B-Side Guys

Welcome to July New Releases: Part Two, where we continue our exploration of the freshest sounds emerging in the heart of summer. As the music industry shows no signs of slowing down, we’re here to guide you through another eclectic mix of tracks that capture the spirit of the season and beyond. From sun-soaked indie anthems to introspective ballads, and from genre-defying experiments to pure pop perfection, this collection showcases the diversity and creativity thriving in today’s musical landscape.

In this installment, we’ll be diving into releases from both established artists pushing their boundaries and exciting newcomers making their mark. Each track offers a unique window into the artist’s world, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of contemporary music. So whether you’re looking for the perfect soundtrack to your summer adventures or seeking out the next big thing in music, join us as we unpack these July gems. Let’s dive in and discover the sounds that will be shaping the musical conversation in the weeks and months to come.

Welcome Strawberry – “The Silent One”

Welcome Strawberry’s “The Silent One” is a blistering shoegaze anthem that feels like a sonic assault wrapped in velvet. The Oakland-based band channels the spirit of ’90s noise rock through a thoroughly modern lens, with Jack Shirley’s legendary production at Atomic Garden lending the track a muscular clarity that belies its wall-of-sound aspirations. Guitars cascade in torrents of distortion, creating a maelstrom of sound that threatens to engulf the listener while somehow maintaining a core of irresistible melody.

Lyrically, “The Silent One” likely explores themes of isolation and introspection, though the vocals are wisely mixed to become another instrument in the band’s arsenal rather than dominating the soundscape. The result is a track that feels both deeply personal and universally cathartic, perfect for both headphone introspection and cathartic mosh pit release. As a single, “The Silent One” positions Welcome Strawberry as torchbearers for a new generation of shoegaze, one that’s unafraid to crank the volume and emotion to 11. It’s a bold statement of intent that promises an exciting future for a band clearly on the cusp of breaking into wider recognition.

Izzie Derry – “If We Don’t Laugh We’ll Cry”

Izzie Derry’s “If We Don’t Laugh We’ll Cry” is a gut-wrenching exploration of familial resilience in the face of hereditary illness, delivered with the raw intimacy of a confessional. Derry’s vocals, reminiscent of Laura Marling’s emotive clarity, soar over a sparse arrangement of strings and piano, creating a soundscape that’s as fragile as it is powerful. The production, while polished, maintains a live-room immediacy that amplifies the song’s emotional impact, making each quaver in Derry’s voice feel like a direct plea to the listener.

Lyrically, Derry navigates the treacherous waters of grief with a deft touch, finding moments of levity in the darkest corners of human experience. Lines like “I made you laugh at the funeral / I’m not good at being sad guess I learned that from you” capture the complex interplay of humor and sorrow that often defines family dynamics in times of crisis. The chorus’s repeated refrain of “If we don’t laugh we’ll cry” serves as both a coping mechanism and a rallying cry, encapsulating the song’s central theme of finding strength through shared vulnerability. As a follow-up to her debut album, this single demonstrates Derry’s growth as a songwriter, promising an artist unafraid to mine the depths of personal experience for universal truths.

ADAMAH – “Sad Song”

ADAMAH’s “Sad Song” is a paradoxical ode to love that transforms tragedy into an uplifting acoustic anthem. Jonathan Fries’ vocals, tinged with a hint of Tom Petty’s heartland rock earnestness, float atop a deceptively simple arrangement that belies the song’s emotional complexity. The track’s production strikes a delicate balance between intimacy and expansiveness, with subtle layers of instrumentation building to create a soundscape that feels both deeply personal and universally accessible.

Lyrically, “Sad Song” deftly navigates the aftermath of trauma, finding joy and gratitude in unexpected places. Lines like “All the noise that’s in my head / You’re drowning it out” and “I can’t write a sad song / About you” capture the transformative power of love in the face of adversity. The chorus’s repeated declaration serves as both a celebration of resilience and a testament to the strength of the couple’s bond. As a standalone track, “Sad Song” showcases ADAMAH’s ability to craft folk-pop that resonates on multiple levels, turning life’s darkest moments into something unexpectedly beautiful and life-affirming. It’s a song that lingers in the mind long after the final chord fades, inviting listeners to find light in their own moments of darkness.

Ok Cowgirl – “Larry David”

Ok Cowgirl’s “Larry David” is a blistering catharsis of indie rock rage that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. The Brooklyn quintet channels their collective frustrations into a stomping, fist-pumping anthem that serves as a pressure release valve for the pent-up anxieties of modern life. Leah Lavigne’s vocals oscillate between sardonic spoken word and primal screams, perfectly capturing the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with navigating a world that often feels like a cosmic joke. The band’s tight instrumentation, honed through years of live performances, provides a solid foundation for Lavigne’s vocal acrobatics, creating a sound that’s as cohesive as it is chaotic.

The track’s origin story, born from a spontaneous jam session fueled by shared exasperation, shines through in its raw energy and unfiltered lyrics. The repeated gang vocal of “everything is fucked” serves as both a rallying cry and a communal purge, inviting listeners to join in and scream along. The accompanying music video, featuring band members running around the city in full Larry David regalia – bald caps and all – adds an extra layer of absurdist humor to the proceedings, perfectly complementing the song’s blend of frustration and irreverence. “Larry David” stands as a testament to Ok Cowgirl’s ability to transform everyday angst into electrifying rock and roll, setting high expectations for their upcoming debut album.

Casual Male – “Half Cut”

Casual Male’s “Half Cut” bursts onto the scene with the confidence of a seasoned musician finally stepping into the spotlight. Tim Lappin, the creative force behind the project, channels years of experience as a touring bassist into a track that feels both fresh and comfortably familiar. The song’s energetic guitar riff propels it forward with an urgency that belies its origins in disappointment and lost opportunities, while a wall of synths provides a lush backdrop that nods to both classic rock and contemporary indie sensibilities.

Lappin’s vocal delivery, reminiscent of Julian Casablancas’ laid-back cool, perfectly complements the track’s musical landscape. The song’s theme of grappling with the end of a long-term gig and relationship resonates through its emotional core, turning introspection into an anthemic experience. “Half Cut” manages to capture the bittersweet nature of closing one chapter and reluctantly opening another, inviting listeners to find catharsis in shared vulnerability. As the lead single from Casual Male’s self-titled debut album, it sets a high bar, showcasing Lappin’s ability to transform personal setbacks into infectious indie rock that feels both intimate and universally relatable.

Tokyo Tea Room – “No Rush”

Tokyo Tea Room’s “No Rush” is a mesmerizing blend of dream pop and chillwave that showcases the British band’s knack for crafting atmospheric soundscapes. The track’s foundation rests on an irresistible bassline, complemented by ethereal synths and delicate guitar notes. This instrumental tapestry provides the perfect backdrop for the band’s tender vocals, creating a composition that feels both meticulously crafted and effortlessly evocative.

As the lead single from their upcoming album of the same name, “No Rush” offers a tantalizing glimpse into Tokyo Tea Room’s evolving sound. The band’s exploration of longing, nostalgia, and the transient nature of existence is palpable in the track’s dreamy atmosphere and introspective undertones. With their growing fanbase and impressive streaming numbers, Tokyo Tea Room has clearly struck a chord with listeners seeking thoughtful, atmospheric pop. “No Rush” sets high expectations for the forthcoming album, promising a collection of songs that will likely captivate audiences with its blend of emotive lyrics and carefully constructed sonic landscapes.

Art d’Ecco – “I Feel Alive”

Art d’Ecco’s “I Feel Alive” is an electrifying burst of indie rock euphoria that captures the raw, visceral thrill of music’s transformative power. The track’s pulsating rhythm and soaring guitar riffs create a sonic rollercoaster that mirrors the adrenaline rush of a live performance. D’Ecco’s vocals, dripping with charisma and unbridled enthusiasm, propel the song forward with an infectious energy that’s impossible to resist.

Lyrically, “I Feel Alive” is a celebration of music’s ability to ignite the spirit, with lines like “my vision blurred when the music hit / like a cannon blasting, the drummer blitz” painting a vivid picture of sonic ecstasy. The chorus’s repeated declaration of “I feel alive” becomes an infectious hook, inviting listeners to join in the euphoria. D’Ecco’s clever wordplay and self-aware humor shine through in phrases like “I’m just a coffin cheat with two left feet,” adding depth to what could have been a straightforward party anthem. As Art d’Ecco’s first release in two years, “I Feel Alive” is a triumphant return that showcases his ability to distill various musical influences into a sound that’s both nostalgic and thrillingly current.

Loose Buttons – “My Side Of The Bed”

Loose Buttons’ “My Side Of The Bed” is a stirring blend of indie rock energy and introspective lyricism. The track’s jangling guitars and driving rhythm create a sonic landscape that feels both nostalgic and urgent, mirroring the song’s themes of generational reflection and present-day gratitude. Eric Nizgretsky’s vocals carry a raw emotional honesty, perfectly capturing the complexity of honoring one’s roots while embracing the here and now.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of personal history, with lines like “Ripe autumn air to breathe in / Patterned orange hue / On empty streets of Brighton” anchoring the song in a specific time and place. Nizgretsky’s reflections on his Ukrainian heritage and his parents’ sacrifices add layers of meaning to the central theme of finding comfort in partnership. The repeated refrain of “With you on my side of the bed” serves as the song’s emotional core, emphasizing the power of connection in navigating life’s complexities. “My Side Of The Bed” showcases Loose Buttons’ skill in crafting songs that balance introspection with infectious melodies, hinting at an exciting new chapter for this New York-based quartet.

M60 – “Cards We Dealt”

M60’s “Cards We Dealt” bursts onto the scene with the exuberance of a band hitting their stride. The Manchester quartet delivers a high-energy indie rock anthem that captures the essence of youthful frustration and defiance. Channeling the spirit of their Mancunian forebears, M60 infuses their sound with infectious guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section that demands movement.

Lyrically, “Cards We Dealt” delves into the complexities of a deteriorating relationship. Lines like “Say you love me but that I was never good enough” and “Tonight we’re screaming all the things we’ve never said before” paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and long-suppressed feelings finally coming to the surface. The chorus’s imagery of dealt cards lying on the floor serves as a powerful metaphor for the aftermath of confrontation. Matthew Morton’s vocals strike a balance between raw emotion and polished delivery, bringing these themes to life with conviction. As M60 gears up for a series of releases throughout 2024, “Cards We Dealt” showcases their growth from promising local act to a band ready to make waves on the national indie scene.

Lucifer Sunshine – “My Immunity”

Lucifer Sunshine’s “My Immunity” is a sun-dappled journey through the lush landscapes of psychedelic pop, effortlessly channeling the spirit of ’60s California through a distinctly Scandinavian lens. The Stockholm-based quintet weaves a tapestry of sound that’s as intricate as it is inviting, with layered harmonies reminiscent of The Beach Boys at their most experimental and instrumentation that nods to the whimsical productions of The Olivia Tremor Control. The track’s church-like reverb adds a sense of vastness to the proceedings, creating a sonic space that feels both intimate and expansive.

Lyrically, “My Immunity” explores themes of isolation and hope, with the band transforming Alex’s teenage musings into a mature reflection on resilience. The decision to end the song on a positive note, rather than the original melancholic outro, speaks to the band’s growth and their ability to find light in the darkness. As the first single from their upcoming album “The Woodland Man & The Sky Theater Show,” “My Immunity” sets a high bar for Lucifer Sunshine’s evolving sound, promising a collection of songs that will likely push the boundaries of contemporary psychedelic pop while paying homage to its roots.