[ New Music ] Sweetsoak is back with two singles "Stained Hands" and "Bitter Sugar"

Artist: Sweetsoak
Album: stained hands b/w bitter sugar
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     Seattle based shoegaze / noise pop band Sweetsoak is back with two new songs, "stained hands" and "bitter sugar." With their signature dream pop grunge vibes, and equal parts lofi and polished vocals, we are effortlessly delivered to the emo rock landscape they paint so vividly, and well.

     On the first track, "stained hands" the band dives right to the heart of the matter. What seems to be a song about a relationship gone awry, and the swim through the murky waters of getting back to feeling normal again. "been on the search for something, something to dull the suffering, something to numb the pain, to nullify the shame."   Fuzzed out guitars and heavy hitting drums drive this song, with vocals sitting perfectly in the mix as the guitars go through circular shifts in tone and strumming styles. Dreamy and melancholy, coming to the end of a dream that's run it's course. Check out the black and white video for this song on their Bandcamp here while you listen: Video

     On the flip side, the second track "bitter sugar" is the upbeat, 'road trip on a sunny day' sound we didn't know we needed. Melodic guitar lines and a steady alt-rock drum feel, the bass comes in powerful and massive, creating huge drops into each section and a jumping off point for the vocals and lead guitar to cut through the noise. The lyrics playfully dance around the ideas of bitter and sweet tastes, and the struggles to get back to a healthy routine, whether it's eating, sleeping, or thinking... "and i'm okay but I feel sick." Overall this release from Sweetsoak is another testament to their steady but ever evolving sound! Each song has it's own unique feel and message, but still finds a way to return to their signature sound.

     Check out Sweetsoak on social media for future releases, and make sure to take a listen to "stained hands b/w bitter sugar" below:

[ New Music ] Seattle's Sweetsoak releases "ghost love b/w dizzy nodding dream"

Artist: Sweetsoak
Album: ghost love b​/​w dizzy nodding dream
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Seattle based dream pop / shoegaze band Sweetsoak just released a killer 7" titled "ghost love b/w dizzy nodding dream." With an ethereal-sounding mixture of obscured vocals, distorted reverb driven guitars, and an overwhelming dreamy grunge feel, you can really sink your teeth into these two tracks.

First we have "ghost love" hitting us right away with a sonic wave of sustained guitars, bright synth layers, and a chilled out heavy handed drumbeat. At times it's hard to make out what the singer is saying, which is typical for the shoegazing genre, vocals tend to be put lower in the mix and masked by the overall tones of the song, with a repetitive melody that you find yourself humming or making up your own words to after a few listens. From what we can make out, "I need you in your bloodstream," is probably about as close as you can get to another human being, literally having them swimming laps through your veins. A very dreamy tune, with some emotional weight, and a dynamically exciting arrangement. Reminiscent of songs like David Bowie's "Heroes," or "The Man Who Sold The World" by Nirvana.

Closing out the record is "dizzy nodding dream," we are immediately drawn in by the shimmery, spaced out synth and delayed guitars that provide the bright layer for warm distorted lead to rip through the mix right before the first verse. Again we have the vocals sitting low in the mix, becoming secondary to the raging fiery tones of the lead guitar, and driving drum beats. It'll leave you all kinds of dizzy from wanting more, nodding your head to the raucous sonic blooms, and shaking that feeling after waking up from a good dream. Overall this record is a one two punch, and an exciting glimpse into all the good things coming from Sweetsoak in the future.


Check 'em out on their social media pages, and make sure to take a listen to Sweetsoak's "ghost love b/w dizzy nodding dream" below:

[ Single Review ] YYY release "Wouldn't It Be NIce" (feat. deM atlaS)

Artist: YYY - A Tribute To The Beach Boys Pet Sounds
Song: "Wouldn't It Be Nice" (feat. deM atlaS)
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          YYY is an indie synth-pop group based out of Minneapolis, MN. This collective modern day spin of the endearing, nostalgic Beach Boys tune, "Wouldn't It Be Nice", originally recorded in 1966 on their album "Pet Sounds. The original song featured standard rock n' roll instruments, along with some not-so-standard instruments like mandolin, accordion, and trumpet, among other things. YYY's arrangement includes synthesizers, xylophone, drums, the essential California surf wave sounds, and an array of vocals putting a bit of an edgy twist on the clean cut vocal production of the late sixties.
          The song itself was released right on the verge of the 70's "free love" movement, when just about everyone was tired of following the outdated rules of their conservative parents who grew up in a very different time. The lyrics are endearing in nature, and optimistic about getting older, and being able to spend more time with their loved ones. "Wouldn’t it be nice if we could wake up, in the morning when the day is new, and after having spent the day together, hold each other close the whole night through" 
          YYY takes this classic surf pop tune, and adds new age drum sounds, reverb, and raw emotion and energy, bringing the song to the forefront once again. YYY's "Pet Sounds Tribute" album is a delight from start to finish, and highly recommended listening for any age listener. 

The best part is... You can stream / purchase the album now on YYY's bandcamp page here:
https://therealyyy.bandcamp.com/album/a-tribute-to-the-beach-boys-pet-sounds

[ Track by Track ] Gills release debut album "Shadows of the Moon"

Artist: Gills
Album: Shadows of the Moon
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           Gills is an alt-country/ blues rock band based out of Buffalo NY. Band members include Duane Gills, Kristine Gills, Jim O'Brien, Mike Ryan, and Dan Solari. Some of Gills musical influences range from classic rock like the Allman Brothers, and U2, and Foo Fighters; along with country artists like Reckless Kelly, and John Mark McMillan. The band has just released their first full length album titled "Shadows of the Moon". Recording for the album started in November 2016 took a little over 6 months. We all know the working band's struggle,  having a family and a full time job, while still trying to make time to get to the studio, rehearsals, and gigs. It's not easy, but it makes the release of an album that much more to celebrate. The finished record features ten heartfelt, thoughtfully produced tracks focused around great songwriting and a dynamically driven band.


                                                             TRACK BY TRACK

 1. "Shadows" - This song starts off with bright piano, and builds adding bass guitar, and drums. Jazzy guitar chords weave in and out of the verses. The melodic piano pushes the song along, as the lyrics tell a story of longing, and seeing someone everywhere, that isn't actually there. "Any time I'm in need of direction, I take a breath and I look in the mirror, and oh, I see shadows of you"


2. "Beautiful Lady" - Acoustic guitar over light hits on the snare with brushes begin this track. Throughout the song lead guitar adds flourishes of melody, vocals layer into each rotating chorus, also adding cello. "I feel my heartstrings pull being so far from home, and in the morning I search for you, I look but I won't find, I scream and yell out your name, it'll be in vain". Searching sleepy-eyed for a love that's vanished, being far from the ones you once loved, vowing to continue to love them, even if it's in vain.


3. "First Kiss"  - "How do we capture love that we need bad, let's start with that first kiss, the first time your lips touched mine, then remember that first night, the first time we opened a bottle of wine". Reminiscent of the popular duet "Picture" by Sheryl Crow and Kid Rock, male and female vocals going back and forth, each asking the other to think back to their first kiss, to remember the good times. Acoustic guitar, bass, drums, and lead guitar fill out the sound, each giving way to the other to allow dynamics and solo melodies.


4. "Date" - Ever been on a date that ended too soon? Or how about, a date that couldn't end soon enough? Gills describes a night out on the town, that doesn't stop at last call... good times that never stop. The drums begin this song with a cool rolling beat, leaving room for a melodic bass line, and lead guitar, with percussion shining with shaker throughout the song. In the vocals, there is a nice back and forth of "Grease-esque" moments between Kristine and Duane."Roll down the windows and try to sing along, if you ride with me, this date will never end".

5. "Faces" - Things slow down here on this ballad, allowing the listener to settle in and reflect.  Kristine is featured with lead vocals, acoustic guitar, bass, drums, piano comes in after the first chorus and lead guitar. Each instrument playing a vital role to the overall production and emotional feel of the song. "Looking for the answers in all the wrong places, getting mad looking in the mirror, staring at my different faces".

6. "Dying to Stay Alive" - A song about grieving, and the aftermath of loss, or losing someone. "How am i supposed to move, how am i supposed to breathe, you were my girl, you were my everything", Duane sings. The song layers organ, bass, drums, acoustic guitar. doubled vocals in the chorus, a notable, impassioned, lead guitar solo.

7. "Tornado" - Soothing rain sounds, then upbeat acoustic guitar, drums pick up, electric bluesy guitar sections and walking bass lines. "Tornado" goes into the flip-side of a good relationship, the dirty underbelly that usually goes unseen when things go sour. "Storm came and went so fast, that the aftermath has been felt around here for days, maybe longer".

8. "Battered City"- Somber guitar chords, and forlorn vocals telling a story of a battered woman, running back into the arms of her abuser. This song ebbs and flows,  adding organ drums bass, great tight instrumental grooves and lead guitar riffs. "Is it okay for me to just walk away, that's the day your roses died.."

9. "Truth in a Bottle" -  Acoustic guitar and vocals start, as the full band comes in, trumpet is featured with lively melodies and rhythmic choices, also showcasing more lead guitar work that really brings this song to life."Is that truth in a bottle is so much easier to swallow than seeing myself for who i really am". A lot of people struggle with alcoholism and depression, and find it easier to reach for the bottle, than to face their demons or regrets head on. Duane sings of the human struggle of facing yourself while sober, finding the truth "easier to swallow" from the bottle.

10. "Gazebo Song"- Last but not least, we come full circle with a tune starting with bright piano and quickly falling  in with bass, guitar, and happy go lucky vocals. Great harmonies, and lead guitar solos, also one of the most notable choices on the album, having gang vocals on the last chorus, leading into a full on accapella sing along with the sound of the summer breeze blowing through wind chimes, and the subtle sounds of a backyard BBQ with friends. "Cut off jeans and flip flops are all you need to get by, leave your worry and stop and say hi".


Overall this album is a home run for Gills, taking us through a roller-coaster of emotions, and sharing deep honest lyricism through melodic full band productions. On their website, there is a picture featured with each track of their debut "Shadows of the Moon". Giving a visual insight to each song, and also making the album stand apart from others in the same genre. We look forward to hearing what's next from Gills, make sure to stream / consider purchasing their album on Bandcamp!

https://gillsband.bandcamp.com/album/shadows-of-the-moon-2 

[ Album Review ] Phantom Pop - Beta

Artist: Phantom Pop
Album: BETA
Fusion / Funk / Jazz
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Phantom pop is made up of a diverse cast of Brooklyn musicians. With influences like Snarky Puppy, Stevie Wonder, The Mars Volta, and Steely Dan, you can expect to be surprised at every turn. Their newest release, Beta, is a pleasant upbeat listening experience from start to finish. Smooth jazz with fusions of soul, R&B, and funk. Impressive vocal chops, a rocking horn section, and intriguing rhythm sections lends elements from almost every genre. They are currently on tour with rapper JSWISS, blending rap into their instrumental synchronicity to create a unique sound all their own.

With song titles like “Selfie Punch”, and “Banana Computer(ft. JSWISS)” it’s refreshing to see the band has a good sense of humor. “Rosewood” is a personal favorite, percussive clapping layered over a deep Moog groove that pulls you in, and doesn’t let go. When the beat finally drops, it’s impossible to sit still. Their music will get in your veins and move you. Another personal favorite on Beta, is the closing track "La Baleine 2.0". Halfway through the song you are whisked away by a soaring tangible saxophone solo, then ushered right back into the jazz swing and the sweet bubbly vocals of Songyi Jeon. The last 30 seconds of the album are the grand finale to an incredible display of musicianship, collaboration, and wonderful arrangements. Beta is pure fireworks.

And you're in luck, you can get a copy right here: Bandcamp

Video: 


Originally formed by Dave Lowenthal simply to create an album, Phantom Pop has gone on to tour the east coast, southern, and Midwest U.S. The first self-titled album was selected by WNCW Radio as one of the Top 100 Releases of 2015.

Members: Dave Lowenthal - Bass; Josh Schusterman - Drums; Noah MacNeil - Keyboards; Atsushi Ouchi - Saxophone; Matt Giella - Trumpet; Songyi Jeon - Voice; Theo Moore - Percussion; JSWISS - MC
Phantom Pop extended family includes:  Haruka Yabuno - Keyboards; Eitan Akman - Guitar;  Owen Broder - Saxophone; Michael Sarian - Trumpet

[ Album Review ] Alright Junior - Inhibition EP

Alright Junior – Inhibition EP
Modern Rock / Alternative
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Circa Survive, Flogging Molly, Incubus, The Head & The Heart… these are just a few of the long list of bands Alright Junior has shared the stage with. Formed in 2006, this alt rock trio, consisting of, Jace Miller (Vocals, Guitar), Mike Fraclose (Drums), and Jamie Victor (Bass, Backup Vocals), have become one of Philadelphia’s premiere modern rock groups.

Over You Over Me
These gentlemen waste no time diving into this EP. Right away you are greeted by a wall of perfectly balanced guitars and front-man Jace Miller’s robust vocals. “How long will it take me to get over you, and for you to get over me?” I picture Thelma and Louise grabbing each other’s hands, and speeding off the cliff.  Choosing to end the mental anguish instead of continue living in the hopes of time healing all wounds after a bad break up. Can anyone truly put a length of time on the recovery process? “How long will it take to heal?” The band flawlessly shifts moods between angst, and relief of a relationship gone awry.

Out At Sea
Although this song starts off like it might be a happy tune, you quickly discover it has some dark undertones. Ever think you were so in love? Thought of someone so highly, then were painfully blindsided? Jace sings of a life lost out at sea. A life better lived in separate life boats, going completely different directions into shallows of Davey Jones Locker.. “What do you do when your halo slips and scrapes down your spine?” Imagine Wilson from the Tom Hanks movie Cast Away, now imagine if Wilson royally screwed you over. KICK, PUNT, get out of my life, I’d rather live and die alone then spend one more second with a double-crossing beach volleyball. 
Hold On To My Breath Again
Slow to build, this ballad showcases the raw vocal prowess of Miller. Clean guitars overlap as the vocals layer to deepen the mood. The drums storm in, reinforcing the singer’s feelings of longing. Reminiscent of Lizzy Hale’s voice from Pennsylvania heavy rockers Halestorm. This song builds and builds, a haunting climb to the top of the empire state building, to scream from the top. The chaos that ensues is intense and powerful, just like the head-rush of adrenaline before jumping to the busy streets below. 

In Pain
“I've got a heart as heavy as your conscience” Boom. Hard rockin’, this is the band that meets you at the gates of hell. Flames shooting out from the cracks in the asphalt beneath their feet. Miller's gravelly vocals are almost as gritty as his guitar riffs, distorted and full of attitude. The rhythm section kicks in to full motion at the breakdown. Abrubt stops and starts, tight transitions, and a groove that you might find yourself headbanging too.

Into The Sun
*personal favorite* bright melodic guitar layers in with warm bass tones. The calm sincere vocals of Miller pull at your heart strings as he opens the front door into a new day. The hook of this song hits you with a tsunami of sound. Victor and Miller’s harmonies shine so pleasantly here. “The march goes on, straight into the sun” You can feel exactly how they feel in this moment; the undying perseverance, and determination behind these words. Isn’t that the ultimate goal of any musician, songwriter, or storyteller? 




Way to go guys. This EP lets go off all inhibition. It’s dangerously honest, and sometimes raw. Tight interwoven arrangements, a kick-ass rhythm section, and consistently original songwriting gives us a very nice glimpse of what’s to come from Alright Junior.


...you can get your very own copy of Inhibition here: Bandcamp

[ Album Review ] Armada Named Sound - Electronica LP

 "Innovation, diversity, originality, positivity and love" 

These are some of the things Electronic artist Spiros Maus believes in.   Born in Athens, Greece and currently residing in London UK, Maus has been perfecting his musicianship and songwriting his entire life. His newest project Armada Named Sound embraces all aspects of electronic music. Maus's low gravelly "Batman" voice is chilling and driving. Blending perfectly with the smooth, varying layers of female vocalists featured on this LP. Innovative, Diverse, Original, Positive, and full of love, Armada Named Sound's music practices what he preaches. 

Midnight at Metropolis –  The opening track to Electronica LP is driving, chaotic, and utterly enticing. Imagine a helicopter flying through a thunderstorm. Cinematic, and blood pumping, this track is like a scene from a Mission Impossible movie, 

Crush – insane sound effects, think haunted house at 3am, terrifying like walking on a dimly lit street with shadows surrounding you. Strong female vocals by Andromeda S, eerie harmonies, pierce the mix, with a tug of war between good and evil, angel and demonic. Impressive production, simple driving drum beat with layers of synth and vocal effects

Toxinsane – trippy, dark pop goth party on Halloween eve, vocals are silky smooth, serenading a vampire as the sun rises, a siren pulling a sailor out into deep water, a haunting chorus, a back and forth between the growl of Spiros and powerhouse vocals of Marta Karis. A crazy acid trip. Intricate synth layers top this devil’s food cake, red velvet crumbling to the floor. “Leave your body, leave your mind, broken shell, left behind”loving the play on words – you’re just so toxic,so insane “toxinsane”

Life in Lofi – Imagine being a ghost on a crowded subway train, the lights shining in, the cacophony of chatter and tunnel noises, the train in motion, but you’re invisible. The synth-pop wall of sound washes over you as you open up your mind to a new way of living. The song encourages the listener to live life now, “have some poison, have a smoke, live inside a screen” 

I am - *featured track on Bandcamp* soulful, sweet vocals pierce the dark dirty groove as the singer comes back with his ragged, Tom waits, Rob Zombie-esque voice. The mood is uplifting, a brand new day after the most elaborate heist. Driving fast down the highway with a bag of cash floating in the wind, Victory champagne sprayed across the dashboard

NY – tells the story of a woman who went out on the town, and danced all night, smoked, took pills, drank too much, as the song progresses she reveals why she drinks so much, to stop a heartache. Her vices are her medicine. Hints at this being a recurring situation, “sleeping in my neighbor’s yard, I was dreaming when the sun came up, well I drank a little more last night”

       Bittersweet – lush harmonies, two voices you wouldn’t think would fit together that mesh so well “All thrill is to be gone, you spend the night alone. But still you wish you’d feel it, and bittersweet’s the word” So catchy, the cadence of the chorus will get you bobbing you head. Think of you're favorite 80’s anthem, Cyndi Lauper, Madonna, Dancy, upbeat, with dark tones, and expressions of loneliness…the bittersweet feeling of spending a night alone when you don’t want to.

       White Keys and Black Silk - *personal favorite* harmonies that roll together like raindrops forming a trickle that build into a beautiful water fall. An arrangement that keeps you guessing, Dream like wonderment, “Vain in Silence, Make some noise and still you can’t be seen, Know just why you’re here, Not to be remembered but to Live” ---strong words to live by. Intricate, eerily beautiful.

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