I Probably played this album 1,000 times this year. So many amazing songs that really speak to you. The record really cements Courtney as one of the best new songwriters around.
2. Joan Of Arc "1984"
One of the bands best yet. Songs like "Real Punk Kid" and "Tiny Baby" combine experimental elements with traditional songwriting in the finest way possible.
3. Body/Head "The Switch"
This album is full of amazing hypnotic, mind bending noise and I can't get enough. The tracks really take you to another place with each and every listen.
4. Merzbow "Exoking"
Another masterpiece from the king of noise. Amazing tones and beautiful packaging as always.
5. Alles Club "Décollage"
This album is truly EPIC. I really can't say enough great things about it. Highly original and inspiring.
6. Statue "Casper"
Amazing guitar and drum tones fill this album alongside incredible musicianship and song arrangements. Top notch across the board.
7. Guided By Voices "Space Gun"
Another stellar album from the most prolific band in the world. Lead singles "Space Gun" and "See My Field" are instant GBV classics.
8. Frankie Teardrop Dead "All You Need Is Love And Fucking Peace"
One of the most colorful and uplifting psychedelic records of the year. Can't get enough of this one.
9. Netherlands "Black Gia"
Another skull crushing release from this NYC metal/sci-fi unit. Intense and menacing with a twist of new wave energy.
10. Casino Garden "Ride"
A brilliant blend of shoegaze and psychedelia. One of the most beautiful albums of 2018.
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.
Los Angeles based Bokonon make swagger filled hypnotic rock n roll that's down right infectious. From the first notes of "Wayside" you can tell you are in for a wild ride as the music seems to levitate and glow as it pumps through your speakers. The cinematic tones of "Anomaly" have an undeniable haunting feel to that make the track perfect for late night drives down an open highway. The melodic, mysterious flair of "Fade" makes it one of the E.P.'s standout tracks while the rolling bass lines and pin point drumming that flow throughout "Voices" and "Relapse" sound absolutely stellar. Another thing I have to say about this record is just how well recorded it is as the production really captures all of the magic, power and underlying nuances that make this band great in the best way possible. A++++.
Made up of Minneapolis musicians Brett Carey and Jordan Wipf, Calvin Heights new album "Talented Sun" is one of the best and most complete albums I've heard in a long long time. Many times a reader will see a review of a record that's talked about in a really positive way and ask the question "Is it really as good as this person says it is" and the answer is YES. The songs are so well crafted and so well produced to the most minor detail it's fascinating. Beginning with the psychedelic fueled "Man Of Your Dreams" the duo channel what sounds like haunting spirits throughout the track as it's hypnotic bass line and matter of fact vocal delivery draw you into an otherworldly experience. "Clouds" incorporates aspects of shoegaze along with indie folk to create a beautiful blend of sounds that are blissful and lush. The song is also full of toe tapping hooks that make it stand out even more before the track dives into a wash of ominous sounds leading to the tripped out darkness of "Seasons Change". "Wasted Sun" is a delightful track with a light pop sensibility that wouldn't sound out of place on something like The Beatles "White Album" while the percussive guitar tones of "Cold As Your Flowers" really adds a cool aspect to things. There's an evil, tense style attached to " Era Vernacular" that showcases some much appreciated "tension" in the album. It's simple riffs are played out in such a way that it really makes you feel like the moment in a horror film where something crazy is going to happen. This gives way to the uplifting spirit of "When You Think Of Me" which radiates with elegance and beauty. It's powerful chord structure and soothing vocals really make it an amazing song. In the end what you have is a landmark album that showcases a band at the top of their game. This is a complete album that's focused and even though it's got all kinds of different moods and sounds going on it really works as one piece and gives the listener a full album experience as the songs really gel together in the most perfect cohesive way. Do yourself a favor and take the time to immerse yourself in this truly amazing listening experience.
Raleigh, North Carolina's Girl Werewolf blast through six tracks of high energy, high grit, riff driven rock n roll. Opening number "Burning Knee" is full of high gain, distorted guitars, galloping drums and a gruff yet soulful vocal stance. "Kobald" has more of a garage rock feel that's backed by a rich psychedelic groove, while "Null Elemental" adds in a twist of sludge like, sonic doom. The menace continues with the absolutely relentless "Tasty Rigor". It literally sounds like the vocals are ripping out of the speakers and coming to attack you. Next thing you know the band switch gears into the surf/garage rock feel of "Covenold" before slamming the door shut on this E.P. with the spacey psychedelic sounds of "Morlock". Overall this is a pretty spectacular collection of heavy sounds with some 60's garage rock tones thrown in for good measure. It's dark, it's aggressive and intense and comes highly recommended.
Loving this debut four song E.P. from Of Two Minds out of Columbus Ohio. The record is full of insane "chops" as these guys really shine out with top levels of musicianship from beginning to end. "Never Went" starts things off with it's insane drumming attack and jazz like guitar and bass structures. It literally keeps you guessing as to what will come next as this track has multiple moods and modes that jump at you out of nowhere. "Snowset" has a few more pop elements to it that give it a nice catchy feel that reminds me a little of Minus The Bear while "Paint By Numbers" brings elements of angst and grit to the mix and gives even more diversity to the bands sound. Everything winds down with the sonic array known as "Sunny Duality". It's like a complete collection of all of the bands best aspects rolled into one as it really shows off just how brilliant this group is. I really can't say enough great things about this record and I can't wait to hear more from this amazing new band.
Based in Portland, Slemenda have just released one of the most impressive ambient/experimental E.P.'s I've heard in quite some time. Starting out with a lulling four minute intro things quickly move into the deep, rich cosmic tones of the E.P.'s title track. It sounds like a space explorer who has just reached a new undiscovered planet and is floating elegantly over top of it's atmosphere. "Dreamer" has a more hypnotic effect and brings in layers of whispering voices, peaceful yet metallic sounds and an array of subliminal tones that are inspiring, introspective and warm.This brings us to the dream like presence of "Reprise" which is a hazy mix of low frequencies, distant ghost like melodies and underlying voices that eventually give way to the errie "Outro" that sends this record off in fine form. A truly remarkable achievement.
Charlotte North Carolina's Tiny City blast through this hard hitting four song E.P. of no frills rock n roll songs with authority. You will hear elements of Big Star, The Replacements and Wilco here as there's also an underlying country/folk feel to much of these songs. "Oh My" is impactful and to the point and has a fun rock n roll shuffle to it. I could see this song being a good fit for Stiff Records back in the late 70's. "Cinnamon" has all of the aspects of an anthem as it's energetic chorus and infectious guitar leads are simply second to none. "Vision Is Real" and "Tiny City" have a very distinct 80's feel to them that also echoes the spirit of classic Roxy Music. Overall a very refreshing release that's as hard hitting and relentless as it is catchy. Get into it.
Lunar Gateway combine elements of post rock, shoegaze, 60's psych rock and folk music to create this tremendously beautiful album known as "Near and Far". "Instinct Devolve" sets the pace for things with it's tom tom beat and intricate guitar attack which leads us to the upbeat and rather jazzy track "Goodbye" which is backed by a free feeling rhythm and a mix of jangling and shimmering guitars. The matter of fact vocal style that flows throughout the record is as inviting as it is mysterious and I'd say this is felt most throughout the extremely dark tone of "Sometimes". The math rock structure of "Poynting" adds a nice touch to the mix and shows off the diversity the band has to offer. Other highlights include the lush, rich tones found in "Deal With It" and the almost goth feel of "We're Lost". Overall "Near and Far" is a brilliant balance of incredible songwriting that's full of imagination and knows when to push the boundaries of traditional music in new directions. Inspiring, innovative and intense.
Based in London, Oats make some of the most refreshing music I've heard in some time. Opening number "The Scourge" combines spacey synth sounds with a driving beat and hypnotic vocals that make for an absolutely perfect combination. "My Ristica" is equally as atmospheric but also has a bit of a folk element to it while "Drippy Wizard" has a quirky, wavering psychedelic swing that surrounds it. Think MGMT at a tea party with Syd Barret. The rhythm of closing piece "Floating" is so full of swagger it's sure to get the biggest square in the venue out on the dance floor. It's down right infectious to say the least. I really can't say enough great things about this E.P. GET INTO IT.
Chicago three piece unit, Sci-Fi Sleep Cycles bring a lot of angst on this new two song E.P. The angular guitars and lo-fi dynamics reference the likes of Sonic Youth and Guided By Voices while also paying homage to bands like Slint and Fugazi. "You" is really an amazing number as it's got some really interesting time changes and a nice quiet/loud/quiet/loud dynamic to it. I've had it on repeat for the last several days and truly can't get enough of it. "On High" is also pretty amazing as it's sea of saturated guitars and catchy melodies give it a really charming feel. A remarkable effort from a really awesome new band.
Serpent Rainbow create a mix of mysterious, atmospheric sounds that are mostly centered around the guitar. The delicate layers of ominous and full bodied chords that ring out during "The Way" are the perfect match for the heartfelt vocals and underlying nuances that really make this track top notch. "Another Way To Misbehave" features lulling layers of hypnotic guitars that channel the spirits of ambient masters like Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois. The rich modulated tones are comforting and warm before giving way to an outbreak of classic rock power chords that round out the track in fine form. An excellent E.P. from beginning to end that leaves me wanting more.
Colchester, UK based band The Angel Makers return with this delightful cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Never Going Back Again". The band put a hazy lazy spin on the track that sounds like a cool breeze flowing on a hot summer day. Shauna Kelly's stunning vocal delivery has an innocence that feels uplifting and free. She puts her own stamp on the track without drifting too far away from the original. The band also recently released a brand new four song E.P. of original songs called "Sam and Sara" which has quickly become a favorite of mine. Highly recommended.
I am truly blown away by this debut E.P. from Brighton's Valita. It's intense cinematic flair and over all eeriness draws you in and never lets you go. Lead off track "Vines" has a dark, slow mysterious presence that's full of rich psychedelic undertones. It's the kind of track that really cements a band for what they truly are and it's nearly seven minutes of stunning intensity. "Wide Eyed" has a similar feel but might be even more cunning. It's haunting guitars and crawling bass line really take the eeriness to another level while "Paint My Skin" has a more uplifting, psychedelic feel that's colorful and dreamy. "Solstice" just might be the most intense track of the batch as it's moody mix of darkness and doom serves as the perfect ending to this
truly amazing collection of songs. This record will give you chills and keep you guessing as to what's coming next. Truly beautiful and one of a kind.
Greensboro, North Carolina's Charm impress on their latest E.P. "Living Room". The lo-fi slack rock style of "Window Shopping" echoes the spirits of Pavement and Superchunk while "Bad Energy" harnesses a guitar sound reminiscent of "Marquee Moon" style Television. I'm loving the upbeat pace and jangle filled riffs of "Gaze" as it's uplifting approach makes it the perfect song for summer. "Glue" is backed by an amazing energy and driving riffs that will have you singing along in no time as I've had this one on repeat since my first listen. I really can't say enough great things about this record. So many amazing riffs, so much energy and just an overall fun band to enjoy. Get into it.
Based in Leon, Mexico, Forever Blond create an incredible blend of upbeat indie pop and slowed down dream driven shoegaze throughout this six song debut E.P. Opening number "Dices que si" is a hook filled "thrill ride" that's infectious rhythm and nasty guitar sound sets things off in fine form, while "No Somos Amigos" has a more lulling approach that's backed by an ethereal vocal delivery that's as soothing as it is mysterious. "See You Again" is filled with warm heart felt melodies and rich soundscapes making it one of the releases best moments. It's the type of track that really shows the diversity this band is capable of when it comes to song writing and approach. Overall "Algún día todo lo que sentí, me será útil" is a most excellent debut that's sure to delight fans of well crafted, catchy atmospheric rock n roll. Highly recommended.
I've been a fan of Luke Phillips AKA ICEBEING for a few years now and have been anticipating new music from the project for quite some time, so I was really excited to see Phillips drop this new two song E.P. "Wonky Boy" is a fast, infectious number full of modulated and fuzzy guitars, a toe tapping beat and an uplifting vocal delivery. It's psychedelic, colorful and hypnotic and simply put it's down right amazing. "Courting" has a more electronic approach but also retains the lush psychedelic flair that flows through these two songs. It's happy and warm yet incredibly vivid and mysterious at the same time as the song radiates an energy that's truly second to none. Another remarkable release from one of my favorite new artists.
Wasn't sure what to expect from a band named Lofi Legs but then again what's in a name? What you get is a fine blend of breezy indie rock n roll fueled but jangling guitars, swinging beats and swagger like vocals that don't try to do too much.The chiming guitar attack of "Ground" makes it one of the releases best tracks as it's oozing with melodies and captures an underlying surf rock appeal that I just can't get enough of. The shuffling beat of "Lo-Tide" and it's stop and start riff gives the song a care free feel while "Orange Sunshine" features some really awesome "guitar moves" that make for some incredible dynamics. I must say "Sonic Century" is a highly pleasurable listening experience and I can't wait to hear what this band does next.
Mothers "Pink" Single (ANTI-Records)
Mother's are set to release their second album "Render Another Ugly Method" via Anti-Records on September 7th. The records latest single "Pink" is a bouncy blast of infectious rock n roll that caries a slightly hypnotic feel and mysterious presence. It's layers of angular guitars and lush atmospheric vocals create an intricate formula that also harnesses just enough menace and grit to push things over the top. Can't wait to take in the full album. Highly recommended.
Voyage In Solitude combine aspects of post rock, shoegaze and underground metal to create a sound that's all their own. This latest E.P. "Last Train From The Hill" is a truly beautiful creation as all of the songs mesh together perfectly. The shimmering gliding feel of "Noisy Train" brings an elegance to the record that's absolutely breathtaking. "Abyss" continues in an ethereal direction but adds some heavier aspects to the sound, while "Ticket To The Other World" shows an even more cinematic side to the record as the intensity seems to build and build throughout the song. This all leads up to the climactic sounds of "Never Look Back" as it's pounding drums and other worldly presence really send the album off on a high note. It's hopeful and grey at the same time as it feels like it's breathing new life into an old and jaded body, allowing it to fully live again. A tremendous release that leaves me wanting more.
Corrections is the brainchild of musician/songwriter Sam Nicholas. Born and raised in Australia Nicholas is now based in London and his latest album "Birdsong" features nine stellar tracks that incorporate lush ambient soundscapes , pulsating synths and angular guitar tones alongside Nicholas incredible songwriting. We sat down with Sam to talk about his earliest musical discoveries, the scene in London, his love for Luca Guadagnino films and the making of the album.
CMM-What were your first musical memories and what bands/artists made the biggest impact on you as a musician?
Sam-Waking up in the morning when Napster was at its height and listening to ‘Into the Void’ with visualizations through Windows Media Player. Interpol are a huge influence, especially Paul Banks’ lyricism and delivery. Also a massive Fleetwood Mac fan, which always helps.
CMM-When did you start making music and what drove you into the musical direction that makes up your sound?
Sam-I wrote my first ‘proper’ songs in 2017 after listening to Beach Fossils too much. Before that I was writing and recording a song a month. Most of these tracks have thankfully disappeared.
I’d certainly consider myself a bit of an auteur. All elements of the music should have something in common, visually and sonically, and nothing should seem out-of-place. I never switch off, and I document most of my experiences in some way or another. ‘Birdsong’ is the first time I’ve produced something with a clear purpose, which I attribute to my desire to cultivate a more solid aesthetic, and treat it more like a job rather than a hobby.
CMM-What was the writing and recording process of "Birdsong" like?
Sam-I started writing ‘Idolatry’ when I was recording my first album. I haven’t stopped writing since ‘Idolatry’, so the recording process has been much more streamlined. The sounds and ideas that have been floating around in my head for the last year have been carefully chosen instead of instinctively thought of as ‘complete’. I did a lot of cutting, which is what all the great artists do. If you’re not being hard on yourself, you’re doing it wrong.
CMM-Any particular gear you used in the making of it? (guitars, pedals, amps, recording gear etc)
Sam-Too much to name. I focused mainly on recording techniques instead of purchasing more gear. If I had to choose, I’d say the most important pedal was my Sansamp GT2, which allowed me to create a more authentic guitar sounds without bothering my neighbors. My iSK DM58 microphone would be a close second, for sentimental reasons.
CMM-If you could score a soundtrack for any film director who would it be and what would the film be about?
Sam-It would be a Luca Guadagnino film set in rural Australia during the 1980s about a solitary and often misunderstood man who discovers meaning in the mundane, and the importance of remaining open-minded as you age. A hybrid of ‘Amour’ and ‘Wake In Fright’, only more vivid.
CMM-How do you see the state of the music and art scenes in London these days? Who are your favorite local bands and what venues do you enjoy performing in and seeing shows most?
Sam-East London is certainly the place to be. There are tonnes of great acts coming out at the moment. Comte St. Gemain is up and coming, along with Slowcoaches and The Agnes Circle. The Shaklewell Arms is my favorite place to hang out, along with the George Tavern and The Victoria Dalston. All cracking venues.
CMM-What direction do you see your new recordings moving in and what do you have planned for a follow up release?
Sam-More visceral and energetic. Already gotten to work on a few tracks, which are sounding much dirtier.
German shoegaze band Casino Garden carve out one of the most inspiring and well written releases of the year with their debut album "Slide". Starting off with the breathtakingly beautiful "Mind-Blowing Voices" the band take you on a dream like journey through sonic soundscapes that are full of ambient nuances and highly modulated guitar tones. "Colorblind" has a more indie pop stance with it's upbeat feel and catchy hooks while the acoustic based "Placebo" quickly shows off the bands vast diversity. Other highlights of the album include the shimmering and moody feel of "Ride", jangle pop based "Moths" and the slow lulling pace of "Uncanny Valley". Don't miss out on this spectacularly impactful debut.
Late Bloomer "Sleeve" Single (6131 Records)
Killer indie rock/punk rock n roll out of Charlotte, North Carolina that echoes the spirits of The Replacements, Husker Du and Weezer. "Sleeve" is a true modern day anthem that's full of sing along type hooks and an over all "half smile but feeling kinda good" attitude. It's the kind of track that gets you singing along in no time and it's got the perfect feel for summer. The bands new album "Waiting" is out now courtesy of 6131 Records.
This debut E.P. from Montreal based post punk unit Meave is absolutely crushing. Opening number "Éthérée" has a dark, eerie almost sinister crawl to it that is so mysterious and subliminally heavy. It's pounding drums and angular guitar attack stand out alongside it's almost chanted vocal delivery. "Skeleton Woman" is a little more melodic and radiates with a glowing energy while "Flowers On The Stage" is a psychedelic, hypnotic masterpiece. The sea of intrigue and darkness continues as an ominous drone flutters at the beginning of "Lost Rivers" before giving way to an infectious beat and sea of psyched out guitar sounds. It's got an epic feel all around that harnesses a primal yet modern take on riff driven rock n roll. "No Boredom" closes out this amazing E.P. with it's dirge driven mood and rich ambient vocals. It's the perfect ending to what may truly be one of the most impressive debuts I've ever heard.
Taken from their new full length album "Almost Ruined Everything" out August 10th, Notches create an amazing post punk/hardcore sound that reminds me of Dinosaur Jr. and Buffalo Tom mixed with traces of Black Flag and The Minutemen. "Telephone Wire" is wired for power and captures just the right amount of meanness to go along with it's feel good chorus and energetic attitude. Another promising effort from one of the best new bands out.
Based in Ciudad De México, Point Decster create a whirlwind of sonic rock n roll sounds that blur the lines between mid 90's screamo, post rock, shoegaze and post hardcore. "Chino Moreno" has an undeniable spirit to it as it's driving beat and melodic guitar riffs mesh perfectly with it's passionate uplifting vocals. There's also a fast "pick me up" style part at the end that caps off the track in grand fashion. "Sugarcoat" is done in a similar style but with a little more "chaos" so to speak. The end section has some of the most beautiful dynamics you will hear anywhere as it's gliding guitars create a type of tension, energy and attitude that stands above most of the other bands tying to capture this type of emotion and sound. Highly recommended.
After the release of The Mountain Goats 2015 album "Beat The Champ" WWE wrestler Sasha Banks tweated to the band “Where’s my song @mountain_goats”. According to Mountain Goats founder John Darnielle the album was based on wrestling from the “old territories days” but he agreed that at some point they would write a “Song for Sasha Banks.” Well now it's 2018 and that song has arrived as
Darnielle released the track last week. As a long time wrestling fan I must say it's pretty interesting to hear lines that mention Chris Jerhico and reference wrestlers coming up through the independents to make their mark in the "business". Another
exquisite creation from this long running indie pop project that's sure to delight longtime fans and make some new ones.
