It is insane to think that 2007 was literally just eleven years ago! 2007 may now be a thing of the past, however the music that came from that year lives on forever. Get ready for a little nostalgia because one particular song that debuted in 2007 is being re-released to the public. Le Rug’s “Gloss” is from their album Bleenex which was released in 2007.
“Gloss” is a fast-paced rock song that will catch your attention from its beginning tune. The song is catchy down from the vocals laid on the track to the beat that goes along with the song. The song sounds amazing on track so one can only imagine how great it would sound live.
The band is performing Friday, January 26th at 7:30pm in Brooklyn, New York. More details, information about this event and how to purchase tickets is available here.
Cue raw, psychedelic vibes and soothing vocals with FormerFaces’ latest single “Forc# Fi#lds” from their debut full-length album Foreign Nature. Vocalist and founder Ryan Parmenter explains the meaning behind the song stating, “it’s about letting your guard down and being wide awake to new relationships, ideas, and endeavors.” This description seems fitting as the groove-indie rock quartet was rejuvenated just last year when Parmenter added three new musicians to the band.
“Forc# Fi#lds” creates a groovy vibe within seconds of the music beginning; the first strums of the guitar are reminiscent of a classic 1960s indie anthem. Rock meets ethereality creating the quintessential tune for an epic adventure.
Parmenter also describes the song as “steeped in sentimentality,” which flawlessly depicts the energy emitted from a song that I feel is dripping in nostalgia yet somehow generates feelings of majestic escapades and explorations.
FormerFaces’ first full-length album Foreign Nature is set to release in Spring 2018. Keep up with the band here.
Helsinki-based lo-fi psych pop trio Lake Jons is about to release their self-titled debut. But before that, they gave us the last taste of it all with their track “Lake Family”, a light and airy experience that gives us just a hint of that particular brand of nostalgia Lake Jons has become known for. (Any song with clapping or snapping in it feels intrinsically positive, no matter the topic. Am I right?) The vocals hit you raspy, beautiful and intense, while the percussion gives you an insatiable desire to dance.
Let us know how much Lake Jons makes you want to dance in the comments below!
Their self-titled debut is out January 19th via AntiFragle Music. It is available for pre-order here. Keep up with Lake Jons here.
Even if it wasn’t innately evident, 2017 gave us a lot to be grateful for. Namely, some really amazing music. It was in November that Charleston, West Virginia-based soul rock duo Farnsworth – comprised of C.W. Vance (guitar/vocals) and Jason Reese (drums/vocals) – released their latest, a robust eight track piece titled Elk City. And don’t think that the title suggests any type of back country lifestyle, though the rock roots these guys play with really give it an unmistakable edge.
The entire album will throw you through a loop of nostalgia, bringing in whirring guitars and a psychedelic feel in the majority of the tracks to really achieve that kaleidoscope effect that tantalizes the eardrums. Tracks like “American Dream” and “Free Me” make you feel like you’ve been caught in Vietnam-era America, which many of us already feel a kinship with regarding everything that’s going on in our society these days. The duo’s vested interest in vinyl is detectable, each song created to play perfectly imperfectly on a record player.
Take “Better Days” for example. As the duo croons melancholic lyrics like “Watch me as I fall / No you don’t care at all,” you can’t help but sway your hips to the innately groovy (yes, we said groovy) percussion. And that holds true with the entirety of the album, as the guys address a wide variety of topics, largely melancholic and bittersweet in their musical existence. Without perhaps meaning to, Farnsworth has created a work that can truly exist in most soundscapes, each song musically enhancing the listener as it takes them through decades of influence and insanely beautiful guitar work.
Elk City is your next jam record. We guarantee it.
…But, I did take a look afterwards, and a lot of these made OTHER top lists, so there! If you haven’t heard some of these, add them to a NYE playlist or sit at home and listen to them! They run the gamut when it comes to type, style, moods to listen in…heck, I even suggest wine with a whole album (whether that is 1 glass or 3 bottles…that is up to you)! Regardless, have a Happy New Year, and keep supporting music that means something as we move into 2018!
Kendrick Lamar – DAMN.
This was a close second to my most anticipated album of the year. This album tells a story, so for the best effect, listen to all the songs in order in one sitting! The way that Kendrick’s voice flows so naturally, it’s like it’s a narration to a deeper story, and this album is just the tip of the iceberg.
Favorite: DNA – This is my favorite heavy lifting song, my favorite running song, my favorite tackle-the-challenge song…did I mention it’s my favorite? At first, “Humble” really had me hooked, but one listen to this, and it was over. And the video? One of my favorite EVER. It co-stars KC native, Don Cheadle (now, are you intrigued?)
P!NK – Beautiful Trauma
I was waiting for this one. For a VERY long time. And it just doesn’t disappoint. As P!NK has grown and changed over the years, you can very much hear that she is the same person that showed up – seemingly out of nowhere – back in 1997. Her power vocals remain the same, as does her knack for storytelling, but the stories change. This time around she tackles relationship woes, family life, and all those thoughts going on in her head – an open book, singing about all we wish to say. And I just want more!
Favorites: Better Life – Hands down my favorite. Because, who doesn’t sometimes wonder if their significant other may want something different? And, somehow, she makes it catchy and thrilling! I Am Here – A declaration that she is here, her voice is important, and she is not backing down for anything. A little nudge at permission for the rest of us to never let anyone silence us. Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken – For those who might be a little overwhelmed or downtrodden, especially in our current political climate. Here is our rallying cry.
Miley Cyrus – Younger Now
Somehow, this slipped my radar when it released back in September, and I didn’t give it a listen until late November. Now, all I can think is: WHY DID IT TAKE ME SO LONG? I am not, historically, a Cyrus fan, but she is finally coming into her own with a mix of country and pop that is not slippery sweet, but somehow raw and dreamy. And I wish there weren’t so few tracks!
Favorites: Rainbowland – This one features Dolly Parton, and it DEFINITELY sounds like a more traditional Parton song…but it is positive and upbeat and makes you want to sleep forever and live in a damn Rainbowland – or maybe even try to make one of your own in real life! Miss You So Much – This one is a bit on the stalker side, just without dark and creepy undertones. And it’s totally how I feel about my husband. I will just leave it at that. Younger Now – The past handful of years of Cyrus’ life in a nutshell. She’s gone through a lot of changes and phases, and somehow has come out the other end feeling younger than she was then. I really resonate with it – maybe you can, too!
Harry Styles’ self-titled solo debut was my album of Summer 2017. Nothing I EVER thought I would say. Ever. There are no outright pop songs. Instead, Styles has chosen 10 tracks with melodies and instrumentation – even recording style – that calls back to Brit rockers of the1960s (think: Beatles, Rolling Stones). I know that may seem like high praise, but give it a listen. You will hear it. It’s not just the sound that has me turning this sucker up on an afternoon walk, evening drive, or even while I make breakfast in the morning, but lyrics that are a mix of fun, soulful, and a bit angsty.
Favorite: Two Ghosts – This one is all about a love gone cold. How everything is the same as it always has been, but the passion and feelings that once were there have left the building. It’s something in between a break up and a love song, and it is heart-shattering.
Bishop Briggs
Her. Voice. Is. HOLYSHIT. So soulful. So smooth, so powerful, so seemingly effortless. I truly have no other words. Give her album a listen. Especially her newest release, “Dream”.
Sam Smith – The Thrill of It All
I truly didn’t think that so much more emotion could come out of one person into an album, but with his sophomore album, I can FEEL more sadness as he sings. And, it doesn’t make me sad. It just makes me FEEL.
Favorite: All I can say is that you need to grab a bottle (or two) of cabernet, draw a bath, and listen to the whole damn thing.
Lana Del Rey – Lust For Life
Does anyone remember Katy Perry’s recent album? Well, this did everything that Perry intended, and THEN some! Lana’s sultry voice lends itself to a story of awakening in our country’s current state, and somehow surviving it all – like every generation before us. These aren’t idyllic pop songs, but songs that make you feel a part of a bigger whole. And, with just a year and a half between her last release and this one, you KNOW it was spurred by current events.
Favorites: God Bless America – And All The Beautiful Women In It – Hauntingly gorgeous. When The World Was At War We Kept Dancing – MESSAGE: Don’t stop living when our country seems to be falling apart around you. Hopeful without being too idealistic.
Khalid – American Teen
In his debut album, Khalid let’s us know that he is fully aware of how disconnected and digital the life of an American teen has become. He doesn’t embrace it like – seemingly – every other young person. He rips it apart as he flows through each track. Though, I am sure many teenagers have held tight to this album as their anthem, it is a great one to give a listen no matter what you are doing if you want smooth vocals and music you can dance or relax to.
Kesha – Rainbow
It’s been awhile since we had a new Kesha album…and, to be honest, I was OK with that. Her previous music was NOT my jam. It should have been my college party soundtrack – and, trust me, I LOVE glitter – but I just couldn’t get behind Kesha. Now, I can. And it’s not just knowing her full story and struggles and the WHY behind it all. It’s also not just my feminist tendencies to support women who are into creating great things. Kesha is finally using her voice. Never have I been so happy when autotune is taken out of the equation. She can REALLY sing, and sing she does! Her album is a rallying cry for everyone who has felt like any part of their lives is a struggle. Every single song involves messages of independence and empowerment, whether they are set to ballads or party beats.
Favorite: Bastards – …and this is just the FIRST song! Once you hear it, you will understand why the rest of the album is necessary listening!
Tyler, The Creator – Flower Boy
This is NOT what I was expecting from Tyler. But, why should I expect the same from someone who has always done what he wants, and sounds good doing it? This is a much more mellow album from one of my favorites, and it brings some heavy and big messages along with it. Also: please, if you choose to listen to this, appreciate the instrumentals as well! YESSSSS
Favorites: Where this Flower Blooms – Ever feel different from everyone else? Or, confused because you don’t want to be “normal”? This song gives EVERYONE permission to do whatever the hell they want, no matter their age. Give it a listen… Glitter – I love glitter. And this refers to someone feeling like glitter when they are around the person they love. Ka-ching!
Ed Sheeran – ÷
Every single Ed Sheeran album that comes out has about 5 years worth of “first dance” wedding songs on them. This one is no different…and this time he calls on his current romantic relationship as his muse! And, I like romantic songs as much as the next person – who isn’t currently going through a breakup – but those weren’t my favorites on the album! Watch the videos for the songs below and really listen to the lyrics…and dance along for the best experience!
Favorites: Shape of You – I don’t care what I am doing, I drop EVERYTHING and groove to this one! Castle on the Hill – Somehow he has made a freeing song that makes you feel like you are running across the hilltops of Ireland out of pure nostalgia. Mmmmm Galway Girl – modern Irish jig based on his grandparents’ relationship. What more could you ask for?
Sza – CTRL
All I can really say about this one is: FINALLY. She says all the things you are thinkin’, girl, and puts some amazing music to it, too! You can FEEL the emotion in this one!
Favorite: The Weekend – Ready to feel like the sexiest person in the room? Give this track a listen NOW!
Jay-Z – 4:44
At first, I thought this one was a cop out. Beyonce releases Lemonade, so Jay-Z feels the need to respond, right? But, then I thought, “Oh, wait, he needed to release something new.” And he does. And it’s personal and raw and real and a near masterpiece!
Favorite: Just listen to the whole thing. It only takes up 35 minutes of your time, and I don’t think any one song is as good as all of them together. Also: watch the videos if you can! Bey really challenged him to step up his game in the visual department, and it is paying off in dividends for fans!
Run the Jewels – Run the Jewels 3
Can I just take a moment to declare that 2017 has been FIRE for MOVEMENT? And, this album is a movement in itself to eradicate oppression and seek social justice for all. All delivered in a VERY listenable package with beats that would make your grandma shake it!
Favorites: Call Ticketron – I don’t need to explain it. Trust and give it a try! Thieves! (Screamed the Ghost) – In response to recent riots. Yet, not fuel for the fire, but definitely a soundtrack for the movement. There is a flow to it unlike any other
Hanson – Middle of Everywhere
Can you believe it’s been 25 years since the brother band, “Hanson”, decided they should form a band? To celebrate, they released an album with some new tracks, as well as oldies-but-goodies.
Favorites: I Was Born – Here we have one of the new tracks. It’s a great, poppy, inspirational song written for the band’s kids. And the stars of the video? Their kids! Broken Angel – Not a new one. But SO happy it’s getting a little spotlight being featured on this album! It features the youngest, Zac, on vocals. And his voice is so smooth and soulful, you will wonder if you are actually listening to the same band!
Bleachers – Gone Now
This sucker opened to mixed reviews. But, I loved it from the first time I heard it through live, and it has since become a very nostalgia and dance-filled experience for me. Sounds from decades before and inspired by many musicians – including Springsteen – I can’t help but feel Jack Antonoff’s reaching for the stars and sharing the span of his life in music on one album, with the album title referring to past him being gone now. Feel it with me, and take a listen!
Favorite: Everybody Lost Somebody – It is the early 90s anthem for us NOW. Bringing humans together around the idea that everyone has felt pain, and everybody has lost somebody. Doesn’t hurt that you can also dance to it!
Moon – Hang On EP
The best EP that most people haven’t heard made my list because, well, they are BADASS. The lead vocalist, Chelsea Davis, adds power to the words while also somehow drumming simultaneously. Seeing them live is a necessity, so that you can feel it while listening to the EP.
Favorite: I Got a Fever – Sensual power and soul wrapped into one song.
Portland-based experimental musicians Spencer Doran and Ryan Carlile have found somewhat of a theatrical and entertaining sound together with their project Visible Cloaks. The duo utilizes “software-based composition rooted in randomization, MIDI-translation and chance operations” to achieve their sound, which takes you on a journey traversing delicate, primal yet futuristic, intense soundscapes in their new release Lex, which officially drops December 8th.
Beginning with “Wheel”, you slowly find that the gentle instrumentals make you feel like you’re almost spinning, with the tempo and way the weight shifts from emphasizing one note to the next. “Frame” is percussion-led, providing that primal, lush sound we often associate with far off countries. And “Transient” is the literal translation and embodiment of its title, which beautifully expresses itself at just over two minutes.
“Keys” is the first track to include any type of vocalization, though it is actually comprised of a made up language. Admits Doran, “The idea – building on ‘fourth world’ or ‘global village’ type concepts – was to create a projected language that was a fusion of many. The result was a very disorienting form of non-language that amplifies the lapses in meaning that occur with the inaccuracy of auto-translation software.” But we’re completely distracted by the beautiful wind chime-like feeling to the instrumentals. The title track – in direct contrast to its predecessors – is composed using piano-like sounds, which strangely adds a feeling of nostalgia to it. The duo expertly rounds it all out with “World”, an aptly titled track that really seems to nail it, including sound effects that resemble sounds you’d expect to hear from different cultures across the world mixed in with effects that sound more earthy and primal as well. (Can’t you hear the ocean in there?) It really puts the listener in a worldly mindset, to correctly transition into their day.
Suggestion: Meditation music.
Lex is out December 8th and is available for preorder now. Keep up with Visible Cloaks here.
Alternative rock/pop punk collective Valencia isn’t the only musical project Shane Henderson is lending his talents to these days. (That’s right. For those of you residing under a rock, Valencia is BACK!) In fact, his solo alternative/acoustic project Promise of Redemption found its start back in 2004 and happens to have just followed up 2016’s “Where You Ought To Be” with a new EP titled Before & After. The 6 track collection takes you on a mellow, beautiful journey that actually began a decade ago, as the songs were all written during and immediately following When The Flowers Bloom… was released in 2007. Explains Henderson of Before & After:
‘Before and After (Demos and B-Sides)’ came together as a celebration of the 10 year anniversary of WTFB. We took some B-sides from ‘When The Flowers Bloom…’ as well as some newer reworked demos from over the years. The six songs on ‘Before and After’ are ones that I think any fan of the album WTFB will love and even fans who have never heard of POR will love. They are six songs that were songs written for a purpose just like the album we are celebrating. I am excited to share these songs with the world in celebration of an album that really let me explore my love of playing music and creativity.
We’re absolutely captivated from beginning to end, especially since we realize we’re basking in the glow of Henderson, who many of us grew up with in our music sphere. And we’re thrilled that he continues to make such heartbreaking and intense music, songs we can relate to as we travel along with him on his musical journey. This one, though? This release is for the books, as it holds both a piece of nostalgia as well as this excited feeling of newness to it all. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ambiance that will fall upon you while listening to Before & After.
Promise of Redemption will be playing two holiday shows, December 29th and 30th, in Philadelphia, PA in which they will play When The Flowers Bloom… in full to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the album. Upcoming shows and tickets are available here.
Before & After (Demos and B-Sides) is available via Know Hope Records.
As if they’re not already beginning the narrative with a pretty intense band name, Sweden-based psych garage rock collective Baby Jesus – comprised of Fredrik Kristoffersson (guitar/vox), Elis Jäghammar (bass/vox),Svante Pålsson, and Rasmus Högdin – took it a step further earlier this year with the release of their full-length album titled Took Our Sons Away. Clearly developed with a different frame of mind than their 2015 self-titled debut, the guys of Baby Jesus have somehow managed to bottle their live show energy into their sound, something that many bands never have the knack – and perhaps not even the want- for.
Starting with “Feel For You Girl”, you’re looped into this false sense of nostalgia with the rough production and beautiful, lush ambiance to the instrumentals. It makes you just want to prep for a progressive/badass sock hop, and we’re pretty sure you’ll know what we mean when you hear those first chords. While “Over and Over Again” really goes wild, waning guitars and the mostly-yelled-but-sometimes-delivered-with-finesse-vocals that Baby Jesus has really become known for allow you to settle into the sound. “All Out” and “Down South” carry similar toe-tapping beats, while “That’s All Right” carries an album slow down that we were starting to need. Really, the track has the same freeing garage sound as its predecessors, though it feels more like a garage ballad if we were to categorize it.
But those first five tracks don’t even begin to scratch the surface of what there is to enjoy about Took Our Sons Away. A delectable collection of diverse and captivating moods, whirring instrumentals, and a pension for the spotlight drive these four men into our hearts as they take us on a fourteen-track journey through parts of the last two years of their lives. From the 50s doo-wop feels of “Hold My Hand” to the hint of 13th Floor Elevators in “Ain’t Got No Place To Go” (among others), to the eerie static sounds of “Baby Jesus – The Beat”, we’re floored by the band’s ability to keep us on our toes for this long.
But that’s not all. At the time of release, the masters for Baby Jesus’ 3rd full-length were being prepped, and we’re expecting new music in early 2018 already. So consider yourselves spoiled. We know we do.
Took Our Sons Away is out now on Yippee Ki Yay Records. Keep up with Baby Jesus here.
In the lead up to the release of their album bad Radio, San Francisco based rock outfit Down and Outlaws – comprised of Peter Danzig, Kyle Luck, Chris Danzig, and Jon Carr – have unleashed a new psychedelic single titled “Imposter” on us. As the first cords hit, the listener becomes enveloped in a thin, silky layer of softly swirling nostalgia. The guitars wane like sepia toned photos are the closest we’ve got to color, back during yet another time when facial hair, middle parted hair, and bell bottoms were popular. (They’re still a thing now, right? No?) Its mellow tone and vocal reverb will make you want to play it on repeat for hours.
