Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Christian Wheeler "Side 1" E.P. (christianwheeler.bandcamp.com)

Singer/songwriter Christian Wheeler shines bright on his debut E.P. simply titled "Side 1". From the opening moments of "Jackie (Oh)" you know you are in for something special as it's rich harmonies and clever hooks fuse the psychedelic pop of The Beatles with the swaggering flair of T Rex. The infectious vocal cadence and jangling guitar tones featured on "You!" will have you humming along for days on end while the laid back feel of "Screen Time" has me hoping for an early spring. The envelope is pushed once more as Wheeler introduces an early 60's crooner element to the mix during the passionate stance of "New". I really can't get enough of these songs. The musicianship and songwriting are stellar to say the least and the production and overall vibe of the recordings really put everything over the top. Looking forward to hearing what Wheeler has in store for "Side 2".

Circus Devils "Do The Nixon" (Advance Track) (rockathonrecords.com)

Self described as "art rock made by cavemen" and "high humor and low drama", Circus Devils, the long running project of Robert Pollard (Guide By Voices) and Tom and Tim Tobias are set to release "Laughs Last" their 17th and final album on February 24th. Advance track "Do The Nixon" features a clever stones like groove that's chocked full of Pollard's tongue in cheek lyrics which flow steadily throughout this two minute masterpiece. "I do the Jagger, and I clap my hands look both ways and cross the street". In addition to the final album the band will simultaneously release a best of album titled "Laughs Best (The Kids Eat It Up)" which is refereed to as "a collection of 30 speedy deliveries from rock and roll’s Twilight Zone – will leave you exhausted, satisfied, and ready for another spin.". Both vinyl releases are limited to a world wide pressing of just 500 copies and the "best of" contains a special bonus DVD.

Holy Water "Plaza" E.P. (un-holywater.bandcamp.com)

"Plaza" the latest offering from Leed's musician Will Shuttleworth's lo-fi/experimental project Holy Water is absolutely amazing. It opens with the epic blast know as "這裡Plaza" which harnesses some of the most intense and powerful sounds you will ever hear. It's almost like a soundtrack to a scene in a super hero film where the main character is first learning how to use his powers but instead of it being made by Marvel it's made by David Lynch. "Glory Days" is dripping with rich analog guitar textures and a bold, matter of fact style vocal delivery that I really enjoy. It's simple beat and array of subtle nuances blend well with it's captivating hooks that show off Shuttleworth's impressive song writing abilities while "Sing and Dance (while the music is being played)" is a brilliantly executed sound collage that explores high levels of experimental psychedelia. Overall "Plaza" is an elegant work of art from one the U.K.'s most inspiring up and coming composers. Highly recommended.

Night Talks "In Dreams" LP (nighttalkstheband.com)

Los Angels based alternative rock band Night Talks make quite an impact on their debut album "In Dreams". I'm immediately blown away by lead vocalist Soraya Sebghati's dynamic range as she showcases a brilliant balance of power, elegance and passion throughout the albums 11 songs. Things start off with the quick pace of "4 X 4" which is backed by the flawless rhythm section made up of bassist and drummer Josh and Cris Arteaga. The song's rich vocal melodies and shimmering guitars paint a colorful and inspiring sonic landscape. "Green" carries an atmospheric spirit as waves of pulsating synths flow alongside an intricate bassline giving it a striking cinematic glow while "Black And Blue" combines elements of post punk with lush indie pop that moves in sparkling fashion. Things slow down a bit during "Drift". It's epic mood and shuffling beat set the scene for the spectacular work of guitarist Jacob Butler as he shifts from highly textured tones and full bodied chords to blistering over driven leads. Other highlights include the hook driven sounds of "Mr Bloom", dark feel of "Glass" and cagey riff rock displayed on "Jungle". The phenomenal delivery of closing track "In Dreams" serves as a culmination of soothing sounds that leave you with a feeling of hope. An inspiring debut full of captivating songs by a band who are truly on the rise.

The Faded North S/T E.P. (thefadednorth.bandcamp.com)

Austria's The Faded North combine driving guitars with powerful melodic vocals throughout their self titled debut E.P. Opening number "Worm" captures a variety of ethereal sounds that sit nicely next to it's pounding almost frantic like ending while the hypnotic flow of "Ponytail" brings to mind the likes of Echo & The Bunnymen and The Cure. I think what's most impressive about this band is their ability to come up with innovative riffs that make you feel like your floating on air as tracks like "See You Soon" capture a desolate presence merged with lulling overtones that take you back to the days of college rock radio but with an updated modern day twist. A remarkable release for fans of eclectic, mind bending rock n roll.

Without Youth "Seasons" E.P. (withoutyouth.bandcamp.com)

Loving this new E.P. from Phoenix based indie pop outfit Without Youth. The duo's thought provoking, cinematic style moves throughout these four songs starting with the captivating presence of "Room" as it's dusky mood and swinging beat give it an infectious dose of undeniable appeal. "Take III" shares a similar pace but filters in a welcoming blast of fuzzed out guitar leads that fit perfectly alongside Liz Christy's soothing voice while the shuffling spirit that flows through "The Edge" give it all the makings of an indie pop classic. An honest, heart warming release from one of the most intriguing new duo's to come along in years.

Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Holy Wall "Night Stops" E.P. (holywall.bandcamp.com)

Asheville North Carolina musician Matthew Reed, really raises the bar with this brand new E.P. from his atmospheric dream pop project Holy Wall. The record is made up of four astonishingly beautiful songs that sound like they were sent down to earth from another world. From the cinematic flavor of "No Nature" to the experimentally layered textures of the title track Reed has constructed an absolute masterpiece. Things lean towards a more folk based sound on "Living Is Easy" but the eerie vibes stay intact throughout as there's a hypnotic element to it all that keeps you locked in. The E.P. is capped off with the near ten minute epic known as "Dreams Of Annihilation" which combines instrumentation with colorful glimpses into sound collage style territories all the while emitting a beautiful and positive radiant glow. A remarkable release from an incredible new artist on the rise."Night Stops" will be available April 16th

Kromo "Be Water" Single (soundcloud.com/monts-6)

This recently unveiled piece from the upcoming self titled Kromo CD E.P. is a experimental mind bender to the fullest extend. Headed by the experimental guitar attack of Pittsburgh musician Kevin Monahan, "Be Water" is a lush flowing soundscape highlighted by many twists and turns on what feels like a journey through uncharted areas of space. There's also an underlying jazz feel in Monahan's playing that sits well with the futuristic essence of the track. Beautiful, haunting and breathtakingly brilliant.

Kyle Craft "Eye Of A Hurricane" Single (subpop.com)

This high energy new single from Portland by way of Shreveport, Louisiana musician Kyle Craft is down right incredible. Led by Craft's flamboyant vocal presence the track echoes the likes of early Elton John and Ziggy Stardust era Bowie. It's got a great balance between 70's glam rock swag and ragtime era sway as Daniel Talmadg lays down some mean piano playing throughout the track while the arrangement is absolutely stellar. There's also an undeniable appeal and soulfulness to it all that I can't help but love. Off of Craft's latest album "Dolls Of Highland".

School Of Seven Bells "Ablaze" Single (schoolofsevenbells.com)

"Ablaze", the new single from School Of Seven Bell's latest album "SVIIB" is a powerful blast of electro laced dream pop. The song narrates the story of Alejandra Deheza and Benjamin Curtis relationship, before his tragic death from lymphoma in 2013. It's thunderous beat and pulsating synths lead by Deheza's passionate voice make it one of the bands best tracks to date as it's ethereal mood and underlying ambience are both beautiful and intense.

The Orange Kyte "Which Vivian?" Single (theorangekyte.bandcamp.com)

Another top notch single from this Vancouver based psychedelic unit. "Which Vivian?" is a hard hitting number full of big guitars and dream like vocals that harnesses a powerful guitar attack that's matched with an inspiring hypnotic groove. The driving beat and pumping bass line really put everything over the top and bring to mind a feeling of "I Can See For Miles" era Who. An infectious blast of garage psych rock n roll that delivers from beginning to end.

Today Junior "Blunt Breath" Single (wearetodayjunior.com)

This Boston indie surf rock trio formed in 2012 and has been held together by brothers, Harry & Mike O'Toole ever since. Their latest single "Blunt Breath" is a crushing blast of alt-rock n roll mayhem that brings to mind Guided By Voices, Jawbreaker and Yo La Tengo without really sounding like any of those bands at all. Their walls of fuzzed out guitars backed by a no frills pounding drum beat quickly make them one of my favorite new bands.

Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Alf Alone "On The Moon" E.P. (alfalone.bandcamp.com)

Libson Portugal based artist Alf Alone makes soothing lo-fi guitar instrumentals that are both positive and upbeat. The songs are full of catchy hooks and feel good riffs. "Fishbowl" opens with a spacey surf like tone backed by some beautiful atmospheric textures that move into a faster pace midway through adding a nice bit of energy to the mix. "Ghostbuster" is a fabulously layered piece that shows off some lush melodies and angular chords and impressive musicianship. The most inspiring track of the batch for me is "Oklahoma". It has such a happy vibe to it that makes it really stand out above the rest. It's captures Alf Alone in peak form and shows off all their best elements with a heavy does of modulation effects. An agreeable soundtrack to accompany a fun filled day.

Arbes "Swimmer" E.P. (arbes.bandcamp.com)

Impressive E.P. from this Melbourne Australia based dream pop band. Opening song "Key Largo" is a bouncy, upbeat track accompanied by punchy guitars and beautiful vocals."Beach Side" and "Mango Fever" showcase some truly intricate guitar playing and pushes a strong dance vibe that echoes Roxy Music and Talking Heads, while "Swing (Abriged)", slows things down with lush dreamy soundscapes. "Don't Know What To Do" and "45" round out the record with shuffling rhythms and more soulfully sung vocals that really bring a truly unique feel to the band. It sounds like a psychedelic tropical paradise. Highly Recommended.

Matthew Anderson "Lunar Tide" LP (matthewanderson.co)

"Lunar Tide" is an album sure to cement Matthew Anderson as one of the top up and coming song writers of the U.S. indie scene. There is a sense of maturity and poise to the songs that really make them stand out. Matthew is credited with vocals, guitars, bass, piano, drums, percussion, synths, loops, engineering and mixing so he's quite the accomplished musician. Stand out track "Shoreline Sun" features beautiful piano work and Anderson's passionate voice. There are some nice guitar bits that serve the song well adding a bit of mystery to the track. "Allign" is another well calculated track featuring a wide variety of sounds. The complexity of the piano and guitars add a prog-rock feel to it that's actually rather intense while still remaining on the lighter side of rock. "Concession" has a very laid back intro full of slide guitars and layers of harmonies that gives way to "Anchor" turning things up a notch with a blast of atmospheric vocals and spaced out sounds. "East Moriches" is an experimental droning master piece that evokes nothing but positive energy. "Lunar Tide" is another piano driven pop number that shows many sides of Anderson's song writing. It really seems like he allowed himself to get lost in this song and show as much of himself as possible. "Are You Lost At Sea?" has a real ambient jazz feel to it. It's delicate and moody and reminds me of one of those first days of Fall when the leaves are first hitting the ground. Overall "Lunar Tide" is a vast collection of highly crafted pop songs recommended for fans of ELO, and Matt Pond. The production and musicianship is nothing short of stellar and I expect to be enjoying albums from Matthew Anderson for many years to come.

Double Hyperbate "Diaderminable" Single (doublehyperbate.bandcamp.com)

A most excellent debut track from Paris based Double Hyperbate. "Diaderminable" is a cagey guitar driven piece that reminds me at times of 70's new age music pioneer Mike Oldfield. The guitar has an intense presence even though the track is quite minimal. The addition of a wandering sax adds a really nice touch as they play off each other very well. "Diaderminable" is from Double Hyperbate's upcoming debut album. Certainly worthy of multiple explorations.

Odyssey "Skull Island" Single (0dyssey.bandcamp.com)

Loving this lo-fi debut single from Kingston Ontario's Odyssey. Backed by a minimalist beat and bass line Odyssey master mind Spencer Brown really brings the charm with his to the point vocals and straight forward guitar melodies. The eerie noise that creeps in towards the end of the track adds even more appeal. Looking forward to a full length. Catchy,abstract and fun.

The Tailbreakers "Electric Monkey" Single (thetailbreakers.bandcamp.com)

Toronto based The Tailbreakers deliver big with their debut single "Electric Monkey". Fueled by fuzzed out wha-wha guitars and a swagger filled rhythm section these guys sound like something straight out of "Easy Rider". The smooth sounding vocals are nothing short of stellar and bring to mind The Small Faces, Lemon Pipers and The Morning Dew. This track just has an undeniable groove that you have to love. Can't wait to hear more.

"Shot From The Sun" An Interview with Lovebyrd

Lovebyrd are a psychedelic band from Saarbruecken in West Germany. Headed by Steffi Krauth & Mark Wernet their debut six song E.P. is full of uplifting vocals and mind bending psych rock guitar tones. We sat down with Steffi and Mark to talk about the music that influenced them early in life, their time in the studio. and all the upcoming plans for the band.

CMM-What's the first music you remember hearing as a child and what artist or band made the longest lasting impression on you?

Mark: The oldest memory of music which has made a lasting impression on me are probably two bands: Queen & Jamiroquai. Still loving both.

Steff: As a child I was listening to all the music my parents used to listen to. The Beatles or Creedence Clearwater Revival. That certainly shaped me. Later on I came across soul music - Aretha Franklin and James Brown. I was also always impressed by the work of Michael Jackson and John Lennon.

CMM-When did you first pick up an instrument and learn to start playing yourself?

Mark: I'm not quite sure about the exact year but I was about 15 years old when I first picked up an instrument. That’s about ten years ago. It was a guitar and I hated it back then. Struggled for a while but in the end a really good thing that happend.

CMM-How did LOVEBYRD get together and what led to the 60's and 70's inspired psych approach you all take to your music.

Steff: Each of us made experiences in music the last years. It’s not hard to get to know each other when you’re making music in a small town. We had the same taste in music and the same ideas. It was kind of clear from the first moment we met, that we’re going to start something together. LOVEBYRD started in springtime 2014.

Mark: Well, I personally was interested in blues and rock from the 60s and 70s from the very first moment I was trying to create music by myself. Not psych itself but this wasn't quite a big step. And as I think music genres are mostly defined by the sound, Tame Impala really got me fixed on "psych". As you can hear in our music.

CMM-Your debut E.P. was released at the start of 2015. What was the recording process for it like?.

Mark: The recording process is quite unusual, I guess: It starts after we have made the blue print of the basic song which usually is just guitar and vocals. That's when I move into our small ‚studio’ and start building up the instruments around it. I'm starting with the guitars, texturals, bass and then the drums. Just trying to keep the mind as free as possible at any state of the process.

CMM-So what's the current scene like in South West Germany? Do you all play shows often? Who ares some other bands from your area that you recommend?

Steff: The region we are living in is even for Germany quite small. Although you can find a few bands around here it doesn’t feel like an actual scene for us. We didn’t yet play any shows with LOVEBYRD anywhere. We’ll start playing gigs after the release of our 10 track album in a few month.

CMM-Have you all branched out of Germany for any shows and is it possible we will see you all do a full European tour sometime soon?

Steff: Although there have been some enquiries, we decided to focus on other things such as the album release first. If there are some people who want us to play in their country, I’m sure we’ll come.

CMM-When can we expect a follow up to the E.P. and what else does the band have planned for the future?

Mark: At the moment we're working on a video for "Shot From The Sun", there will be the release of our full length album and as we mentioned, we’ll start playing shows. So a few things will be going on.