Darto - Andrew Weatherall - Hand Habits

Darto - I Am.

Background - Aagoo Records has announced two releases to be issued simultaneously on September 8. The first is ‘Human Giving’, a full length album from Seattle-based four-piece Darto. The second is the 'Follow Up / Hush' 7” featuring Darto and WAND, who wrote and performed these tracks together. The first LP is preceded by the single 'I Am'.

The album's mood is immediately clear from the first note of 'GDLS', enveloping the space around the listener. By the time 'I Am' enters, the sound and feeling transitions from lush and inviting, to focused and intentional with the keyboards and strings propelling the movement. The lyrics and accompanying melodies float along seamlessly like being lulled into a dream. 

“Despite all of its catchy qualities, ‘Human Giving’ is a difficult album to pin down. The lyrical phrasing, and melodies have been stuck in my head for months,” says Alec Dartley of Aagoo Records. “It takes me to a place filled with light, despite the psych realms the band takes us”.

As the record progresses, splashes of Americana seem to emerge, painting subtle pictures of the American West, or a vast expanse that we would associate it with. It’s a momentary visit to those places as Darto keeps moving, exploring new worlds. The album closes in a cinematic soft way, where the constant is an emotional hook that dives into the human condition. This is an open story, suggestive but with room for the listener to fill in the blanks.

“We didn’t play shows or hardly go to shows for a year and a half so we could write and record the album,” says Darto’s Gordon De Los Santos. “The album comes from the places within us where hope and love exist. Where the focus is not on the self, and where everything is possible. Humans giving themselves to other humans. The power of listening on all fronts. The desired effect is and was to bring hope in some capacity.” Website here, Facebook here, Aagoo Records here.

'I Am' is at best just a small glimpse of the whole when it comes to the intriguing, splendid and highly addictive 'Human Giving' album. Darto have created something quite special, yes there is a core band sound however quite what the following track is going to bring is hard to envisage first time around, and a couple of listens later, it still feels like a voyage of discovery.

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Andrew Weatherall - Evidence The Enemy.

Background - The aural collusions of Weatherall, Walsh and an old accomplice and sparring partner in Legrand (11/11/65 - 22/11/11), "Qualia" is a quandary, a question mark and maybe, just maybe, his finest release in years. It's also a record best defined in the words of Mr Weatherall himself:

It's all about the black notebooks as memorial device and "The Black Notebook" and "This Is Memorial Device". At the same time as reading Mr Modiano and Mr Keenan I was ensconced in the Woodleigh Research Facility investigating a method of composition sparked by a random event too prosaic for the telling; unless of course we go back to "The Red Book" and see the hand of Jah [the D.M.T molecule that steers human existence] at work.

After all it was him/her/non-binary that sent me the "shave your beard off" message. And the "don't buy any more drugs" one. Whatever your leanings the music on "Qualia" is the result of images, feelings and thought processes stirred up by Monsieur Modiano and Mister Keenan channeled through the medium of a sonic noteboook - in itself the memoir of somebody else's life/fiction.

My own black notebooks, like Jean's [Modiano's protagonist] stir the silt of memory and birth as many mysteries as memories. They also provided the track titles." - Andrew Weatherall. The Woodleigh Research Facility, July 2017. Facebook here.

The first taste of Andrew Weatherall's 'Qualia' album is 'Evidence The Enemy', a fabulous electronic piece, where the ideas quickly become musical hooks. On the strength of this one song, the album is an absolute must.

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Hand Habits - yr heart.

Background - Document is a new series from Saddle Creek which aims to highlight artists and music scenes from around the world that the SC crew has fallen in love with, but aren’t necessarily already part of the Saddle Creek family. The third release in the series is the yr heart 7-inch from Los Angeles’ Hand Habits.

Meg Duffy, aka Hand Habits, is a singer, songwriter and guitarist originally from upstate New York. 

She has been putting her time in on the road and in the studio over the past two years with pacific northwest band Mega Bog, and the Kevin Morby Band, making an impression on everyone she comes across with her natural charisma and uncharted talent as a multi-instrumentalist. Pre order here, Facebook here.

It's our forth feature for Hand Habits this time with 'yr heart'. To bring you up to speed previously we have described her music with these expressions "gorgeous & dreamy pop music" plus "sensitive calm feelings" & "Meg Duffy's enchanting vocals," so whats it to be this time? Beautiful and wonderful would be a fine starting place....


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DreamVacation - Flawes - Houg - Superet

DreamVacation - Thin World (EP).

Background - DreamVacation’s new EP ‘Thin World’ is cinematic in nature and thematically metaphysical. The EP includes such tracks as the title track which touches on existential themes. 2nd single “The Same Love” was originally inspired by the travails of Laura Palmer of Twin Peaks. While the EP touches on such seminal bands like Interpol and Temper Trap, the band employs a driving and transcendent approach to Post-Rock.

DreamVacation’s stunning new EP, Thin World, delves into the inherent disparity of a world run by zeros and ones, what it means to exist, and what it might mean to not exist at all.  It was recorded at Big Ego Studios in Long Beach and produced by Rian Lewis and DreamVacation.

DreamVacation include Zilva Thustra on vocals and guitar, Gerry Matthews on bass and synth, and Noah Alexander on drums and synth. The band members previously supported live acts such as Foster the People, Airborne Toxic Event, The War On Drugs and Matt & Kim.

Formerly a band called Atlantic Line, the three-piece had a licensing/publishing deal with a group called Hype Music, a partnership between the publishing arm of Sony ATV and MTV.  They had success placing songs in films and TV shows including Showtime’s Shameless, TNT’s Boston’s Finest, and SYFY’s Being Human, to name a few. In 2011, the band played the Hype/MTV stage in SXSW, and walked the red carpet for the MTV Woodie Awards. Website here, Facebook here.

I was not quite sure where to start with the 'Thin World (EP)'. Being able to share it in full helps, as the band traverse a good number of musical genres, making it something of a challenge to easily summarise. So if alt rock, shoegaze & all manner of indie music is for you, then enjoy, as this is a fine collection of songs that slip & slide within those regions.

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Flawes - Blank Dice.

Background - London via Yorkshire band Flawes reveal their new single ‘Blank Dice’ via Red Bull Records. It’s the second track from their upcoming EP due for release this Autumn.

The new EP is the band’s first new material since 2016’s ‘CTRL’ and ‘Unspkn’ EPs created a feverish buzz around the trio. ‘Blank Dice’ - produced by young, London producer Lostboy (Ella Eyre / Anne-Marie) encapsulates the band’s flair for alternative pop which has been attracting a loyal fan base these past 12 months.

“The song is based on the concept of luck” commented front man Josh (JC) Carruthers. “… with the idea that you ‘make your own luck’ and ‘the harder you work, the luckier you get’. A dice is the worldwide symbol for luck. When you strip a dice of all it’s numbers and roll it, nothing will happen because you make your own chances in life.”

“It outlines the sacrifices and strains on life when working hard in a cutthroat industry so hugely competitive. It’s not a lifestyle built for everyone and some people don’t understand or agree with investing/gambling away a huge amount of time, effort and focus”.

The band’s new material highlights an exciting first half of 2017 for Flawes who have already performed at a host of festivals including Live at Leeds, The Great Escape Festival, and were also hand-picked to perform on the Introducing stage at Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Hull earlier this Summer. Website here, Facebook here.

We featured Flawes for the first time around six weeks ago (with 'Forever') and the new track 'Blank Dice' is more than worthy of a feature. It's another finely crafted song where the production is top notch, which for an alt rock song with soulful vocals makes all the difference.

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Houg - The Seas I See.

Background - With a history in playing for multiple Singaporean bands ranging from Post Punk to Electro, Houg’s ambitions have taken him from the confinements of his local arts scene to the shores of Australia with hopes of pushing the ceiling and sharing his grooves with an international audience.

New single, “The Seas I See” was self produced and recorded in Houg’s home studio back in January. The song tries to sonically capture the essence of internal dread and chaos. It describes the subtle and invisible pains the people around us go through, unbeknownst to us. This is part of the greater theme of Houg’s debut album The Death Process, which also explores the different anxieties and pain, suffered first hand by Houg.

“Sonically, the song has its main line ‘It seems to me, all I see, my destiny, is at the bottom of the pit,’ repeat itself throughout in character of someone pleading in desperation. It also has the samples of saxophones as well as heavily effected vocals randomly appear throughout the song, signifying the chaos around the sufferer,” says Houg on the new song.

Houg’s influences range from Electronic acts like Gorillaz, Little Dragon & Bonobo in its electronic sound and sampling style, to New Wave artists like Tears for Fears & New Order for the synth sounds and lyrical style. He even has influences ranging from early Michael Jackson to DJ Shadow for his drums and beats.

Houg will be playing multiple shows in Melbourne from August, with a show at the Non DJ Showcase 9 on the 23rd of August at the Tago Mago Bar. He will also be playing at other local bars such as The Night Heron amongst others with dates to be confirmed. Website here, Facebook here.

'The Seas I See' is a creative and original piece. Houg's vocals are refreshing, the music rich with ideas & the production crisp & clear. It's also very addictive!


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Superet - Who Is This Guy.

Background - Los Angeles rock band Superet today shared their frenetic new single "Who Is This Guy". The song, was mixed by Dave Fridmann (Spoon, MGMT, Tame Impala).

Earlier this Summer, Superet supported Dreamcar on an East coast tour and Gang of Youths on a West coast tour, before returning to Los Angeles for a sold-out headline show at The Troubadour. Next month, the band will rejoin Dreamcar on a run of Southern California dates and will also be part of Echo Park Rising Festival. 

Superet is an American rock band that formed in Los Angeles, CA on Valentine's Day of 2016. Tattooed across the arm of singer/guitarist Matt Blitzer, the date marks both the project's genesis and the manifestation of the musical partnership between five close friends. Having collaborated in various iterations over the preceding years, Blitzer, along with Alex Fischel (keyboards), Sam KS (drums), Patrick Kelly (bass) and Isaac Tamburino (guitar, keyboards, percussion) present Superet as the culmination of their longstanding creative kinship. 

Snatched from the facade of a decrepit Los Angeles church (cult), the Latin word "superet" translates to "may it overflow," an apt description of the reclusive band's modus operandi. After quietly stockpiling eccentric, hook-laden rock gems behind closed doors, the group unveiled its blistering debut single "Pay It Later" in May of 2017. Website here.

Frantic beats, introduce 'Who Is This Guy' a track where every musical element seems to compete to provide a higher energy level. The vocal keep up & add even more to this two & a half minute blast of refreshingly beautiful music.


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Glass Hour - Ryan Wong - Midnight Faces - Imitating Aeroplanes

Glass Hour - Burn.

Background - Glass Hour are pleased to share their new single “Burn”, which is now available. This song takes a slight departure from our familiar piano and guitar tracks and incorporates electronic elements to make an upbeat, catchy tune. 

It speaks of abrupt silence, unfamiliar territories and the uncertainty of allowing someone to slowly fade from memory. 

“Burn” is taken from our debut album Minute Hand (advance link) which is set for release on August 18. It’s a breakup album - an illustration of love, heartbreak, and recovery. 

Glass Hour is a pop-rock band from Montreal. With a generous incorporation of piano combined with a signature guitar sound, their music ranges from massive arena rockers to intimate, soul-warming songs. Website here, Facebook here.

The new single 'Burn' is also one of ten tracks on the bands forthcoming album 'Minute Hand'. Whilst the featured song gives a flavour of whats to come, Glass Hour can and do mix the themes and styles in what is a really strong collection of material. The albums title track is particularly outstanding, and overall the songwriting and performance is consistently of high quality.

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Ryan Wong - Good Lovin'

Background - Ryan Wong's new single "Good Lovin'", will be featured on his forthcoming debut album 'More Milk' out 8/4 on Empty Cellar Records.

Though Ryan Wong’s boyish charm might be obvious to anyone who’s seen him perform solo or with his group the Cool Ghouls, what might not be obvious about the artist behind More Milk is that he is, in fact, lactose intolerant. What’s up with that? What kind of milk are we talking about anyway?

Well, sometimes a songwriter in a rock group has a jolt of creativity that results in some great numbers for the band (that’s the milk), and then even more ideas that might have to find their way into another icebox (more milk). While there’s a delicate acoustic sketch or two on this home-recorded cassette, don’t let Wong’s easygoing attitude or vocal style belie his ability to turn a great idea or two into a fully ambulant creature of a tune. Ryan—handling guitar, bass, and keys with a rotating cast of bandmates and roommates filling in on percussion and woodwinds—makes it happen. Just try to listen to the two-note, triple time trill that drives “Good Lovin” without imagining approaching an overcast San Francisco day with a Mr. Natural stride.

If you should stroll into a club in the Mission on a chilly evening or find this tape in your dealer’s deck, why not slow down and take it in for a moment? There’s a little something in these six songs for the deadheads, for John Cale obsessives, and for tough rockers in derby jackets and boots who like to eat mushrooms, sit in the grass and listen to the Emerson Brothers. I’m willing to bet there may even be something for you—Ryan’s probably holding and has plenty to go around. Bandcamp here.

'Good Lovin' is a fast tempo and vibrant song, where the rhythmic & melodic vocals are supported by a tight and somewhat stripped back soundtrack, which is fine as the vocals really do carry the song.

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Midnight Faces - Devils Money.

Background - Barely into his teens, Matthew Doty began making music with childhood friend Jonny Pierce (of The Drums), resulting in a full-length album released by Columbia Records. At age twenty, he went on to co-found post-rock instrumental giants Saxon Shore with Josh Tillman (aka Father John Misty), releasing three EPs, and two albums produced by Dave Fridmann (MGMT, Tame Impala, Flaming Lips.)

Originally a duo of Matthew Doty (guitar/bass/synth) and Phil Stancil (vocals/guitar/bass), Midnight Faces ‘Heavenly Bodies ’ LP was the first to feature drummer Paul Doyle as a full-fledged collaborator and the thrilling expansion of a sound begun on 2013’s ‘Fornication’ LP. For that album – Midnight Faces’ debut – Stancil brought vocals to Doty’s existing songs; 2014’s ‘The Fire Is Gone’ saw a more thorough partnership emerge between the two musicians, and praise for the record flowed from outlets including SPIN, Entertainment Weekly, Nylon, AV Club, Conan and more. Consequence of Sound premiered a full album stream of ‘Heavenly Bodies’, followed by a performance on Seattle’s KEXP. Fred Falke- who is known for a wide array of indelible remixes for artists like Hot Chip, Grizzly Bear, The Whitest Boy Alive, and more – also remixed their first single, “Heavenly Bodies.”

Midnight Faces will released their new single “Devils Money” via Dangerbird’s Microdose series (here) on July 28th. Facebook here.

A short synth intro announces 'Devils Money' which quickly builds into a dreamy alt rocker where energy and melody combine to create a refined sounding track.

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Imitating Aeroplanes - Hourglass

Background - Imitating Aeroplanes is the new project of Tord Øverland Knudsen (The Wombats) and Marius Drogsås Hagen (Team Me) – a collective output tallying five albums, multi-million sales and streams, repeat Billboard charts, international play-listing and widespread acclaim, including a Norwegian Grammy Award and multiple NME / MTV Award nominations.

On paper, it’s an impressive pairing, but this is one partnership more destined -- than designed. Marius and Tord have been playing and writing music together since childhood, recording their first demos to cassette circa ’96. The pair grew up in small Norwegian town Elverum before embarking respective international careers, with their latest planetary pursuit landing in Tokyo – the cultural heartland of forthcoming album ‘Planet Language’, released September 22 via Propeller Recordings.

Lead single ‘Hourglass’ was the first track penned for the album, representing new beginnings for the band but also a rather poetic return to form. “Hourglass’ was written in my parent’s basement,” Tord explains, “which took us back to where it all started, like a couple of 12-year-olds just nerding out and playing music again.” The main hook is comprised of mandolaika – a mandolin/balalaika hybrid – and Marius’ monophonic melody, with the original basement recording surviving the final album cut.

Extensive touring in 2017 kicks off with Imitating Aeroplanes’ first official performance at Parkteatret on Tuesday, August 8th as part of Oslo’s renowned Øya Festival program. Tour details on their Facebook here.

There is a smooth flowing vibe right from the beginning on 'Hourglass'. The musical arrangement slowly develops into a melodic mixture of indie and electro sounds, whilst the gentler vocals add substance and drive the song along.

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The Howlin' Souls - Knifey - Company of Thieves - Lillie Mae - Beaches

The Howlin' Souls - Free & Young.

Background - NYC based Rock N Roll band, The Howlin' Souls is releasing their brand new music video, “Free & Young” yesterday. Formed in Downtown Manhattan in 2012, The Howlin' Souls have emerged onto the music scene with a fresh yet classic sound that has been welcomed by critics & fans alike.

Singer-songwriter, Pete Smith has infused his Indiana roots into his songs with raspy and honest vocals and lyrics reminiscent of Petty and Dylan. Pete’s guitar playing is supported by lead guitarist and New York native, Scott Sepe, who lends his nostalgic riffs to the Souls’ sound, pulling from the blues and modern rock standards he mastered as a teenager. The rhythm section is comprised of New England natives, Nate Lang (drums) and Robbie Sokolowsky (bass). Their shared love of classic blues, Motown and R&B offer a humble yet infectious back beat groove.

The Howlin’ Souls’ collective influence includes British rock greats The Rolling Stones, as well as the blues legends that inspired them - Muddy Waters, Jimmy Reed and the iconic Howlin’ Wolf (whom they honor in their name).

Fritz Lang, long time engineer with time at CBGBs, Record Plant NYC, Sigma NYC and others as well as touring with Miles Davis, the Stones, Prince and other icons of music, co-produced the record with songwriter, Pete Smith.

Smith and Sokolowsky self-produce the band’s music videos while Lang has been taking roles in front of the camera, most recently as drummer Carl Tanner in the Oscar nominated film Whiplash. In the Fall of 2016, the band released their first single, “Anyway You Take It.” Their debut self titled EP, The Howlin’ Souls was released Spring 2017. Website here, Facebook here.

With a strong rock groove from the opening notes, 'Free & Young' adds in some bluesy vocals and the atmosphere builds. The video adds to the feel on this no nonsense track.


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Knifey - Rio.

Background - The new Knifey single 'Rio' perfectly encapsulates the surf-punk's Modus Operandi; one part wistful longing, a heaping of summertime vibes, all housed at a rawkus red-cup beach party. 

Dripping with summer soaked nostalgia, the track showcases the band's ability to straddle the line between beer induced debauchery and hook-filled singalongs. The song comes from their debut LP, out this September 29th. 

Knifey's thoughts on the song, "Rio is a summer song. It’s a song about romance in an idyllic town, where the the sea is close and where you can’t help but run into old friends at every turn.  Cutting through the song’s bouncy rhythm, the lead guitar is blurred in a reverb haze like summer eyes after a long day in a chlorine pool. 

Descending chromatic runs and a tinge of minor keys give the song that quintessential surf vibe. The song’s essence is the carefree, laid back bliss the seaside evokes in all of us. No schedules, no plans". Facebook here.

Surf punk track 'Rio' has all the vital ingredients with the choruses & guitar licks adding a surf flavour whist the vocals and rhythm add some punk edge.

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Company of Thieves - Treasure.

Background - Fresh off the announce of their reunion tour earlier this month, indie group Company of Thieves have released their new song, "Treasure" - the first new music from the band in 6 years.

The news comes 10 years after their independently recorded and self-released debut record, “Ordinary Riches” was released. The track "Treasure" is a triumphant return for the three-piece, comprised of Genevieve Schatz, Marc Walloch and Chris Faller.

Schatz says the song is “a call-to-arms that was written immediately following the presidential election about being faced with a climate of fear and division and what can happen when you look inside yourself to find freedom and say yes to love.”

She explained further: “When we went to record vocals, our set-up was in Marc’s garage in LA and we were getting so much interference from radio frequencies but we didn’t let that stop us — it was like our Chicago DIY roots all over again. As we turned on the microphone, a man’s voice came on from a political radio station — he was talking about US citizens’ constitutional right to assemble, and how people were coming together to march and protest like they did back in the 60’s. He kept angrily asking, ‘Why are they doing this?’ We found his question to be a great mirror of the cultural divide and why our song was written in the first place, so instead of letting his voice silence us we decided to hit ‘record’ anyway.” Facebook here.

The vocals might be softer and at times a little dreamy, however 'Treasure' packs plenty of energy and emotion, as it builds into a feisty alt rocker.

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Lillie Mae - Wash Me Clean.

Background - Lillie Mae is excited to share the video for "Wash Me Clean" from her recent album Forever And Then Some. 

Lillie Mae also begins a run of headlining North American tour dates next month, which includes a show in Toronto on August 25th at the Velvet Underground.

The full run of dates are available on Beehive Candy's tour new page. Website here, Facebook here.

We featured the audio track for 'Wash Me Clean' back in April, however the opportunity to feature the new video and unashamedly recommend Lillie Mae's latest album, alongside mentioning her forthcoming tour dates, is just to irresistible.


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Beaches - When You're Gone.

Background - Iconic Australian psych rock quintet Beaches return with epic double LP Second Of Spring – Chapter Music’s first ever double album by a single artist.  Yesterday on Brooklyn Vegan, Beaches shares the second track "When You're Gone" off their upcoming album Second Of Spring.

Beaches’ much-loved second album She Beats brought the band international acclaim in 2013. Featuring guest guitar by German motorik hero Michael Rother (Neu, Harmonia), the album earned raves from Pitchfork, Stereogum, Gorilla Vs Bear, Spin and elsewhere.

Now Second Of Spring takes Beaches even further out, to where the pyramid meets the eye – a vast, enveloping sonic landscape, filled with extended instrumentals, overdriven psych-outs and propulsive pop nuggets.

The double album was recorded in Melbourne with engineer/producer John Lee (Totally Mild, Lost Animal) and mastered by David Walker. Artwork is by the band‘s own Ali McCann, with design by renowned artist Darren Sylvester.

Beaches’ self-titled 2008 debut was shortlisted for the Australian Music Prize, and included in glossy coffee table book 100 Best Australian Albums. The band released a standalone 12” on New York label Mexican Summer in 2010. They have toured the US twice, playing SXSW and Austin Psych Fest, and shared stages with Roky Erickson, Deerhunter, The Cult, Thee Oh Sees, Lightning Bolt, Mogwai, Best Coast and more.

Already revered as sprawling, swirling psych overlords, Second Of Spring is Beaches’ undeniable magnum opus. . Click here to pre-order the album, Facebook here.

Following on from the track 'Void' that we featured earlier on this month we now have 'When You're Gone' to share. It's another "blast of uptempo psych rock" the expression we used to describe 'Void', this time the vocals are buried even deeper in the mix, & yet still manage to add atmosphere and melody to a very fine song.

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The Montreals - Pallab Sarker - Warbly Jets - Niteshifters - DeQn Sue - Shannon Lay

The Montreals - deadheads.

Background - Regarded as one of “the next big things in Australian Music” (5Why), The Montreals, are a slick indie-rock outfit from Adelaide, South Australia. After kicking the door down with their debut EP Indigo Club in late-2016, the band successfully toured nationally and performed in support for internationally successful acts including Alpine, Last Dinosaurs, Andy Bull, Hey Geronimo & Dorsal Fins. Mixed by Magoo (The Jungle Giants, Art vs. Science) and mastered by Steve Smart of Studio 301 (British India, Vance Joy), the 3-track record garnered hundreds of thousands of streams on streaming services worldwide. The highly anticipated release of their first single of 2017, ‘deadheads.’, is the exclamation point on a breakout debutant year. 

In short, ‘deadheads.’ is an ode to Australian youth culture. The penniless slaves to a liquor-fuelled good time, always counting loose change to make rent, but squandering at dingy clubs on weeknights. Sonically, ‘deadheads.’ feels like a finely balanced raw polish of modern SoCal meets the foundational indie rock vibes we all know and love. 

Lyrically, as well as channelling the carelessness of twenty-somethings, this track also explores the negative aspects of this lifestyle, such as the inability to maintain long-term relationships in favour of spontaneity and the ‘now’. Facebook here.

Upbeat and sprightly 'deadheads' is a blast of original & exceptional indie rock, where the vocals and music both compete for attention.

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Pallab Sarker - Not Gonna Fall In Love With You.

Background - Having found success with his debut record, ‘Morning In Brixton’, which was played extensively across the US college underground radio network, earning him a record deal in the US, British Bengali indie-pop singer-songwriter Pallab Sarker is back with his endearing follow up single, ‘Not Gonna Fall In Love With You’.

However, for a long time, Pallab led a seemingly ‘double life’; he was a press adviser to Ministers in the day, including Trade Minister Lord Digby Jones during the last Labour administration, and a musician by night, but on one occasion he merged the two, performing a gig in the atrium of the home office in the name of Children in Need, raising thousands of pounds in the process.

After Pallab’s parents fled from the Bangladesh war of independence in the 70s and raised him in Peterborough, Pallab relocated to London during his early twenties at the peak of the brit-pop explosion. The lively scene that took the music world by storm inspired the budding songwriter who quickly formed a band, ICON, who gigged incessantly across the capital and its lively circuit. Although Pallab is now based in Walthamstow, he has spent a lot of time immersed in the vibrant arts scene of South London, which inspired the single ‘Morning In Brixton’, also taken from his upcoming album, Grey Day.

Since his band days, Pallab has developed his sound as a solo artist and he can now be considered a genuine songbird, whose arresting voice and touching melodies ooze with emotional value, speaking straight to the hearts of his listeners. Within Sarker’s work is a humanizing touch, most clearly exhibited through his kind, clever lyricism and its sonic journey instigating abilities, which can be found on ‘Not Gonna Fall In Love With You’.

Not only this, but Pallab feels strongly about the lack of British Asians being showcased in the indie genre. He points out that British Asians have played a huge role in the development of garage and R&B, but there is little mainstream representation when it comes to the indie singer-songwriter scene: Sarker could well be the poster boy who kicks off a new era for British Asians in this genre. Website here, Facebook here.

Pallab Sarker vocals are likable and feel so genuine. 'Not Gonna Fall In Love With You' clearly demonstrates he also has a knack for writing and delivering really fine indie songs. This one is very catchy.

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Warbly Jets - 4th Coming Bomb.

Background - Ask synth player Julien O'Neill how Warbly Jets fits into LA's music scene and he'll have a simple answer for you: they don't. They exist out there in the ether—caught somewhere in between yesterday and today, where massive rock 'n' roll melodies brush up against skittish breakbeats, swoon-worthy strings, and laser-guided synth lines. Warbly Jets will release its self-titled debut album on October 20 via Rebel Union Recordings and the album is available for pre-order at PledgeMusic and iTunes.
  
"The music mirrors the message," says the band. We’re all trying to live and breathe in this world at the same time, not noticing if we’re hurting or helping one another. It works for now, but might explode at any second." The lyrics were inspired by singer/guitarist Samual Shea's favorite quotes by writer Eugene Bell, "Aspire to inspire before you expire." "This quote alway shaped that way I create music," he says. "I hope that as an artist I can leave a lasting impression and inspire the creatives of our future even after i'm no longer around."

Their synth-driven guitar rock is a genre-bending blend of The Clash punk balladry, Primal Scream’s production infused meltdown, and the unflinching attitude of Oasis at its peak. It has catapulted them to the top of a booming independent movement in LA, where paisley, punk, and electronic influences have melted together in the endemic sunshine to become one of the nation’s most fertile scenes for emerging projects across a variety of disciplines.

Warbly Jets started in the cramped apartments of New York City and its other limiting environmental factors as the songwriting project of O’Neill and Shea. The two quickly decamped to the sunnier, sprawling climes southern California where they began to flesh out the songs that would eventually give life to their debut. “Los Angeles in my opinion was a much more welcoming city than New York City ever was for us,” Shea remarks about the cross-country switch. O'Neill continues, “The move to Hollywood felt idyllic to us as strangers in a new land. Our influences were all over the ground anywhere we walked.” 

Their look and sound is a pastiche of old and new influences that goes well beyond just music and perhaps perfectly, for its place and time, the Jets have done a little bit of everything. In addition to being named an Artist to Watch by KCRW and earning heavy rotation on SiriusXM's XMU, Warbly Jets has also racked up spins on Beats1 and "The Lowdown" is an Advanced Placement featured track at SiriusXM's Alt Nation. The LA quartet caught the attention of Liam Gallagher's Pretty Green (who used "Alive" as the official song of its SS17 line) and landed slots opening for acts like The Dandy Warhols, The Mystery Lights and Night Beats. 

Warbly Jets just completed their first tour outside of the US after a week-long run in China and play a hometown show tomorrow night at The Roxy in LA. They'll be on the road all summer leading to the release including a London residency in September. A full list of tour dates can be found below with more to be added. Website here, Facebook here.

The laser guided synths signal the start of '4th Coming Bomb' a song that soon develops into a stunning piece with layers of musical delight and some psych orientated vocals. The energy levels rise and stay high throughout, marvellous!

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Niteshifters - Show Me What You've Got.

Background - Hot on the heels of the success of Niteshifters' debut single 'Show Me What You've Got' which received national and international airplay as well as featuring heavily on BBC TV's Wimbledon coverage, the band have revealed details of the new album 'Huge Disco'.

Niteshifters follow the success of their debut single 'Show Me What You’ve Got' with the release of their album 'Huge Disco'. A record that celebrates the joyful sounds of original disco, written with a modern head and a timeless sound.

Blending classic Disco sounds with killer songs and modern live production, Niteshifters provide an escape from the frenetic stresses life, propelling you to glittering new orbits. Featuring nineteen year old rising star Khadija Jajue on lead vocals, with Basement Jaxx’s Andrea Terrano on guitar, Elliot May (Do Your Thing) on backing vocals and lead on ‘She’s The Girl’, 'Huge Disco' is the go to sound of summer 2017. Facebook here.

I gave some thought as to whether to include Niteshifters as disco is not exactly one of those genres I get too excited about. 'Show Me What You've Got' and the new Huge Disco' album is however far to good to ignore. Retro styles and today's production techniques come together and ensure fun, spirit lifting and highly danceable tunes grab hold of and hang on to your attention. Distant memories of the seventies disco sounds are reignited (some good, some best left forgotten, along with the fashion crimes of that era). If disco is your thing, this album will not disappoint, rather it's more likely to astound!

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DeQn Sue - Melanin.

Background - This brand new track from DeQn Sue is called ‘Melanin’. (the pigment that gives human skin, hair, and eyes their colour.) Her new album ‘Juggernaut’ is coming out August 18th 

The track struts with an instantly cool sheen and the lyrics promote race equality: “black, brown, dark and light… don’t matter what you’re like, you are precious in his eye”… “colours, why do they make a difference to you”?, for example.

Deqn Sue is an American alternative pop artist with a sharp edge bursting with message and humour. She has been featured on NPR Tiny Desk and in Netflix original series, Orange is the New Black but is still relatively unknown outside of the US. Spending most of her time between Huntsville, Alabama and L.A. here is a refreshing songmaker whose quick lyrical and sonic turns create constant surprise without ever missing a beat. With hints of Funk, R&B, pop and even vaudeville and EDM, she transcends style, spinning words and sounds and is purely engaged in the now.

Let's start with her name: an amalgam of the character name that her father Rod Perry made famous on the hit 1970s TV series S.W.A.T. - Sgt. David "Deacon" Kay - and her mother's first name. DeQn Sue describes her music as socially conscious, alternative pop. Website here, Facebook here.

'Melanin' is very catchy, indeed it's crammed full of hooks. The songs message is admirable, however foremost this is a fabulous song that deserves to be heard on that merit alone, that you get some common sense as well, is a bonus.

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Shannon Lay - The Moons Detriment.

Background - This week Kevin Morby is officially launching his new label imprint, Mare Records with the signing of Shannon Lay & announcement of her new LP, Living Water. Mare Records will operate as an imprint of the Woodsist label, which also released Morby's first two solo albums.

"The first time I saw Shannon my heart was broken into a million pieces. I had known her from her wonderful punk band Feels as the lead guitarist who shouted back up, but I wasn't sure what to expect from her performing solo. But there she was - at a small bar in Los Angeles to maybe 15 people watching while she sat in a chair with an electric guitar on her knee, orange hair covering her face and a picture of Bart Simpson projected behind her. She began her set and my heart stopped the moment her voice leaped into the air - and I did what I do in those rare situations - I recorded it. I pulled out my phone, opened up the voice memos and recorded her whole set (the last time I had done this was three years earlier while watching Kris Kristofferson and Harry Dean Stanton do duets set at Cinefamily). 

After her performance I was in complete awe and wasn't sure how to approach her to convey how much I loved it. Suddenly Shannon, an acquaintance from around town, had exposed her super power and I felt instantly star struck in her presence. "I recorded your set so I could listen to it again" I told her, and then to my surprise I found myself saying "let me put out your record" and after convincing Jeremy at Woodsist to do a collaborative release with me, here it is.

Living Water is an instant classic. Recorded by Emmet Kelly (Cairo Gang, Bonnie Prince Billy, Ty Segall) in his Los Angeles home studio, this is an album where you can hear the room reacting to the music taking shape around it. Shannon has a voice that transcends time and space. You can't tell if she's old or new, if she's sitting next to you, on a mountain top, or down in some canyon. Already her second LP to be released in 2017, Shannon is a prolific songwriter, one who lives and breaths melody and with guitar skills to boot. Despite it's 14 tracks, Living Water comes in well under 40 minutes, but like Pink Moon or Just Another Diamond Day before it, this is music so potent it exists outside the realms of time - but in a world specific only to itself and the new feelings it creates.

Shannon has been dominating the local scene in Los Angeles over the past two years, leaving everyone who witnesses completely breathless. Having just finished a tour with Ty Segall, Shannon is set to support Kevin Morby on a national tour this fall." - Kevin Morby, Birmingham, Alabama, June 8th 2017. Facebook here.

Indie folk or singer/song writer, I'm never certain of which description is best, 'The Moons Detriment' is somewhere in that area and is absolutely beautiful. A sensitive musical arrangement alongside Shannon Lay's captivating vocals and a gentle melody is more than enough to put her firmly on my must hear more list.

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Corniglia - Collapsing Scenery - White Reaper - Chris Tavener

Corniglia - I Don't Know What To Say.

Background - After causing a minor buzz amongst the indie music community in late 2016 with their debut single “Oh My Love”, Perth Indie-Pop act, Corniglia, have released their follow up single “I Don't Know What To Say”.

With their dark indie pop being likened to Radiohead, Beach House, Tame Impala, The Sleepy Jackson and Warpaint, the band’s new release (recorded in the Irwin’s home studio and mixed and mastered at Bergerk! Studios) is an infusion of bubbling melody overflowing from underneath it’s lo-fi production. You can almost feel the tension between the introspective chilled delivery and what is trying to burst through between the lines. It is equally looking back at past personal and current world issues with an understanding smile and a muted scream. 

The accompanying stop-motion animated music video, similarly beautiful and well-crafted, gained as much attention as the debut single, so be sure not to miss the follow up animated effort. 

With Happy Mag recently naming Corniglia as one of their five Western Australian bands to watch, keep an eye out for their upcoming full length release and what the rest of 2017 has in store, website here, Facebook here.

Dark indie pop seems a pretty apt description for 'I Don't Know What To Say' which has a haunting feel to it. The melody is seemingly less important, with atmospheric rhythmic vocals driving the song forward above a delicious guitar lead soundtrack.


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Collapsing Scenery - Tired Blood.

Background - Collapsing Scenery shares their new video "Tired Blood" (dir. by Hunter Crowder). The band's Reggie Debris explains that the track is about "the fatigue and exhaustion that can set in after years of activism, when nothing seems to change or things seem to get actively worse." 

Collapsing Scenery’s music and creative process represent the world as the band wishes the world were: playful, polyglot, intense, committed, politically engaged, free, open, and without boundaries or hierarchies.

The band formed in the terrible autumn of 2013, under a pall of paranoia and disgust, as predator missiles rained on Middle Eastern heads and each day brought news of further surveillance of innocents and more aggressive pursuit of those who had the nerve to inform us about it.

Against this backdrop, erstwhile collaborators Don De Vore and Reggie Debris put aside the stringed instruments on which they’d first learned to play music and on which they were comfortable and versed, and assembled an impressive pile of analog electronics: samplers, step sequencers, synths and drum machines, all supplemented by effects pedals usually applied to guitars. 

From the largely improvised sessions, many accompanied by drummer Ryan Rapsys, the seeds of songs began their germination. Lyrics that Debris had been amassing over years of political rage and frustration began to find their homes when paired with ad-libbed instrumentals. Melodies and cadences alchemically emerged as the words settled into their natural rhythmic patterns.

These elements create dizzying music that by turns touches on punk, industrial, techno, hip-hop, free jazz, soul, disco, folk balladry, and whatever other spirits happen to inhabit the recording studio at any given moment. Website here, Facebook here.

'Tired Blood' has a deep beat, synths that tease out swirling sounds alongside a keen rhythm, all of which sits behind some darker vocals and superb samples. At just under three minutes the songs abrupt end surprised me, as I was still trying to figure the video out!


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White Reaper - Judy French.

Background - Following on from the April release of their new album 'The World's Best American Band' on Polyvinyl Records, Louisville indie/garage band White Reaper have announced a short run of EU/UK tour dates for this October.

A new video for the acclaimed single "Judy French" has just emerged too. White Reaper's standout single "Judy French" off their critically acclaimed and overall monster of an album, The World's Best American Band, gets the video treatment it deserves. 

Directed by Brandon Dermer (co-creator and director of the forthcoming Viceland show, What Would Diplo Do?), the video stars actress Alexandra Daddario (True Detective, Baywatch) giving the song her best arena-rock performance.

Live dates are listed on Beehive Candy's tour news page, website here, Facebook here.

Feisty full on rock riffs and some equally strong vocals ensures 'Judy French' arrives in style albeit well and truly in your face. It's a natural punk orientated song, where attitude & power compete for attention (& get it!).


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Chris Tavener - Faking Cool.

Background - Chris Tavener is the satirical, comedy folk act talking about what everybody thinks, but nobody says….a quirky combination of Tim Minchin meets Bob Dylan, or Flight of The Concords meets Paul Simon.

Originally from Northwich in Cheshire, Chris writes storytelling songs about the ironic comedy in everything from drunken romance, celebrity worship, football hooligans and small-town problems. His latest EP “i’m sorrdy bi’m drunnk” was championed by Steve Lamacq (BBC 6 Music) who aired the tracks four times.. In 2016, he took on two nationwide tours visiting 10 cities over 6 weeks; the success of which led to a stint at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and a second nationwide tour; performing a total of 351 gigs. 

His latest single ‘Faking Cool’ sees him throw on some dark shades and plenty of leather (probably fake) in a song that looks at those people in society that are just too-cool-for-school. As the hilariously entertaining music video shows, it’s actually quite hard work being friends with someone who constantly pouts and struts around like they own the place.

What does being ‘cool’ really mean? One man’s cool may be another man’s ‘Faking Cool’. Chris is making an art out of catchy comedic tunes with clever lyrics and it’s no surprise that his popularity is soaring with fans raving about his live shows. Facebook here.

My personal take on comedic songs is that they are either very good and easy to listen to over and over, or one off jokes that are never quite the same on a second listen. OK I know that's a sweeping generalisation and 'Faking Cool' is definitely in the latter camp, more satirical (or tongue in cheek) than full on humour. It's also actually a very catchy song where fine music and attractive vocals are centre stage.


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Murder Murder - Darling West - Men of North Country - A Valley Son

Murder Murder - I've Always Been a Gambler.

Background - Murder Murder is a full string band with suitcase percussion who create a unique blend of bluegrass and outlaw country. 

The new single/video "I've Always Been A Gambler" is the first from their upcoming LP Wicked Lines and Veins which will be released this September.

The track is a fast-paced, dobro-driven song about an angry drifter in a card game who can’t stand the sight of the man across the table from him. While an original tune, it references two classic gambling folk songs - “Jack of Diamonds” and “The Cuckoo”. Facebook here.

Natural "outlaw country" style vocals are supported by some fabulous music on 'I've Always Been a Gambler' a trailblazing song, which as the song title and video pretty much confirms - is about gambling. Even if this type of music isn't usually your "thing", give it a listen just to appreciate the intricate and vibrant musicianship.


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Darling West - After My Time.

Background - The last twelve months of Darling West’s musical career can't be described as anything other than fantastic. Since the release of their second album, "Vinyl and a Heartache", they have played concerts all over the world, been playlisted on the biggest radio stations in Norway, appeared on the Top 100 Country charts in the US, amassed more than 2.5 million plays on Spotify, been booked for the biggest festivals in Norway, Americanafest in Nashville, and won a Norwegian Grammy.

Despite all this, the band have no plans of resting on their laurels, and now they’re releasing two songs from a new album they plan to release in early 2018. "While I Was Asleep" and "After My Time" were recorded with Bård Ingebrigtsen in Amper Tone Studios, Oslo, and were mixed by Marcus Forsgren (Jaga Jazzist).

This is the sound of a new and revitalised Darling West. The band are still playing their sweet americana / country / folk, but there’s a lot more drive in the music and the melodies are catchier than before.

The band said: "After My Time" is one of the few songs we have written in our apartment in Oslo. It does something to you when you read about human destinies and experiences you hardly can imagine. It’s difficult to take in, but at the same time it’s important to not shut it out." Facebook here.

Melodic, inviting vocals and harmonies are at the forefront on 'After My Time' a song that mixes a number of Americana styles and does so with panache.


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Men of North Country - Lost Tobacco Road.

Background - Mod-soul band Men Of North Country release their new single Lost Tobacco Road, taken from their second full length record This City (Acid Jazz Records) on August 11th. It's a Bondian horn-driven affair of a winding adventure gone sour.

Emerging from the small soul scene of Tel Aviv, Israel, Men Of North Country bring a fresh approach to creating the perfect three-minute soul nugget. Originally started by chance when soul DJ Yashiv Cohen was overheard singing along to the 45’s he was spinning; the band have now released two full length albums on Acid Jazz Records - The North (2012) and This City (2016) - garnering glowing reviews along the way. 

The band featured live in session on the Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show on BBC 6 Music (also heard on Lauren Laverne’s ‘Best Live Music on BBC6 2016’ show). Website here, Facebook here.

'Lost Tobacco Road' is a powerful, funky song that has some realistic sixties UK Mod vibes, alongside top quality musicianship in the shape of rhythm driven horns, and a band that are energised and passionate.


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A Valley Son - The World, It Moves.

Background - “The World, It Moves”, the second new single from A Valley Son’s debut full-length But The World Moves (out September 8th). The song is a careening track from the soulful Southern-gothic rock crew that recounts frontman Trey Powell’s days of growing up in the rural tidal plains of Virginia and staving off boredom by whatever means necessary. The song follows the album’s raucous lead single “Leaving Is Easy.”

But The World Moves is the follow-up to A Valley Son’s critically-acclaimed debut Sunset Park EP, that came out in January, solidifying the band as one that puts songwriting, emotion and musicianship back at the forefront. With three of the four members growing up in the South and eventually migrating to New York City, the songs are heavily influenced by the experiences gained after their arrival. The record attempts to reconcile the world of one's youth with the one we call home as adults, all while dealing with what it means for the people we become. The core question being, does anyone ever really get away?

These are not a collection of somber acoustic ruminations, but raucous songs that pull heavily from the Southern soul, rock and gospel tradition that each of the members grew up on. Just like with their captivating live performances, the band (Trey Powell, Seth Nicholson, Steve Bowen and Nate Osborne) sets a tone from the first track that tries to transport the listener back and forth between the past and the present seamlessly, in the hopes that the line between memory and reality are blurred. Facebook here.

Our second feature for A Valley Son in a matter of weeks, this time with the latest offering from the forthcoming album, the second single 'The World, It Moves'. It's another example of just how good the album is, where southern rock & soulful grooves are delivered with commitment and heartfelt determination. The album should and deserves to have wide appeal, highly recommended to lovers of these genres.

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Common Deer - Stereo Specter - Illyin Pipes - The Max Tribe

Common Deer - Wait!

Background - Some artists want to shine a light in the darkness. Common Deer come bearing an arsenal of floodlights.  The band’s stirring new single “Wait!”is proof that the powerful Toronto quintet stand apart as a vessel of uplift, a call for camaraderie, and an act of resistance against jaded nihilism. The song is the first off their second EP “II” which lands on September 8, 2017.

With two sets of siblings, several multi-instrumentalists, and a determination to push the boundaries of classical music, Common Deer offer a glimpse of hope in a world overwhelmed by complex issues and insecurities. Vocalist Graham McLaughlin describes “WAIT!” as “an awakening to a social climate we didn't anticipate, a recognition that strength is in numbers and ideas only if they are inspired and connected.” He adds that “the song urges people to confront ignorance. We really feel like there's no time to waste.”

The lyrics of vocalists McLaughlin (guitar, violin, vocals) and Sheila Hart-Owens (keyboards, vocals) reflect the zeitgeist: the anxiety of the modern age is met with a crying out for a sense of connection. “Trying to create light in the darkness; it’s a mentality we share,” says Graham. Nevertheless, Common Deer are not blind optimists peddling escapism; their live shows are joyous, celebratory affairs, rich with rousing, orchestral pop sound built for festival stages. The line-up is rounded out by Adam Hart-Owens (cello, guitar, synth), Liam Farrell (percussion, synth, samples) and Connor Farrell (bass).

Featuring synths, drum machines, and modern riffs, Common Deer took nearly three years to prepare their 2017 debut EP, I, produced by Laurence Currie (Hey Rosetta!, Wintersleep). The band’s follow-up EP, II, came together much more quickly. Recorded in Brooklyn, NY with lauded Producer Gus Van Go (Arkells, Whitehorse), II balances the energy of Common Deer’s infectious live shows with electronic percussion,  layered strings, and an increased synth presence. Website here.

'Wait!' is vigorous and sparkling right from the opening moments. Music and vocals are dynamically crafted, and above all else the song is massively catchy.



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Stereo Specter - Animal.

Background - The Nashville alt rock outfit drops a new sci-fi inspired track ahead of their debut record, Eidolon, out this fall. The brainchild of producer and multi-instrumentalist Jordan Dean, Stereo Specter is the culmination of Dean's time spent chasing the pavement as a staff songwriter on Music Row coupled with his lifelong passion for all things vintage sci-fi.

Partnering with co-producer Allen Parker (Dan Auerbach, J Roddy Walston), Dean plays every instrument (minus drums) and writes every song found on Eidolon.

"When I hear what’s going on in music nowadays, it seems like people are worrying more about production and less about creating a memorable song that you can play on a guitar or a piano that people will want to listen to in five years," 

Dean muses. "I’m trying to write stand alone songs first and then produce them uniquely. It was also really important to me that I played every note on the EP myself. I just wanted it to be the purest expression of me, you know? I’ve worked with other producers and writers... I've been dressed up by stylists, but I've never been satisfied with all that. This time around, I decided to take matters into my own hands and just become what I wanted... and that's Stereo Specter." Website here, Facebook here.

With vintage sci-fi slowly giving way to a more powerful musical soundtrack 'Animal' starts on a high and keeps up the momentum allowing the vocals to emerge and develop from deep in the mix.

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Illyin Pipes - Waking Up.

Background - Waking Up is a nostalgic look at a carefree summer, but the sunshine is enveloped with a dark undertone. 

It filmed the video while the band was touring in England and it hints at the EP’s theme as a whole. 

“I was struggling with a few things while trying to maintain an illusion of positivity and balance.

The dichotomy of stability and disorder is present in ‘Waking Up’ as well as the remainder of the EP’s songs, even if that wasn't intentional when we wrote them.” - Jill (vocalist of Illyin Pipes). Facebook here.

Rich, sprightly synths launch 'Waking Up'. Distant dreamy vocals gently ebb their way into the atmospheric song, with the video adding some further expression to a very fine song.


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The Max Tribe - Hello.

Background - Boston-based indie psych rock outfit The Max Tribe are excited to share "Hello," the first single from their forthcoming LP Retrofit. Vocalist Austin Max describes the meaning behind the track: “It started as a love song, but towards the end of the writing process it turned into a breakup song surrounding an affair. It's somewhat dark, yet has a bright chorus that reflects how the antagonists bad choices are clear and transparent.”

The Tribe was born in 2013 when Nashville native Austin Max (Guitar/Vox) united with Northern Virginia Native Conner Kessler (Drums) at music school in Boston. For a year they developed a psych sound playing around New England. Their debut single, “Tape Machine” was featured on Sound of Boston as one of the top 5 releases of 2015. Max, Kessler linked up with Noah Lubert (Keys/Vox) and Rafael Minerbo (Bass) in 2016. Noah and Rafa contributed to form the intertwined charisma that became the group's signature psych sound. 

Over the course of 15 months, the Tribe wrote and recorded their debut LP Retrofit at 1867 studios due August 2017. In January of 2017, they embarked on a winter tour covering the North and Southeast. They are currently gearing up for their LP release and summer tour of the record. Together, the Tribe creates a unique blend of psych rock with influences stemming from The White Stripes, The Beatles, The Doors, The Black Keys, King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard, and Cage The Elephant.

The release of Retrofit on August 11th coincides with the start of the band's U.S. tour. Website here, Facebook here.

A funky riff and some tight and refined musicianship allows 'Hello' to build into a very engaging alt rock song. The vocals are just right for the music, this is a first rate teaser for the forthcoming album.

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