New Tune from Lehmann B Smith

Just a few weeks ago I shared with you a tune from Lehmann B Smith, who is set to release his 7th album, Poplar Music, at the end of May. Today, there’s another track floating about from overseas, though this one features Sarah Farquharson of the Finks providing vocals. One listen through, and the title begins to make sense, as there’s definitely a modern vibe of tropicalia crafted here…and wrapping it all up with an emphatic burst of poppy psych exuberance. Look for Poplar Music to drop via Bedroom Suck Records on May 25th.

Spanish Pop from Neleonard

Neleonard might not be on your radar as a follower of indie music, but that doesn’t mean the Spanish pop group should be ignored. In fact, I think a quick listen will immediately endear them to fans, drawing on those Scottish influences such as Belle and Sebastian or Camera Obscura. Sure, the song includes a bouncing rhythm, but for me, this brand of pop has always been about the texturizing. In this track, light keyboard walks behind the melody, strings accentuate every note and horns burst forth. Just felt like you needed to know how good this band was, and as soon as possible. They’ll have a new album titled Un Lugar Imaginado coming via Elefant Records in the Fall.

Brand New Great Earthquake Number

Great Earthquake came to my musical world because Noah is a member of Lost Leaves, who I obviously raved about last year (I still do, privately). But, in his work as Great Earthquake, he takes on a different vibe, at least in so far as the tune below goes. It’s almost as if he’s crafted this number as a performance piece, with the vocals added as just another layer to the overall sound; there’s little inflection in the notes, entrancing listeners. Once you’re caught up in the song, little guitar notes begin to rise from the mix and the drum fills illustrate careful attention to detail. Thinking & Making will be released this Friday via Lost and Lonesome.

New Ballad from Jennifer Castle

I feel almost obligated to write about Jennifer Castle‘s new single, at the very least due to its title, “Texas.” Musically, its quite entrancing as well, with hints of classic soul vibes peaking through the folkish sentiment. The playfulness of the video is accentuated by the careful percussive qualities of the tune, as do the “ooh ooh” backing vocals. I always appreciate a musician who can so seamlessly straddle genres, as Castle does here…only furthering the musical charm. Her new album, Angels of Death, will be released on May 18th courtesy of Paradise of Bachelors.

 

Watch the New Big Bill Video

ATH Records alumni Big Bill dropped their excellent Stand By Your Bill late last year, and they’re still churning out videos for all the hits. If you had asked me “What Do You Want on Your Salad” was already a huge hit, and this video only reaffirms the joy and weird that is Big Bill. Personally, I’m most excited about Eric Bill’s salad angels, and I have no idea how Alan plays the drums with those baguettes; who knows what you’ll enjoy when you watch this video. One thing’s for sure, those of you who like your punk left of the dial will run to this jam. Grab the LP over HERE.

Premiere: DA Stern Releases Video for Isnt It Obvious

Having just reissued Aloha Hola via Slumberland Records, D.A. Stern is ready to take on all pop-comers with his new Isn’t It Obvious EP. Below, we’ve got the infectious title track, drawing on nostalgic vibes from Costello and Nilsson. But, Stern very much has his foot in the present, taking the classic sound, and giving it a bit more shine…think of the recent work of Nada Surf. You’ll tap your toes throughout (maybe even get overjoyed with a bit of a stomp), and you’ll swoon when the natural harmonies wash across your speakers; then you’ll rush to Slumberland to find out how you can get your hand’s on his records. It’s easy, just take a jump HERE;the EP drops Friday!

The Finks Announce Rolly Nice

My undying infatuation with the sounds of Australia led me to the Finks back in 2016 with the Middling LP, so I’ve been biding my time waiting for the group to return with something new. Today’s that day, and what a cracker of a track they’ve got to offer up to us all. Primarily the project of Oliver Mestitz, it makes sense that his voice is the shining beacon in this new single; I really love the way he turns some of the syllables with his delivery…always charming. Beneath the mix is a layer of electronic atmosphere and a low guitar casually jangling, all resting atop of percussive elements that help keep the pace. Milk Records will drop Rolly Nice on May 25th.

New Hit from Teenage Cavegirl

I’ve been jamming this new Teenage Cavegirl tune pretty nonstop. The duo seem to accomplish what not every two-piece can…leaving listeners with infectious pop music that’s rewarding time and time again. The grainy video accompanying their new single also seems to capture the group’s vibe, prominent pink and greens bursting as those drums hammer away in step with the crunchy guitar riffs. Word on the streets is they’re wrapping up the finishing touches on their debut album, and we’ll hopefully have more news for you soon.

New Cut Worms Video

Admittedly, I can’t help but think of early Tallest Man on Earth when I listen to Cut Worms. But, also in all fairness, we covered those early releases quite a bit, so it makes sense. All that being said, there’s a little bit more of a pop swing in the sound, as opposed to a clear Dylan predecessor. Take the 2 minute mark and the rushed stutter and burst, before that forlorn harmonica reappears and crafts a sense of wonder and longing. This song will feature on his debut album, Hollow Ground, dropping on May 4th via Jagjaguwar.

New Jam from Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever

It’s strange how a region in the world can seem to craft a sound that’s forever associated with the area, like say New Zealand and Flying Nun. As of late, Melbourne’s been churning out casually infectious guitar pop ditties like nobody’s business…and I obviously put Ocean Party high upon the list of purveyors of that sound. But, just behind them, in a slightly less prolific manner is Rolling Blackout Coastal Fever, who’ve just announced the release of their debut LP for Sub Pop. This song is definitely going to get stuck in your head, especially that damn chorus. Admittedly, I’m a sucker for this region and this sound, so of course I’ll be picking up Hope Downs when its released on June 15th.

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