Author: nathan.lankford

Wand Show Off Exploratory Angle

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WandThe first single off Wand‘s newest album was an all-out rocker, displaying the band’s live energy in a recorded manner. But, their new single has a different side to it; it holds onto some of the heavier edge of the live setting, but the band explores some of that negative space in their own way. There’s a darkly driving pulse to this tune, but it brings out that experimental attitude along the way, which should make Golem one of the album’s you’re most looking forward to come this March (In the Red, 3/17).  You can also check the band at SXSW, and read this rad interview I did with them a few weeks back.

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Woodsist Is Cornering Troubadour Folk

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woodMan…Woodsist is on it this week, as far as the troubadour style folk stylings go.  They just tossed out two great tracks this week, both of artists that will be releasing new music soon. The first tune they had up was Simon Joyner‘s “Nostalgia Blues” off his Grass, Branch & Bone album (3/31); he has more of a Jeff Tweedy wistful quality, yearning, always yearning.  Their other hit was from Little Wings; it’s “By Now” from his effort Explains (5/26).  He’s definitely got more of a saddened touch to his style, but his lyrical playfulness reminds me a lot of David Berman.  Congrats to the label…these are some really great tunes.

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Another Young Guv Tune

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bcI’ve been approaching the new Young Guv effort with a bit of trepidation for some reason; I think the first single caught me off guard, but I can see why the always reliable Slumberland Records grabbed this new LP, especially after jamming this tune all day.  There’s a bit of gritty shoegaze in the way the guitars swirl around in the mix, but Ben Cook definitely takes hold of his newer pop-centric aims on his vocal display.  This is one of those tracks that could seemingly break through the universe and catch hold of every pop fan out there; it’s that good. Look for Ripe 4 to hit the streets on March 10th.

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Check Out Spring King (SXSW Act)

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springI was just talking about the search for rad bands I hadn’t had a chance to even really check out when I stumbled upon Spring King.  The UK pop group have this strong sense of pop traditionalism, though they juxtapose that with some rougher edges, building their tunes with driving guitar rhythms to hook listeners.  They just released this single this week, so if you’re looking for a bit of discovery, or just a rad hit to work into your daily listening rotation, then go with these lads.

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Really Enjoying This Tune from The Antics

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anticzWhile some bands seem to try and shy away from their nostalgic nods, it seems that The Antics are fully embracing their look into the past of post-punk pop songwriting.  It sounds like they’re crafting something akin to the Servants or the Go Betweens, holding onto the pop sensibility of both bands, while still sounding remarkably refreshing.  This tune shows the licks the New Jersey boys are capable of constructing, which should have you pop fans sitting with watering mouths as the group readies their Emily Jones EP for our ears.

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Beat Laden Lady Pop from Hannah Cohen

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hcThis debut single from Hannah Cohen is quite the little gem.  There’s a darkness in the utilized beats of her new album’s latest track, but her voice is so playful that it’s juxtaposition creates a mesmerizing touch.  You’ll hear a slight resemblance to Feist during a few moments, but the style is quite different in every other aspect; I love the voice control, providing little tonal changes that are really appealing. Bella Union will be releasing her new album, Pleasure Boy, on March 31st.

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Ski Lodge Clearly Still Has It

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lodgerI’m greatly surprised that the new Ski Lodge single is getting less attention than their last effort, despite leaving listeners with two really great songs.  We’ve already tossed out the A Side, “Trust,” but I think the B Side is even stronger.  It’s a quieted piano ballad, opening softly with croon of Andrew Marr, washed over by a nice electronic touch.  There’s true emotional power in the first chorus, before the song takes on a more emphatic ballad form.  Honestly, as big as a fan as I was of their first album, this might just be the best thing the band has done…if my two cents count for much.

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ATX Friday Night Show Spotlight

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Austin-skyline-_9359-copyI always encourage you to go hit up the town on the weekends.  I know we’re all busy, but you can grab a fancy dinner, some drinks, and still have time to enjoy some of the great music this town has to offer.  There’s tons going on this weekend, so I’m going to spend a little time today looking at Friday night, that way you have time to plan your evening.  I even added some overly basic genres behind the shows to give you an idea at what you could be in for.  Read more

Art Is Hard Records to Release 4 Way Split

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4wayMicrolabels have to go to great lengths to stay afloat, and often that means they come up with some really creative ways to release music to the masses.  For instance, one of my favorites, Art Is Hard Records, are releasing a rad 4-way split featuring Fruit Bomb, Living Hour, Bruising and Abattoir Blues; it’s a pretty rad idea, and even if it’s done before, it doesn’t take away from the hard work of the label. If you haven’t heard this Living Hour stream yet, check it out below, and consider picking up the Split from the label; it’ll be worth your money.

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SXSW 2015 Interview: Moon Duo

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moon duo bannerMoon Duo is prepping the release of their new album, Shadow of the Sun, and with that, they’ll also be coming into Austin to show off their new jams…based on this interview, you might get to hear them all. I highly suggest you check these guys out; I’ve been impressed both times I’ve seen them.  They craft their shows specifically to fit their music, so you’re getting an experience, more than just a good old fashioned rock show. Check out what they had to say below.  Read more

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