Author: nathan.lankford

Kluster B Share Graveyard

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As the Swedish outfit Kluster B ready their new LP, they’re really flexing their musical muscles, at least in regards to their songwriting. They’ve honed their indiepop skill-set, but in tightening that, they’ve built in a little bit more flare…as we see in their latest single. In between the melodious moments of dreamy pop, they get crunchy, finding expression in the noisier corners of their sound. They surround the melody in this brief crashing of instrumentation, like a distorted cocoon, before slinking back into their poppier side. B, the new album, will be out April 17th via Rama Lama Records.

Francis of Delirium Share Circles

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Honestly, as I was reading about Francis of Delirium, I realized I hadn’t really heard of bands from Luxembourg (there’s this fun list to browse). But, this duo would likely fit into any scene anywhere in the world; it’s a blend of the introspective rock and anthemic pop that we all secretly crave. For me, there’s a nostalgic feel in the guitar notes, almost like they’re ripped straight from some classic 90s band, then dolled up for the swelling burst of euphoria that crashes down through the chorus. Jana Bahrich does brilliantly, contrasting the quiet personal moments with bold brightness; I was particularly drawn to the emphatic closing, almost angrily pushing the song to a close. It’s a pretty special introduction to the band, and should turn your attention towards their All Change EP slated for release this summer.

Candy Share Clean Video

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Calum Newsom used to play with Amyl and the Sniffers, which should warrant your attention, though his sound under his Candy moniker is far different, if you ask me. This tune’s much less punk, and much more pop oriented; the bass line alone just reeks of folks looking to kick up their heels and have a blast. Honestly, there’s an understated jingle to it, which makes me think fondly of the early stuff from the Drums. It’s Monday, about to get rainy, so may as well hold onto some dreamy pop vibes before the day descends further into darkness.

Holy Wave Share Escapism

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Austin’s Holy Wave have long been known for crafting these entrancing psychedelic rock tunes, but as they prepare for the release of Interloper, it seems they’ve gradually begun to grow their sound. Now, don’t think their intention to alter moods and states of mind has changed; this song still illustrates a sort of purposeful trance, though it’s being spun more through the window of dream pop. The wash of atmospherics that coats the tune creates this light fog through which you can make out audible pop moments. It’s filled with all these little musical nuances, proving that the band have gone far beyond my expectations; this seems like the band at their very finest! Interloper will be out on May 8th via Reverberation Appreciation Society.

Margin Walker Issue Show Bonds

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Our friends in Margin Walker have been putting on great shows almost as long as we’ve been running this site, and we know with the quarantine, they’re all struggling. It’s hard when what you love gets put on hold, but lets put hope on the horizon. MW is doing the same, issuing Show Bonds. They’re like gift cards for shows you want to go to in the future; there will be a future! This helps out Margin Walker and all their employees, and it will also help you out too! If you’re one of our music-loving friends with a few extra dollars to spend, think about spending it on show bonds. Buy your Show Bonds HERE.

Melenas Share No Pudeo Pensar

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Dias Raros comes out on May 1st, and if you’re not paying attention to Melenas right now, tienes un mes para preparar! What I’m trying to say is that the band is set to drop one of the best pop records you’re going to hear this year, I swear it. Their sound on the latest single is steeped in nostalgic pop vibes; the chords are spritely and jangly, with a steady vocal coursing through the song’s entirety. It’s like they’re the coolest thing on the Earth and don’t even care; they just throw this melody-induced jangler out there with indifference, forcing listeners to tap their toes. Don’t you want to tap your toes? If so, grab Dias Raros from Trouble in Mind Records.

STRFKR Share Budapest featuring Shy Boys

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What does one do when you’ve crafted a song filled to the brim with harmonies? Well, if you’re STRFKR you call in your label mates Shy Boys and ask them to fill in some of the gaps on your new song. What we get as listeners is this relaxing, almost lounge pop vibe to seduce us into a slight foot shuffle about our bedrooms. In a way, it reminds me of a catchier version of AIR, sort of that French pop attitude, with a touch more focus on brandishing melody for melody’s sake. As of right now, STRFKR keep shuffling out super singles, so perhaps there’s more on the horizon? Keep an eye on their label Polyvinyl for more news.

Gold Cage Share Shadows and Release Social Crutch

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Always a fan of the slowcore style, I’m really into this new record from Gold Cage. I love how the song just feels steady, like its serving to give you a semblance of balance amidst the turmoil of your life. Plus, I’m a sucker for those meandering guitar lines snaking their way around my ears, left and right, inside and out, dropping little melodic footnotes along the way. Besides, you get the soft curl of the vocals hanging in the front of the mix, likely to leave you with daydream scars. If you like what you hear, check out their new LP Social Crutch, out today via Felte.

Gary Olson Announces Solo Debut

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Tapete Records is becoming a powerhouse for some of the best indiepop in the world, so it should come as no surprise that they’ve grabbed onto Gary Olson of Ladybug Transistor for his debut solo record. Our first listen has that classic pop vibe, using huge sweeping string accompaniment to add textured layers to the gentle strumming of the guitars. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s this delightful skip of energy around the 2:40 mark, adding a slight boost before riding off into the song’s proverbial sunset. This feels like the perfect way to daydream through the rest of your Friday; look for the record to drop May 29th.

Brother Sports Share Distractions

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Let’s start Friday off with a catchy little tune from one of our favorite Austin acts, Brother Sports; you’ve gotta keep it local in times like these, rights? Musically, you’ll find the band offering up a nice blend between the Growlers and the Strokes; it’s all about the sharp stab of the guitar lines to really drive the song’s energy forwards. You’ll find that surfy semi-growl in the vocals, holding tight to some garage rock tendencies while still offering up a healthy dose of pop sensibility. I feel like we all could use some solid distractions in our life, so why not start today with a tune titled “Distractions!”

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