More Monster Movie Music

I no longer need the Slowdive association to love Monster Movie (though it doesn’t hurt). For me, there’s something very special in it, almost like a heavier, less electronic version of the Radio Dept. Guitars swirl through your speakers, gunshot drums pound in the distance, but the pleasant quality of the vocals is what really drew me into this song. As the track fades out there’s great little echoes of beautiful noise, warmly wrapping around the innards of your ears…a treat for sure. Look for Keep the Voices Distant to come your way on March 31st via Graveface Records.

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Fresh New Eureka California (SXSW Artist)

It should come as no surprise that we’re rapping Eureka California; the group continuously graces our little blog from time to time (well anytime they release new tunes). Today we bring you their latest single in hopes you’ll jam it out, and if you’re on your way to Austin we hope you’ll check them out. This new rocker comes from their Wigwam 7″, which was just released by HHBTM. It’s quick, a touch noisy and certified ear candy. Here’s the SXSW dates for the group:

3/16 – Austin, TX @ Waterloo Cycles (day party)
3/17 – Austin, TX @ Teller’s (HHBTM Records SXSW Showcase)
3/18 – Austin, TX @ Sidebar (Athens In Austin day party)

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The Black Watch Get Better with Age

I’m trying to think of another band, let alone an individual, who’ve been as prolific as The Black Watch. They’re readying yet another LP, and with that comes the single cycle with another great hit. I’ve tried really hard to put into words how much the band’s music has meant to me, but I think the only words I can manage are to say that the band still don’t seem to have hit their peak, in regards to songwriting. This tune is filled with delightful noise, but carries a soft underbelly that allows melody to unfold at the bottom of the mix. From the jangling guitars turning over one another to the shattering percussion, it all culminates in a blissful song stretching over 5 minutes. The Gospel According to John hits on April 21st.

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SXSW Interviews: Doe

Last year the Doe released Some Things Last Longer Than You to rave reviews, and they’ve opted to follow up their success by bringing their energetic pop rock to the States for SXSW. We briefly caught up with the entire group to give you a little insight into what they’re all about, as well as toss in a sample track from their last album, which is available via Old Flame now.

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ATX Spotlight: Xetas Prepare The Tower

Admittedly, Austin’s music scene has gotten a great deal of ridiculous music out there, but I don’t think it’s prepared the world for Xetas (who should already be a household name). From the moment it kicks in, the band aim to hit you with that animalistic rock n’ roll; they perfectly capture their tenacious live energy…one of the most forceful performers in the ATX scene. But, what I really love comes at the 1.13 and 2.51 marks, as they turn into this powerful chorus that brings about a noisier ode to pop punk. It pretty much seals the deal…this band is ready to take on everyone. Look for The Tower on April 14th via 12XU.

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Dreamy Pop Tune from Trementina (SXSW Artist)

Trementina has two things going for them at the moment: they’re from Chile (a place I long to visit) and they craft beautifully simple dream pop. The band claim they aim to influence lucid dreaming, using the rain drenched backdrop of their home to draft atmospheric touches into their music. I love the way this song fades away in the middle of the song, only to slowly reemerge with the samples sputtering back into your ears. Luckily for me, the group will bound over national borders to make their way to Austin for a few SXSW dates, celebrating the release of their new album, 810, via Burger Records on March 24th.

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Fun Pop from The Gift (SXSW Artist)

You’re staring at your SXSW schedule, trying to figure out something interesting to squeeze in, though you’re not sure what you’re looking for, exactly. Might I suggest The Gift? The band crafts clever pop numbers, with this album the band’s first to sing entirely in English. Oh, and did I mention that Brian Eno of Brian Eno fame did the production on the album, as well played keyboards and backing vocals? Maybe he’ll show up at the fest to quietly sit behind the keys! Regardless, you’ll get a chance to hear tons of new tunes from the group’s new LP, Altar, which hits on May 5th via La Folie.

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ATX Spotlight: Brand New Alex Napping

I was going to hold this one off until tomorrow, but why wait with good tunes? Alex Napping is one of the many great Austin acts, and their new LP Mise En Place is hinting at a great release come May 5th. Singer Alex Cohen steals the show, or at least the front of the mix, floating airy vocals atop the noisier guitars chugging behind her. The accents coming from the backing vocals are perfect too, filling in all the space that remains in the track. Balancing heavy riffs and hook-laden melodies isn’t easy, but this group seems to have a knack for walking that fine line. Look for their new LP via Father Daughter Records come May!

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SXSW Interview: Slow Caves

Slow Caves are a hook-laden bunch of pop rockers from Fort Collins, making their way towards Austin for SXSW. They’ll be hitting town to spread their name, supporting their new release, The Desert Minded EP (Old Flame), which hits a few days before they blow into town. We tossed them a few quick questions, and they kindly responded. Look for one of their new tracks below too!

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New Slow Jam from Justus Proffit

There’s been a whole in my heart since the tragic passing of Elliott Smith, but it looks like I’ve now got a new artist to fawn over: Justus Proffit. His songwriting definitely recalls Smith’s work, from the whispering notes of his vocals, to the sounds of each string vibrating in the recording. There’s a bit of mud on the mix, however, which allows Proffit to seek out his own songwriting ground, in the land wear Elliott meets modern bedroom tropes akin to Coma Cinema. I’ve been longing for something that felt so personal again, and it looks like this is going to be the perfect trick. Look for his new Ups/Downs EP on March 17th via Smoking Room.

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