B-Side Guys

Welcome to bsideguys.com’s New Release Rundown, your weekly guide to the freshest sounds hitting the airwaves and streaming platforms. In this edition, we’re diving deep into a diverse array of tracks that came out a couple of weeks ago that showcase the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music. From indie darlings pushing their sonic boundaries to emerging artists making their mark with bold debuts, we’ve curated a selection that spans genres, moods, and continents.

Our team of music enthusiasts has sifted through countless releases to bring you the cream of the crop, offering insightful analysis and context for each track. Whether you’re looking to discover your next favorite artist or simply eager to stay on top of the latest trends, our Pitchfork-style reviews are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of what makes each release tick. So plug in your headphones, turn up the volume, and join us as we explore the most exciting new music of the end of summer.

Tedious & Brief – “Relief”

Tedious & Brief’s “Relief” is a compelling journey through the emotional landscape of self-discovery and authenticity. The Nashville-based duo crafts a sonic experience that builds from intimate, introspective verses to a cathartic, explosive chorus, mirroring the internal struggle and eventual release described in the lyrics. The track’s production, featuring a blend of droning synths, aggressive guitars, and layered vocals, creates a palpable tension that reflects the anxiety of confronting one’s true self. This musical progression serves as a perfect backdrop for the song’s thematic exploration of breaking free from ingrained roles and seeking genuine self-expression.

Lyrically, “Relief” delves deep into the dissonance between presented and authentic selves, with lines like “Play pretend and you don’t know who it’s for” encapsulating the exhaustion of maintaining a facade. The repeated demand for relief in the chorus (“I need it now”) serves as both a plea and a declaration of intent, marking a turning point in the narrator’s journey towards self-acceptance. As the debut single from their upcoming album, “Relief” showcases Tedious & Brief’s ability to blend introspective songwriting with expansive, genre-blending production. The track positions the duo as a promising voice in the alt-pop landscape, capable of crafting music that’s both emotionally resonant and sonically adventurous.

Casual Technicians – “Dark Matter Falling”

Casual Technicians’ “Dark Matter Falling” is a lo-fi rock gem that seamlessly blends nostalgic references with existential musings. The geographically dispersed trio of Tyler Keene, Boone Howard, and Nathan Baumgartner have crafted a track that feels both intimate and expansive, with a sonic palette that evokes the DIY ethos of bedroom recordings while hinting at grander musical ambitions. The song’s structure, with its meandering verses and sudden bursts of melodic clarity, mirrors the disjointed nature of memory and self-reflection that permeates the lyrics.

Lyrically, “Dark Matter Falling” is a collage of seemingly disparate images and thoughts, from cosmic phenomena to mundane objects, all tied together by a thread of introspection. Lines like “Show me the fire inside your heart when you speak about ’76” juxtapose personal history with broader cultural touchstones, creating a rich tapestry of meaning. The song’s closing refrain, “I was fine with nothing,” serves as a poignant reflection on the human tendency to complicate simplicity in search of belonging. As the first single from their upcoming album, “Dark Matter Falling” suggests that Casual Technicians are continuing to evolve their sound, pushing the boundaries of lo-fi rock while maintaining the emotional core that made their debut EP seem so compelling.

Roma NYC – “Nostalgia”

Roma NYC’s “Nostalgia” is a vibrant slice of slacker rock that captures the bittersweet nature of growing up and holding onto meaningful connections. The Brooklyn-based band crafts a sound that’s both laid-back and energetic, with jangly guitars and propulsive drums creating a sonic backdrop that feels like a sunny afternoon in a cluttered apartment. This musical approach perfectly complements the song’s lyrical exploration of adulthood, friendship, and the enduring power of artistic bonds.

The track’s lyrics deftly navigate the complex emotions associated with revisiting one’s past, with lines like “Thank god for the ones that still remain” and “Friends will change / But artists stay” serving as poignant reminders of the relationships that withstand the test of time. The repeated refrain of “I feel like telling you / That you are breaking through” acts as a cheerleader’s call for those still finding their way in life. Roma NYC’s simplified sound on “Nostalgia” allows these themes to shine through, creating a relatable anthem for anyone grappling with the realities of adulting while trying to maintain connections to their younger selves. The song’s ability to simultaneously evoke feelings of happiness, sadness, and energy makes it a standout in the indie rock landscape, showcasing Roma NYC’s talent for crafting music that resonates on multiple emotional levels.

Trentemøller – “Nightfall”

Trentemøller’s “Nightfall” is a mesmerizing journey through sonic landscapes that blur the boundaries between slowcore, shoegaze, and dream pop. The Copenhagen-based artist crafts a soundscape that’s as expansive as a starry night sky, with twin post-rock guitar riffs serving as the track’s backbone. One riff sparkles and arpeggiates like distant constellations, while the other slides and wails like a lonesome coyote greeting the dawn, creating a textural interplay that’s both haunting and beautiful. The vocals float above this intricate guitar work, their melodies wandering with a dreamy, almost improvisational quality that enhances the track’s nocturnal atmosphere.

As a preview of the upcoming album “Dreamweaver,” this single suggests a work that will continue to push the boundaries of Trentemøller’s signature style. The cinematic quality of the composition is on full display here, with each element contributing to a rich, immersive experience. As Billboard aptly noted, “His music often feels like a film or an opera, unfolding slowly yet majestically scene by scene.” “Nightfall” stands as a testament to Trentemøller’s ability to create music that’s both introspective and expansive, inviting listeners into a dreamlike state where the lines between genres dissolve into a singular, captivating sound. With this track, Trentemøller once again proves his mastery in crafting atmospheric pieces that transport listeners to otherworldly realms.

Hairpin – “Oh Dear”

Hairpin’s “Oh Dear” is a dazzling indie rock gem that showcases the New York City-based band’s knack for crafting infectious melodies and intricate soundscapes. The track’s production, born in bedroom studios, belies its polished sound, with layers of shimmering guitars and propulsive rhythms creating a sonic landscape that’s both expansive and intimate. Echoes of The Strokes’ urban cool and Phoenix’s pop sensibilities can be heard throughout, but Hairpin infuses these influences with their own unique energy, resulting in a sound that feels fresh and exciting.

Lyrically, “Oh Dear” is a vivid exploration of vulnerability and self-discovery, with lines like “Undressed, unveiled, unkind” and “Your high beams are blinding” painting a picture of someone caught in the glare of intense emotion. The interplay between light and dark imagery (“I don’t think I want the daylight / To stoop so low”) adds depth to the narrative, suggesting a complex relationship with exposure and revelation. The song’s structure, with its building verses and cathartic chorus, mirrors this emotional journey, culminating in the bridge’s admission of being unable to hold one’s tongue. As a follow-up to their debut single, “Oh Dear” solidifies Hairpin as a band to watch in the indie rock scene, showcasing their ability to blend thoughtful lyricism with irresistible hooks and sophisticated production.

Ocean Child – “Hear The Wind”

Ocean Child’s “Hear The Wind” is a haunting exploration of memory’s ephemeral nature, wrapped in a dreamy indie rock package. Marco Landaverde’s soulful, raspy vocals float atop a sea of hazy production and surf-tinged guitar hooks, creating a sonic landscape that’s both nostalgic and eerily present. The track’s structure mimics the ebb and flow of recollection, with moments of clarity giving way to foggy uncertainty.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of time’s relentless march, with lines like “time’s a war / that’s never meant to be won” capturing the futility of clinging to the past. The recurring motif of wind serves as a powerful metaphor for the intangible nature of memory and time, “blurring vision” and “reverberating” through the heart. As the song progresses, it builds to a poignant climax with the ringing phone in fall, suggesting a potential reconnection that’s both longed for and feared. “Hear The Wind” showcases Ocean Child’s ability to blend introspective lyricism with atmospheric instrumentation, positioning them as a compelling voice in the indie rock scene, capable of evoking complex emotions through their music.

Amble Haunt – “Rot to Use”

Amble Haunt’s “Rot to Use” is a refreshing departure from their usual high-energy sound, offering a mellow yet captivating exploration of wasted potential and belated gratitude. The Kansas City duo of Bryce Veazey and Brandon Woodall have crafted a song that simmers with quiet intensity, its restrained instrumentation allowing space for introspection and emotional resonance. The track’s production, with its crunchy drum and bass textures, provides a rich foundation for Veazey’s falsetto vocals, creating a sonic palette that’s both intimate and expansive.

Lyrically, “Rot to Use” evolves from self-critique to hopeful acceptance, with lines like “Is it all I’ll ever really know? / Am I bound to follow folly?” giving way to the repeated affirmation “It’s never too late to be grateful.” This progression mirrors the song’s musical journey, starting with a sense of resignation before building to a more optimistic conclusion. The recurring phrase “More rot to use” serves as a clever play on words, transforming the concept of decay into a potential for growth and appreciation. With this track, Amble Haunt demonstrates their versatility as songwriters and their ability to convey complex emotions through nuanced composition, positioning themselves as a band capable of both introspective ballads and energetic anthems in the indie rock landscape.

The Young Scones – “Bone”

The Young Scones’ “Bone” is a ferocious blend of psychedelic and garage rock that hits like a sledgehammer to the senses. The Toronto-based quartet channels the raw energy of The Clash and the sonic experimentation of the Pixies, creating a sound that’s both familiar and thrillingly new. Gary McGuinness’s vocals swagger and snarl over a bed of distorted guitars and pummeling drums, evoking the unhinged spirit of early Arctic Monkeys while maintaining a distinctly original edge.

Lyrically, “Bone” delves into deeply personal territory, with the band laying bare their emotional core in a way that feels both vulnerable and defiant. The track’s structure mirrors this emotional intensity, building from a simmering verse to an explosive chorus that threatens to come off the rails at any moment. This controlled chaos is a testament to The Young Scones’ musical prowess, showcasing their ability to push boundaries while maintaining a tight, cohesive sound. With “Bone,” the band stakes their claim as a formidable presence in Toronto’s music scene, offering a fresh take on rock ‘n’ roll that’s as uncompromising as it is infectious.

Jesse Konrad – “Life/Time”

Jesse Konrad’s “Life/Time” is a concise yet immersive journey into the realm of dream pop, delivering a potent dose of ethereal soundscapes within its brief 2.5-minute runtime. The track wastes no time in enveloping the listener, opening with a fleeting 3-second intro before plunging into a lush, psychedelic dreamscape. Konrad’s ability to create such a fully realized atmosphere in such a short span is a testament to his songwriting prowess and production skills.

The song’s instrumentation is a delicate balance of ephemeral guitar riffs and layered, floating harmonies that intertwine to create a sonic tapestry both intricate and gossamer-light. Lyrically, “Life/Time” is sparse but impactful, with the repeated lines “You waste all your time, and wait all your life” and “You’re losing your time and losing your mind” serving as a haunting meditation on the fleeting nature of existence. This juxtaposition of dreamy sonics and existential pondering gives the track a depth that belies its brevity, making “Life/Time” a standout in the indie pop landscape and marking Jesse Konrad as an artist capable of crafting profound musical experiences in miniature.

Cinnamon Gum – “It’s Alright”

Cinnamon Gum’s “It’s Alright” is a soulful time capsule that transports listeners straight to the golden era of 70s funk while maintaining a fresh, contemporary edge. Maciej Milewski, the mastermind behind the project, has crafted a track that seamlessly blends the warm acoustics of 60s soul with the infectious rhythms of funk, creating a sonic landscape that’s both nostalgic and invigorating. The attention to detail in the production, using techniques reminiscent of Motown Records, adds an authentic vintage quality to the sound without feeling derivative.

Lyrically, “It’s Alright” explores themes of longing and nostalgia, with lines like “Baby when you’re not around / It seems so hard to hold on” capturing the bittersweet nature of lost love. The chorus’s repeated refrain of “alright again, it’s alright” serves as both a reassurance and a mantra, echoing the track’s overall mood of cautious optimism. As the first single from Cinnamon Gum’s upcoming album, “It’s Alright” sets a high bar, promising a full-length release that will delight both genre purists and newcomers alike. The accompanying music video, inspired by classic TV shows like Soul Train, further enhances the immersive experience, making Cinnamon Gum’s debut a multi-sensory journey through the best of retro soul and funk.