B-Side Guys

Welcome to this week’s edition of Weekly New Releases on bsideguys.com, where the pulse of emerging music beats the loudest! As always, we’re diving headfirst into the freshest tracks that have graced the music scene. From the soul-stirring strums of indie folk to the electric buzz of alternative rock, and the hypnotic rhythms of dream pop, our curated selection promises a sonic journey that’s as eclectic as it is exhilarating. So, buckle up and prepare to discover your next favorite artist, because in this musical landscape, every turn is a new adventure, and every melody tells a story waiting to be heard. Let’s explore what’s new and noteworthy this week!

BALTHVS – “Mango Season”

BALTHVS’s latest single, “Mango Season,” emerges as a vibrant addition to their growing discography, capturing the essence of laid-back, soulful grooves. This third single from their upcoming fourth album embodies a perfect fusion of psychedelic rock and dream pop, peppered with a downtempo vibe. The track is an instrumental journey that transports listeners to a serene, almost ethereal space, ideal for moments of relaxation or introspection.

Hailing from Colombia, BALTHVS is recognized for their eclectic style, masterfully blending an array of genres from Middle Eastern music to disco, house, and surf rock. “Mango Season” stays true to this signature blend, offering a funky, soulful groove that resonates with the style of artists like Tommy Guerrero and OfftheWally. The band’s ability to create music that is both energetic and contemplative is evident in this track, reflecting their talent for live improvisation and a prolific output that has garnered them over 2.5 million streams worldwide. With their dynamic live performances and a track record of touring extensively, including major appearances like the SXSW 2022 and Rock al Parque 2022, BALTHVS continues to cement their place in the world of psychedelic and eclectic music.

Clocktopus – “My Riders”

Clocktopus’s “My Riders” is an audacious blend of psychedelic, indie, and alternative rock that defies conventional boundaries. The track, evocative of the styles of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and The Black Keys, is an adventurous journey, marrying diverse musical elements from orchestra hip-hop-blues to a banjo-led intro, culminating in a powerful chorus. It’s a song that celebrates friendship and the joy of making music, encapsulating the spirit of collaboration and creativity.

CLOCKTOPUS, a collective of seasoned musicians from the Netherlands, brings a unique flavor to their music, born out of an extraordinary recording experience in a bamboo studio in the Thai jungle. Their eclectic sound, ranging from space rock to dark folky ballads and orchestral hip-hop blues, reflects their adventurous approach to music-making. The lyrics of “My Riders,” with their vivid imagery and emotional depth, touch on themes of change, farewell, and resilience. The track stands as a testament to the band’s ability to create music that is both experimental and deeply resonant, capturing the essence of their dynamic live performances and adventurous ethos.

Space Fight – “Is It All”

Space Fight’s new single “Is It All” marks a reflective chapter in the band’s evolving musical journey. Following their 2022 album “Do You Dream In The Daylight,” praised by Under the Radar Magazine as “a dazzling meld of indie pop,” this latest offering encapsulates a meditative exploration of their artistic path. Produced by the band and recorded across three cities – London, Yokohama, and New Jersey – the single benefits from the experienced mixing and mastering hand of Math Bishop, known for his work with U2 and The Killers.

Since their formation in a London pub in 2010, Space Fight has carved out a unique space in the indie pop scene. Their journey, from being featured on BBC6 Music to signing a record deal for their debut LP, reflects a trajectory marked by creative growth and exploration. The lyrics of “Is It All,” with phrases like “i keep drifting, i’m closer to dead but no one’s listening” and “baby I, want to know yourself,” speak to themes of introspection and existential inquiry, set against the backdrop of their signature energetic yet chill sound. The band’s upcoming EP, “Hyperspeed,” promises to further showcase their talent for blending introspective lyrics with engaging indie pop melodies.

From Flowers to Flies – “Not The Way You Want”

From Flowers to Flies’ latest single, “Not The Way You Want,” from their upcoming debut LP “We Built This Machine,” is a compelling dive into the darker shades of psychedelic rock, indie rock, and pop-punk. The track, infused with chamber pop influences, captures the essence of disillusionment and the existential ennui of an outwardly ideal life. Its melancholic yet epic mood encapsulates a sense of deep introspection and a questioning of life’s apparent successes.

Formed in California’s Central Valley in 2022, From Flowers to Flies brings together a mix of modern indie, ’70s prog, post-punk, and chamber pop. Their music, characterized by a journey through landscapes of anxiety and apocalyptic imagery, retains a thread of hope. “Not The Way You Want” exemplifies this blend, delving into the contrast between the superficial appearance of fulfillment and the underlying sense of emptiness. The lyrics touch on themes of idealized dreams versus the stark reality of achieving them, and the isolation that can accompany success. With this track, the band continues to establish their unique sound, one that is both reflective of the times and deeply personal.

M’Grasker – “Kiss & Smoke Weed”

M’Grasker’s “Kiss & Smoke Weed” emerges as a vibrant testament to the eclectic and fantastical world of psychedelic and alternative rock. This track, part of their forthcoming self-titled album, stands out not just for its sonic qualities but for the unique backstory of the band. M’Grasker, described as a coven of humanoid meat sacks created by Dr. Gorp of M’Graskorp Unlimited Enterprises, showcases their mission to rock (and roll) in a most unconventional manner.

The song is an ode to the quintessential joys of human experience – the kiss and the allure of cannabis. It’s portrayed as a psychedelic symphony, intertwining the intimate act of a kiss with the relaxing haze of smoking weed. The track promises a kaleidoscopic sound, rich in color and emotion, reflecting the band’s unique origins and their journey from the backstage areas of Toronto music venues to the experimental labs of M’Graskorp. Following their 69-track EP “Under the Righteous Sky” and the canine-themed “Must Love Doggy,” “Kiss & Smoke Weed” is poised to be another intriguing chapter in M’Grasker’s adventurous musical expedition.

Longwave – “Tidal Wave” (20th Anniversary Video)

Longwave’s release of the “Tidal Wave” music video, in celebration of the 20th anniversary of their album “The Strangest Things,” is a nostalgic dive into the band’s early years. The video, featuring tour footage from the UK and Europe shot between 2002-2003, retains the raw and unfiltered look of early digital video, encapsulating the era’s essence. This untouched quality serves not only as a time capsule but also accentuates the enduring appeal of Longwave’s music, highlighting the song’s powerful presence amidst the evolving landscape of indie rock.

Formed during the resurgence of New York’s indie rock scene in 1999, Longwave swiftly made their mark with the release of “Endsongs,” followed by “The Strangest Things” under RCA Records. The band, known for their dynamic blend of indie rock and shoegaze, worked with notable producers like Dave Fridmann and Peter Katis, and John Leckie, which only added depth and diversity to their sound. Although inactive since 2009, Longwave’s influence persists, evidenced by their decision to release a new single and album in 2019. The “Tidal Wave” video is more than just a look back; it’s a reminder of Longwave’s significant contribution to the indie rock genre and their timeless appeal

Jesse Barki – “Sun Won’t Stop Shining”

Jesse Barki’s “Sun Won’t Stop Shining,” from his latest album ‘Make It All Feel Real,’ is a testament to his evolution as an artist, blending his signature folk rock sound with indie pop sensibilities. This song, imbued with a happy mood, captures Barki’s knack for crafting catchy folk tunes while engaging in meaningful, thought-provoking dialogue. The track stands out for its contemplative lyricism, exploring themes related to life, death, and the soul’s journey, all while maintaining an upbeat, melodic rhythm that resonates with listeners.

Barki, known for his flowing ideas and introspective songwriting, draws influences from the likes of Bright Eyes and Wilco. His ability to make every word count is evident in this latest release, which reflects his commitment to understanding the human condition and making the world a better place. Born and raised in New York’s Hudson Valley and now based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Barki’s music is a mix of personal reflection and broader existential musings, encapsulated in the acoustic charm and lyrical depth of ‘Sun Won’t Stop Shining.’ His album ‘Make It All Feel Real’ marks another milestone in his journey as a musician and storyteller.

The First Kiss – “See The Sun”

The First Kiss’s “See The Sun,” crafted by Raphael Aletti of the UK-based RnB/indie pop duo Silk Cinema, emerges as a vibrant solo endeavor in the realms of shoegaze and indie rock. This third release is a testament to Aletti’s multifaceted artistry, where he single-handedly handles all instruments, vocals, and even the cover art. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including The Cure, Cocteau Twins, and elements of ’80s metal, “See The Sun” is an evocative blend of nostalgic and contemporary sounds.

Lyrically, “See The Sun” navigates themes of persistence, memory, and the enduring nature of connections. The repeated lines “You and I will see the Sun / It will always come” evoke a sense of hope and continuity amidst change. The song delicately balances dreamy shoegaze textures with the emotional depth of indie rock, creating an immersive sonic experience. Aletti’s project not only showcases his versatility as a musician but also his ability to create music that resonates with the listener on a personal level, capturing the essence of reminiscence and the resilience of the human spirit.