Brazilian-Swiss shoegaze/post rock band Alles Club have released one of the most inspiring LP's I've heard in a long time. The galloping drums that kick off the title track welcome you to a colorful and inspirational world of sound. Soon a symphony of guitars and atmospheric textures fill the speakers while a wash of hypnotic samples round out the sound even more. The faster paced "Quanto Tempo" focuses on Nina Hübscher's incredible voice while "Libélula" is more laid back and psychedelic. "Voando" has a guitar sound reminiscent of "Daydream Nation" era Sonic Youth. It's a really uplifting and fun song to listen to and I find myself going back to this one again and again. "Madrugada" is pure shoegaze as it's layers of reverb drenched guitars and looming bass line are as haunting as they are beautiful. Eventually everything leads to the absolutely stellar sounds of "Canção da Volta" which is highlighted by Isabel Oliveira's stunning vocal delivery. This song explores aspects of jazz, trip-hop, ambient music, classical, experimental and rock all into one song and it's truly amazing. Overall a remarkable achievement for a band that deserves for their music to be heard, enjoyed and respected all over the world. Top LP of 2018.
Goldenaire show off their amazing musicianship and song writing skills on this new four song E.P. The production, playing and energy levels are all top notch and the songs are all in the two to three minute range so it keeps things moving along swiftly. "Flip Side" is full of melodic, swirling guitars that combine shoegaze nuances with driving rock n roll riffs almost like MBV meets "Repeater" era Fugazi. "Laser Beam" is a hard hitting number that features the intensity of drummer Jeff Meyers alongside Derek Zglenski's rolling bass lines while "Golden Air" has an underlying 80's feel to it that I really enjoy. Vocalist/Guitarist
Matt Hanemann shines throughout the entire E.P. but I think my favorite of the four songs is "Nor'Easter" as it channels the likes of The Replacements and Husker Du but with a more atmospheric approach which puts a refreshing spin on it all. I really can't say enough great things about this record. Get into it!!!
Madrid's, Holysun recently dropped this amazing new single and I can't get enough. It's electronic beat, melodic base line and highly textured guitar riff blend together perfectly with the matter of fact style vocal delivery. Truly inspiring in every sense of the word and just as infectious. Hoping to hear an E.P. or LP from this project in the near future.
Oak Meadow is the brainchild of Boston musician Brian Hennessey. The beautiful guitar based "Concord" really gets things going with it's uplifting spirit and colorful presence. The marching pace of "Set Sail" has a very anthem like feel while the hook filled "Giants" showcases vibrant melodies and glistening undertones that radiate with beaming energy. Other highlights include the keyboard based "Moving On", the though provoking "Away We Go" and the breathtaking "Afterall" which ends with a sea of ambient vocals that really capture what Oak Meadow's sound is all about. High recommended.
Oceanside, California shoegazers RUNSDEEP offer up an impressive batch of songs on their latest E.P. "Return To Form". Opening track "Traders" is driven by a gliding guitar riff and shuffling rhythm that creates a rich, hypnotic effect. "It Knows" also moves in a similar direction but with a little more swagger and hook. It's the type of song that has you humming along by the second verse and I really enjoy the dynamics and tempo changes they create here too. "Been Speeding" has a driving intensity to it while "Sing To Sleep" really mixes it up with an array of fuzzed out guitar sounds and lush atmospheric vocals. Everything winds down with the lulling sounds of "Letting Go" which closes things out in fine form. A truly brilliant E.P. that leaves me wanting more.
Led by Federica T's delightful vocal delivery, Brooklyn based band Sooner deliver six highly enjoyable tracks on their second E.P. "Stranger". Opening piece "Humid Air" is full of angular riffs that are backed by a pin point rhythm section. The shimmering sounds of "Notes From The Underground" and cinematic tones that make up "Mean" keep you on your toes while "Breathing" and "Lilly (Regrets)" are highlighted by the intricate and blissful guitar sounds that flow through them. At times the E.P. comes off like a soundtrack to a mini series, where each song would be featured in a specific episode. The songs all have their own unique personality but also mesh together to tell a cohesive story in the perfect way. Overall a very promising record that's colorful, hypnotic and warm.
"IE", the first single from the upcoming "FOR EVER FOR EVER FOR EVER FOR EVER FOR EVER FOR EVER " EP by Sludgegaze band Another Heaven is nothing short of stellar. It's well crafted song structure, dynamic guitars and lush vocal delivery will have you swooning along in no time and make you feel like you just took a tip through outer space and visited an unknown planet. B-side "(Entry Point to Recursive Loop)" is led by it's powerful bass line and galloping drums that accompany the modulated guitars and vocals well. Quite a nice pair of tracks that are sure to delight fans of effects driven shoegaze rock n roll.
This song is simply epic. I don't know specifically what the song is about or what the bands mindset was when it was written or recorded but it certainly speaks to me and takes me to a place that I like in my head. It's got a really gritty/filmy type vibe to it all that draws you in and makes you think. Psychedelic folk with a dirge driven, haunting like twist. A true beauty.
FINE CULT is the brainchild of Illinois native Luke Woodson. The projects latest E.P. "White Glasses" is a hypnotic mix of dark psychedelic melodies, ambient soundscapes and rich shoegaze nuances. It's really the perfect blend of mind bending music. The title track and "Leave It At Home" really set the mood for things while "Your Loops" adds elements of pulsating synths to this ever evolving mix of vibrant sound. Closing piece "She Bends" serves as an amazing ending to everything as it's dark, haunting presence moves like swaying trees just before an unexpected thunderstorm. Highly recommended.
German rock n roll unit Megahaare blast through an eclectic collection of high energy yet quirky songs that come off like a mix between New York City No Wave, Devo and Ohio legends Boy in Love. Stand out pieces like "Sad Knightrider" and "Sunny Day In Antarctica" are both fun and frantic as the unpredictable vocal delivery of Marc Alongina compliments his jangling guitar sound in fine form. There's a deep underlying sense of relentless art that flows throughout this album that is sure to move you. It's that little touch of familiarity that counter acts all the chaos and colorfulness and molds everything together that makes it great.
Madrid is often described as the "Surf Music Capital Of The World". Now that surf type sound is certainly present on No Hay Dolor's latest single "Laverdada" however there is so much more than just that going on here as the band put together swirling seas of ambient textures and beautiful tones that loom underneath waves of reverb drenched riffs and powerful vocals. At times this has a Sonic Youth/Yo La Tengo feel which I obviously love and there's also a very primal almost tribal attitude to it too that really puts everything over the top. Do yourself a favor and blast this at full volume.
Loving this debut E.P. from London based post rock outfit Sea, The Sun. Opening track "Waves" starts with a section of bouncy, intricate and uplifting sounds before doing a total 180 into a sea of guttural darkness that eventually ends with a radiant swell of ambient bliss. "It Felt Like Drowning" combines a similar mood but also takes some drastic turns into more aggressive and angular territory while "Les Dents de la Mer" is a culmination of all of the bands sounds. The track ends with a sonic blast of electronic madness that's like an explosion of immense color. A fine debut from beginning to end. Can't wait to hear what they do next.
Tupelo, Mississippi's Daniel Wade Monaghan offers up an incredible new three song E.P. made up of dark, hypnotic songs that carry a cagey left of center stance. "The Escapist" is a guitar driven piece that's backed by pounding and at times tribal like drums that eventually give way to a more soundscape type feel that accompanies it's overall rock n roll presence well. Monaghan's vocals have a comforting yet haunting appeal to them that really gives the track a unique presence. "The Witch" has an even more sinister element to it that also delves into more shoegaze like territory which I really enjoy while "The Dreamer" might be the most intense track of the three as it's dark guitar riffs and dirge like rhythm offer the perfect balance between heavy and abstract. Highly recommended.
EPIC is the first word I'll use to describe this Berlin based duo's debut album "Lakes Of Harmony". There's a lot of Phil Spector style production and song structures here mixed with Cocteau Twins like ambiance, and it's the perfect combination. There are also some really rugged, dirge driven rhythms that loom underneath everything and give the songs a nice dose of grit. "Surprisingly" has a blissful glow to it that's like a light coming out of the shadows of an eerie landscape. "Mother's Womb" has a more hypnotic feel to it as it's shuffling beat and psychedelic tones make for a very colorful mix while "Spyglass" and "Karkunka" offer even more mind bending aspects to the record. Overall "Lakes Of Harmony" is an incredible debut sure to appeal to fans of dark, experimental sounds with a focus on songwriting. Excited to hear what this duo does next.
GOOD LORD. This album is truly devastating. Timo Ellis and company never let up through these 11 songs.This is stacked with riff after riff after riff that are sure to floor you. -Ton is the musical equivalent of being hit by a bulldozer if you were on a mixture of steroids, acid and speed as the song literally runs you over but in an amazingly colorful and artistic way as apposed to just sheer brutality. Tracks like "FANGORN" really let loose with some of the most insane song structures you will hear anywhere and I must add the drumming on this piece is off the charts. Title track "Black Gaia" carries a meditative stance that's both intriguing and intense as it builds and builds into an ambient flourish of percussion and drones before lulling back into hypnotic regions. Hands down one of my favorite records of the year.
Based in Santiago, Chile, Piramides deliver yet another beautifully well produced album, that's full of rich atmospheric tones and blissful soundscapes. Songs like "Caíste al Suelo", "Vicoria' and "Rastros" show off the bands incredible songwriting abilities and refined musicianship. These pieces are filled with catchy hooks and uplifting dynamics that make them all come off like individual anthems tied together in one album. "Refugio" is another stand out track that glides along with it's chiming guitars and infectious beat. It takes you through multiple moods and shows off a little more of the bands experimental side while the crawling pace of "León" adds a blast of intensity to everything that closes out the album in grand fashion. I really can't say enough great things about this record. Do yourself a favor and GET INTO IT.
I can't get enough of this truly delightful new single from Swedish indie pop/shoegaze unit Star Horse. Maja's breathtakingly beautiful vocals mesh well with the bright atmospheric guitar tones and spot on rhythm section. The song has an angular, cinematic presence that makes you feel like you are floating in space with no return in site. Uplifting, comforting and warm.
I can't wait to hear the bands new album "You Said Forever" which will be released February 15th via Startracks.
From the opening guitar chord of "Harrowing" I was instantly hooked on this new E.P. from Australia's The Veins. It's "Mary Chain" like stance and undeniable swagger give it one of the coolest vibes you could ever ask for. After the lulling tones of "Swimming Pool Interlude" things give way to the infectious number know as "Razorblade Blues". It's reverb drenched vocals and distorted bass line are nothing less than perfect while the wavering shoegaze driven "Rockabye" is full of catchy hooks and subliminal nuances that make it anotehr top notch number from this ultra impressive release.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
A lot of darkness surrounded 2016 and we lost some truly innovative and amazing musicians this year that will be missed forever. Still in all of the darkness, confusion and trying times we had a ton of new music to inspire us throughout the year. I'm so happy I got to experience so much of it. There were so many bands and artists worthy of being on this list so it was hard to break it down to just 60 tracks but I wanted to share a collection of songs that really inspired me this year. I hope you enjoy these as much as I do. Looking forward to another music filled year in 2017.
1. David Bowie "Lazarus" (davidbowie.com)
There is no particular order to these 60 songs but I still have to put this track first. 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. Leonard Cohen "You Want It Darker" (leonardcohen.com)
One of the most amazing songs anyone will ever hear from one of the worlds most incredible poets. RIP Leonard Cohen.
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".
4. You People "Deliver Me Home" (youpeople.bandcamp.com)
This song fully captures everything that's good about loud energetic indie rock. From the bands debut album "Dropouts".
5. 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.
6. Kim Gordon "Murdered Out" Single (Matador)
This song floors me every time i hear it. Mysterious, dangerous and down right menacing.
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. Klute "Loser"(klutebanda.bandcamp.com)
An infectious blast of turbo charged rock n roll that echoes the spirits of The Replacements, Dinosaur JR and Husker Du.
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.
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. Lucius "Born Again Teen" (www.ilovelucius.com)
I had this one on blast all year long. Undeniably awesome!!!
Love the crushing beat and layers of experimental sounds NYC's Sister Pact create on this track.
17. Captions "Bearfights" (captions.bandcamp.com)
Soothing indie pop from California off their latest release "Iterations"
18. 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.
19. 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.
20. This Blinding Light "Mercury" (thisblindinglight.bandcamp.com)
A stunningly beautiful song and video from one of Seattle's best shoegaze/psych outfits.
21. 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.
22.Iggy Pop "Gardenia"(iggypop.com)
A vibrant and charming number from Iggy's latest album "Post Pop Depression". Another song I couldn't get enough of in 2016.
23. Belle-Skinner "And Then You Leave (Go On)" (belle-skinner.bandcamp.com)
An amazing track from one o NYC's best up and coming singer songwriters.
24. Electric Sheep "Headscrew" (electricsheepchicago.bandcamp.com)
An infectious blast of grage rock swagger from one of Chicago's best new bands.
25. Lou Barlow "The Breeze" (www.joyfulnoiserecordings.com)
A comforting piece from one of my all time favorite musicians.
26. Mantere "Maalis" (mantere.bandcamp.com)
Top of the line musicianship and excellent songwriting alongside a hypnotic layer of psychedelic mystery.
An intricate guitar driven number from their latest album "This Is How We Fail".
32. Orations "Oh' the Horror" (orations.bandcamp.com)
I can't get enough of Orations. Their gloom and doom meets college rock style is truly one of a kind . "Oh' the Horror" is the lead single from the bands upcoming album "Wych Elm".
33. Voir Voir "I Wanna" https://voirvoir.bandcamp.com/
An uplifting track from one of the best new indie rock bands going today.
