Kelley Stoltz Returns

TMR219FrontCover550Okay, so it’s not like Kelley Stoltz has been completely absent from the world; he’s done production work for Sonny Smith and the Sandwitches.  But, his own solo career has been fairly quiet since To Dreamers was released a few years back.  We’re excited that he’s returned with a new song, and a new label! He’s signed on with Third Man Records to release Double Exposure, which has production duties from Eddy Current/Total Control’s Mikey…so it might have a different touch than the last album, which Kelley produced himself.   The album will be released on September 24th, and the first single is now available for you to enjoy.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Kelley-Stoltz-Kim-Chee-Taco-Man.mp3]

Download: Kelley Stoltz – Kim Chee Taco Man [MP3]

Playful Pop from How Sad

how-sad-640What once belonged in the bedroom of its founders is now a full-fledged line-up, garnering lots of praise for Montreal’s How Sad.  Sure, you can sense a bit of those quiet recording touches on their Indian Summer EP, but you can hear exploration and playful touches that help pave the way for what’s been called an ‘unpredictable live” show.  There’s room for playing around on stage, and there’s tons of room for you to enjoy the nuances of good old fashioned synth pop.  The full EP will be released on August 20th, but here’s a sneak peak for your ears.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/How-Sad-Indian-Summer.mp3]

Download: How Sad – Indian Summer [MP3]

Little Slice of Indiepop from The Swapsies

swapsiesIt’s been a pretty good month for some great new indiepop tunes, so I’m going to keep pumping out those hits.  I’m back at it today with another track from February Records  and Lovelypool by the Swapsies.  For one, seems like the subject matter revolves around football…the British sort. Throw that in with the rise and fall warm vocals plus the group harmonies, and you’ll find yourself bobbing your head along for enjoyment.  I can’t not post great catchy tunes. If this song doesn’t make your mouth move into a smile, you need to call 911 right away…something’s tragically wrong with you!

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/The-Swapsies-Another-Game-on-Saturday-b-w-A-Fleeting-Summer-01-Another-Game-on-Saturday.mp3]

Download: The Swapsies – Another Game On Saturday [MP3]

Energetic Electro Pop from Love Is a Burning Thing

168999_495651234052_8328076_nHonestly, I’ve got little information about Swedish band Love Is a Burning Thing; the band has been on the tips of Swede tongues for some time, though there’s not been an official release from the group aside form a few singles.  But, just the other day, No Method tossed up a compilation for the summer, including a brand new track from the group.  I love the way the song is long and drawn out, though the central piece of has to revolve around the vocals, which can come off as intentionally bratty at points.  If you’ve got the patience, the track picks up even more pulsing energy just beyond the five minute mark.  Cool band find.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/02-Throw-It-All-Away-Voc-Down__44k-16b.mp3]

Download: Love Is a Burning Thing – Throw It All Away [MP3]

Sorry I Missed You: The Latest from Jim Guthrie

jimguthrieI failed you all; I’m sorry.  I should’ve been more on the up and up with Jim Guthrie, who first came to my attention with his participation in Islands and Human Highway.  As I was reading the long list of the Polaris Prize nominees, I noticed the Canadian songwriter had released an album a little over a month ago.  The big single definitely warrants our attention, using Jim’s unique voice and fabulous melodies with some beautiful string arrangements.  His latest record is called Takes Time, and I’ve spent my entire afternoon immersing myself in the pleasures of this release.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/02-Difference-A-Day-Makes.mp3]

Download: Jim Guthrie – Difference A Day Makes [MP3]

Austin Show Spotlight: Shivery Shakes @ Mohawk (8/6)

Shivery ShakesI’m really happy for Shivery Shakes, as they just completed the kickstarter funding to record their new tunes on an upcoming LP.  With that in mind, you’ll have the chance to check out the boys play some of these new tracks when they come into the Mohawk this Tuesday evening; I’m sure they’ll throw out some of the classics too.  Joining them on the night will be Bitter Birds and The Shones, so you’ll have the chance to see other rad acts. Tickets are only $6 at the door, with the show starting around 10 PM.  Get there early and enjoy friendly service and dangerous libations from our friends at Mohawk.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Wait.mp3]

Download: Shivery Shakes – Wait [MP3]

Body Parts Release Debut with Father/Daughter Records

FireDream_Cover_webThere’s a purity in simple pop songwriting that often is overlooked, though that can’t be said about the newest act on the roster of Father/Daughter Records, Body Parts.  The band has signed with the label to release their debut, Fire Dream, on October 29th, and so far, it sounds like the band’s out to give us all some throwback fun. Utilizing synths, samples and groovy percussive elements, this lead single is nothing short of a hit ready-made for your summer party collection.  Personally, I like the pristine quality of the vocals soaring through through the speakers.  Need a touch of fun? This one’s for you.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/01-Desperation.mp3]

Download: Body Parts – Desperation [MP3]

Another Hit from Finnmark!

coverBack in February I brought you a nice little tune from Finnmark, a Leeds based group with a relaxed pop approach.  Just a week back, the group released a brand new song through February Records; it’s even better than the first tune they tossed our way.  Opening the track with some skipping percussive work and monosyllabic ba-bas, you’re hooked.  From there, the group ambles on in a subtle bouncing mode, which inevitably finds itself winning you over, only to return to the monosyllabic for the closing moments of the chorus.  The more hits these guys make, the happier man I will be.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Finnmark-Everyones-Dying-01-Everyones-Dying.mp3]

Download: Finnmark! – Everyone’s Dying [MP3]

 

Austin Spotlight: New Crunchy Track from Not In The Face

Not In The FaceAustin’s Not In The Face has been making quite a name for themselves for the last few years, melting faces with their brash rock n’ roll and outrageous live shows.  They’re wrapping up work on a brand new EP, and they’ve let us share one of these new jams with you all.  Now that the band has moved up from a duo to a tight-knit four piece, their sound is huge, as witnessed in this track.  The vocals have the classic rock swagger, but the music just sounds ready built for arenas–in a good sense.  This is definitely a track that’s going to burst some ear drums, so keep an eye out for a great rock show near you; the band has dates in Ft. Worth, Austin and Houston in early August.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/NITF-Brass-Tax.Pass-3-MASTER-L3_01.mp3]

Download: Not In The Face – Brass Tacks [MP3]

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