Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Flying "Three of Them​/​Shiver River" Single (flyyingg.bandcamp.com)

One of my favorite new bands are back with this impressive pair of cosmic psychedelic tracks. "Three Of Them" shows off the top notch musicianship that shined so bright on their previous E.P. and adds even more dynamics to their sound as the shimmering guitars and atmospheric vocals blend together perfectly. "Shiver River" has a similar feel but incorporates more of a prog-rock element to everything that offers up a welcoming and lulling effect. Overall another stellar release from this up and coming band from Ann Arbor MI.

Guide By Voices "Space Gun" Single

From their upcoming album of the same name "Space Gun" is classic GBV. Robert Pollard and crew show no signs of slowing down and it looks like there will be lots of shows and rock n roll madness throughout 2018. The 15 tracks album is due out on March 23rd.

MGMT "Hand It Over" Single

Another great single from the upcoming MGMT album "Little Dark Age" which is their first since 2013. This soothing number is full of mind numbing synths that move alongside a comforting beat and an "epic" yet "subtle" vocal delivery. There's a presence of 60's psych and 70's singer songwriter styles mixed with a more modern feel that really makes for the perfect balance. Enjoy this beautiful lyric video directed by Old Man Future and Shively Humperdink.

Oh Sees “Dead Medic” & “A Few Days Of Reflection” 12" (Castle Face Records)

Awesome little bonus 12" from one of the most prolific bands in the game. "Dead Medic" is an outtake from their latest full length "ORC" and is essentially an extended jam backed by a frantic beat, plenty of flourishing piano sounds and experimental swells. Think Sun Ra meets Hawkwind. "A Few Days Of Reflection" is a cover of Swedish band Träd, Gräs & Stenar. It's cavernous feel and jam style structure are both intriguing and introspective". A really enjoyable release that documents the continuous expansion of John Dwyer's musical vision well.

Plastic Farm "Hope Hypnotic" E.P. (plasticfarm.bandcamp.com)

Can't say enough great things about this E.P. From the song arrangements and instrumentation to the production and experimental aspects everything is truly top notch. The title track builds and builds into a rich organic sounding wall of atmospheric bliss while "Eyes Closed" and "25" bring beautifully melodic hooks to the forefront. "Musk" is a bit more mysterious and moody as a sea of underlying nuances really push this track over the top. The perfect soundtrack to these unbelievably cold winter nights we've been having recently.

Tonals "Smog" E.P. (tonals.bandcamp.com)

So excited about this new E.P. from Canadian lo-fi project Tonals. "Fin" starts things off with an infectious beat and catchy hook that really gets things going out of the gate before giving way to the more laid back and somber "Good Times". "Smog" brings you back to an upbeat, feel good spirit and features some really impressive melodic guitar work while "You Want Something More" closes things out in an almost cinematic/end credits kind of way which I really enjoy. There's a warm, vibrant energy in all these tracks that I find really inspiring.

Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Alina "Strange Sounds from the Moon" E.P. (demos) (alinalabour.bandcamp.com)

Alina Labour offers up this collection of demos that carry a deep, colorful, psychedelic tone. The Santo Domingo based musician starts things off with an intro titled "A Different Type Of Youth" which features a slow dirge driven guitar riff that's full of atmosphere and intensity while "Madness" showcases Alina's mysterious vocal style that looms over top of a simple section of reverb drenched notes. Things get even more ethereal on "Constellations Of Love" as this spaced out track sounds like it was recorded on a far away planet and is being beamed into space in hopes of finding some type of life forms that may be out there to enjoy it's beautiful sounds. Overall this is a very unique collection of demos that harness plenty of experimentation and set them apart from the norm. Looking forward to hearing more of Alina's musical universe on her next release.

Ben McElroy "Bird-Stone" E.P. (benmcelroy.bandcamp.com)

Nottingham England area composer Ben McElroy shines on his latest E.P. "Bird-Stone". A wave of organic sounds fill the opening moments of "Surely There Are Worse Things". It's heart warming sea of strings and wandering sonic textures are backed by a jovial sense of rhythm and an enlightening spirit that quickly sweeps you away. "The Brightness Surrounds" makes me think of falling leaves in autumn while the ambient droning feel of "Bernie's Army" also features a passionate vocal cadence that is both primitive and cinematic. "This Was The Day" is much more laid back as the tracks wandering sound manipulations are some of my favorite aspects of the E.P. while closing piece "He said "life is a question, but don't let them hassle you for an answer​." really focuses on McElroy's beautiful string playing abilities as cello, viola and violin all seem to be represented here. "Bird-Stone" is a truly brilliant release that takes a non-traditional approach to familiar instrumentation. Splendid from beginning to end

Colic "Near" E.P. (colic.bandcamp.com)

Charlotte North Carolina duo Colic impress on this brand new three song E.P. First and foremost the vocal harmonies of Jimmy Turner and Meghann Dyke are one of the pair's biggest strengths as their voices sound amazing together. There's also a bit more bite to the guitars this time around as a bolder, more gruff riff leads the attack during "Hound". It's a number with plenty of menace that paints a picture of mystery and danger. Although track two is titled "Dark Water" it has a bit more of a glow to it as it's stirring tones and shuffling beat are absolutely stellar while "2 Sided" has more of a twang to it and a more melancholy demeanor. Another intriguing and well rounded release from this inspiring up and coming twosome.

Dangerfields "Ashes" LP (dangerfields.bandcamp.com)

Dangerfields infectious post punk sound shines bright on their latest E.P. "Ashes". The moody mix of "Melting Candle" leans towards the world of The Cure, Echo & The Bunnymen and The Fall. It's the type of track that takes you back to the glory days of college rock radio and 120 Minutes. A burst of noise leads off "Aquarius (Grey Area)" which quickly gives way to a melodic, upbeat riff that's backed by a driving beat and punchy bass line and delightfully melodic guitars. The energy levels stay on high throughout the glistening sounds of "Dilute" while "Ghost" moves much slower and with a darker, gloomier appeal. Dangerfields are a top notch band who blend incredible musicianship with clever songwriting and beautiful atmospherics to make an excellent E.P. sure to satisfy fans of melodic, post punk rock n roll. Highly recommended

The Naturals "We Are The Naturals" LP (wearethenaturals.bandcamp.com)

Australian power pop unit The Naturals bring it on their latest effort "We Are The Naturals". It's 100% no frills rock n roll with brilliant vocal harmonies and strong links to the early days of The Beatles and The Who. The pounding drums and pumping organ on "I Don't Need A Car" get things moving right out of the gate while "Billy" has one of the most infectious guitar riffs you will hear anywhere. The blissful pop hooks on "Mary Go Round" are simply second to none as it's 60's inspired choruses are sure to have you humming along in no time. Other highlights of this twelve song LP include the dance inducing Pretty Young", heartfelt tone of "Only With You' and the garage rock feel of closing number "F.R.I.D.A.Y.". I really can't get enough of this. A real rock n roll album for fans of real rock n roll.

Tonals "Hitchhiker / Smog" E.P. (tonals.bandcamp.com)

Alright!!! A new E.P. from Tonals is just what I need. "Smog" is a quick paced, hook filled masterpiece that's sure to brighten your day. It's pulsating bass line and crisp guitar leads work great alongside it's uplifting vocal stance. "Hitchhiker" also has a bit of bounce to it as it's three chord melodic structure and vibrant drum machine make it an instant new favorite. Another amazing release from one of the most inspiring artists in the underground scene.

CMM : News And Notes For Thursday April 20th 2017

JACK HARDY "FOR THE SAKE OF FINDING YOUR CLOTHES" VINYL EDITION

Custom Made Music are so excited to announce the Limited Vinyl Pressing of Jack Hardy's "For The Sake Of Finding Your Clothes". The album was released last year as a CD and Cassette and we couldn't be more thrilled to have it out on vinyl too. Each copy is hand stamped and comes packaged in a beautiful maroon colored silk screened jacket. Copies will be available this coming Friday April 21st at www.custommademusicva.com.

CITRUS CLOUDS RELEASE NEW VIDEO FOR "SHAPES AND THINGS"

Citrus Clouds have released this beautiful video for their latest single "Shapes And Things". The track is from their debut album "Imagination" out now on CD and Cassette from CMM. Filmed and Edited by Anthony "Tall Tony" Sziklay the psychedelic visuals really enhance the bands blissful shoegaze sound. We also couldn't help post this recent painting of Jake "The Snake" Roberts by the bands Vocalist/Guitarist Erick Pineda.

TONALS RELEASE "HOLY WATER" CASSETTE AND NEW DIGITAL E.P.

Canadian shoegaze/indie rock outfit TONALS will release their E.P. "Holy Water" this Friday April 21st on CMM. Their shimmering, reverb drenched songs are some of our favorite tracks to come along in some time. On top of the cassette the project has released a new digital E.P. featuring two new songs titled "Smog" and "Hitchhiker".

BAY AREA NOISE ROCK TRIO PORCH EMBARK ON THEIR FIRST EUROPEAN TOUR

Long running Bay Area noise rock unit Porch have made it to Budapest to begin their first ever European tour which runs from April 21st through May 14th. CMM had the privilege of releasing a 4 cassette discography set from these guys a couple of years back and the band also self released their most recent album "Walking Boss" on 180 Gram Vinyl. Check out the promo video and all the tour dates below.

21 APR - Budapest HU @ Robot

22 APR - Szeged HU @ Grand Cafe Verkert w/Pozvakowski

23 APR - Belgrade RS @ Elektropionir w/Mnjenje, Casillas

27 APR - Brussels BE @ Magasin-4 w/Sects Tape

28 APR - Cologne DE @ Limes Köln w/Octo

29 APR - Berlin DE @ Tiefgrund w/Grant National

01 MAY - Lausanne CH @ Squat FMR

03 MAY - Mulhouse FR

04 MAY - Reims FR @ L'APPART Cafe w/Harpon

05 MAY - Paris FR @ Espace B w/Harpon, Conformists

06 MAY - Lille FR @ Centre Cultural Libertaire w/Harpon

07 MAY - Dour BE @ XTRM Scandalous LABO w/Harpon

10 MAY - S Manchester UK @ Fuel

11 MAY - London UK @ Windmill Brixton w/Buzz Rodeo

12 MAY - Brighton UK @ Sticky Mikes w'Buzz Rodeo

14 MAY - Guildsford UK @ Buffalo Club w/Buzz Rodeo

Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Ancient Lake S/T E.P. (ancientlake.bandcamp.com)

Based in London Ancient Lake offer up a colorful collection of cinematic songs on their self titled debut E.P. The gliding feel of "East River Bend" sets the pace with it's sparkling tones, radiant vocals and rich shoegaze nuances. It takes you back to the late nights watching 120 minutes in the early 90's but puts a modern spin on things that gives the band a sound all their own. The more easygoing "Second Skin" creates a lulling mood that moves nicely alongside it's shuffling rhythm while the jangling guitars that flow throughout "Empty Like Valleys" are truly second to none. An impressive and beautiful debut from beginning to end that leaves me wanting more.

Ben Clayton-Wolfindale "Terra" LP (benclayton.bandcamp.com)

The dynamics and raw creativity shown on this phenomenal debut from English experimental composer Ben Clayton-Wolfindale is truly off the charts. From the gritty textures of opening piece "Larsen" to the pulsating rhythm of "Forecast" you never know what kind of sonic twist or turn you will be in store for. The dirge driven undertones of "Weary" carry an enigmatic element while the warbling stance of "I Want To Live on Another Planet" showcases an even wider array of expressive tones. Reflecting on the album Clayton-Wolfindale says "So terra is a comment on the unshakable feeling that the fundamental plates of our planet and societies are splitting apart. It begins in the fracturing, frozen fogs of the Larsen ice shelf and ends with my elegy for the profoundly sad passing of Leonard Cohen - one of my heroes. In between, I try and give a snapshot of life's multitude of other stresses and strains, hopefully with enough humour to prevent it become a slogfest,". Overall "Terra" is a compelling collection of incredibly inspiring work that I simply can't get enough of.

Gaspard Hers "Spots" E.P. (gaspardhers.bandcamp.com)

Gaspard Hers execute a primal dose of experimental madness on this brand new E.P. "Spots". It's a listening experience that moves through a variety of colorful waves beginning with the haunting tones of "Le Petit Royaume" which takes you down a dark and mysterious pathway of the unknown. The tribal like sounds of "Dub Party" and ominous demeanor of "Tennis" both evoke a calming meditative mood as it's spaced out stance and sheer intensity enhance this captivating journey while closing number "Ambience Fete" delivers a spellbinding collage of relentless percussion and unpredictable allure . Simply put "Spots" is a seventeen minute odyssey sure to delight fans of mind expanding, exploratory soundscapes.

Surfer Blood "Six Flags In F or G" single (joyfulnoiserecordings.com)

West Palm Beach, Florida indie rock unit Surfer Blood have been through a lot since their formation in 2009. Singer/guitarist John Paul Pitts and drummer Tyler Schwarz have rebuilt the bands lineup with guitarist Michael McCleary and bassist Lindsey Mill after the departure of original bassist Kevin Williams and guitarist Thomas Fekete (tragically lost to cancer in May). "Six Flags In F or G" is the latest single from the bands upcoming album "Snowdonia", their fourth overall. The track is highlighted by huge melodic vocal harmonies, flourishing layers of catchy guitars and a pin point rhythm section. They also show off their ability to create the kind of dynamics that really make a song great. The band hit the road for a full U.S. tour beginning January 27th in Tallahassee, FL. and "Snowdonia" will be out on February 3rd.

Tonals "Holy Water" E.P. (tonals.bandcamp.com)

"Holy Water" is the mind blowing debut from Canadian musician Brad Benoit's new project Tonals. The first thing I notice about the songs is Benoit's ability to make his own world and his own settings by creating such distinct sounds with each instrument. Everything has it's own place and it's own identity. Opening number "I'll Watch The Sun" sounds like you have come out of hyperspace and landed on a mysterious unknown planet some where in the outer rim of the galaxy. It's an epic, mind bending piece that moves like sap falling off a tree as hypnotic rays of sunshine keep the mood heartfelt and warm. The uplifting spirit of "I Found The Truth" is backed by a compelling beat as a lush vocal cadence guides you through it's sonic landscapes. It's also got a breezy, tropical vibe to it that reeks with undeniable appeal. Things wind down with the irresistible presence of "Dreaming For Two". It's the kind of track that pulls you in and allows you to get lost in it's massive waves of reverb drenched atmospherics. A remarkable release that fuses an experimental approach with a DIY indie rock attitude in an absolutely perfect way.

Topographic "From Above" E.P. (topographic.bandcamp.com)

Topographic is the brainchild of Massachusetts guitarist Jackson Haley. "From Above" is a short E.P. that explores Haley's love for guitar looping. "A Siren Song For The Birds" is full of multiple layers of deep melodies and vibrant tones that are quite orchestral at times but also harness a bit of aggression and grit alongside all of it's beauty while "Snow Day" is a quick lo-fi number that makes good use of intricate chiming tones to give it a sense of adventure and charm. I really like the openness that comes across on these two tracks. They are honest and inviting and make me want to hear more and more of Haley's work and ideas.