Stream Black Twig’s Blaze on a Plain

blacktwig_blazeonaplain_cover_FINALIt might have taken three tries, but Blaze on a Plain is the perfect statement being made by Finland’s Black Twig. They’re songwriting is at the top of their game, with every member contributing greatly to the success of each song. Opener “1998” is such a great track, that you’d expect a little bit of fall back, but its successor “The Swallows” might be equally as good, if not better in a different sense. Still, don’t just think it’s a front-heavy listen; you’ll find some real gems throughout, especially when you come across album closer, “Sunday TV.” The band says they recorded most of the tracks live, with just some small bits of polish, and if that’s the case, we should all schedule a flight to Finland to catch these guys live. Just because the name might not ring a bell, don’t sleep on this excellent bit of pop; it’s available now courtesy of Soliti.

Another New Tune from SAVAK

SAVAK-BestOfLuck-cvr-3690x3690-768x768Touting members from Obits, Holy Fuck and Nation of Ulysses is just one of the reasons SAVAK has got my attention, but I think this brand new single has reallysolidified meon their sound as a whole. While some of those acts have a heavier hand, I like the way this track takes sort of a jittery stomp throughout, occasionally fueled by handclaps. Based on the vocals alone, I think it’s going tograb some ears and wonder why we haven’t been listening to these guys all along. Look for their debut Best of Luck in Future Endeavors on May 27th.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/254687966″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Relaxed Pop from The Vryll Society

vryll_burgundyportrait-150Up until now, The Vryll Society has mostly dwelled in the modern psychedelic arena, but they take a slight turn with their newest single “La Jetee.” Mike Ellis’ delicate vocals bring perfect pop attributes into play; they were present in the band’s earlier work, though things are a touch different on this one. His vocals have more space thanks to the band’s work behind him, leaving plenty of room for the melodies to hit the right notes. Still, the group has room to maneuver into their spiritual psych in the latter half of the track. They’re working with Deltasonic at the moment, so keep your eyes peeled for a release soon!

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/257604388″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Catching on to the Gritty Rock of Honey

Honey_Press_PhotograghIt’s one thing to look at all the noisy psych rock going on and think to yourself “hey, I can do that,” but it’s another thing to do that, let alone with the tenacity of Honey. Don’t let the name full you, as the band sound awfully sinister here, almost like a psychedelic version of the Misfits at times. Doesn’t seem like this Brooklyn bunch cares for much other than making great noise you’ll come back for, so be ready to come back for the band on May 6th when they release Love is Hard via Wharf Cat Records.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/233361986″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Pleased to Meet You: LUKA

lukaThis tune from LUKA popped into the inbox yesterday, and while it took me a second or two to fall for it, but I’m totally hooked. At first, it was the intimacy and personality in the lyrical content, both poetic and revealing. But, upon multiple listens the reality of the ornate construction began to shine through more and more. Whether it’s the slightest hint of backing vocal, a touch of out of place percussion or even the strings, every detail seems purposeful. Feel free to immerse yourself in his work, and fall for him as I did. Also, look for his new effort, Summon Up a Monkey King on June 24th via Yellow K Records.

More New Tunes from Plastic Flowers

plasticThis new album from Plastic Flowers is shaping up to be a gem of a listen. I was already convinced by early singles, but this new one only continues in the vein of glorious bedroom pop. There’s this little distorted guitar that meanders in the middle of the song, almost noodling about before it all circles back to reemphasize the pop hooks that George Samaras has constructed. Heavenly is being released on April 22nd via Native Sound, aiming to win over hearts and ears everywhere.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/257496903″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Show Preview: Mothers @ Stubbs (Tonight)

mothersThere’s a bit going on tonight, but one band that should be on your radar is Mothers. The Athens band has been making quite a name for themselves over the last year, culminating with the release of their excellent debut, When You Walk a Long Distance You Are Tired. I caught the group during SXSW, and they delivered a powerful performance; it’s one that might even surprise you if you’ve spent a great deal of time with their record (as you should have!). They’ll also be joined by Sego on the evening, so you get two great acts for a reasonable price. Doors are at 8, with tickets still available HERE.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/234402300″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Lost Tapes Release New Video

12742816_1027405533983391_6617029569881673984_nBeen spending a lot of time listening to the dreamy pop sounds of Lost Tapes over the last few weeks. They just got up their debut album, Let’s Get Lost; it’s an understated bit of dreamy electro pop. I like the imagery of the video, especially the fact that it’s shot in black and white. It seems to fit well with the song, as the vocals are resting just behind the mix, at least in my ears. If the song strikes you, you’ll love listening to the record…relaxing and thoughtful, but filled with emotion.

[youtube]https://youtu.be/GJ_eln46LZo[/youtube]

More from Jeff Runnings (For Against)

jeffrunningsWe’ve already brought you news about Jeff Runnings first solo effort, and now it’s time to bring you another single from that forthcoming effort from the For Against main-man. There’s something really interesting coming through in this song; his voice seems almost distant, almost otherworldly, yet fit purposefully into the song’s mix. Still, the soundscape Runnings’ has crafted here definitely falls in line with what he’s been known for, draping careful electronic touches to create the perfect landscape for any musical dreamer. Primitives and Smalls will be released by Saint Marie Records on May 6th.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/233882506″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

 

 

 

New Music from The Parrots

12976780_1152976111399740_1616804687384298780_oSo, SXSW is a few weeks old, but the two memories that stand out the most in my mind are following around The Spook School for a few days like a fanboy, and this band, The Parrots. Honestly, I had only briefly heard about them via an out-of-date video they did with their friends in Spain, Hinds. But, their live performance was outstanding, and possibly one of the best I’ve seen in some time…especially considering they’re only a three piece. This new song captures some of that live tenacity, while illustrating just how much fun the band seem to have playing together; it’s not something you often catch in a recording. You’ll hear this track from the band’s debut album, which is slated for release via Heavenly Recordings later this year.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/254397387″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

1 737 738 739 740 741 1,316