B-Side Guys

Alright, music mavens and sonic adventurers, it’s time once again to dive headfirst into the wild and wonderful world of the freshest indie releases. We’ve sifted through the digital mountains of new music to bring you the most exciting, ear-catching, and downright essential tracks that you need to hear right now.

From bedroom-recorded dream pop to garage-bred post-punk, from glitchy electronic experimentations to heartfelt singer-songwriter confessionals, we’ve got a veritable smorgasbord of sounds to tantalize your auditory taste buds. So sit back, strap on your headphones, and get ready to discover your new favorite artists.

Remember, this isn’t just a list of the biggest names or the most hyped releases – we’re here to uncover the hidden gems, the unsigned and underrated acts that are creating some of the most vital and exciting music out there today. So without further ado, let’s dive into this week’s edition of the bsideguys.com New Release Round Up!

Cameron Leahy – “From the Infinite”

It is sometimes easy for artists to get lost in the familiar tropes of introspective lyrics and gentle acoustic strums. But with his new single “From the Infinite,” LA-based songwriter Cameron Leahy proves that there are still new frontiers to explore within the indie folk genre. Taken from his upcoming debut album “Dizzy Freedom,” the track is a haunting, ethereal journey that evokes the mystical beauty of the American landscape and the search for truth in an uncertain world.

Leahy’s lyrics paint vivid pictures of winding roads through seaside canyons, past oil rigs in the mist and into the dark caverns of the soul. “Entering the dark zone where we lived,” he sings, his voice a ghostly whisper that seems to emanate from some distant, otherworldly plane. The instrumentation is sparse but effective, with shimmering guitars and eerie atmospheric touches that create a sense of vast, unknowable space. It’s the kind of song that invites you to close your eyes and let yourself be transported to another realm entirely.

“From the Infinite” stands as a profound meditation on the nature of existence and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. “These endless questions I can’t even now debate/I cannot hide like before/From the infinite, I’ll try,” Leahy sings, grappling with the big existential quandaries that have haunted humanity since the dawn of time. It’s a brave and vulnerable statement from an artist who isn’t afraid to stare into the void and report back on what he finds there. With “From the Infinite,” Cameron Leahy has crafted a powerful and deeply moving work of art that hints at even greater things to come.Copy

Issac Watters – “Thirsty”

Isaac Watters, the LA-based singer-songwriter known for his brooding, minimal sound, has returned with “Thirsty,” a track that showcases his unique ability to blend folk, lo-fi rock, and chillwave elements into a captivating whole. The song, inspired by a moment of introspection while walking over a freeway at sunset, is a meditation on the insatiable desire for more and the feeling of never being good enough.

Watters’ deep, reverb-drenched vocals, reminiscent of Leonard Cohen and Father John Misty, are the driving force behind “Thirsty.” His delivery is both haunting and intimate, drawing the listener into his world of existential contemplation. The instrumentation, a hazy mix of acoustic and electric guitars, subtle synths, and laid-back percussion, creates a dreamy, atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complements Watters’ introspective lyrics.

“Thirsty” is a testament to Watters’ growth as a songwriter and his willingness to explore the darker corners of the human experience. The track’s themes of yearning and self-doubt are universal, yet Watters’ unique perspective and poetic lyricism make them feel fresh and deeply personal. With its moody, introspective vibe and lush, lo-fi production, “Thirsty” is a standout release from an artist who continues to push the boundaries of his craft.

The Tame and the Wild – “Let’s Give A High Five”

The Tame and the Wild Offer Solace Amidst Farewells with “Let’s Give A High Five”

In their latest single “Let’s Give A High Five,” The Tame and the Wild delve into the bittersweet nature of goodbyes, offering a comforting hand to those navigating the emotional upheavals of farewells. The nostalgic indie-folk duo, comprising Seja & Flëpp, weave a tapestry of shared moments and lingering promises, acknowledging the pain of goodbyes while celebrating the preciousness of every hello.

The song’s refrain, “Ce n’est qu’un aurevoir” (It’s only a goodbye), serves as a gentle reminder that partings are merely pauses in life’s grand symphony. The Tame and the Wild’s heartfelt lyrics and soothing melodies create a warm embrace for listeners, assuring them that while goodbyes may shake our hearts like tiny earthquakes, they also highlight the value of the connections we make. The duo’s vocals, reminiscent of Angus & Julia Stone and Hollow Coves, explore the depths of human emotions, drawing parallels between personal experiences and the natural world.

“Let’s Give A High Five” stands as a testament to The Tame and the Wild’s ability to craft songs that resonate with the universal human experience. The track’s poignant lyrics, such as “To all the hugs, to all the laughs / To all the shout outs / Let’s give a High Five,” encourage listeners to celebrate the joys and triumphs that precede goodbyes. In a world where farewells can leave us feeling lost and alone, The Tame and the Wild offer a musical lifeline, reminding us that even in the face of sadness, we can find strength, resilience, and the courage to embrace new beginnings.

Alex Gerdt – “Off To See The Sun”

Swedish singer-songwriter Alex Gerdt invites listeners on a introspective road trip with his second single, “Off To See The Sun.” Drawing from the rich American singer/songwriter tradition, Gerdt’s heartfelt lyrics and fingerpicking guitar style create an atmosphere that is both intimate and expansive. The song’s genuine emotions and relatable stories are a testament to Gerdt’s skill as a songwriter and his ability to connect with his audience.

In “Off To See The Sun,” Gerdt explores the liberating feeling of letting go and embarking on an aimless journey. The song’s floating vintage sound, complete with electric guitar and lap steel, serves as the perfect backdrop for Gerdt’s reflections on change, melancholy, and self-doubt. “Hating on yourself and you’re off to see the sun / Hating on yourself slowly sinking deeper now,” he sings, capturing the paradoxical nature of feeling low while heading towards a sunny destination. The driving rhythm section propels the song forward, mirroring the sense of movement and freedom that inspired its creation.

With a career spanning various musical contexts, including touring with Swedish acts Eskobar and Mohombi, Alex Gerdt is no stranger to the power of music. His solo releases have garnered attention worldwide, and “Off To See The Sun” is sure to captivate listeners with its authenticity and depth. Recorded at the prestigious Atlantis studio and mastered by the renowned Björn Engelmann at Cuttingroom, the song showcases Gerdt’s growth as an artist and his commitment to crafting songs that leave a lasting impact. As he continues to share his musical talent with the world, Alex Gerdt proves himself to be an artist to watch, inviting us to join him on a soulful journey through life’s ups and downs.

Bones Owens – “Get It On”

Bones Owens continues to prove his versatility as an artist with his latest single, “Get It On,” a high-energy indie rock track that showcases his knack for crafting infectious melodies and evocative lyrics. The song, which will be featured on his upcoming sophomore full-length album due in summer 2024, is a testament to Owens’ ability to seamlessly blend his country roots with his love for 90s alternative rock, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.

“Get It On” bursts with an undeniable energy from the first note, driven by pulsating rhythms and gritty guitar riffs that harken back to the golden age of alt-rock. Owens’ vocals, equal parts raw and melodic, cut through the instrumentation with a sense of urgency and passion, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the music and embrace the moment. The song’s lyrics, delivered with Owens’ signature storytelling prowess, paint vivid pictures of desire and the thrill of letting go, making “Get It On” an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt the need to break free from the confines of everyday life.

As Owens gears up for the release of his sophomore full-length album, “Get It On” serves as a tantalizing taste of what’s to come. With its infectious hooks, driving instrumentation, and undeniable charisma, the track is sure to become a staple of Owens’ live shows and a favorite among fans old and new. If “Get It On” is any indication of the direction Bones Owens is heading, it’s clear that he’s an artist on the rise, poised to make a significant impact on the indie rock scene and beyond.

Vlado Nosal & The Avedons – “Car”

In their latest single, “Car,” Vlado Nosal & The Avedons take listeners on a moody, introspective journey through the complexities of the human psyche. The song, written and recorded in the intimate setting of Nosal’s bedroom, delves into the thin line between dreams and disappointments, capturing the yearning for escape and the desire for self-discovery that often accompanies life’s challenges.

Musically, “Car” showcases Nosal’s gift for crafting melodies that are both haunting and instantly memorable. The lo-fi production and experimental edge lend the track a sense of raw vulnerability, allowing Nosal’s lyrics to take center stage. Lines like “I wanna buy a car / I wanna go wherever it takes me” and “I really really wanna get high / So I can be myself / And not be myself / All at the same time” speak to the universal desire for freedom and the struggle to reconcile the different facets of our identities. The repetition of the phrase “I really really wanna get high” throughout the song serves as a mantra, underscoring the desperate longing for escape and transcendence.

Vlado Nosal & The Avedons’ sound, which draws comparisons to the likes of The Beatles, Mac DeMarco, and Wilco, is on full display in “Car.” The ability to blend classic rock influences with a modern, indie sensibility creates a timeless quality that is both comforting and provocative. As Nosal sings, “I want to run away (from me) / But I pray that I can stay (the same),” listeners are invited to reflect on their own inner conflicts and the ways in which we all seek to navigate the complexities of the human experience. With “Car,” Vlado Nosal & The Avedons have crafted a poignant and deeply relatable anthem for anyone who has ever dreamed of something more.

Kai Tak & There’s Talk – “Flood the Harbour”

In their latest single, “Flood the Harbour,” Kai Tak collaborates with There’s Talk’s Olivia Lee and co-writer Tamaryn to create a mesmerizing shoegaze and dream pop experience. The track, which debuted on CVLT Nation and is now available on all digital platforms, serves as a tantalizing preview of Kai Tak’s forthcoming debut LP, “Designed In Heaven Made In Hong Kong,” set for release on June 21 via à La Carte Records.

“Flood the Harbour” is a sonic journey that draws inspiration from the bustling neighborhood of Yau Ma Tei in Hong Kong. Chris King of Kai Tak reveals that the song’s music was written on the same day as their previous single, “Blush,” during a creative burst fueled by repeated viewings of the film “Fallen Angels.” The track’s ethereal soundscapes and hazy atmospherics evoke the city’s neon-lit streets and the complex history of land reclamation that has shaped Hong Kong’s growth. Olivia Lee’s haunting vocals add a layer of depth and introspection to the song, as she reflects on themes of revolution, colonialism, and corporate greed.

With “Flood the Harbour,” Kai Tak and There’s Talk have crafted a song that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The track’s lush instrumentation and dreamy melodies create an immersive listening experience that transports the audience to the heart of Hong Kong, while the lyrics grapple with weighty issues that extend far beyond the city’s borders. As Kai Tak continues to build anticipation for their debut album, “Flood the Harbour” serves as a powerful testament to the band’s ability to create music that is both sonically captivating and emotionally profound, cementing their status as one of the most exciting acts in the shoegaze and dream pop scene.

Melanie MacLaren – “Summer in Sweden (Live)”

In her latest release, “Summer in Sweden (Live),” Melanie MacLaren showcases her extraordinary talent for crafting modern folk songs that resonate deeply with listeners. This live recording, captured on tape, highlights MacLaren’s ability to connect with her audience through her poetic lyricism and emotive performance. The song serves as the perfect accompaniment for both quiet mornings and introspective evenings, reminding us that even in the warmth of summer, there is room for melancholy and reflection.

MacLaren’s gift for storytelling shines through in “Summer in Sweden (Live),” as she weaves a tale of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of life’s most cherished moments. Her lyrics, described as “haunting yet humorous” and possessing a “sentimental cynicism,” are on full display in lines such as “Feels like summer in Sweden / Feels like an endless feeling / Feels like its never leaving / But I know this sun will set / There will be a darkness yet.” MacLaren’s unique ability to combine tongue-in-cheek sensibility with timeless folk style is evident throughout the song, as she effortlessly blends classic finger-style guitar, distorted trad instruments, and ambient beds to create a sound that is both familiar and fresh.

As the first single from her upcoming live EP, “Summer in Sweden (Live)” serves as a testament to MacLaren’s growth as an artist and her understanding of her own music’s impact on her audience. After extensive touring in 2023 and early 2024, she recognized that certain songs, like “Summer in Sweden,” moved listeners differently in a live setting compared to their recorded versions. By capturing the raw emotion and intimacy of her live performances, MacLaren invites listeners to experience her music in a new and profound way, cementing her status as a modern folk artist to watch.