Listen to Thalassocracy

thallMan, I’ve really got to pick things up here.  One of the owners of my favorite little label, Art is Hard Records, has started a new project, so I guess it’s on to me to start my own act.  The group started by Richard of AIH is titled Thalassocracy, and like a label with good tastes, this song is pretty much spot on.  The tracks got some ringing guitar work that seems to strut about in your speakers, building space for a great vocal delivery that’s short lived.  I think it’s a pretty awesome start; you won’t be able to ignore this catchy gem.

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New Track From The Due Diligence

unnamedI’m rather enjoying this impressive new track called “Cool” by New York based The Due Diligence.  It’s hard to accurately describe the sound being created here, but one might call it punk themed rock music with a surfy vibe to it at times.  Veterans like King Khan immediately come to mind.  Check it out for yourself and see what you think.

New album, Are You Down, will be available on August 5th via Black Bell Records.

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Anthem Ready Rock From The Hawks (of Holy Rosary)

Hawks-Group-RGB-copyThough San Antonio wasn’t always considered a hot bed for up and coming indie acts, it seems that recent years have bucked that trend.  The Hawks (of Holy Rosary) hail from the city and are creating some very interesting throwback style poppy-punk tunes in their very own way.  Our very first exposure to the band comes in the form of this track called “Snakes and Hawks” and one can immediately see why folks are buzzing about this band.  The multiple harmonies and chant worthy chorus are infectious as hell.  Welcome to the party kids.

New album, What Team am I On?, is due out July 22nd via Texas is Funny Records.

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Stanley Brinks and Freshcard Release Album of Duets

Pizza EspressoIt seems like Stanley Brinks is all about collaborations this year, having earlier worked with The Wave Pictures, and now with songwriter Freshcard.  The story goes that Mr. Brinks met Freshcard whilst she was working at a bakery in Paris; he invited her to sing some songs, and their friendship was born.  Together, the two will release Pizza Espresso as collaborative affair between their two labels, Fika Recordings and Wiaiwya.  It’s an album of soft ballads and shared singing roles, allowing for maximum pop indulgence for the listener. You’ll be quite pleased with the results of these two.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/01-If-You-Have-Time.mp3]

Download: Stanley Brinks and Freshcard – If You Have Time [MP3]

Total Control Release Another Track

tcThe latest wave of music from Total Control provides another glimpse into their new album, Typical System.  It’s a six minute long glittering electronic affair, displaying the poppier side of the band.  There’s two sides to the record, and the beat-laden pieces are just as entertaining as the punkier sides.  Personally, I like the fact that the band draws this tune out for such a long duration, as it begs you to take notice of the band’s focus on crafting two distinctly differing styles within the confines of the whole LP.  Those looking for the heavier side of things need not fret, as every other song offers what you need.  You’ll be able to listen to it all on June 24th via Iron Lung Records.

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New EP From INVASIONS

9823_10151924493438869_364563501_nToronto based band INVASIONS is a group that I’ve posted about on multiple occasions here on this website.  Today I’m pleased to share with you news that the band have just recently released their new EP No Darkness on bandcamp.  You can get your hands on that for the low low price of only $3 or you can stream the whole thing below.  I think most will find that the psych themed pop music being created here is a real thing of beauty.  Each song can be dark at times, but then seem to transition seamlessly into some brighter, breezier moments that make this EP worthy of repeat listens.

Old Flame Records On a Roll This Summer

oldflameIt’s always great to see the success of labels that have worked diligently to foster acts they love, and that’s why I’m really impressed with the work of our friends over at Old Flame Records.  Next week they release the much anticipated Dead Stars LP, Slumber, but they’ve also got some other great things in the working.  They’ve got a new single from Shark?, which is this great instrumental jam that’s perfect to fit into the middle of your road trip mix tape.  Then, they’re working on the next release from The Pharmacy; they’re album Spells will be out on August 12th, and it’s definitely a jamming type record, filled with rock n’ roll swagger.  Take a listen to the two respective singles from each band below, “Big Summer” by Shark? and “Masten Lake Lagoon” by the Pharmacy; keep an eye on Old Flame.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/A1-Big-Summer-V1.mp3] [audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/05-Masten-Lake-Lagoon.mp3]

Dream Pop from Gems

gemsIn a few weeks we’ll be keeping our eyes on Hundred Waters as the much-hyped act comes into town.  But, I’ll be honest, I was rather underwhelmed by their SXSW performances, so I’m looking at the opener Gems to be the winner on the night.  The DC duo just released another single, with drifting melodies and nice bits of atmospheric production.  There’s no word on when they group will release something, but this track here should perk up your ears, and maybe even entice you to hit up their show at Red 7 on the 23rd.

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Another Track from The Proper Ornaments

properThose who’ve been carefully following the underground realm of pop music surely have heard the whispers about The Proper Ornaments.  The band’s often thought of as a side-project for members of Veronica Falls, but you can tell the guys put some time in on the recording of their latest LP, Wooden Head.  There’s nostalgic odes to the past, clever bits of current pop and pretty much as complete an album as you’re likely to find this year.  Slumberland Records continue their summer hit list by releasing this album on July 8th.  Join the club, love this band.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/06-Magazine.mp3]

Download:  The Proper Ornaments – Magazine [MP3]

 

Pop Gem From Monomyth

monomythSometimes when you hear a great pop song, your ears perk up and you’ve just got to share it with the public.  This sweet lil’ number comes from Halifax based Monomyth and is called “Something Else”.  I find myself enjoying the breezy, pop feel to this one.  Who can resist such temptation?

New album, Saturnalia Regalia, is due out on July 22nd via Mint Records.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Something-Else-1.mp3]

Download: Monomyth – Something Else [MP3]

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