B-Side Guys

Dive into the heart of innovation and auditory exploration with “New Release Mixdown” on bsideguys.com, your premier destination for the freshest sounds cutting through the noise of the mainstream. Each week, we meticulously curate a selection that promises to enchant, challenge, and redefine your musical boundaries. From the shadowy lanes of indie rock to the luminous fields of acoustic folk, our mixdown is a mosaic of undiscovered gems and audacious new endeavors by artists daring to dream aloud. Join us on this sonic journey as we unveil the tracks poised to become the new anthems for the audacious and the free-spirited.

Cameron Leahy – “Critic”

In “Critic,” Cameron Leahy’s newest single from his upcoming album Dizzy Freedom, the LA-based indie/folk artist encapsulates a vibrant exploration of creative liberty and the essence of spontaneous songwriting. Leahy’s process, marked by intuition rather than deliberation, imbues the track with an authenticity and rawness reminiscent of influences like Kurt Vile and Neil Young. “Critic” emerges as a narrative on embracing life’s unpredictability, encouraging listeners to maintain their wonder in a world that often leans towards cynicism and conformity.

Leahy’s lyrics in “Critic,” with their blend of wry humor and reflective musings—”Please don’t take my line / I’ll drink all your wine” and “Oh, it’s so romantic / When you’re on Titanic”—serve as a backdrop to life’s inherent contradictions and the quest for personal meaning amidst societal noise. This song, with its melding of folk sensibilities and indie rock’s edge, captures the spirit of resilience and the pursuit of joy in the face of adversity. Leahy, through “Critic,” crafts a sonic space where freedom from fear and the embrace of one’s path, however unconventional, are celebrated with each chord and verse.

B. Hamilton – “Everyone’s Exhausting (Except for You)”

“Everyone’s Exhausting (Except for You)” by B. Hamilton emerges as a heartfelt anthem within their latest EP, “The Freest Speech Ever Attempted Without Disintegrating,” a project initially inspired by the complex persona of Elon Musk but ultimately exploring the universal themes of disconnection and companionship. Set against the backdrop of folk and alt-country influences reminiscent of Blaze Foley and Townes Van Zandt, the song captures the essence of finding solace in that one person who transcends the weariness brought on by the rest of the world. Through lines like “I’m just looking for a friend, Someone to laugh at the absurdity, Instead of handing off their misery,” the track articulates a deep-seated desire to connect authentically in an increasingly detached society.

The EP’s genesis, rooted in an attempt to encapsulate Musk’s influence and the isolation he may feel despite his immense wealth and fame, takes a poignant turn as it delves into the broader, more relatable feelings of loneliness and the search for genuine connection. This thematic pivot is evident in “Everyone’s Exhausting (Except for You),” where the personal narrative seamlessly intertwines with the collective longing for a respite from the world’s demands. The song, alongside the EP, stands as a reflection on the modern human condition, encapsulated by B. Hamilton’s introspective songwriting and the lush, emotive landscapes of their music. Through this track, B. Hamilton offers a melodic reminder of the importance of cherishing those rare relationships that offer a haven from life’s relentless pace.

Freedom Fry – “Midnight Serenade”

Freedom Fry’s “Midnight Serenade,” the latest gem from the Franco-American duo, pulses with the vibrant energy of disco and dance pop while weaving in the moody, seductive undercurrents characteristic of their French influences. Produced and mixed by the talented pair Bruce Driscoll and Marie Seyrat in their Los Angeles-based Cactus Garden studio, the track marks a harmonious fusion of dark dance rhythms and captivating English lyrics. “Midnight Serenade” stands out as a testament to Freedom Fry’s ability to blend cultural soundscapes, delivering a track that’s as alluring as it is dynamic, reminiscent of the eclectic sounds of Gorillaz and the sultry vibes of Charlotte Gainsbourg.

This second single of 2024 encapsulates the duo’s knack for creating music that’s not only sonically rich but also emotionally resonant. “Midnight Serenade” invites listeners on a nocturnal journey, its pulsating beats and haunting melodies crafting an atmosphere ripe with possibility and intrigue. As the track unfolds, it’s clear Freedom Fry has skillfully crafted a song that resonates with the universal desire for connection and adventure, all while maintaining their distinctive blend of alt-pop sophistication and danceable grooves.

Husky Loops – “Again Replay”

Husky Loops’ latest single “Again Replay” from their eagerly awaited EP ‘ultrarama’ cements their position as trailblazers in the indie rock scene, infusing their art rock and indietronica influences into a vibrant tapestry of sound that defies conventional boundaries. Following the acclaim of their debut album ‘I CAN’T EVEN SPEAK ENGLISH’, the London-based trio, originally from Bologna, Italy, continues to push the envelope with ‘ultrarama’, a collection that embodies their ethos of boundless creativity and sonic exploration. “Again Replay” serves as a compelling introduction to this new chapter, encapsulating the band’s commitment to innovation and their unapologetic dive into themes of illusion, innocence, and impact, resulting in a raw and dynamic auditory experience.

With ‘ultrarama’, Husky Loops not only revisit the eclectic and adventurous spirit that garnered them widespread attention but also venture further into the realm of directed experimentation, as evidenced by “Again Replay”. The track showcases the trio’s adeptness at blending disparate sonic elements, from distorted tape loops to rave-inspired choruses, into a cohesive and exhilarating whole. This return to form is underscored by Danio Forni’s reflections on the essence of Husky Loops’ music-making philosophy: an unwavering dedication to authentic expression and the pursuit of art that resonates deeply with both the creators and their audience. “Again Replay” and the ‘ultrarama’ EP stand as a testament to Husky Loops’ enduring vitality and their ability to captivate listeners with their innovative and unbridled musical journey.

Mothman, The Man – “Too Long”

“Mothman, The Man” dives deep into the heart of psychedelic rock with their latest track “Too Long,” a powerful concoction of fuzzy guitar riffs and hypnotic rhythms that beckon from the UK’s enigmatic south. This band, a mystical assembly of musicians who have mastered the ancient rhythms of rock and roll, infuses “Too Long” with a raw energy and a touch of stoner rock’s laid-back vibe, setting them on par with the likes of Ty Segall and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard. The song’s relentless pulse and the repetitive plea for love create a mesmerizing mantra that encapsulates the band’s unique ability to blend the dark with the romantic, the energetic with the introspective.

The lyrics of “Too Long” echo the universal theme of longing and the tortuous wait for love’s return, set against the backdrop of shifting skies from the brilliant daylight to the enigmatic night. As “Too Long” progresses, the repetitive chant transforms into a powerful incantation, evoking the intensity of desire and the passage of time. Mothman, The Man crafts a soundscape where emotions wax and wane like the phases of the sun and the moon, capturing the essence of psychedelic rock’s ability to transport listeners to otherworldly realms. Through “Too Long,” the band not only showcases their musical prowess but also invites listeners on a journey through the highs and lows of the human experience, wrapped in the warm embrace of their sonic wizardry.

Mary Middlefield – “Young and Dumb”

Mary Middlefield’s “Young and Dumb” captures the tumult and fervor of youth through a blend of indie rock energy and indie pop’s melodic charm, infused with the reflective essence of indie folk. Originating from the stunning backdrop of Lausanne, Switzerland, Middlefield transforms the serene alpine vistas into a dynamic canvas for her musical exploration, reflecting the contrast between the tranquil environment and the inner turmoil of young adulthood. Drawing on her classical training and inspired by a spectrum of artists from Elliott Smith to Jeff Buckley, Middlefield crafts “Young and Dumb” as an ode to the reckless abandon and the fervent emotions that define the younger years, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the heart of her artistic vision.

As a harbinger of her forthcoming EP Poetry (for the scorned and lonely), “Young and Dumb” is a compelling invitation to immerse oneself in Middlefield’s world of introspection and emotional release. The track weaves a narrative that resonates with anyone who’s navigated the choppy waters of growing up, embracing the mistakes and the lessons learned along the way. Middlefield’s skillful melding of diverse influences into her music not only highlights her versatility as an artist but also creates a deeply relatable experience for her listeners. “Young and Dumb” stands as a testament to Middlefield’s journey of self-discovery and expression, inviting all who listen to join her in a shared voyage of reflection and liberation.

Little Oil – “Empty Vacant Pure Divine”

“Empty Vacant Pure Divine” by Little Oil offers an intriguing blend of indie pop with lo-fi and folk undertones, presenting a contemplative exploration of fleeting serenity and the subsequent quest to recapture it. This track, from a San Francisco Bay Area artist embracing his solo venture, merges a wide array of influences into a cohesive sound that is both innovative and nostalgic. Through lyrics like “Nothing’s here and nothing’s fine,” Little Oil articulates the paradoxical longing for emptiness, a theme that resonates with the complex nature of human emotion and the desire for escape from the incessant noise of existence.

As “Twelve Songs,” Little Oil’s second album, awaits its release, “Empty Vacant Pure Divine” stands as a compelling showcase of the artist’s mastery in crafting songs that delve into the intricacies of the psyche. The song’s narrative, centered on the ephemeral experience of absolute nothingness, engages listeners in a deeply personal journey, inviting them to reflect on their own moments of transient liberation. Little Oil’s adept fusion of varied musical styles into a distinctive sound highlights his ability to evoke profound emotional landscapes, making “Empty Vacant Pure Divine” a captivating preview of what’s to come in his upcoming work.

Tablefox – “Don’t Wait for Me to Be What You Want Me to Be”

Tablefox’s “Don’t Wait for Me to Be What You Want Me to Be” channels the frenetic energy of alternative rock, enriched with the grit of post-punk and the intensity of hard rock, to delve into the theme of individuality amidst societal expectations. The track draws inspiration from the 1993 cult film Falling Down, paralleling the narrative’s exploration of inner turmoil and the struggle to remain true to oneself. With Clinton Bell’s impassioned vocals leading the charge, the song embodies the defiance against being shaped by others’ desires, underscored by a dynamic composition that echoes the resolve to maintain one’s essence.

Crafted with precision by Emily Wheatcroft-Snape and further refined by the mixing and mastering talents of Scott Seabright and Leon Zervos, the song achieves a polished yet emotionally charged sound. The lyrics, “Don’t wait for me to be what you want me to be,” resonate as a bold declaration of autonomy, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves amidst external pressures. Despite its potentially dark themes, the song carries an undercurrent of optimism, a reflection of the human capacity to face adversity without succumbing to it. “Don’t Wait for Me to Be What You Want Me to Be” is not merely a musical piece; it’s an anthem for those navigating the complexities of identity and authenticity in a conformist world, showcasing Tablefox’s skill in crafting music that not only resonates on a sonic level but also connects deeply with the listener’s personal journey.

Kallai – “Always/Never”

Kallai’s debut single “Always/Never” is a lush foray into the realms of shoegaze and dream pop, infused with the spirit of Portland’s diverse music scene. The track is a delicate exploration of the dialogue between past and present selves, weaving a narrative of youthful relationships through ethereal soundscapes and reflective lyricism. Kallai’s musical tapestry is rich with reverb-laden guitars and atmospheric synths, creating an immersive experience that invites listeners to introspect on their own journeys of self-discovery and the fleeting nature of emotional connections.

As a precursor to their anticipated debut EP, “Always/Never” establishes Kallai’s presence in the shoegaze domain with a poignant and captivating sound. The band, comprising members from Trance to the Sun, Luscious Apparatus, and Lost Echoes, brings a fresh perspective to the genre, blending traditional shoegaze elements with a modern sensibility. The song’s narrative, marked by its heartfelt dialogue and the haunting refrain of “Be my always, and my never,” encapsulates the essence of Kallai’s artistic vision—music that transcends temporal boundaries, inviting listeners into a world where the past is a canvas for the present’s emotional landscapes.