B-Side Guys

Welcome to bsideguys.com’s Rad New Releases, your go-to guide for the freshest and most exciting sounds hitting the airwaves this week. As we dive into the latest offerings from across the musical spectrum, we’re bringing you a curated selection of tracks that push boundaries, challenge expectations, and capture the zeitgeist of contemporary music.

From indie rock anthems that’ll have you air-guitaring in your living room to electronic bangers that’ll transport you to a neon-lit dancefloor, we’ve got it all covered. 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 stay on top of the latest trends, our in-depth reviews are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of what makes each release tick. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and join us as we explore the most rad new music of early August. Let’s dive in and see what sonic treasures await us!

Slow Collision – “Drive”

Slow Collision’s “Drive” is a restless indie rock anthem that captures the universal desire for escape and reinvention. Nick Greenberg’s intricate guitar work, reminiscent of post-punk legends Johnny Marr and Robert Smith, creates a sonic landscape that’s both familiar and refreshingly innovative. The track’s propulsive rhythm mirrors the urgency of its theme, with Greenberg’s vocals conveying a palpable sense of yearning as he contemplates breaking free from the constraints of everyday life.

Lyrically, “Drive” delves deep into the tension between control and freedom, with lines like “Is that what it means to be free? / To leave it, not want it, give up control” encapsulating the internal struggle many face when contemplating radical change. The imagery of a spontaneous road trip with no destination serves as a powerful metaphor for the allure of the unknown. As the lead single from Slow Collision’s upcoming EP “I’m Too High, I Can’t Jump,” “Drive” sets a high bar, promising a collection of songs that blend technical proficiency with raw emotional honesty. Greenberg’s ability to single-handedly craft such a fully realized sound suggests an artist with a clear vision and the skills to bring it to life, marking Slow Collision as a band to watch in the evolving landscape of indie rock.

Heart of Pine – “Movin’ On”

Heart of Pine’s “Movin’ On” is a soulful Americana journey that showcases the band’s self-described “Southedelic” sound in all its glory. The track’s rich instrumentation, blending twangy guitars with a robust rhythm section and hints of keyboard, creates a sonic landscape that’s as expansive as the Georgia countryside. Steven Bagwell’s vocals carry a world-weary wisdom that perfectly complements the song’s themes of growth, heartbreak, and resilience, evoking comparisons to genre stalwarts like Chris Stapleton and Jason Isbell.

Lyrically, “Movin’ On” is a masterful exploration of the complexities of love and self-discovery. The narrative arc, from youthful bravado (“I grew up tall and I grew up mean”) to mature reflection (“Now I know why the leaves turn red and they die in October”), paints a vivid picture of a life lived and lessons learned. The chorus’s declaration of “I’m still goin’ strong / just like a rollin’ stone” serves as both a nod to classic rock influences and a statement of perseverance in the face of adversity. With this track, Heart of Pine demonstrates their ability to craft songs that are deeply rooted in Southern musical traditions while pushing the boundaries of what modern Americana can be. “Movin’ On” positions the band as worthy heirs to the legacy of the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd, while carving out a unique space in the contemporary roots music scene.

Mystery Math – “Summerchime”

Mystery Math’s “Summerchime” is a mesmerizing instrumental journey that perfectly captures the bittersweet essence of summer’s end. The track’s signature dual guitar harmonies weave a rich tapestry of sound, creating a sonic landscape that’s both nostalgic and forward-looking. The absence of vocals allows the intricate interplay between instruments to take center stage, with each guitar line, bass groove, and drum pattern contributing to a lush, immersive experience that invites listeners to lose themselves in the music.

The song’s structure mimics the ebb and flow of a late summer evening, building from gentle, shimmering beginnings to more intense, driven passages before settling into a contemplative conclusion. This progression mirrors the emotional journey of savoring the last moments of the season, with hints of melancholy threaded throughout the otherwise dreamy composition. As part of Mystery Math’s evolution from Christopher Halverson’s solo project to a full-fledged band, “Summerchime” showcases their ability to create evocative, cinematic soundscapes without relying on lyrics. The track positions Mystery Math as a formidable presence in the slowcore and lo-fi rock scenes, demonstrating their capacity to blend elements of psych rock, shoegaze, and jazz into a cohesive and emotionally resonant whole.

Anberlin – “Seven”

Anberlin’s “Seven” marks a bold new chapter in the band’s two-decade-long career, showcasing a reinvigorated sound that pushes the boundaries of their post-hardcore roots. With Memphis May Fire’s Matty Mullins taking over vocal duties, the track unleashes a raw, unbridled energy that propels Anberlin into heavier, more aggressive territory. The interplay between Mullins’ fierce vocal performance and the band’s tight, dynamic instrumentation creates a sonic landscape that’s both familiar to long-time fans and thrillingly new.

The song’s structure, described by drummer Nate Young as both a creative push and a natural evolution, demonstrates Anberlin’s commitment to growth while maintaining their core identity. “Seven” seamlessly blends elements of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and even touches of metalcore, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment. As part of their album “Vega,” this track serves as a powerful statement of intent for Anberlin’s new era, promising a future where the band continues to challenge themselves and their audience. It not only highlights their musical prowess but also their ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to the emotional intensity that has defined their music for over 20 years.

lovelytheband – “day run out”

lovelytheband’s “day run out” is a sun-soaked indie pop gem that showcases the trio’s knack for crafting infectious, feel-good melodies. The track’s breezy instrumentation and laid-back rhythms create a sonic landscape that evokes the carefree spirit of a perfect summer day. Mitchy Collins’ vocals float effortlessly over the arrangement, delivering lyrics with a casual charm that invites listeners to lose themselves in the moment.

As part of their upcoming self-titled album, “day run out” represents a continuation of lovelytheband’s signature sound while hinting at new dimensions to their artistry. The song’s production strikes a delicate balance between polished pop sensibilities and indie rock authenticity, reflecting the band’s goal of making a definitive statement about their identity. With its easy-going vibe and relatable themes, “day run out” demonstrates lovelytheband’s ability to translate complex emotions into accessible, catchy tunes. This single, along with their recent chart success and growing social media presence, positions lovelytheband as a rising force in the alternative pop scene, promising an album that will both satisfy long-time fans and attract new listeners to their honest, heart-on-sleeve approach to songwriting.

Abby Lokelani – “Hopes and Dreams”

Abby Lokelani’s “Hopes and Dreams” is a radiant piece of Americana that showcases the young Hawaiian singer-songwriter’s ability to blend folk traditions with pop sensibilities. Produced by Tyler Chester, known for his work with Madison Cunningham and Sara Bareilles, the track’s acoustic foundation is enhanced by subtle, thoughtful production choices that elevate Lokelani’s heartfelt performance. The gentle guitar work and warm instrumentation create a sonic landscape that feels both intimate and expansive, perfectly complementing the song’s themes of personal growth and resilience.

Lyrically, “Hopes and Dreams” is a testament to Lokelani’s poetic prowess and emotional depth. Lines like “I’m changing the way that I talk to myself in the morning” and “Didn’t survive all of the pain / Just to give up this easy” reveal a maturity beyond her 22 years, offering a nuanced perspective on the journey of self-improvement. The recurring refrain of “They don’t know what I’ve got” serves as a powerful assertion of inner strength and hidden potential. Lokelani’s vocals, imbued with a quiet confidence, guide listeners through this narrative of transformation, making “Hopes and Dreams” not just a song, but an affirmation of the human spirit’s capacity for change and growth. With this track, Abby Lokelani establishes herself as a promising voice in the folk-pop landscape, crafting music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Kenny Sharp – “Coming Back To You”

Kenny Sharp’s “Coming Back To You” is a vibrant fusion of funk, contemporary R&B, and electro-pop that showcases the artist’s versatility and infectious energy. The track’s pulsating rhythm and slick production, courtesy of industry veterans Kenny Sharp, Kelly Sheehan, and Robbie Lamond, create a sonic landscape that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Sharp’s vocals, imbued with the soulful grit of classic funk and the smooth delivery of contemporary R&B, guide listeners through a narrative of irresistible attraction and cyclical love.

Lyrically, “Coming Back To You” explores the magnetic pull of a past relationship with clever imagery and relatable metaphors. Lines like “two ships in the night / two clocks different time / two stars out of line” paint a vivid picture of star-crossed lovers, while the repeated refrain of “going full circle” encapsulates the song’s central theme of inevitable return. The bridge’s declaration “no matter where I go / cross the globe coast to coast / mountain high or valley low” emphasizes the universal nature of this experience, making the track resonate with a wide audience. Featured on “Love Island,” this song not only demonstrates Sharp’s songwriting prowess but also positions him as a rising star in the funk-pop landscape, capable of crafting tracks that are both radio-ready and emotionally nuanced.