B-Side Guys

Welcome to bsideguys.com’s Weekly New Releases, your essential guide to the freshest sounds hitting the airwaves and streaming platforms. As we dive into another exciting week of musical discoveries, we’re bringing you a curated selection of tracks that span genres, moods, and continents.

This week’s lineup features a mix of emerging artists making bold statements with their debuts and established acts pushing the boundaries of their sound. From indie rock anthems that’ll have you air-guitaring in your living room to soul-stirring ballads that tug at your heartstrings, we’ve got something for every musical palate.

Our team of dedicated music enthusiasts has been working tirelessly, sifting through countless releases to bring you the cream of the crop. Whether you’re looking to discover your next favorite band, stay ahead of the musical curve, or simply find the perfect soundtrack for your week, we’ve got you covered.

So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and join us as we explore the most exciting new music of the week. Let’s dive in and see what sonic treasures await us in this latest batch of releases!

Justin Webb & The Noise – “Desperate Man”

Justin Webb & The Noise’s “Desperate Man” is a raw, gritty slice of indie rock that harks back to the golden age of garage rock while maintaining a distinctly modern edge. The track’s pulsing rhythm and driving guitars create a sonic landscape that’s both nostalgic and fresh, evoking comparisons to the early 2000s post-Strokes era while carving out its own unique space. Webb’s vocals, likely delivered with a mix of desperation and defiance, perfectly capture the song’s evolving themes of lost love and artistic rebirth.

The production, helmed by Jared Reynolds and Joe Costa at Nashville’s 3Sirens Studio, gives “Desperate Man” a live, in-the-room feel that aligns with the band’s commitment to organic, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll. This approach allows the collective experience of the band members, drawn from outfits like We Were The States, Bully, and Only, to shine through in every note. As the opening track of their debut album “Stupid Young,” “Desperate Man” sets a tone of uncompromising authenticity and musical passion, positioning Justin Webb & The Noise as torchbearers for a brand of rock that values heart and grit over polish and perfection.

Palomino Blond – “Left”

Palomino Blond’s “Left” is a potent blend of shoegaze and alt-rock that showcases the Miami trio’s ability to breathe new life into ’90s-inspired sounds. The track’s production, balancing heavy guitars with dreamy textures, creates a sonic landscape that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Carli Acosta’s vocals likely cut through the wall of sound with a mix of vulnerability and strength, perfectly capturing the song’s theme of questioning a partner’s intentions.

As the first single from their upcoming album “You Feel It Too,” “Left” sets a high bar for Palomino Blond’s sophomore effort. The band’s DIY ethos shines through in the track’s raw energy, while the polished production hints at their evolution from house-show heroes to rising stars of the indie rock scene. “Left” not only pays homage to influences like Curve and The Smashing Pumpkins but also carves out a unique space for Palomino Blond in the contemporary rock landscape. This single suggests that “You Feel It Too” will be a dynamic and emotionally resonant album, cementing Palomino Blond’s position as a band capable of bridging the gap between ’90s alternative rock and 21st-century indie sensibilities.

Julia Logan – “Moodswings”

Julia Logan’s “Moodswings” is a lush, introspective folk-pop gem that showcases the Swedish-American artist’s knack for crafting emotionally resonant narratives. The track’s production, helmed by First Aid Kit’s collaborator Daniel Bengtson, creates a warm, enveloping soundscape that perfectly complements Logan’s sincere and piercing vocals. The instrumentation, likely featuring acoustic guitars and piano, builds a dreamy atmosphere that evokes the expansive landscapes of both Logan’s Swedish island upbringing and her time in southern California.

Lyrically, “Moodswings” delves into themes of longing and connection, with lines like “Cause the heart’s a lonely hunter / In an empty space” capturing the song’s bittersweet core. The recurring imagery of natural elements – from the summit wind to the jewel in the sky – adds a touch of mysticism to Logan’s introspection. As the third single from her upcoming album “Faraway Nearby,” “Moodswings” not only demonstrates Logan’s growth as a songwriter but also positions her as a compelling voice in the contemporary folk-pop scene. The track’s blend of melancholy and hope, combined with its polished yet organic production, suggests an album that will resonate deeply with listeners seeking thoughtful, emotive music in the vein of First Aid Kit and Laura Marling.

Fox Indigo – “Gravity”

Fox Indigo’s “Gravity” is a bittersweet exploration of unrequited love, wrapped in a deceptively upbeat indie rock package. The track’s production, helmed by Fox Indigo herself, creates a sonic landscape that balances the frenetic energy of New York City with the intimacy of bedroom pop. The collaboration with Max Pannella on guitar, Robert Nicolls on bass, and Luca Bertaglia on drums adds depth and texture to the song, elevating it beyond its DIY origins.

Lyrically, “Gravity” delves into the complexities of falling for someone emotionally unavailable. Lines like “Started with a feeling / Didn’t think it had a meaning” capture the initial innocence of attraction, while “Can’t do another roller coaster, I’ll take the train” speaks to the weariness of repeated heartbreak. The recurring metaphor of gravity serves as a powerful representation of the inescapable pull of ill-fated love. As the lead single from her upcoming work, “Gravity” showcases Fox Indigo’s growth as an artist since her bedroom-recorded debut album, blending her classical training with indie rock sensibilities to create a sound that’s both familiar and fresh. This track positions Fox Indigo as a rising voice in the New York indie scene, crafting songs that resonate with anyone who’s ever found themselves caught in love’s gravitational pull.

Slumber – “Julian Casablancas (I Wanna Rock A Pair Like)”

Slumber’s “Julian Casablancas (I Wanna Rock A Pair Like)” is a raucous indie rock anthem that captures the self-aware swagger and endearing imperfections of London’s nightlife scene. The track’s production creates a sonic landscape that’s equal parts Britpop charm and garage rock grit, evoking comparisons to The Dandy Warhols’ sardonic wit and Blur’s knack for cultural commentary. The band’s ability to blend these influences while maintaining their own unique voice marks them as a rising force in London’s vibrant indie scene.

As Slumber’s debut single, “Julian Casablancas” serves as both an introduction to the band’s sound and a testament to their ability to craft memorable hooks and relatable narratives. The song’s exploration of social anxiety and the pressure to fit in at trendy parties is cleverly offset by its tongue-in-cheek reference to The Strokes’ frontman, creating a track that’s as humorous as it is introspective. With its release coinciding with an exclusive “Slumber Party” event and a headline show at Sebright Arms, “Julian Casablancas” positions Slumber as torchbearers for a new wave of indie sleaze, inviting listeners to embrace their inner awkward mess and dance away their insecurities.

Rainbow Skull Party – “ClownFace”

Rainbow Skull Party’s “ClownFace” is a haunting exploration of psychological horror wrapped in a hard-hitting alternative rock package. The track’s production creates a sonic landscape that’s both gritty and atmospheric, evoking the raw energy of Nirvana while incorporating the darker, more introspective elements reminiscent of Soundgarden. The band’s ability to balance heavy riffs with moments of eerie quietude showcases their dynamic range and sets them apart in the contemporary alternative metal scene.

Lyrically, “ClownFace” delves into unsettling territory, painting a vivid picture of a sinister clown figure with lines like “I need my night fix / You’ll love my magic tricks.” The recurring questions “Who are you and what is your name?” add to the sense of disorientation and unease that permeates the song. The juxtaposition of childlike imagery (“Red, blue, yellow, green / I paint, you’re obscene”) with more menacing undertones creates a tension that builds throughout the track. The repeated refrain “I’m just a clown, coming to get ya” serves as a chilling reminder of the threat lurking beneath the surface. With “ClownFace,” Rainbow Skull Party not only demonstrates their musical chops but also their ability to craft narratives that tap into primal fears, positioning them as a band capable of pushing the boundaries of alternative rock’s darker edges.

Rebecca Haviland and Whiskey Heart – “Monday Nights”

Rebecca Haviland and Whiskey Heart’s “Monday Nights” is a gritty, nostalgic anthem that captures the raw energy of New York City’s bygone music scene. The track’s production blends retro soul with classic rock elements, creating a sonic landscape that’s both familiar and fresh. Haviland’s powerful vocals, reminiscent of Grace Potter’s fierce delivery, drive the song forward with a mix of defiance and longing that perfectly encapsulates the track’s themes.

Lyrically, “Monday Nights” serves as a love letter to the East Village’s musical heyday, with lines like “This ain’t what it used to be / And now I ain’t 23” reflecting on the passage of time and the changing face of the city. The chorus’s declaration “This room is electric / I can feel it deep in my soul” evokes the visceral thrill of live music in intimate venues. As a preview of their upcoming EP “Late Nights,” this single not only showcases Haviland’s growth as a songwriter but also positions Whiskey Heart as torchbearers for a brand of Americana that’s steeped in urban grit rather than rural romanticism. “Monday Nights” is more than just a song; it’s a time capsule of a New York that shaped countless musicians, inviting listeners to experience the electric atmosphere of a scene that may be gone, but is certainly not forgotten.

Arctic Wave – “Stay”

Arctic Wave’s “Stay” is a tender, emotionally charged ballad that showcases C.L. Turner’s ability to craft deeply personal narratives within the indie rock framework. The track’s production creates an intimate sonic landscape, likely featuring delicate guitar work and subtle instrumentation that allows the vocals to take center stage. This stripped-back approach perfectly complements the song’s themes of vulnerability and longing, creating a space for listeners to connect with the raw emotions on display.

Lyrically, “Stay” is a masterful exploration of love’s fragility and the courage it takes to be completely honest with one’s partner. Lines like “Swallow my pride and false bravado / Want you at my side, today and tomorrow” capture the vulnerability at the heart of the song, while the repeated refrain of “I just want you to stay” serves as both a plea and a declaration of commitment. The song’s open-ended nature, leaving the beloved’s response unknown, adds a layer of tension and realism to the narrative. As part of Arctic Wave’s upcoming album “Heart and Soul,” “Stay” not only demonstrates Turner’s growth as a songwriter following personal hardships but also positions the band as a compelling voice in the independent music scene, crafting music that resonates with anyone who’s ever faced uncertainty in love.

Make Friends – “Maybe Tomorrow”

Make Friends’ “Maybe Tomorrow” is a vibrant showcase of the Bristol-based indie-risers’ evolving sound, blending buoyant indie-pop with left-field rock sensibilities. The track, produced by Bombay Bicycle Club’s Ed Nash, exemplifies the band’s sonic expansion, drawing influences from the euphoric pop-rock of Phoenix and the intricate arrangements of Everything Everything. Tom Andrew’s vocals likely soar above a tapestry of David Thomas and Connor Crabb’s intertwining guitars, underpinned by Max Lewin’s dynamic drumming, creating a soundscape that’s both intricate and immediately catchy.

As part of their ‘Loaded Fun’ EP, “Maybe Tomorrow” represents Make Friends’ mission to defy expectations and venture into uncharted musical territory. While specific lyrical content isn’t provided, the song likely tackles themes of personal reflection and fractured relationships, consistent with the EP’s overall narrative focus. The track’s inclusion in a collection that has garnered praise from BBC Radio 1 and critical acclaim from publications like CLASH and Wonderland Magazine suggests that “Maybe Tomorrow” continues the band’s trajectory of crafting “complex, quirky indie pop songs” with a level of creativity that sets them apart in the UK’s indie scene. This release not only solidifies Make Friends’ growing reputation but also positions them as a band poised for breakthrough success in the indie-pop landscape.