B-Side Guys

Well, well, well, my intrepid sonic explorers – it seems we’ve stumbled upon another glorious Friday, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to dive headfirst into the tantalizing abyss of this week’s most scintillating new indie releases.

As always, we here at bsideguys.com have taken it upon ourselves to scour the darkest corners of the musical universe, braving the choppy waters of Bandcamp obscurity and SoundCloud purgatory to bring you only the most essential cuts. From bedroom-recorded dream pop to garage-bred post-punk, from glitchy experimental electronic to heartfelt singer-songwriter fare, we’ve got it all – and then some.

But be warned, dear reader: this is not a journey for the faint of heart. The tracks we’ve assembled here are not mere toe-tappers or background fodder for your morning commute. No, these are songs that demand your full attention, that grab you by the lapels and shake you until you’re seeing stars. These are the tracks that will haunt your dreams and invade your waking hours, the earworms that will burrow deep into your cerebral cortex and refuse to let go.

So strap on your headphones, lock the door, and prepare to have your mind well and truly blown. This is the bsideguys.com “Weekly New Releases” roundup – your one-stop shop for the most daring, innovative, and downright electrifying indie music of the moment. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Grover Anderson – “Dreams”

In the same tradition of introspective troubadours like Josh Ritter and Joe Pug, California-based songwriter Grover Anderson has always had a knack for mining the depths of the human experience with a poet’s eye and a storyteller’s grace. But on his latest single “Dreams,” the lead track from his forthcoming EP, Anderson turns his gaze inward, crafting a haunting meditation on the vulnerability and insecurity that comes with truly loving another person. Over a sparse, slow-burning arrangement of acoustic guitar, pedal steel, and mournful fiddle, Anderson paints a vivid picture of a relationship haunted by dark visions and unspoken fears. “I don’t sleep, you give me bad dreams/And I’m losing track of what they mean,” he sings in his signature honeyed baritone, his voice quivering with a palpable sense of unease.

But “Dreams” is not merely a chronicle of fear and anxiety – it’s also a powerful testament to the transformative power of vulnerability and trust. As the song unfolds, it becomes clear that these nightmares are not merely the product of an overactive imagination, but rather a manifestation of Anderson’s deepest insecurities – the fear that even the most solid foundations can crumble under the weight of doubt and self-sabotage. In the song’s final verse, Anderson offers a glimmer of hope, a recognition that true love means believing in each other even when we don’t believe in ourselves. “Tell me who could ever fall asleep?” he sings, his voice swelling with a kind of desperate, defiant joy. It’s a moment of hard-won catharsis, a reminder that even in our darkest moments, the light of love can guide us back to solid ground.

Bad Flamingo – “Numb”

Masked duo Bad Flamingo has always had a knack for crafting raw, emotionally charged music that cuts straight to the heart of the human experience. While their previous single “Fast” was a gritty, high-octane rebel yell, their latest offering “Numb” takes a more introspective approach. With a sound that’s a bit more low-key than their usual fare, Bad Flamingo creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that is both arresting and deeply affecting.

The Oscar Wilde quote that serves as the duo’s slogan, “Give a man a mask, and he will tell you the truth,” takes on new meaning in the context of “Numb.” By stripping away the driving rhythms and pounding instrumentation of their more raucous tracks, Bad Flamingo lays bare the emotional core of their music. The result is a haunting, introspective meditation on the human condition, one that showcases the duo’s uncanny ability to connect with listeners on a visceral level. With “Numb,” Bad Flamingo once again proves that sometimes the most powerful statements are the ones delivered in a whisper rather than a scream.

Nick Noon – “Who Needs Who”

Nick Noon is back with a vengeance, and his latest single “Who Needs Who” is poised to be the indie rock anthem of the summer. Released on April 11th, this electrifying track is a masterful blend of 90s alternative energy and modern production techniques that will have you hitting repeat from the very first listen. With its irresistible guitar riffs, pulsating beat, and Nick Noon’s captivating vocals, “Who Needs Who” is a surefire dance floor filler that channels the unbridled spirit of indie rock icons like The Black Keys and Blur.

But “Who Needs Who” is more than just a catchy tune – it’s also a scathing indictment of those who try to claim credit for the work of others. “You’ve said you love the world/And that I needed you/But don’t think you’re gonna change me/Cause we know/Who needs who,” Nick Noon sings with a sneer, his lyrics dripping with disdain for those who prioritize image over substance. It’s a powerful message that feels particularly relevant in an era where authenticity is often sacrificed for the sake of likes and follows. With “Who Needs Who,” Nick Noon proves that he’s not just a master of crafting infectious hooks – he’s also a lyricist with something to say.

Yvan Poisson – “Swell”

French producer Yvan Poisson has a proven track record of crafting lush, immersive instrumental tracks that transport the listener to another realm. His latest offering, “Swell,” is no exception – a dreamy, neo-soul odyssey that envelops the senses and soothes the soul. Built around a laid-back, hip-hop-inflected beat and rich, jazzy chords, “Swell” is the perfect soundtrack for a lazy Sunday afternoon or a late-night drive through the city.

What sets “Swell” apart from other instrumental tracks is Poisson’s incredible attention to detail and his ability to create a sense of narrative and emotional arc without the use of lyrics. As the track progresses, subtle shifts in melody and rhythm create a sense of forward motion and development, as if the listener is being taken on a journey through Poisson’s sonic world. It’s a testament to his skill as a producer and his deep understanding of the power of music to convey meaning and emotion.

Supercaan – “Nagoro”

Supercaan’s latest offering, “Nagoro,” is an enthralling journey through a sonic landscape that seamlessly blends psychedelic rock, indie rock, and alternative rock elements. Named after the eerie Japanese village of Nagoro, where handmade scarecrow dolls have replaced the dwindling population lured away by the bright lights of urban life, the track serves as a poignant metaphor for the cost of progress. Lyricist Tom Whitfield’s haunting words paint a vivid picture of the fragility of our place in the world, with the tiger representing the ever-present threat of modernization.

Musically, “Nagoro” is a testament to Supercaan’s mastery of their craft. The track’s foundation is built upon a mesmerizing bed of glitchy, skittering drums that create a sense of urgency and forward momentum. Atop this rhythmic base, the band layers anthemic indie guitar lines that soar and swoop, evoking the grandeur of acts like Elbow and The National. But what truly sets “Nagoro” apart is its unique structure, which takes its cues from the world of techno. The extended drop in the middle of the track is a moment of pure release, a cathartic explosion of sound and emotion that showcases Supercaan’s willingness to push the boundaries of their genre. This is music that demands to be experienced with eyes closed and mind open, a sonic journey that lingers long after the final notes have faded away.

AKASAKA – “Beat of the Sun”

With their debut single “Beat of the Sun,” Brooklyn-based project AKASAKA makes a strong case for the enduring power of 90s-inspired alternative rock. Helmed by Pasquin Mariani, the track is a soothing yet grungy exploration of the futility of always needing to be right, and the liberation that comes with simply letting go. “I’ll listen if you want me to/But what I hear is a fear that I outgrew,” Mariani sings over a bed of fuzzy, distorted guitars and propulsive drums, his voice equal parts world-weary and hopeful.

As the song builds to its cathartic chorus, Mariani’s message becomes clear: life is too short to waste on petty arguments and bad ideas. “There’s no prize for being sincere/I hate to see you fight for someone’s bad ideas,” he sings, his words a gentle reminder that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is walk away from toxic situations and people. Musically, “Beat of the Sun” is a masterful blend of influences, with echoes of Dinosaur Jr.’s lo-fi slacker rock and R.E.M.’s jangly melodicism woven throughout. But ultimately, it’s AKASAKA’s unique perspective and Mariani’s raw, honest lyricism that makes this track stand out – a powerful statement of intent from a project that is sure to make waves in the alternative rock scene.

Matt Michienzie – “For Me”

Award-winning bluegrass band Matt Michienzie is making waves on the festival circuit with their latest single, “For Me.” Hailing from the bustling streets of LA, this energetic track is a testament to the power of living life on your own terms. With its infectious, foot-stomping rhythm and soulful vocals, “For Me” is a celebration of individuality and the courage it takes to forge your own path in a world that often tries to dictate who you should be.

Michienzie’s lyrics are a heartfelt reflection on his own journey of self-discovery, as he sings, “This song is about my life… why I decided to turn away from everyone else’s idea of what someone else is supposed to be. To do it for myself.” It’s a powerful message that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to conform to society’s expectations. Musically, “For Me” is a masterful blend of classic bluegrass and modern Americana, with virtuosic instrumental breaks that showcase the band’s incredible musicianship. Fans of acts like Kitchen Dwellers, Billy Strings, and The Travelin’ McCourys will find plenty to love here, as Matt Michienzie proves that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of contemporary bluegrass.

Bill MacKay – “Keeping in Time”

On his latest single “Keeping in Time,” Chicago-based singer-songwriter and guitarist Bill MacKay crafts a mesmerizing slowcore folk ballad that grapples with the mysteries of love and the inexorable pull of fate. With its sparse, fingerpicked guitar and MacKay’s plaintive, searching vocals, the track evokes the haunting intimacy of Nick Drake and the dreamy, atmospheric textures of acts like Bitchin Bajas and Cat Power. “We take a step forward/Then a glance sideways/But there’s no stopping the motion of the plans you made,” MacKay sings, his words a poignant meditation on the ways in which our lives are shaped by forces beyond our control.

But “Keeping in Time” is more than just a rumination on the vagaries of fate – it’s also a deeply personal exploration of the transformative power of human connection. As MacKay explains, the song is about “that longing to connect whether to a person, place, or vision. It could be to anyone or any part of life that draws you in. Love as not a possession, but a mystery that rings true.” Recorded and mixed by MacKay’s BCMC bandmate Cooper Crain, the track is a testament to the creative alchemy that can emerge when kindred spirits collaborate. With its achingly beautiful melody and MacKay’s soul-baring lyricism, “Keeping in Time” is a powerful reminder that even in the face of life’s uncertainties, the bonds we forge with others have the power to sustain and inspire us.

Buddy Wynkoop – “Zugzwang”

Buddy Wynkoop’s latest single, “Zugzwang,” from their forthcoming album Better Than Botox, presents a raw slice of post-punk introspection, wrapped in the existential dilemmas of daily existence. The track serves as a philosophical meditation on life’s relentless challenges, drawing parallels to the eternal struggles of Sisyphus. As the music builds to its climax, it delivers a compelling message about making meaningful contributions despite life’s ceaseless demands, encouraging listeners to “contribute a verse” in the sprawling poem of existence.

Formed in a Portland basement in 2019, Buddy Wynkoop has carved a niche in the art punk scene with their unique blend of spoken word, shout-sung choruses, and unconventional song structures, reminiscent of bands like Parquet Courts and Thee Oh Sees. “Zugzwang” showcases their signature style— a fusion of gritty guitar riffs and introspective lyrics, set against a backdrop of classic rock ‘n’ roll. This track not only anticipates the release of their album but also highlights their ability to weave deep existential themes into energetic and engaging music.

Make Friends – “Loaded Fun”

Make Friends blasts back onto the indie scene with “Loaded Fun,” a dynamic track that marks their bold departure into new musical realms under the guidance of producer Ed Nash (Bombay Bicycle Club). With its jagged percussion and spiraling guitar motifs that crescendo into a high-energy pre-chorus, the song reflects the turmoil and escapism found in addictive behaviors affecting personal relationships. The Bristol-based quartet’s sound, which had previously nestled comfortably within indie-pop, now ventures into edgier, rock-driven territories, capturing the complex emotions of a fraught relationship.

The narrative of “Loaded Fun” is deeply personal, portraying the aftermath of a relationship marred by substance abuse. This song is a post-breakup reflection where the fun had its price, and now all that remains are the memories and lessons learned. The thematic richness is matched by the group’s ambitious plans for future releases, promising a year filled with innovative sounds. Already recognized for their previous work, Make Friends is poised to not only continue their creative evolution but also to redefine their identity in the indie music landscape, aiming to connect with listeners who appreciate a blend of thoughtful lyrics and robust soundscapes.