B-Side Guys

Welcome to bsideguys.com’s Saturday Mix-tape, your weekend soundtrack curated with care and musical expertise. As we wind down another week and gear up for weekend adventures, we’re bringing you a diverse selection of tracks that span genres, moods, and decades. Whether you’re looking for the perfect tunes to fuel your Saturday night shenanigans or seeking a mellow backdrop for a lazy afternoon, we’ve got you covered.

This week’s mix-tape features an eclectic blend of new releases, hidden gems, and timeless classics. From up-and-coming indie artists making waves in the underground scene to established acts pushing the boundaries of their sound, we’ve handpicked a lineup that’s sure to surprise and delight. Expect to discover your new favorite song alongside reimagined versions of familiar hits.

So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let’s dive into this musical journey together. Whether you’re cleaning the house, hitting the gym, or just lounging on the couch, our Saturday Mix-tape is here to provide the perfect soundtrack to your weekend. Let’s kick things off and see where the music takes us!

FLOWERBOY – Alone Together

FLOWERBOY’s “Alone Together” is a poignant exploration of queer longing and hidden desire, wrapped in a shimmering package of 80s-inspired synth-pop. Alexander Daoust’s production creates a soundscape that’s both nostalgic and fresh, with gauzy synths and pulsing beats that evoke the bittersweet atmosphere of a high school dance. This musical backdrop serves as a clever counterpoint to the song’s more complex and often painful lyrical themes, creating a tension that mirrors the internal struggles of its narrator.

Lyrically, “Alone Together” delves deep into the queer experience of loving in secret, with lines like “push me into the bathroom / I can be less than a one night stand” capturing the desperation and self-effacement often born of societal stigma. The repeated refrain of “where we can be alone together” serves as both a plea and a fantasy, highlighting the desire for a safe space where one can be truly authentic. Daoust’s vocal delivery, described as “organic” and “measured,” brings a raw vulnerability to these words, while his “deadpan and subversive humor” adds layers of complexity to the narrative. As the lead single from the upcoming album “Palm Springs Eternal,” “Alone Together” not only showcases FLOWERBOY’s growth as an artist but also positions him as a unique voice in the alt-pop landscape, one unafraid to confront difficult truths while still crafting undeniably catchy tunes.

mariek – “The Map”

mariek’s “The Map” is a dreamy exploration of existential uncertainty, wrapped in a hazy indie rock package. The Moscow-based artist’s DIY approach shines through in the track’s lo-fi production, with layers of self-taught instrumentation creating a sonic landscape that’s both intimate and expansive. The song’s structure, with its repetitive phrases and gradual build, mirrors the cyclical nature of self-doubt and the search for direction in life.

Lyrically, “The Map” delves into the tension between following prescribed paths and forging one’s own way. Lines like “It’s hard to tell if it will flow / And found a place to stay inside / A closer look shows the map is a lie” capture the disillusionment that often comes with realizing that life doesn’t always follow a predetermined route. The recurring question “Will it lead me where I should be?” serves as both a plea for guidance and an acknowledgment of the uncertainty inherent in personal growth. By crafting a song that’s both introspective and universally relatable, mariek demonstrates her ability to translate complex emotions into accessible indie rock. “The Map” not only showcases mariek’s growth as a self-taught musician but also positions her as a promising voice in the dream pop scene, one capable of creating music that resonates with anyone navigating the confusing terrain of early adulthood.

casie – “Indications”

casie’s “Indications” is a high-octane blend of post-hardcore intensity and pop-punk catchiness that showcases the Vancouver-based band’s ability to balance raw emotion with polished songcraft. Recorded by Jesse Gander, known for his work with Japandroids, the track’s production captures the urgency of a live performance while maintaining a crisp clarity that allows each instrument to shine. The song’s structure, alternating between driving verses and a more melodic, singable chorus, creates a dynamic tension that mirrors the internal struggles described in the lyrics.

Lyrically, “Indications” delves into themes of self-doubt, communication breakdown, and the struggle to maintain authenticity in the face of social pressure. Lines like “Call it luck, or what you want / I think I’m terrified to talk” and “These cavities, cuz you lie through your teeth / You think everyone bleeds the same” capture the frustration of trying to connect in a world of surface-level interactions. The song’s stream-of-consciousness bridge, with its rapid-fire delivery of conflicting desires and observations, adds a layer of complexity that elevates “Indications” beyond typical genre fare. By blending emotive vocals, intricate instrumentation, and thoughtful lyricism, casie creates a track that’s as intellectually engaging as it is mosh-pit ready, positioning themselves as a promising voice in the evolving landscape of post-hardcore and alternative rock.

Honey Motel – “Coping Mechanism”

Honey Motel’s “Coping Mechanism” is a kaleidoscopic journey through the hazy landscapes of modern disillusionment and self-medication. The Liverpool-based band crafts a soundscape that’s as vibrant as it is melancholic, blending psychedelic-infused guitar riffs with driving rhythms that evoke comparisons to The Backseat Lovers and Wallows. Matt Walker’s vocals, alternating between languid drawls and impassioned cries, perfectly capture the emotional turbulence at the heart of the song.

Lyrically, “Coping Mechanism” paints a vivid picture of escapism and existential uncertainty. Lines like “Took a walk-in West LA / Take a trip, MDMA” set the scene for a narrative that’s equal parts introspective and observational. The recurring motif of “Head out California in the morning / Sell-out for a small fortune, irreligion” serves as both a critique of hollow ambition and a nod to the allure of reinvention. By juxtaposing references to religious imagery (“Hail Mary save our souls”) with stark depictions of modern ennui, Honey Motel creates a song that’s as intellectually engaging as it is sonically captivating. “Coping Mechanism” not only showcases the band’s growth since their earlier singles but also positions them as astute commentators on the complexities of navigating one’s twenties in an increasingly chaotic world.