Happy Monday, music lovers! Welcome back to another edition of the Monday Mixtape on B-SideGuys.com, your weekly oasis of handpicked tunes to kickstart your week. As the world churns on and a new week dawns, there’s nothing quite like a fresh set of tracks to accompany your morning coffee, that mid-day lull, or your evening wind-down. From indie gems to emerging talents and timeless classics, our mixtape promises a melodious journey through moods, genres, and stories. So, put on your headphones, hit play, and let’s dive into the rhythms and harmonies of this week’s eclectic selection. Ready for the sonic ride? Let’s go!
Lead Pony – “Strangers”
San Diego’s psych/blues rock prodigies, Lead Pony, are back with “Strangers,” a sonically exuberant yet thematically intricate offering off their forthcoming album, Vultures. With the premiere of its accompanying video via Ghettoblaster Magazine, the band effortlessly merges the vigor of Indie Rock and the nuanced textures of Alternative Rock. Through Jesse Hofstee’s evocative guitar riffs and introspective vocal delivery, the track encapsulates the paradox of human connection in the age of social media: outward celebration juxtaposed with internal melancholy. “Life’s a party but keep it down,” he croons, suggesting the often-masked loneliness underneath the veneer of online joviality. The song’s potent lines, such as “Look at you now, center of the crowd/ How to get out, never alone now,” reinforce the irony of being surrounded by others yet feeling incredibly isolated. It’s a narrative that speaks to the dissonance between what’s portrayed and what’s truly felt, making “Strangers” a timely reflection on our modern existential condition.
The music’s undercurrents of happiness, subtly fused with moments of chill introspection, underscore the track’s complex emotional landscape. As Hofstee shared, the song underwent a transformation during their sessions with Trevor Spencer, mirroring the very metamorphosis of personal identity in our digital age. The upbeat rhythm, juxtaposed with the poignant lyrics, captures the tension between real-life melancholy and the forced merriment of online personas. A particular highlight is the recurring chorus, both an anthem and a lament, addressing the pressure of maintaining a facade. “Strangers” is, at its core, a party song for the detached—inviting listeners to dance, reflect, and recognize the familiar faces hiding behind their chosen masks. An impressive and resonant addition to Lead Pony’s repertoire, this track is a testament to their adeptness at crafting songs that resonate both sonically and soulfully.
Darling Darlene – “someone you’re not”
In the sprawling vastness of the alt-pop landscape, a new beacon shines: Darling Darlene’s debut single “Someone You’re Not.” This luxurious track sails smoothly, marrying the leisurely vibes of modern yacht rock with the sophistication of French designer couture, making for an intriguing auditory journey. You can hear the inspiration drawn from contemporaries like MGMT and Beach House, yet there’s an added texture, possibly attributed to their DIY spirit that’s reminiscent of early Flaming Lips. With an almost palpable opulence in its melodies and rhythms, “Someone You’re Not” presents a dichotomy: a polished soundscape underpinned by the rawness of lo-fi production, which is further enhanced by the thematic exploration of ego, dreams, and the inevitable clash with societal norms.
Emerging from a Danish countryside retreat, Darling Darlene’s alt-pop masterpiece, embedded in their upcoming EP “Lost at the Movies,” beckons the listener into a world of introspection, navigating between authentic self-expression and societal expectations. The poetic lyrics tap into our shared human experience of yearning for a past not fully grasped, pushing against societal conformity while yearning for individualistic truth. As Christian Popp Therkildsen and Johan Skjold Knudsen weave their multifaceted musical tapestries, they deftly challenge the listener to confront the façade we often present to the world, and in doing so, bring forth the question: Are we all, in some way, portraying “someone we’re not”? The track, with its artful construction and thought-provoking themes, showcases Darling Darlene not merely as musicians but as evocative storytellers in the world of indie pop.
SECOS – “Encounters”
Emerging from the radiant glitz of Las Vegas, SECOS dazzles with “Encounters,” a provocative track capturing the ephemeral nature of modern connection. Recorded in the illustrious 11th St. Records—the same hallowed ground where Las Vegas’s luminary band, The Killers, birthed their album “Wonderful Wonderful”—SECOS paints an evocative scene of fleeting love. The lyrics, with their geographical metaphors, delve into the transient and hedonistic pleasures that often characterize one-night stands in today’s world. “See me surfing on the West side… Feel you with me on the North side” becomes emblematic of this nomadic search for pleasure, where intimacy is just another territory to explore. The song’s refrain, “Ok alright, let’s have another drink tonight,” while seemingly innocuous, cleverly underlines the repetitive and cyclical nature of these fleeting affairs, and how they are often fueled by liquid courage and the haze of nightlife.
Yet, for all its vivacity, “Encounters” doesn’t shy away from reflecting on the emotional aftermath that can follow these ephemeral connections. The juxtaposition of phrases like “We’re strangers in the evening with tea for two” and “it was worth the pleasure but I just wanna tell her that I want more” underscores the jarring transition from the highs of the night to the sobering reality of dawn. In true SECOS fashion, the bridge serves as a powerful intermission—a musical respite that hints at a transformation or introspection, only to circle back to the song’s familiar cadence, mirroring the pattern of these short-lived relationships. With “Encounters,” SECOS not only captures the heartbeat of modern romantic adventures but also reflects the complexities and contradictions inherent in seeking depth within the superficial.
Morgane Abel – “She”
Berlin-based indie pop sensation, Morgane Abel, serves a haunting ode to the push-pull dynamics of love in her new single, “She”. At its core, the song is an intimate portrayal of the dilemma one faces in love—the balance between granting freedom and the intrinsic longing for reciprocation. Abel’s lyrical artistry shines, delving deep into the paradox of letting go while still secretly yearning for reunion. “No-one knows where she goes, Can’t deny she makes me burn… Hope she keeps me in mind and that she will return,” she croons, weaving a tapestry of hope, passion, and the torment of restraint. Her influences are palpable yet never overbearing; there’s the introspective poise of Alice Phoebe Lou, the raw emotional vigor reminiscent of Janis Joplin, and the delicate melodic touch of Feist.
Yet, what sets Morgane Abel apart is her immaculate voice—a combination of sincerity and a seemingly effortless cadence that makes “She” a poignant experience. Her refrain, “I want to give her freedom, But I am restricting mine,” is both an admission and a revelation, making it a focal point of the track’s emotional journey. Abel’s live performances, known for their spontaneous improvisations, promise that each rendition of this song is unique, like reliving a memory with different shades each time. “She” isn’t just a song; it’s a testament to the complexities of love, freedom, and self-boundaries in a world where emotions aren’t always black and white.
Daschenka Project – “Sledgehammer”
Daschenka Project plunges into the tumultuous currents of nostalgia and emerges with “Sledgehammer”, their vibrant rendition of the Peter Gabriel classic, setting the stage for the anticipated “Eighties Session”. This Neo-Soul Funk tapestry paints Peter Gabriel’s iconic track with strokes reminiscent of a time where groove was king, and synthesizers reigned supreme. This cover feels like a serendipitous meeting of Jamiroquai’s dynamism, Morcheeba’s tranquillity, and James Brown’s raw funk, but with a distinctly Daschenka touch. The charismatic warmth of Dascha Lüscher’s vocals transcends the original, making it as much an ode to the ’80s as a testament to the band’s unique fusion style.
The backdrop to Daschenka Project’s music offers a resounding echo of our times—where disillusionment and desolation often hold sway, and yet Dascha, with her intricate history and rediscovery of her musical self, turns adversity to anthem. The collective’s predilection for the ’80s is evident, not just as mere throwbacks, but as reconstructions steeped in Neo-Soul and Retro Soul aesthetics, making their covers both recognizable and refreshingly original. Drawing parallels to the likes of Scary Pockets and Pomplamoose, Daschenka Project’s rendition of “Sledgehammer” is energetic, pulsating with sexy undertones, and unapologetically happy—a reminder that while times may be tough, the rhythm of hope persists.
Atomic Fruit – “Eternal Afternoon”
From the legendary Hansa Studios, Atomic Fruit brings to light their newest odyssey, “Eternal Afternoon”. It’s not just a song; it’s a narrative of suspended moments in time, captured exquisitely through lines like “suspended in a brownian motion blur”. This opening salvo, taken from their impending debut album “Play Dough”, serves as an avant-garde interpretation of psychedelic and indie rock, calling to mind the experimental nuances of Radiohead and the electronic audacity of Gorillaz. The song is an exploration of transient realities and swirling emotions, reflecting the same sense of happy, chill, and energetic dynamism that underpins Atomic Fruit’s ethos.
The genius behind “Eternal Afternoon” lies not just in its entrancing grooves, but in the juxtaposition of its hauntingly evocative lyrics against a backdrop of swirling sonic contrasts. Frontman Martin Lundfall’s vocals, along with the textured layers of guitars, synthesizers, and rhythmic drum patterns, evoke a sense of wandering through the vestiges of the subconscious, searching for meaning in a chaotic universe. Lyrics like “We are but particularities, flavors of primordial soup” delve into existential ponderings, all while the track manages to maintain a danceable allure, inviting listeners into Atomic Fruit’s apocalyptic dance of the surreal. A piece that brilliantly captures the crux of the band’s debut, “Eternal Afternoon” is not just a song; it’s a beckoning into the enigmatic realm of Atomic Fruit.
Common Kings – “Do My Thing”
From the sun-soaked shores of California’s Orange County to the global stage, Common Kings have consistently infused their reggae roots with a splash of pop sensibility. Their latest offering, “Do My Thing”, is no exception. This track finds its groove in the vibrant juxtaposition of island rhythms and alternative rock fervor. It’s an audacious stride away from the traditional, yet retains the band’s unmistakable Polynesian signature. Echoes of the past can be heard in Samoan-born lead singer Sasualei “Jr. King” Maliga’s mellifluous vocals, as they ride atop the intricate tapestry woven by the rest of the band. Common Kings have always been a band that pushed boundaries, and “Do My Thing” demonstrates their keen ability to remain anchored to their heritage while venturing into the broad waters of mainstream appeal.
In the grand tapestry of their discography, “Do My Thing” stands as a testament to Common Kings’ evolution as artists and their commitment to their craft. The dedication that saw them hone 120 songs down to a curated 12 for their album ‘CELEBRATION’ is palpable in the polished production and intricate layering of the track. Their journeys with industry giants such as Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars are mirrored in the song’s universal appeal, yet it’s the tales from their backyard barbecues, their camaraderie, and their deep-seated Pacific heritage that give the song its soul. Common Kings have managed to create a tune that is both a feel-good anthem for the beaches and a rousing call in the arenas, underscoring their unique position in the global music landscape.
Izzaldin – “SPIKE”
Izzaldin’s “SPIKE” is a rich tapestry of narrative, woven with masterful storytelling and a potent juxtaposition of refined musical sensibilities with raw, unfiltered emotion. The track spins the tale of a courtside confrontation at a Knicks game, painting a vivid picture of the tension between the underdog and the established, between the outsider and the gatekeeper. Through the recounting of a heated exchange with the iconic Spike Lee, the song lays bare the hypocrisy and theatrics of those who purport to be champions of freedom. This is hip-hop in its most poetic and confrontational form, where the story is as much about the broader cultural clashes as it is about the personal ones.
Building on the legacy of legendary acts like Black Star and De La Soul, Izzaldin’s classical background seamlessly intertwines with his deep love for hip-hop, creating a sound that feels simultaneously timeless and fiercely contemporary. His lyrics on “SPIKE” display the sharp wit and observational prowess of a seasoned New Yorker, while the beats and rhythm are reminiscent of a bygone era of the genre. As Izzaldin reflects on memories of past rivalries, the game, the luxury, and the eventual face-off, listeners are transported courtside, feeling the heat and tension of the moment. This track, much like its protagonist, challenges preconceived notions and celebrates the indomitable spirit of the outsider, making it a standout in the “Futura in Retrograde” album. The sheer audacity of the story, combined with Izzaldin’s artistry, ensures that “SPIKE” is not just a song—it’s a statement.
Saints & Liars – “Garden Song”
Saints & Liars’ “Garden Song” is an effervescent ode to the untouched beauty of the American landscape, echoing through every chord with the raw energy and resilience reminiscent of the very roots of Folk and Americana music. Drawing on the vitality of their Vermont origins, the track pulses with life, inviting listeners to not just passively hear, but to actively partake – to dance, to stomp, and to sing with abandon. The simplicity of the song’s title belies the depth and complexity contained within, as layered instrumentals conjure images of sun-dappled fields and the unbridled joy of a life deeply connected to the earth.
With echoes of stalwarts like Chris Stapleton and Steve Earle, Saints & Liars have managed to carve out a unique niche, bridging the gap between traditional Country and a more contemporary Americana sound. “Garden Song” captures the signature gruffness and unapologetic vigor that the band is renowned for, making it impossible to remain still as the melodies wash over you. Yet, beneath the energetic surface lies a poignancy—a yearning for simpler times, for the beauty of unspoiled nature, and for genuine connection. In a world that often feels adrift, Saints & Liars provide an anchor, rooting us in tradition while propelling us forward with their infectious enthusiasm.
Katelyn Butcher – “I should run”
Katelyn Butcher’s “I Should Run” is a haunting dive into the complex emotional terrain of seeking escape from the weight of pain and toxicity. Each note drips with raw emotion, stemming from Butcher’s deeply personal narrative. This Alt Pop anthem does not shy away from the darkness that often accompanies life’s most challenging moments. Instead, it embraces it, creating a sonic landscape that is simultaneously aggressive and mournful, echoing the turmoil of trying to sever ties with someone who has caused profound hurt.
Hailing from Knoxville and having journeyed through Nashville to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, Butcher’s geographical transitions parallel the evolution of her sound. While she might draw on the signature elements of indie and dark pop, “I Should Run” carries a distinctive twist, a testament to her prowess not just as a vocalist, but as a songwriter and producer. The track reflects the artist’s commitment to her craft and her mission to connect with listeners on a deeply intimate level. In sharing her own vulnerabilities and struggles, Katelyn offers solace to those grappling with similar emotions, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey towards healing and self-liberation.