a seamless blend of ambient indie-folk and robust post-hardcore elements. This song encapsulates the band’s evolved sound, riding the line between their characteristic moody undertones and a newfound, raw aggression. “Nightjar” echoes the influences of bands like Brand New and Manchester Orchestra but carves out its distinct sonic territory within the alternative rock genre.

“Nightjar” stands out for its compelling fusion of introspective lyrics with dynamic musicality. The Republic of Wolves, consisting of Mason Maggio, Christian Van Deurs, Billy Duprey, and Chris Wall, have crafted a track that balances emotional intensity with a sophisticated musical arrangement. The song reflects the band’s journey over their five-year hiatus, channeling both reflective and forceful elements that resonate with listeners. As the first glimpse into their latest EP, “Nightjar” promises a diverse range of sounds and an exploration of the band’s multifaceted identity in the emo and indie rock scenes.

hesitant – “melisma”

The track “melisma” from hesitant’s album ‘seasons of grief’ delves into the complex emotions surrounding the loss of a troubled friend. Bridging the genres of shoegaze, emo, and alternative rock, the song captures a moody and introspective essence. It’s a poignant exploration of regret, misunderstanding, and the haunting question of what could have been. The song’s lyrics, “you found another way to fool us all / you pulled the wool and built a wall,” convey a sense of betrayal and confusion, encapsulating the feeling of being left behind and the struggle to come to terms with loss.

Musically, “melisma” embodies the characteristic sound of hesitant, blending ethereal shoegaze elements with the emotional depth of emo music. The line, “i couldn’t bear to watch you fade away / so I shut the door, but what if I’d stayed?” is particularly impactful, reflecting the inner turmoil and guilt that often accompanies grief. The song’s structure and composition support its thematic content, with a haunting melody that echoes the lingering sadness and unresolved questions left in the wake of a friend’s passing. The blend of introspective lyrics and a melancholic soundscape makes “melisma” a deeply resonant track that speaks to the heart of anyone who has experienced loss.

In summary, hesitant’s “melisma” is a moving and thoughtful piece that captures the complexity of emotions associated with grief and loss. It’s a song that not only showcases the band’s ability to weave together diverse musical styles but also highlights their skill in articulating the human experience with sincerity and depth.

Actve Captve – “Safe N Sound”

Actve Captve’s “Safe N Sound” is an exhilarating blend of indie rock, alternative rock, and alt-pop, with an energy reminiscent of a Dua Lipa meets Foo Fighters and System of a Down collaboration. This hardcore jungle disco fever track accelerates relentlessly towards its climax, delivering a potent mix of intensity and melody. The song captures the band’s unique approach to music, combining Justin Han’s multi-instrumental talents and diverse influences, from rock and punk to classical and experimental sounds. The lyrics, “We could find everything in love / Cut and run, float out to sea / Where the memory of you / Won’t find me,” encapsulate a journey of emotional tumult and liberation, offering a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The band, consisting of Justin Han, Jason Heninger, Israel Doria, Henry Gillard, Carlos Jordan, and Cassie Brandi, creates a sonic landscape that is both polished and raw. “Safe N Sound” showcases their ability to weave introspective themes with explosive musicality. The song’s structure, moving from introspection to a crescendo of power and emotion, reflects Actve Captve’s philosophy of embracing life’s contradictions as sources of strength. This track is not just a showcase of the band’s musical prowess but also a celebration of the human spirit’s resilience and complexity. The interplay of Justin’s raw vocal performance with Cassie Brandi’s soulful response adds a compelling dynamic to the song, making it a standout track in the band’s repertoire.

In essence, “Safe N Sound” is a testament to Actve Captve’s talent for crafting songs that are as thought-provoking as they are dynamic. The track is a vibrant illustration of the band’s commitment to exploring the depths of the human experience, where struggles and contradictions are not just acknowledged but celebrated as integral parts of our existence.

Wyn & the White Light – “Can the World Change”

Wyn & the White Light’s latest single “Can the World Change” from their upcoming album “Luck” is a stark, soul-stirring track born from a profound personal journey. The song emerges from frontwoman Wyn Doran’s near-death experience, a narrative limited to just six lines as part of a songwriting challenge from Ben Folds. The lyrics, succinct yet powerful, delve into themes of pain, existential questioning, and the longing for change. The haunting refrain, “Can the world change if I sleep?” encapsulates the turmoil of facing one’s mortality and the struggle to find meaning amidst life’s trials.

Musically, the New England trio blends elements of indie rock, alternative rock, and alt-pop to create an ambiance that is reflective and emotionally charged. The simple yet evocative lyricism paired with the melancholic melody captures the essence of the band’s unique sound. Wyn & the White Light, comprising Wyn Doran, Lucia Jean, and Heidi Tierney, imbues the track with a sense of rawness and authenticity. This song is a reflection of their collective experiences with medical trauma, resonating with a sense of shared hardship and resilience. “Can the World Change” stands as a testament to the healing power of music and the ability to find strength in the darkest of times.