A burst of sunny disposition emanates from Sundozer’s newest offering, “Charmed”. It’s a sound that’s as rejuvenating as it is introspective. Nestled comfortably amidst peers like Beach Fossils and Phoenix, this Austin-based indie rock sensation has managed to churn out a track that’s simultaneously light-footed and deeply resonant.
Right from the opening lines, “Taking my time/All alone in the light,” the buoyant feel of the track is established. Christian Luis French, the driving force behind Sundozer, paints a vivid imagery with the lyrics: the blazing Texas sun, the inevitable passage of time, and the introspection it brings. There’s a particular beauty in the way he contrasts the red-hot intensity of a Texas day with the coolness of an evening, paralleling the highs and lows of emotions we often grapple with.
The chorus is where the track truly shines. “You’ll try to charm your way out” — a line that is at once a gentle nudge and a profound contemplation. It speaks of the facades we put up, the defenses we craft, and the ember-like resilience that fades as the pressures mount. The repeated questioning, “Can you feel it?” punctuates the song with a certain urgency, prompting listeners to look inward.
However, beneath the glossy veneers of its upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation, the track delves into deeper territories of self-reflection. “Is this the place you thought you knew/Or should you go” — a sentiment many can resonate with, particularly in the journey of understanding oneself and one’s place in the world.
Sundozer’s sound seems reminiscent of bands like Real Estate and Wild Nothing, but there’s an unmistakable uniqueness to “Charmed”. Perhaps it’s the blend of the sunny Texas ambiance combined with the indie rock sensibilities, or perhaps it’s just the magic of Christian Luis French’s songwriting and production, but the track definitely stands out.
In all, “Charmed” is more than just another indie rock song; it’s an exploration, a journey, and an invitation. An invitation to dance under the sun, to reflect in its afterglow, and to find one’s own charm amidst the myriad of life’s complexities. Sundozer, with this track, proves once again that music can be both a delightful escape and a mirror to the soul.
Quinn Devlin, with his latest track “Son of a Girl,” exhibits a storytelling craftsmanship that seamlessly intertwines indie rock, folk, and alt-country. It’s a magnetic piece that paints vivid vignettes of intergenerational relationships, evoking a profound sense of nostalgia and introspection, much in line with the likes of Andy Shauf and TOLEDO.
The track carries with it the weight of legacy, both in terms of the burdens and the beauty one inherits from their lineage. “You are the son of a girl, who couldn’t make it in this world” – this line sets the stage for the poignant narrative that unfolds, highlighting a mother’s unfulfilled ambitions and her hopes for her child. The description of the mother’s curls passed onto her child is a touching metaphor for inherited traits and memories.
The song also speaks of relationships and the challenges they come with. The vivid portrayal of the father, a figure who “couldn’t stand the noise” and “never shared his toys,” paints an intimate picture of familial dynamics. Devlin beautifully ties these relationships together with the recurring theme of the “late summer fire” and “Kate’s medallion,” suggesting pivotal events that leave an indelible mark on the characters in the song.
This narrative style, reminiscent of songwriting giants like Bruce Springsteen (as echoed in Devlin’s influences from “Greetings From Asbury Park, NJ”), is deeply rooted in depicting everyday struggles and emotions. The track’s instrumentation, which has the serene quality of indie folk and the rustic charm of alt-country, perfectly complements its lyrics. The soft, melancholic strums transport the listener into Devlin’s world, making the narrative all the more immersive.
Quinn Devlin’s personal experiences and diverse musical background shine through in “Son of a Girl.” His upbringing, marked by classic records, and his journey in NYC seem to inform the authenticity of the song’s narrative. His multi-instrumental capabilities are evident in the lush musical landscape he crafts, which, when combined with his evocative lyrics, creates a truly immersive listening experience.
In conclusion, “Son of a Girl” is a testament to Quinn Devlin’s adeptness as a songwriter. It’s a hauntingly beautiful track that captures the essence of relationships, legacy, and the cyclical nature of life. For fans of narrative-driven indie folk, this song is a heart-rending journey worth embarking on.
In a modern landscape where indie rock and pop frequently blend, producing an ever-evolving subgenre, Curling’s “Hi-Elixir” stands out as a profoundly emotional and melodic gem. Reminiscent of the emotive lyrical and sonic stylings of the likes of American Football and Rainer Maria, this track is a passionate nod to ’90s indie rock while comfortably situating itself in contemporary vibes.
The lyrics of “Hi-Elixir” weave a heartfelt tale of yearning and realization. With the line, “Hey, don’t lose that longing,” the song speaks to the universal human experience of chasing desires, asking the listener not to lose that innate sense of aspiration. The reminder that “There is life all around, can’t you see?” resonates deeply, evoking images of missed opportunities and the inherent beauty that surrounds us daily.
The introspective line, “You know that’s not how it goes,” punctuates the chorus with a hard-hitting truth. Paired with the poignant reflection that “you can’t take back what you have never had,” “Hi-Elixir” strikes a chord of acceptance and understanding, mirroring the introspection that bands like Mineral and Sunny Day Real Estate encapsulated so well in their heyday.
But beyond its evocative lyrics, what stands out is the track’s atmospheric instrumentation. The guitars cascade with reverb-soaked riffs, reminiscent of American Football’s intricate and melancholic playing style. The pacing is consistent with the narrative, building up with fervor, only to retreat, reflecting the highs and lows of the emotional rollercoaster that the song portrays.
Furthermore, the duality of the terms “Adored” and “Adorned” plays a beautiful lyrical trick, with one speaking to deep love and appreciation and the other to superficial allure. “Took a lifetime to know that you’re looking for a thrill” captures the essence of yearning and the continuous search for excitement. And the line “Tied down for a lullaby” encapsulates the desire to be anchored, even in a transient world.
Curling’s “Hi-Elixir” bridges the gap between the poignant indie rock of the past and today’s contemporary soundscapes. It feels both nostalgic and fresh, a delicate balancing act that Curling achieves flawlessly. In essence, “Hi-Elixir” is not just a song—it’s a contemplative journey, and for those familiar with the ethos of bands like Mineral and Sunny Day Real Estate, it’s a comforting return to a sound that’s both treasured and timeless.
As the very tapestry of music continues to evolve and intertwine, Hearts emerges, strumming on the strings of indie-rock nostalgia while simultaneously offering a fresh spin to the beloved genre. With their track “It’s Over” from the debut EP ‘EP1’, the band captivates listeners with a harmonious blend of the past and the present.
As you dive into “It’s Over”, the potent influences of Catfish and the Bottlemen and Oasis are palpable, yet this isn’t a mere reproduction. There’s an essence unique to Hearts that shines through—a perfect synergy born from the members’ diverse backgrounds, from Rob Hall’s stint with Catfish and the Bottlemen to the individual flavors of The Bongo Club and Bottlecap. The blend of Swede’s pop sensibilities with the gritty spirit of BritPop gives “It’s Over” a sonic texture that’s both familiar and new.
There’s an almost confounding juxtaposition in the track; it’s airy, as the band itself notes, especially during the verses, but still retains the energy of a stadium anthem. As soon as the song hits its stride, you understand why it’s become a live favorite. It elicits a feeling of both introspection and collective euphoria, a combination rarely mastered in today’s music landscape.
Recording in Audiofabriken and the final touches in Chapel Recording Studios no doubt brought the professionalism and sound clarity that sets the track apart. The realness of live recording brings forth a tangible authenticity in “It’s Over”, making you feel almost as if Hearts is playing right in front of you. The unexpected twist of the Moog synth by the producer expands the song’s dimensions, bridging the gap between classic indie rock and contemporary electronic touches.
But more than just their musical prowess, Hearts’ ethos—rooted in extensive touring, shared adventures, and an unwavering commitment to the band life—forms the bedrock of “It’s Over”. The song isn’t just a collection of chords and lyrics, but a story of camaraderie, of the joy and challenges of creating art with friends.
What strikes as most inspiring is the band’s origin story. The fact that these musicians, despite having known and respected each other from different projects, found an entirely new energy when they finally united. “It’s Over” is a testament to that chemistry. It’s a celebration of friendships and the pure joy of making music, devoid of any pretense.
In conclusion, “It’s Over” is more than just a song—it’s an experience. It’s a journey through the annals of indie rock, a testament to the timeless allure of guitar music, and above all, a symbol of unity in diversity. With their imminent tour post the EP’s release, one thing is certain: Hearts is a force to be reckoned with, and “It’s Over” is just the beginning.
Brooklyn’s noise rock maestros, A Very Special Episode (AVSE), deliver an electrifying sonic experience with their latest track “Petals.” Positioned as the climactic conclusion to their sophomore LP, Freak Me Out, this song is a cacophonous exploration of human sentiment, wrapped in layers of shoegazing soundscapes and lo-fi rock undertones.
From the outset, the song displays a distinct tension between aggression and contemplation. The lyrics weave a tapestry of existential musings, characterized by moments of impatience (“Tired of waiting / Hesitating / Need sedating”) and introspection (“My spirit / My body / Are fighting inside me”). These reflections seem to oscillate between a yearning for resolution and a defiant embrace of the present moment, underscored by the repeated refrain: “You don’t wanna wait for it, you don’t wanna wait.”
Musically, “Petals” showcases AVSE’s prowess in blending the hypnotic, ethereal qualities of classic shoegaze with the raw, visceral energy of alternative rock. This sonic marriage is perhaps most evident in the track’s bridge, where the dreamy, introspective verses give way to a more confrontational and abrasive chorus: “You’re gonna read invisible words / You’re gonna hear deafening sounds.” Here, the band taps into a darker, more experimental mood, reminiscent of their peers like The Royal They and Softcult, crafting an atmosphere that’s both harrowing and entrancing.
The accompanying “Skinamarink-inspired” music video for “Petals” injects another layer of intrigue, with its spooky visuals adding a sense of eeriness that parallels the song’s aggressive and experimental vibes.
Contextualizing “Petals” within AVSE’s broader oeuvre reveals a band unafraid to evolve. Their debut, FIX YOUR HEARTS OR DIE, introduced us to a group rooted in raw energy and a Lynchian atmosphere. Yet, with Freak Me Out, and particularly with “Petals,” AVSE embarks on a bolder journey, pushing their signature sound to its most daring edges, while embracing more mainstream melodies and structures, as evidenced in tracks like “Deep in the Weeds”.
The democratic songwriting process of AVSE shines through in the rich texture and depth of “Petals.” The collective minds of Kasey Heisler, Patrick Porter, and Chayse Schutter have birthed a track that’s both a testament to their individual talents and a reflection of their harmonious synergy.
To sum it up, “Petals” is a noisy rollercoaster of emotion and sound that captures the essence of A Very Special Episode’s transformative evolution. It stands as a testament to the band’s capability to craft music that is both profoundly introspective and audaciously bold. Dive into the immersive world of AVSE with “Petals,” and prepare to be moved, challenged, and utterly spellbound.
Sometimes the submissions I receive are from artists that are just starting out and have very little name recognition, and trust me I love those submissions, then sometimes Passenger’s publicist sends a music video. This song, and accompanying video immediately grabbed my attention because it scratches that itch of pop/indie that hits me just right on a morning walk or time spent journaling with a cup of coffee. Put plainly, it’s an earworm with a melancholic tinge that mixes well on this early January winter morning in Denver.
My first thought as the verses begin was “this is certainly a Passenger song,” and I mean that in the best way possible. Michael David Rosenberg aka Passenger has the well-produced and upbeat sad song dialed in to the point that many artists could only dream of. The message of the song is relatable for many who have navigated the dating waters in the modern world, constantly restarting the “search for a heart to love,” that Rosenberg talks about so eloquently. The video itself is simple but captures the feeling of being lost in a crowd, both literally and with the song’s content as the speaker continually wades through the crowd in search of his one and only.
I’ve been hopelessly clutching up for something I can hold I’ve been lying in the dark with no light in my soul I’ve been rummaging around in the rain and the cold I’ve been searching for diamonds in a pile of coal I’ve been searching for diamonds in a pile of coal
Good evening B-Side Beauties! It’s been a while. Let’s get this thing going again shall we? Today I have a song that I’ve been jamming to for a couple of years now from the esteemed John Steam Jr. Don’t confuse it with that other “Let It Go” jam (not that I’m hating on that one, it was a banger), but John’s version does have a similar message for the R-rated crowd. Let that shit go. I posted my favorite lines at the beginning of this post. In the forever bleakness that many of us have experienced since March 2020, this stanza reminds us that we’re still getting older and we still have life left to live. If we continually focus on the casket, don’t be surprised if we fall into it, but if we can shake off our troubles, and try to find a positive outlook for the future, maybe there’s a way out of this mess, “I’m fuckin sure, I’d place a bet.”
Let John Steam Jr.’s punky vocals and driving acoustic songs sing you to a peaceful evening; I know I will. Until next time,
The Flock is an idea that we had to help fans of a specific genre find multiple bands they love in one post. It helps us provide value to you, the reader, by putting more of what you want in one place. It also helps the artists. Fans of their music come to the page and become fans of other similar artists, growing their fanbase more efficiently. It also helps artists connect with other artists who have a similar feel, so they can help each other out, work together, play shows, etc. Our goal here is to help promote artists that we believe in and want to see succeed. The Flock is a great way to help with that, and we’ve seen some really cool things happen because of it. Let’s get into this edition of The Flock.
There is a music video that this reminds me of. If someone can help me out, I would be forever grateful. I feel like it’s The Black Keys from many years ago, but can’t find the video anywhere. It’s a two piece group where they’re playing on a television show set that’s akin to the set from the Eric Andre Show. This reminds me of that music video, but they graduated to a new set. It’s got gritty guitar, pacesetting drums, and unique vocals that carry on in your head long after the song ends.
The lyrics tell the story of a relationship that seems to have ended on a sour note, but the writer can’t seem to move on. They know the relationship isn’t good for them, but still want to leave a line open just in case. Just like with most past relationships, you reflect upon them more fondly the further you’re removed from the situation, even though they were truly nightmares.
But if you ever make it home again, I’m pleased to show you `round all the troubles I’m / we’re in. no need to choose words wisely, no more nightly chases, no thinking twice and no `glad to see you later`. But something’s keeping me from moving on, inbetween places it’s hard to hold on. I’m sending signs to nowhere, down the milky way. Sweet memories of nightmares a burning needle in the hay.
The album itself is a really interesting idea that doesn’t happen all that frequently. The drummer, Florian Hellekin, produced the whole album in his home studio, and invited a multitude of talented vocalists to sing on the tracks. The album has a ridiculous amount of variance. Go check the Spotify pageand listen to Healer and Snow Yellow Carpet back to back to see what I mean.
This song has made its way onto so many of my personal playlists outside of the ones we post on the blog. The video only adds to what is a beautiful track of undying love and dependency. First off, before we go any further, Tim Freitag isn’t a person. I mean, there’s definitely a person named Tim Freitag, but he’s not in the band. I had to check to make sure, and I absolutely loved what I found. This is straight from their facebook page:
Tim Freitag are and always will be: Janick Pfenninger, Lorenzo Demenga, Daniel Gisler, Nicolas Rüttimann, Severin Graf
I don’t love it because there’s nobody named Tim. I love it because of the words “are and always will be.” This group isn’t just a band, they are brothers. That camaraderie and friendship comes through in a track that is well-rounded, instrumentally straightforward while still having complexity, and a vocalist that has a unique tone and incredible vocal inflection.
This track is so good. It’s like Two Door Cinema Club’s existentialist cousin. The Two Door reference is easily noticeable on the track, but the existential part may have you hung up. Let’s dive into it. The song has some of the most interesting lines throughout it. I’ve listened to it three times in a row while trying to write this post and every single time I pick out a new piece that makes me smile. It’s not the content itself that makes me smile (a study of mortality and the finite time on this planet), but the way they talk about it.
I said the noose brings infinite youth, The more you tighten it’s hold the truth will unfold for you, Woah oh oh So come at me with your best shot best believe that i ain’t got time
Those first two lines are some of the best I’ve heard in a long time, and I listen to a ton of new music every single day. I feel like I could break that single line down and do a whole post about that, but I just want to bring up a couple of points about it. It works in multiple ways, but let’s break down just two of them.
Let’s talk about what I believe is their intent behind the lyrics first. They are saying that as we age and as we get closer to death, we find ourselves thinking more and more about mortality and wishing for our youth again. It brings wisdom, but it also brings pain and understanding of past mistakes and wishing you could go back and fix them. Maybe they aren’t talking about fixing them, but a chance to do things right now. I don’t know. I do know that they follow it up with the sentiment of understanding that there’s definitely a timer, and don’t waste part of my timer with petty bullshit.
Now I want to talk about another idea I had about these lyrics. The noose brings to mind the idea of suicide, and I think this tells a great truth about that topic. I watched a documentary recently that told the stories of people who survived their suicide attempt. One common thread between the people, especially the ones who jumped from a bridge, building, etc., was that as soon as they leapt, they immediately felt regret, even before hitting the bottom. As that noose tightened, the truth opened up for them and it wasn’t something that they truly wanted to do.
The song actually has a lot of allusions to suicide, but I believe the huge underlying message is that we all have a timer that whittles away every second, and we can’t waste our time by complaining, getting caught up in petty things. Nobody beats the reaper.
Also, if you are having suicidal thoughts, give 1-800-273-8255 a call. Also, feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to talk to you. We aren’t trained professionals, but we have pretty big shoulders.
This song is raw emotion. The band is a phenomenal look at how moving gears do so for the betterment of the machine, but Jess Price, lead vocalist, is the pinion gear. For those of you not familiar with a pinion gear, that is referred to as the “drive gear” in vehicles*. She has an otherworldly voice that drips with energy and emotion. She has the kind of voice that you create in your dreams to set the scene conflict of the story. You don’t have soundtracks to your dreams? Don’t worry. It’s not as cool as it sounds. It just makes bad dreams way scarier.
*I didn’t know what a pinion gear was prior to writing this article, so if I’m way off, you get the idea.
Anyways, let’s talk about some lyrics. Ambiguity is the word of the day here, and this song is no different. I honestly couldn’t tell you what I lean towards this song being about, but we’ll give it a go.
Hold the wheel Feel my head Probably should have stayed in bed Souvenir Come right here I’ll be yours a little bit Did you want to get me gone Did you want to get me Well that train is going by
*Disclaimer: This is one of the first lyric assessments that I don’t feel great about my interpretation vs. what the song is supposed to be saying. Once again though, as we always say, once an artist releases their song to others, it’s not solely theirs anymore. Music is a beautifully subjective world*
The first three lines are fairly easy to decipher; someone is sick and shouldn’t have gotten out of bed. Now comes the fun part. The souvenir is tricky. By itself, it doesn’t really mean anything, but with the following line, we see that it is an animate object. Knowing that people typically write songs about other people, I think it’s fairly safe to say that the souvenir is a person. Now we have a bit of a story. Go back to the first line where they’re holding the wheel, put it with the souvenir, and all of a sudden we met someone on a trip. “I’ll be yours a little bit” is such a cool line, telling the person that you are invested in this fun and new relationship, but you ultimately know it’s temporary. Maybe it’s not though. The next line says if you want me gone, do it now because that *train is leaving the station. The next verse follows up with my theory, stating that their look is the smoldering look, barely keeping their emotions or even their anger below the surface, but this is so fresh that that kind of thing still looks good. The next line says “come right here, and let me feel you miss your dead,” effectively shooting my theory to shit. Possibly it’s just saying open up to me, I want to know your deepest emotions, but I’m not sure. Either way, it’s an absolutely phenomenal piece. Reach out to us, Campdogzz, and give us the full scoop.
*Just a fun fact: The first successful steam engine used a huge pinion gear to help power it.
Well that train is going by Well that train is going
I usually don’t post full lyrics, but these are too good not to. Plus, there aren’t too many lines.
I’ve had the opportunity to do a little thinking
and I hope that you can understand
Somewhere along the way I got a little distracted
and I hope I get away with it
Because if I were a leopard I’d run really fast
and be totally untameable
Yes if I were a leopard I’d run really fast
and I’d always be wild animal
I’ve had the opportunity to see a new perspective
and I hope that you can understand
somewhere along the way I think I stopped believing
and I hope that don’t stand in our way
Because if I were a leopard I’d run really fast
and be totally untameable
Yes if I were a leopard I’d run really fast and I’d always be wild animal
A wild animal
This seems to be a battle between the flesh and the mind. He seems to be moving on from something that made him feel caged. It may have been smart, it may have been the right move at the time, but the animal in him wants out of the cage. I feel like this song is applicable to so many aspects of our lives. Jobs, relationships, religion, or any number of things can fit into this song. It is human nature to want to explore so you can see the full gamut of the human experience. Once again, life is too short to feel like you’re in a cage.
With emotive vocals, and an instrumental track that plods along at the perfect pace to show the current pace of the caged life, this track shows that the stories in lyrics can be told through the instruments around them too.
This is the song I wish we had found prior to doing our podcast episode about “Warmth.” It’s the perfect song where you hear one thing, but feel another. Instrumentally, it’s like the bands I listened to in high school (and still do), but lyrically it’s on a different level. If I’m reading into it correctly, it’s a song about battling seasonal depression, or just depression in general.
Stay warm for the weekend for the winter for the year Stay inside til the summer but show the sunlight you’re still here Cause you don’t know what love is but you hate who you are without it Stay warm forever even after your whole world disappears
I feel like they’re letting you know that depression is okay and it’s going to happen, it’s all about how you handle it. You’re going to have those weekends, seasons, or years where you have to bundle up and fight to stay warm, but remember that you need to break out at some point and you need to feel the sun, feel something new. The line, “you don’t know what love is, but you hate who are without it,” is so powerful. People act like depression is this thing that people do to themselves, instead of understanding that a lot of clinical depression is a chemical imbalance that can’t be helped outside of pretty powerful prescription drugs. It’s an affliction. Nobody on this planet is like, “Hey, I think I want to feel like everything is hopeless and there’s really no point to anything I’m doing for a while.”
The video is great because not only are they having a lot of fun, but they’re also sending a clear message; find a supportive community and make it through the hard times together. This is one of the most important things to realize; most people are meant to live in packs. Also realize that nobody around you knows shit about shit (TM).
Don’t you know? We’re all making it up as we go We wouldn’t have it any other way
Galapaghost – Bedtime
No stranger to the B-Side Guys, Galapaghost was one of the first artists on this planet who knew about and believed in what we were doing, and let us feature his song, Goodbye(My Visa Arrived), on the very first episode of our podcast. On the episode, he mentioned that he was working on a completely electronic album that would be a bit of a removal from his previous work. This is it, and it is phenomenal. He took the instrumentals and gave them more life while not losing the honest lyricism on the previous album. Once again, I’m going to go out of my box and share all of the lyrics, but once again, they need to be shared and they’re not too long.
Go on and have fun with your friends on the weekend Don’t stay home all alone with your feelings But I gotta say no I’m not a superhero And that’s the kind of effort that it would take For me to stay out late
And I will see you I will see you someday And I will love you I will love you always
So here’s my idea of fun My struggle book one Then dinner for two Then put on my running shoes In bed by 10 so if you wonder where I’ve been I’m too old to party on the weekend And every night of the week
And I will see you I will see you someday And I will love you I will love you always
This is a song about growing up. Maturing, if you will. Maturation looks different for everyone, but this is fairly similar to my version of life. Gone are the days of partying, going out on the weekends, and staying up until the sun shows back up. Looking back, I don’t miss them, but I totally get why some people have chosen to stay there. There’s nothing wrong with that, we’re just on two different paths now. The song is possibly talking about a romantic relationship, but I think I lean towards this being about friendships. They can be severed with no ill intent; people just move on. It’s not saying that the friendship is over, it’s just saying that until our life goals cross paths, I understand why we don’t hang out much. It’s actually a pretty beautiful story of adulthood.
It might also be about a romantic relationship, and that synopsis works the exact same way.
His new album, Sootie, will be releasing soon, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
Note to Casey: I love the old stuff, but this is a totally different beast as far as complexity. I love it, man.
“Fridays” is about the crushing sense of emptiness that follows when one realizes the subjective and thus, pointless nature of consumption under capitalism. Depression, drug abuse, loneliness — to me they are all symptoms of a culture that idolizes competitive individualism and defines success through one’s ability to consume more than others.
At the end of the tune, I talk about taking LSD and I ask myself “Why did it take so long to figure it out that it was all in my head?” To me it’s one of those things where you spend years searching for answers and a lifetime praying for ignorance.
When you can’t say it better yourself, don’t. This is a song that fights the idea of consumption and gluttony in all aspects of life, so we are naturally going to be all about it. I love that second part to the song where it talks about the idea “stuff” being important is something that is force fed to us from a very early age, and we are made to feel like that is the key to happiness. If having stuff was the key to happiness, we wouldn’t have so many celebrities with bank accounts in the tens of millions taking their own lives. Stuff consumes.
That’s 8 new artists that everyone needs to add to their rotation, but more importantly, go spend some money on these folks. A few bucks can go a long way when it comes to making more music. Remember to click the artist links in the name to check out tour dates, see merch, listen to more music, or even just send them a message to tell them you dig their sound.
*This first paragraph is a copy of a previously written synopsis of the point behind the new section, The Flock.*
We have two goals here with our blog and our podcast; we want to help you find a bunch of new artists that you love, and we also want to support those artists. We came up with a new idea for a post where we take a genre, and give you a few artists within that genre. That way, it helps everyone. If you come here because you love one artist, you’ve got five more that you’re probably going to love now. That helps you load up your playlist with tracks that will impress your friends, and it also helps the artists hit untapped markets and possibly network with likeminded artists they didn’t know existed. Without further ado, I present “The Flock.”
ARTISTS LOOK HERE: Caleb and I have started a Facebook group that we want to turn into a place for artists from around the country to find likeminded bands to fill shows out, find shows, and really just a community made by artists to talk about the industry. If you’re interested in joining that, CLICK HERE.
LUI HILL – Words Become Useless
LUI HILL, the German neo-soul alternative artist, hits us with a new song, and we couldn’t be more stoked about it. A stripped down intro with only piano chords and emotive vocals slowly builds until you’re in the middle of a full formed symphonic funk ride featuring a tightly formed drum sequence, open brass, and vocals that you can feel throughout your body. The video itself is a fun ride too (pun intended).
Path – Don’t Ever Love Me
Say one thing and you’ll say the other Never a chance that we were for each other Flower in the dirt could bloom if you let it A love to call your own, remember to forget it
Don’t ever love me Don’t ever love me
This bedroom rock song is the kind of song that makes breakups harder, and I’m not even mad about it. It’s equal parts a lesson on relationships, and a lesson in polarities.
One thing that people don’t know about me (probably) is that I’m a huge fan of rim clicks and rim shots. This song sets up a song of heartbreak with subtle rim clicks, and then hits home with honest and vulnerable vocals and delicate guitar, making a much fuller sound together than you’d expect given the intimacy of each individual track.
The Ruralists – Eggs
I can’t stop listening to this song. I am absolutely enamored. From allusions to Chicken Little and the world ending to finding solace in the right person’s words, this song is an absolute ride. The whole album, in fact, has made its way into a lot of my playlists recently. I have a list of criminally underrated bands, and these guys have definitely joined their ranks. There is an intimacy in tone and delivery that is unlike anything I’ve heard in quite a while, and they remind me of my favorite band, Manchester Orchestra, in both lyrics and delivery; they are rough around the edges and keep everything raw and open, leave minor idiosyncrasies and easter eggs (that’s my second pun of the post) throughout the track, and they have tight harmonies around an emotive and raw lead vocalist.
These are guys that you definitely need to keep up with. This is why we do this blog. How the hell do they have less than 1,000 plays per song on Spotify?
Manta Rays – Mountain Dew
I rarely share the releases that they send us word for word because A.) it feels like cheating, and B.) I feel like it takes away from my personal enjoyment of the song if I let those influence my writing. I have to make an exception in this case strictly because of how they derived through divine intervention the title of the song.
“Mountain Dew” is a song about; being lonely in the real world, pushing speeds that no blue man can begin to apprehend, and that it takes a man to know when no means no. Now you ask, Why is this song in particular called “Mountain Dew”? because in the very beginning of the song the bass guitar goes ‘deeeeew’.
I love their definition of what makes a man. I feel like it’s a very topical point in this tumultuous landscape we find ourselves navigating these days. You put topical lyrics with nice harmonies and a funk bass line, and you’ve got a track that’s perfect for beach days.
Blue J – Hard to Know
Blue J’s “Hart to Know” is that melancholic groove indie rock track that you hear in a movie when everything falls apart for the protagonist. Their father died, their partner doesn’t feel a spark anymore, and their car is sitting lifeless on the side of the road while they sit 3 miles away from a job interview that starts in 25 minutes. Now I’m building this movie in my head. Zach Braff stands in the middle of the road as the camera zooms out, framing him on the right and the car to the left. Flashbacks of the aforementioned events start running through his head: good times with his father, a scenic drive in the then-running car with his partner, who is still very much in love with him, and spinning his daughter around in a park, with her laughing until it’s hard to breathe. More flashbacks follow of everything falling apart with the partner, dad dying, turning to an opioid addiction, and losing his daughter in a custody case. At this point in the movie, Braff’s been clean for a month, but this interview fiasco has him feeling like it’s completely pointless to try. He should just turn around and go home.
And if your whole life turns to shit / I know it’s hard to know / you drag your body around behind you / everywhere you go / you don’t wanna live and I know it’s hard to know / to realize you can’t just let it go
The memory of his daughter pops back into his head, and he remembers why he’s starting this new life. Zach runs to the job interview, making it with 15 seconds to spare, and somehow not covered in sweat. He lands the job, and starts working on a new life for him and his daughter. Fast forward 6 months, and he’s enjoying his job while getting to see his daughter on weekends with allusions between mom and Zach about expanding custody rights. Roll credits.
The point is, this is a song that makes you feel something real. It is a tangible, living song that has its own legs and a destination in mind.
The Caracals – Catch Your Eye
This is a really interesting song. It has some raw indie rock Black Keys vibes, The Strokes-esque melodies, and instrumentation and progression that’s perfect for your next Halloween party.
The lyrics are as haunting as the music, and can cause some real self-reflection. The song centers around the idea of how technology has made us slaves to devices and keep us from interacting with each other on a personal level, especially when it comes to keeping a partner interested.
“Checking your phone all night as I fail to catch your eye.”
cleopatrick – youth
Not to be confused with Daughter’s hit song, “youth” from cleopatrick shares nothing but a name with the singer-songwriter. With heavy breakdowns and gut punch vocals, this is a different beast entirely.
The day I turn 23, I’m getting married
shortly after, I’m getting buried
This is the kind of song that has something for everyone: sincere and interesting vocals for the singer-songwriter, instrumentals for the metalhead, and the raw vocals for indie rock purists. This song is a hell of a ride.
*This first paragraph is a copy of a previously written synopsis of the point behind the new section, The Flock.*
We have two goals here with our blog and our podcast; we want to help you find a bunch of new artists that you love, and we also want to support those artists. We came up with a new idea for a post where we take a genre, and give you a few artists within that genre. That way, it helps everyone. If you come here because you love one artist, you’ve got five more that you’re probably going to love now. That helps you load up your playlist with tracks that will impress your friends, and it also helps the artists hit untapped markets and possibly network with likeminded artists they didn’t know existed. Without further ado, I present “The Flock.”
The Mooks – Fools
Mook – a stupid or incompetent person – isn’t the term that comes to mind when listening to the heady indie rock from the Toronto based trio. With straightforward instrumentals and a singer with the range most folks dream about, this band sounds a lot more seasoned than they actually are. The band formed in November of last year, but has a feeling of a modern day Velvet Underground; everything is very straightforward, everyone has a lane to fill, and they’re both storytellers. The Mooks are already on my 4th of July playlist for the beach this year, and I expect them to find a home on playlists all across the country.
Indian Askin – I Feel Something
Indian Askin, the Amsterdam based indie rock band, released their single, I Feel Something, earlier this month, and it has been creating a lot of buzz. Chino Alaya, the lead singer of the group, has a great mixture of silk and rocks in his voice, so it creates absolutely beautiful moments where the silk slides to gravel throughout the song, giving his voice and the song human characteristics. The song dives into what happens after a traumatic event. You feel like you are at the edge of everything, looking into the abyss of what comes after, and with time, you realize that you can feel something again.
The Braves – How the Money Rolls In
A gritty look at how a lot of the rich get their money off of the backs of the poor, How The Money Rolls In is a song that is full of nails and venom. Deep grit and sandpaper round out the vocals of Kelly Watson, who shares the chanting chorus with bandmates, Jesse Bolte and Ethan Lerversha. With a style that is equal parts The Clash and Gogol Bordello, The Braves bring storytelling to a tangible level, and have absolutely no apologies if they don’t check off all of your boxes. They are raw, they are moving, and they are real.
The Nova Darlings – I Like Crashing My Car (Into Yours)
This is that summer song that hits me right in the teeth. An introspective look at how we are usually our own worst enemy, I Like Crashing My Car (Into Yours) is the “bummer jam of the summer.” To add to their point about self-destruction, this song has been added to all of my summer playlists. Nothing like hiking through the woods to clear my mind only to feel it with all of my shortcomings as a human being. Rarely is the first verse of a song my favorite verse (at least if I like the writing all the way through, and they didn’t phone in the second half of the song… but I digress), but the first verse of this song is an absolute gut punch and sets the stage for self-exploration and a look into just how shitty we all are. Emotive vocals with a timbre that feels like it’s on the edge of breaking down keep you on the edge of your seat, ready to run out in front of traffic, and the shopping card keeps you firmly planted in your seat out of sheer curiosity.
Paddle Paddle – Speak Your Mind
This French indie/electro rock group is absolutely mesmerizing. I listen to a lot of new music, and I tell people constantly that they need their songs to be more full or have more layers if they want to aim for this style of music. Speak Your Mind is a shining example of what I mean. The song has as many rich textures as the album art, with everything working off the melody, but seemingly following its own track. The lyrics are something that we definitely need in an age where people struggle to share their ideas for multiple reasons, and hide behind everything from political ideology to computer screens.
Hugo Fowler – Faking Lately
Huge Fowler’s new track, Faking Lately, has that same groove to it that made Portugal. The Man a household name. With a similar timbre of John Gourley, Fowler has a gift for playing around with the beat, moving freely from quarters to sixteenths while keeping the pedal to the floor. The new single is out now, with the EP following up on the 26th. Make sure to keep tabs on this guy, because he already has his fingers on the pulse of proven success.
