B-Side Guys

Dive back into the rhythm of discovery with this week’s eclectic mix of new tunes on bsideguys.com. From the depths of undiscovered soundscapes to the peaks of sonic innovation, we’ve curated a collection that promises to intrigue, inspire, and invigorate. Whether you’re seeking the comfort of familiar melodies or the thrill of new aural adventures, our selection is poised to be the soundtrack to your week. Join us as we unravel the tapestry of talent that continues to redefine the boundaries of music.

Jaya Bremer – “My Expectations”

Jaya Bremer’s latest single “My Expectations” is a compelling fusion of dream pop and electro-pop that sets a new standard within the vibrant music scene of Victoria, British Columbia. Opening with a sparse arrangement that places Bremer’s altered vocals at the forefront, the track invites listeners into a deeply personal narrative, much like stumbling upon a secret conversation. As the composition unfolds, it escalates into a rousing dance-rock anthem, a transformation that mirrors the song’s exploration of evolving relationships and self-discovery amid the chaos of recent times, creating a resonant journey for both the artist and her audience.

The song’s visual counterpart, directed by Bremer and crafted with Trevor Bennet’s cinematographic skill, adds layers to the narrative with its intense profile shots and disorienting strobe effects, effectively conveying the upheaval of the pandemic era. This music video, with its raw and gritty aesthetic, visually represents the emotional and psychological turmoil addressed in the lyrics, offering viewers a stark, unguarded encounter with the themes of the song. “My Expectations” stands out as a multifaceted work that captures the essence of personal growth and the acceptance of life’s constant changes, presenting Bremer not just as a musician but as a storyteller who connects deeply with the human experience.

Holding Hour – “Parallel Lines”

Holding Hour, the musical metamorphosis of the artist formerly known as Elison, unveils their latest creation “Parallel Lines,” setting a new course for their sonic voyage. This track weaves a rich tapestry of indie rock, dream pop, and shoegaze, encapsulating the band’s adeptness at blending introspective lyricism with immersive soundscapes. “Parallel Lines” delves into the nuanced dynamics of relationships, exploring themes of closeness and the inevitable drift apart, as articulated by lead vocalist Marissa Kephart. The song’s narrative, underscored by its lush musical arrangement, invites listeners into a reflective exploration of emotional distances and the silent dialogues that shape our connections.

The production by Scott Yoshimura enriches “Parallel Lines” with a meticulous layering that accentuates the band’s evolution and artistic depth. As the inaugural single under their new moniker, it not only signifies a turning point but also sets an anticipatory tone for their forthcoming EP. The track’s haunting melodies and evocative lyrics promise a journey through the complexities of human bonds, marked by moments of closeness and separation. With its release, Holding Hour reaffirms their position as an intriguing fixture in Iowa’s indie scene, promising a future filled with more evocative narratives and compelling soundscapes.

Dan Radin – “Anchor You” (Acoustic Version)

Dan Radin’s “Anchor You” (Acoustic Version) unfolds as a poignant ode to the complex interplay of support and struggle within the confines of a relationship touched by mental health challenges. This acoustic rendition strips back the layers to reveal the raw emotional underpinnings of the song, allowing Radin’s heartfelt vocals and the somber echoes of the cello to take center stage. The song navigates the delicate balance of being a steadfast anchor for a loved one while grappling with one’s own turmoil, encapsulating the essence of empathy and the silent vows we make in love’s twilight.

Set against the backdrop of Radin’s rich Americana and folk influences, “Anchor You” resonates deeply with listeners who have navigated the stormy seas of love and loss. The simplicity of the acoustic arrangement magnifies the song’s message, turning it into an intimate confession of unwavering dedication despite the end of a romantic chapter. Radin, known for his versatility as a cellist in the Austin music scene, showcases his prowess as a singer-songwriter, crafting a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Through “Anchor You,” he invites us into a reflective space where love’s enduring promise remains a guiding light amidst the shadows of doubt and change.

Stinkus – “23”

Stinkus’s “23” captures the nostalgic essence of a youthful night out, wrapped in the hazy ambiance of a live show and the tender beginnings of a new romance. The song is a vivid recollection of the artist’s personal experience, attending a Youth Lagoon concert and the unfolding connection under the glow of stage lights. With lyrics that are both candid and introspective, Stinkus crafts a narrative that resonates with the bittersweet and sometimes aimless wanderings of early adulthood. The mention of Trevor, presumably Trevor Powers of Youth Lagoon, serves as a grounding point in the memory, tying the personal to the universal experience of live music’s magic.

Musically, “23” is steeped in the slacker rock ethos, with laid-back vibes that mirror the song’s chill, reflective mood. The lo-fi quality and straightforward delivery embody the essence of indie rock authenticity, appealing to fans of Alex G and Pinegrove. Stinkus manages to encapsulate a specific moment in time—a snapshot of being 23, filled with uncertainty, budding love, and the search for meaning amidst the noise. It’s a track that invites listeners to reminisce about their own formative experiences, the shows that shaped them, and the people who walked slowly beside them through it all.

Bear, Man Dangerous – “Sarajevo, Nebraska”

Bear, Man Dangerous’s “Sarajevo, Nebraska” immerses listeners in a chilling narrative that mirrors the deepening societal divides and the lurking shadows of violence within American communities. The title itself conjures an unsettling juxtaposition, blending the historical weight of Sarajevo’s past conflicts with the mundane familiarity of a place like Nebraska, suggesting a dystopian reality where any locale could become synonymous with tragedy. The song’s dark, shoegaze texture, combined with elements of post-punk and gothic wave, creates a haunting soundscape that amplifies the ominous message woven through its lyrics. It is a sobering meditation on the human capacity for destruction, wrapped in the ethereal veils of reverb and distortion that characterize the genre.

The lyricism in “Sarajevo, Nebraska” is stark, painting vivid pictures of a fractured community on the brink. Phrases like “Affinity bleeds contrite” and “Delirium planting dreams” evoke a sense of disillusionment and the dangerous allure of radical ideologies. The band navigates these themes with a blend of introspection and raw emotion, their sound echoing the likes of Failure and Mogwai, while carving out a niche that is distinctly their own. This track is not just a piece of music; it’s a call to reflect on the paths that lead to division and violence, urging listeners to consider the parallels between distant wars and the simmering tensions in their backyards.