CMM's Twenty Favoriite Songs of 2018 (So Far)

2018 has already been a phenomenal year for new music. Here's 20 of my favorite songs from this year (So Far)...

1. Joan Of Arc "Real Punk Kid" (Joyful Noise Recordings)

A brilliant song that's as comforting as it is beautiful. Melina Ausikaitis voice is truly unique while founding member Tim Kinsella and the the rest of the band continue to explore new territories throughout the track. Absolutely inspiring.

2. Reveries "Existential Anxiety" reveriespnw.bandcamp.com

Seattle shoegaze/post rock unit Reveries offer up one of the most promising E.P.'s of 2018 as their self titled debut release is full of huge sounding guitars, underlying pop melodies and relentless drumming. Lead track "Existential Anxiety" is absolutely punishing and breathtaking.

3. Mayflower Madame "Premonition" (mayflowermadame.bandcamp.com)

This band never disappoint when it comes to creating dark and eerie music that is very reflective of the settings in their native Norway. "Premonition" continues down that dark path adding in layers of new nuances and curiosities.

4. Black Light White Light "King Kong" (blacklightwhitelight.bandcamp.com)

An excellent blend of shoegaze, 60's psych and 90's alternative rock. Just one of many top notch numbers from their latest album "Horizons".

5. Superchunk "Erasure" (Merge)

I can't get enough of this track. Super catchy, well delivered and sure to have you humming along in no time.

6. Guided By Voices "Space Gun" (GBV Inc)

Another stand out track from the always prolific GBV. "Space Gun" has quickly become one of my favorite GBV records.

7. Cushing "Little Devil" (cushingsound.bandcamp.com)

An amazing new track from this raging noise rock trio from Portland Maine. Their sound absolutely huge and the level of musicianship is off the charts.

8. Body Head "You Don't Need" (Matador)

Angular, menacing and dirge driven "You Don't Need" is pretty spectacular. Kim Gordan and Bill Nance create a haunted yet colorful dual guitar attack that's enhanced even more by the incredible production work of Justin Pizzoferrato.

9. Spiritualized "I'm Your Man" (Fat Possum)

This track is pretty much perfect. Can't wait to take in the entire new album.

10. I Need A Plastic Face "Debris" (ineedaplasticface.bandcamp.com)

So happy that this band reached out to me about there amazing music. Possibly the most original band I've come across in years.

11. Today Junior "Skate Punx" (todayjunior.bandcamp.com)

I've loved listening to all the Today Junior tracks that they have been releasing recently but this one is my favorite. Fun, catchy, uplifting and warm.

12. Whisper Suite "Sun" (whispersuite.bandcamp.com)

Canadian husband and wife duo Whisper Suite offer up this glowing track that showcases their incredible song writing abilities and rich vocal delivery and I've kept this one on repeat the last few months.

13. Get Up Kids "Maybe" (Polyvinyl)

Get Up Kids are back. Enough said haha

14. Forth Wanderers Nevermine" (Sub Pop)

Been loving on this band for a minute. So into this new record. Delicate, soothing and a little bit grey.

15. Guided By Voices "See My Field" (GBV Inc)

Another brilliant cut from their latest album "Space Gun". Incredible video too.

16. Sick Shit "Wet Lung (sickshit.bandcamp.com)

Blistering track off this New Jersey hardcore/punk outfits latest 7" "Thick Spit". The best hardcore band going today in my opinion.

17. Jon Spencer "Trash Can" (In The Red)

Unreal groove, unreal guitars. Just an overall bad ass track from the legendary Jon Spencer's first solo album out soon on In The Red.

18. Twilight Fields "When I Saw You" (twilightfields.bandcamp.com)

A touching and absolutely stunning track from Canadian recording project Twilight Fields aka Allister Thompson.

19. Deaf Wish "FFS" (Sub Pop)

Another inspiring stand out track from Deaf Wish. I can't get enough of the guitar sounds and the overall menace this band brings.

20. Yo La Tengo "For You Too" (Matador)

Such a comforting piece of music from these long running indie rock legends.

Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Dose "Furniture" Single (A Turntable Friend)

UK experimental noise rock band Dose shine on their latest single "Furniture". Let me first say that the production on this recording is pretty incredible. The guitar sound is off the charts and I love the dynamic they create between the clean, punchy tones and the sea of distorted noise. The vocals carry a haunting vibe that flows along nicely next to the shuffling rhythm. Overall "Furniture" is a mysterious number that draws you in and leaves you wanting more.

Hot Snakes "Why Don't It Sink In?" Single (Sub Pop)

"Why Don't It Sink In?" the lead single from the brand new Hot Snakes album "Jericho Sirens" is a blistering, noise ridden blast of relentless punk. Clocking in at just 78 seconds this track could make up the most exciting 78 seconds of your life. It's one of the ten no frills numbers that make up the groups first album in 14 years and it's honestly one of the most riff blasting, in your face raunchy rock n roll records you will hear all year. I think you will agree that we all need a lot more of this in our lives.

Men I Trust "Show Me How" Single (menitrust.bandcamp.com)

Montreal's Men I Trust are an indie dance band who " love smooth sounds, calm melodies and simple rhythms that relax, but make your right foot tap and your chin bounce on the beats." Their latest single "Show Me How" is a prime example of this as it's perfect bass line moves alongside rich, atmospheric guitar chords that set the foundation for Emma's breathtakingly beautiful vocals. It's breezy, dream like mood creates an other worldly feeling that's truly stunning. The band are currently on the road and have upcoming shows all over the U.S., U.K. and Europe including a stop in Norfolk Virginia this coming Monday March 19th at Charlie's American Cafe.

Messthetics “Quantum Path” (Advance Track) (Dischord)

DC instrumental trio The Messthetics are set to release their debut self titled album next week via Dischord Records. The group just happens to feature possibly the greatest rhythm section in underground rock history in former Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty and Bassist Joe Lally. The two are joined by D.C. based experimental guitarist Anthony Pirog. "Quantum Path" is a whirlwind blend of frantic yet controlled math rock mastery that echoes the spirits of Hella, and The Fucking Champs. It's full of menacing power chord based grooves mixed with highly intricate blasts of jazz riffs and delicate sonic nuances. The track certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride where you really aren't sure what's going to come next. Really looking forward to taking in the full release and seeing this unit live.

Today Junior "Skate Punx" Single (todayjunior.bandcamp.com)

Boston based rockers Today Junior have been hard at work on their new album "Single Forever" which is set to be released on April 6th. Advance single "Skate Punx" offers up the amazingly catchy and vibrant brand of rock n roll Today Junior have steadily been making a name on over the last few years. It's melodic surf guitar attack, uplifting beat and rolling bass line mesh perfectly with the solid matter of fact style vocal delivery. Bottom line, Today Junior are a really fun band and you are sure to be singing along to "Skate Punx" halfway through your first listen. An excellent track from one of my favorite bands.

Yo La Tengo "For You Too" Single (Matador)

Indie rock vets Yo La Tengo return with a brand new album titled "There's A Riot Going On". Advance track "For You Too" is a dreamy, moody piece full of delicate guitar work that's backed by a subtle yet driving groove. Ira Kaplan’s signature subdued vocals never sounded better as he gives off an undeniably brilliant performance that's as lulling as it is uplifting. It's gentle, subliminal and colorfully hypnotic. "There's A Riot Going" marks the bands 15th full length album and it's available today courtesy of Matador Records.

First Half Favorites - CMM's Top 20 Tracks of 2016 (So Far)

Hard to believe we are already half way through the year. There's been some truly incredible songs released and it was hard to narrow it down to just twenty but I'm happy to share some of my favorite tracks from the first half of 2016. I hope you like these songs as much as I do. Thanks Dave A.

1. David Bowie "Lazarus" (davidbowie.com)

The loss of David Bowie on January 10th of this year was a devastating blow to us all. His final album "Blackstar" was released just two days before and Bowie had planned the album to be his swan song, and a "parting gift" for his fans before his death. "Lazarus" was the albums second single and it's hard to put into words the feeling I get every time I watch this video.

2. Mayflower Madame "Confusion Hill" (mayflowermadame.bandcamp.com)

It doesn't get much better than this. Dark, hypnotic psych rock from Oslo, Norway that delves deep inside your soul. Just one of several stand out tracks from their debut album "Observed In A Dream".

3. The Gluts "That's Me" (thegluts.org)

A dangerously haunting offering from one of Italy's best bands. The frightening video only adds to the dramatic dynamics that build throughout the track. Looking forward to more from this shoegaze/psych unit in the months to come.

4. Clifffs "Volcano" (clifffs.bandcamp.com)

Stripped down in your face punk rock n roll backed by catchy hooks and a blistering guitar attack that's second to none.

5. Adult Colour "Spacemen II" (adultcolour.bandcamp.com)

A brilliant track that's full of ferocious guitars and mind bending atmospherics that take you into an other worldly environment. Definitely one of my favorite new bands.

6. Tom Lockett "Feeling Bad" (Magic Cactus Records)

The first single from singer/songwriter Tom Lockett is the real deal. I hear everything from early Marc Bolan to Woody Guthrie here as it sets a mood that is genuine and pure.

7. Kyle Craft "Eye Of A Hurricane" (kylecraft.bandcamp.com)

Such a stellar cut that features Craft's powerful vocal delivery backed by a pumping piano and an heavy dose of glam rock swag. Think Bowie, classic Elton John and a dash of ragtime flair for good measure.

8. Dinosaur JR "Tiny" (dinosaurjr.com)

There's a fine balance of youthful energy and familiar sounds throughout the track as J Mascis trademark fuzz guitar tone and laid back vocal stance lead the way.

9. Jaguanera "Did You Know?" (seahorserecordings.com)

A colorful and vibrant piece from this brilliant Italian post punk outfit that moves with elegance and grace. It's stunning melody and dark undertones make it one of the most moving tracks of the year.

10. Bat For Lashes "Sunday Love" (batforlashes.com)

Natasha Khan strikes big again. A stunning piece sure to leave you breathless.

11. Friars "Good Old Times" (soundcloud.com/friars-1)

"Good Old Times" mixes a banging surf/punk spirit with indie pop tendencies highlighted by some incredibly intricate guitar work. Great track.

12. Boss Hog "Wichita Grey" (In The Red Records)

Legend has it that Boss Hog are internationally-known as New York City’s most provocative and original rock’n’roll band and I'd say "Wichita Grey" just might etch this statement in stone.

13. The Orange Kyte "Inside Out n' Upside Down" (theorangekyte.bandcamp.com)

"Inside Out n' Upside Down" is a brilliant upbeat psych tinged number that's full of 60's swagger and sway. It's bright and fun and full of life and sits well alongside the bands previous singles.

14. The Retinas "Accident" (theretinas.bandcamp.com)

A lo-fi garage rock n roll masterpiece from one of the most prolific bands going today.

15. Loving You "Nothing But Glory" (Grindhouse Edition) (lovingyoumusic.bandcamp.com)

Led by the incredible presence of vocalist Alison Clancy "Nothing But Glory" harnesses a power and spirit that draws you in and takes you on a hypnotic journey throughout a world of mystery and intrigue.

16. Today Junior "Leaving Easy" (todayjunior.bandcamp.com)

Uplifting, surf guitar driven punk rock n roll that is just down right fun to listen to.

17. So Pitted "Feed Me" (sopitted.bandcamp.com)

A no punches pulled rocker full of relentless aggression from start to finish that's sure to deliver a sledgehammer sized blast to your ears.

18. The I Don't Cares "Love out Loud" (paulwesterberg.com)

Paul Westerberg and Juliana Hatfield have teamed up to form The I Don't Cares. "Love Out Loud" from the duo's debut album "Wild Stab" is a raunchy, high energy rocker led by a buzzsaw like guitar attack and Westerbergs trademark rasp.

19. This Blinding Light "Mercury" (thisblindinglight.bandcamp.com)

A stunningly beautiful song and video from one of Seattle's best shoegaze/psych outfits.

20. The Verigolds "Cross Fire" (theverigolds.com)

Spectacular piece from this San Diego based ensemble. It's breezy, laid back feel and soothing vocals are some of the best you will hear anywhere.

Six Records CMM Wants You To Know

Daytime Cleaners S/T E.P. (daytimecleaners.bandcamp.com)

Excellent debut from this Bethlehem P.A. based jangle pop unit. Simple song structures accompanied by catchy vocal melodies give these songs a heavy does of lovable charm. The guitars in stand out numbers like "Sleep Debt" and "Limerence" remind me of old favorites like Ultra Cindy and Velocity Girl while "Traces" is more reflective of late 70's indie rockers The Clean. The engineering work of Matt Molchany (Shards Studios) adds an extra layer of icing to the cake as the production reflects the bands personality in fine form. A stellar effort from beginning to end.

Fugleflugten "Ensom Galakse" Single (soundcloud.com/fugleflugten)

Denmark's Fugleflugten have just released this truly beautiful single. "Ensom Galakse" brings layers of ethereal guitars and futuristic keyboards to create a swirling mix of post punk energy reminiscent of The Cure, Echo & The Bunnymen and Sigur Ros. The underlying melodies and pop hooks that flow throughout this piece are simply breathtaking while it's crawling rhythm and haunting vocals play at your soul. A welcoming blast of sonic bliss.

The Red Shift "Belly Ache" Single (redshiftcin.bandcamp.com)

I've been happily blasting these guys debut E.P. for months and this new single "Belly Ache" is even more amazing. You can call it pop punk, you can call it indie rock but really what you get here is a stripped down rock n roll number that's as aching to Buddy Holly as it is essential punk bands of the 90's like Jawbreaker and J Church. It's charming, it's powerful and word on the streets is these guys have a full length coming this Fall. Get into it.

This Blinding Light "Mercury" Single (thisblindinglight.bandcamp.com)

Drenched in reverb and fuzz This Blinding Light take you on a rich hypnotic trip on "Mercury" the first single from their new album "Seven Feathers". The enticing vocal delivery that opens the track draws you in building up to an infectious rhythm fueled by pulsating guitars and powerfully organic drumming. It's a psychedelic mind bender that fans of bands like Spaceman 3, Ride and Loop are sure to enjoy. A fabulous effort from these Seattle based shoegazers.

Today Junior "Leaving Easy" Single (todayjunior.bandcamp.com)

Another top notch single here from Today Junior. "Leaving Easy" is catchy as hell, uplifting and certain to elevate your day in the most positive way. Backed by galloping drums and a captivating guitar sound that channels the best of Mascis and Santiago while adding it's own brand of indie rock snarl to the mix. Stay tuned for a new album in the months to come.

We Are Scientists "Buckle" Single (wearescientists.com)

My favorite track from the bands new album "Helter Seltzer". I'm especially fond of the way the vocal cadence moves alongside the undeniable hook that is sure to have you singing along by the second chorus. The blistering guitar solo adds a nice touch and it looks like these guys had a fun time making the video too. "We've always made overtures toward being a pop band, but we've generally had the inclination to obscure those pop leanings in grit and chaos — to screw them up with fuzzed-out tones and raucous performances," says guitarist and vocalist Keith Murray. Another great one from one of America's best bands.