More New Monnone Alone

Mark Monnone’s been teasing us with a single here and a single there, but now we finally have what we knew was coming, the announcement of the second Monnone Alone LP. It takes just 8 seconds for the song to hit you smack in your pop face, dropping this huge riff to match Monotone’s voice. Interestingly, the delivery here of those vocals almost has a snarky punk attitude to it, which for me, bridges the gap between power-pop and indiepop, making the song all the more appealing in my ears. Summer of the Mosquito will be out on May 10th via all your favorite pop labels (too many to name).

Casual Pop from No Local

I spent a lot of time listening to the latest single from No Local, a band comprised of Snowy and Zac D (who passed away before his time) from the Ocean Party. Part of that was nostalgia, but a great deal had to do with just how great this simple song is; I think it’s a testament to Denton and Snowy’s writing partnership. It’s a song mostly worked around keys and soft drum work, while the vocals sit back casually, repeating the the line “I’ve got nothing more to give” as the song draws to a close. The End Again will be out at the end of April courtesy of Osborne Again and Emotional Response.

Hear Brand New Boyracer

After a brief period of radio silence, Boyracer is going to return this year with a brand new LP; the band admit to recording over 20 brand new ditties to better your life…and today they’ve shared one of these tracks. It’s a short fuzzed out ripper that begs the question, why haven’t more people fallen in love with the group over the year? It’s catchy, making it memorable; it’s upbeat, thus perfect for jamming in the morning, on the drive down the sunny highway, or just when you want to rock out with your friends. This song will be on a hyper-limited 7′ lathe cut, with word that there’s a similar Monnone Alone you can read about right HERE. All these great things courtesy of Emotional Response.

 

One Last Ocean Party Release

Tragedy struck the Ocean Party late last year, with the passing of Zac Denton. But, before that, the band, who had typically written all their songs together, suggested the idea they should all write their own EPs, to spotlight their various songwriting talents. Zac went home to record his, encouraging the others to add to it as they saw fit, though there was no hurried schedule. When he passed, the band went to add their parts, to add to the storied life of an incredible songwriter gone too young. Nothing Grows marks what is the last Ocean Party release, dropping in a limited quantity on Emotional Response here in the States.

Stunning New Track from The Ocean Party

I’ve made no secret of my adoration for The Ocean Party over the years, but every time I feel like I’ve peaked, they go off and release something incredible. Their latest single teases you, sliding in ever so quietly…touch of electronic atmosphere and voice opens; then guitar and gang vocals join before the beat kicks the track forward. The forlorn keyboards and meandering guitar would be enough, but suddenly the tune bursts forth, slide guitar and full band working away. It creates one of those magical moments you get so rarely in pop music, the sort that makes you feel lucky to even be here listening. Their new LP, The Oddfellows Hall, drops on November 9th via Emotional Response/Spunk Records.

The Ocean Party Announce New 7″

Ever prolific, our faves the Ocean Party are preparing to release a brand new 7″, with a slight catch. Rather than craft a couple of normal hits to squeeze into the format, they’ve opted instead to create twelve 1 minute songs. Below, you get to hear three of those forthcoming 12 minutes; you’ve got 25% of the album in your hands! I think I’m struck the most by the middling minute; it’s a slight bit different than what they’ve been working on in previous releases…maybe a tougher exterior. Regardless, we’re going to buy it, and you should too; it’s being released in July via Emotional Response and Spunk Records.

Punky Ditty from Blues Lawyer

Can’t say that we know too much about Blues Lawyer, though we know the band is about set to release their debut Guess Work via the trustworthy label, Emotional Response. We do know that Dick Stusso is involved, as well as a few other members from the San Francisco scene. This track comes in with angular chords, matter of fact vocal delivery, with a slight female accompaniment; it’s like Ought just decided to write straightforward hits with a heavier dosage of pop sensibility. It ends up sounding sort of old school, and that, in and of itself is rather refreshing; the album drops April 20th.

New Music from Suss Cunts

The Aussie trio Suss Cunts first came to my attention with their debut EP, released over in the US by Emotional Response. They’re already back with a brand new EP for Hysterical Records, and we’ve got the title track here for you. It’s got an interesting punk rock edge, though more infectious than some might give that genre; I hear a few similarities on both guitar tone and vocals to Dead Kennedys. But, the trio brandishes their own style and flare, almost as if they’re falling off the tracks, whilst still sounding steady as ever. Look for the Temper EP on April 27th. Love these ladies, and here’s hoping you do too.

 

Nathan’s Favorite Oceanic Albums of 2017

For the 8 or so people who read this blog on the regular, you’ll likely be aware of my affection for all things Oceanic, primarily New Zealand and Australia. So, with year end lists in mind, I thought I’d offer up my personal takes on the best tunes to come out of the area in 2017. There’s no particular order, just my sixteen favorites of the year.

There’s even a fun little playlist at the bottom for you to enjoy!

 

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