by Meredith Schneider | Sep 14, 2018 | albums, review
Are you into quirky, emotional, indie rock music? Because Active Bird Community – and their brand new album Amends, out today – could really do the trick for you. The Brooklyn-based collective has been creating their brand of alternative music together since 2005 when the guys were in middle school, and the evolution has been impeccable, as they hone their sound into something 90’s babies will cherish, perhaps, more than anyone else. Amends is direct evidence of that.
Beginning with the title track, Amends establishes that slacker sound to a T while it meanders through with rough guitars, perfectly sometimes-whiny vocals, and a robust, head-bobbing energy. This carries well into second track “Holier”, though third track “Sweaty Lake” – as memorable as that name is – picks up the pace immensely, and understandably so. (See: the title “Sweaty Lake”.) Things slow again in “Unwind With Me”, which is, again, a direct reflection of the song title.
Once we get to “Baby It’s You”, I don’t think anyone is expecting a horns section. But there it is, an intro that wakes you back up with its differentiation from its predecessors. The pace takes that of a Weezer track, and we’re on board with the energy again. .”Virginia” feels more 90s grunge than others thus far, ragging on people for being “just a cliche” and challenging the object of their attention. “Blame” slows down to a ballad-like crawl, emotional in its disposition, while “Downstairs” adds some more quirk back into the feel of the album with light percussion and a rough, beautiful bass line.
“Metrics” starts with a toe-tapping, pop-like feel, and then delves back into the whirring guitars, hard percussion, and upbeat attitude of the majority of Amends. “Silver Screen” begins slow, simple, and then bursts into this kaleidoscope of sound that we didn’t necessarily see coming. “Lighthouse” rounds it all out quite beautifully, performed on acoustic guitar to really enhance the lovely, soft feeling of the lyrics.
You know, until it gets a little rowdy toward the end. But we really couldn’t have hoped for anything different.
Keep up with Active Bird Community here.
by Aubrey Hanson | Sep 4, 2018 | albums, review
You may have already heard of emotional singer/songwriter Harry Myers, also known as Thoreau from his interviews, reviews, works, or playlists with popular music accounts such as Billboard, Trap Nation, and many more, but you’re going to want to make sure you listen to his new EP Reflections that was just released. This entire EP is built up of the emotions that you may feel throughout a relationship which makes his music not only enjoyable, but also relatable.
“In For” and “Afraid” are the most upbeat tracks that you will hear on the album, and also some of the most emotional. These songs describe fear, weaknesses, and emotions that you have to push through and learn how to live with throughout life and relationships. And every single track has this smooth, intense and robust soundscape that makes the EP an easy listener with a few friends, or the backdrop at a big party. It fits into so many environments sonically that we’re actually impressed by it. This EP resembles some aspects from the pop genre, but also R&B which gives it a different feel from the usual singer/songwriter likeness.
Make sure to check out the new Reflections EP, and you will not be disappointed!
Keep up with Thoreau here.
**co-written by meredith schneider
by Meredith Schneider | Aug 31, 2018 | albums, review
From the very first, crystal-like lines of “Intro”, to the very last vibrations of bass in ninth track “Empress”, London-based electro-pop duo Cherryade has brought us a ginormous party in the form of their mini EP Fractured Fairytales. And the artists are incredibly aware of how sticky sweet everything is. admits vocalist Ellla: “Fractured Fairytales is what it says in the name – it’s a bunch of songs that are really twisted and over the top and fun. They’re stories, and they’re a good representation of us and who we are, we like things with a bitter twist and that cross the line”. Alex continues,”We’ve got so much music we’re ready to release after this mini album, and it’s a lot more pop, but to the point it’s so sweet it’ll rot your teeth”.
“Fractured Fairytales” is catchy as all get out, though there is no doubt that it is a party track. In fact, most of the album follows suit, with hard hooks and an upbeat tempo. The feel to it all is very “Halloween rave,” which we are 100% here for seeing as we’re zeroing in on autumn right now. (Hello, September!) “Get By” has that same repetitive, fun disposition as its predecessor, and while “Got You Good” feels more earthy than the others, it still has that fast, intense tempo and danceable rhythm you can burn calories to. Though “Blah Blah” won’t necessarily replace Ke$ha’s similarly named track, it holds a place close in our hearts next to it.
If you’re hometown loyal, “My Town” could be your next favorite track. With a slightly calmer vibe, “The Crown” comes in boasting a more regal overall feel. “Houdini” will make you want to drop it pretty quickly, while “Empress” will put you in the right frame of mind to go into the rest of your day feeling like hot shit.
We’re serious. Try it on for size.
Fractured Fairytales mini album tracklisting
1. Intro
2. Fractured Fairytales
3. Get By
4. Got You Good
5. Blah Blah
6. My Town
7. The Crown
8. Houdini
9. Empress
Keep up with Cherryade here.
by Karina Marquez | Aug 28, 2018 | albums, review
Toronto-based artist Marlon Chaplin has just released his full-length debut album and it is, to put it simply, a powerhouse record. Chaplin clearly has the range of a true rock performer and these ten tracks embody his style flawlessly. It is diverse, passionate, and an inimitable listening experience that will leave you wanting nothing more but to see the live performance (and to play the album on a continuous loop).
The record opens up with “The Circle.” As the attention grabber, the title track is very high energy, complete with a full-bodied opening instrumental. It is the perfect opening, capturing the adrenaline of that momentous first song of a rock concert. It sets the pace for other similar rocker tracks, such as “Drain Me,” “Imaginary Mary K,” and “Elevation.” The album slows down with two acoustic ballads: “Back to the Start” and “Take Me There.” They are dreamy and buoyant, complete with pretty harmonies. Chaplin’s more vulnerable side is at the forefront of these songs, making them even more beautiful.
“A Single Drop” is a cool song with a biting edge. It swings us back around from the romantic ballads, showing Chaplin’s diversity in sound and genre. Listeners are treated to yet another change of pace with “One Man Show” and “Where Did We Go.” Their upbeat sound reminds me of the band Bleachers, with the vintage upbeat aesthetic and catchy guitar riffs. And the final track, “Out on the Wing,” brings a flawless ending to a very well-rounded album. It’s slower and sad, but full of life, focusing on the magnificent sound of strings.
The amount of work put into this strong debut is clear. Released via Möbius Recordings, the album was produced by Chaplin, mixed by Chris Shaw (Partner, Weezer, Bob Dylan) and mastered by Joao Carvalho. With such a stand-out debut, The Circle is bound to impress anyone and everyone who listens to it.
The Circle is out now, and is available for purchase here.. Keep up with the latest on Chaplin here. Also, be sure to check him out on tour, including the album release show in Toronto on August 30th.
by Aubrey Hanson | Aug 24, 2018 | albums, review
Talk about an empowering new album! Artist Whoa Dakota has recently released her new album ‘Patterns’ on August 17th! Jessica Ott, who you may know better as the artist of Whoa Dakota speaks out about her new album saying, “This album is about everything that made me. Patterns weaves two main narratives: breaking free of our own destructive cycles through accountability as well as reconciling how our roots continue to shape our identity.”This multi-genre album with 80’s inspired vibes is all about becoming who you are and finding yourself throughout your life while also breaking through the same vicious routines that may hold you back. Growing up with her parents and grandmother, Ott learned many valuable lessons and stories in which she uses in her music nowadays. The track ‘Patterns’ is an upbeat and catchy yet teachable song that inspires you to break away from your unhealthy patterns. “Patterns” is the one song that sets the mood for what you can expect on the whole album. Songs such as “Animal”, as well as countless other tracks on the album also refer back to the same old cycle that you do not want to get caught up living in; you just need to break free of all the cycles and patterns. While listening to Whoa Dakota’s new album, you may hear many vocal similarities when compared to alternative/indie artist, St. Vincent. Both artists are strong female singers that you do not want to pass up.
Take the time to go listen to Whoa Dakota’s new album Patterns‘, and you will not be disappointed! If you have the chance, make sure you also go to see Whoa Dakota live!
by Meredith Schneider | Aug 23, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
New York-based multi-instrumentalist Jason Bemis Lawrence is preparing to release his full-length, Another Hotel Hallway, early next month. In the meantime, we have the second single off of that collection ready for your awaiting ears, a track called “Southern Midwest”. The reverb-filled track has an almost glassy feel to it, serene in its disposition. The instrumentals lend to the tranquil feel, allowing for a relaxing soundscape intro to an album we are all too excited for.
Keep up with Jason Bemis Lawrence here.
by Aubrey Hanson | Aug 17, 2018 | albums, review
You may have already heard of the talented quartet My Brothers And I from their many features on popular TV shows such as ‘Pretty Little Liars’ which featured one of their well known songs ‘Nowhere To Run’. Their music has also been featured on commercials here and there, which helped the band get to the successful place they are at now. This quartet is made up of very talented artists including: Jordan Roach, David Wurgler, Scott Wurgler, and Erik Wurgler. These four have recently released their new EP Heartbeat today, August 17th! One of the reasons this quartet is so successful, is because they include aspects of many different genres. In their new EP Heartbeat, you can hear the likes of pop music with a blend of indie and alternative styles. Primarily in the songs ‘When You’re Ready’ and ‘My Heart’, you will hear many vocal similarities between My Brothers And I and fellow pop artist Troye Sivan. When comparing all of their other songs, ‘Temporary Love’ is one of the more darker tracks on the EP that includes more of an upbeat alternative style. With this EP, it is impossible to pick just one favorite song. Each track is completely different, but equally as great as the next. Just from the first listen, I can already that this EP will be on repeat everywhere around the world! In celebration of their new EP release, My Brothers And I will be going on a small EP release tour which you will not want to miss!
Keep up with My Brothers and I here.
by Karina Marquez | Aug 17, 2018 | albums, review
Pop punk is a genre that many of us identify as our first real musical love. It’s the music that blasted in our earphones as we tried to survive eighth grade . And for many of us, that love fades away as our own teenage angst forms into something new, something “mature.” Belmont’s new self-titled album reminds us of that first love and how that music has involved in itself, while still being as cool and emotional and punk.
This album is the epitome of what pop punk music is. Each song showcases the band’s youth and talent. Frontman Taz Johnson’s vocals are hypnotic, and combined with Brian Lada on drums, Sam Patt on guitar, and Alex Wieringa on bass, the end result is magical. The moment the opening track “Empty” bursts to life with an explosion of guitar and drums, I am flooded with nostalgia and the desire to head bang like crazy. As the album goes on, each song seems to give off that same vibe that only this music can give. There are also so many lyrics that stand out because of their depth and honesty. “Interlude” is a slowed-down song that, despite its cool beat, has you thinking instead of head banging:
Do you know what it’s like to be alone?
To live life feeling numb and cold,
It’s a ******* nightmare on its own
And it just gets worse as we grow old.
The second half of the album picks up speed once again, with powerful tracks like “Hollowed Out” and “Convalescence.” As the album comes to an end with “BMC,” Johnson asks the million dollar question: “Why do I pretend to keep caring?” Belmont’s talent is undeniable in both their music and their lyrics, showing the band’s inevitable rise as the next great act.
Keep up with the band here.
by Aubrey Hanson | Aug 17, 2018 | albums, review
If you have never heard of NYC-based band Jeremy & the Harlequins, then you are in for a treat. While this band is fairly new, over the last few years, they have seen growing success in their past music, such as being featured in movies, playlists, and even going on tour. Jeremy & the Harlequins recently released their new album Remember This today, August 17th! Their track “Remember This”, as well as the entire album, contains aspects of modern day rock and alternative music while also presenting sounds of classic rock music which sets them apart from other modern day rock bands.
I would say that one of the best songs on the album would have to be “Nothing Civil” because it has an positive upbeat tempo that makes you want to play the song over and over again! If you’re looking for a few songs on the album that contain more of the classic rock vibe, then the songs for you would be “California Roc”, “Like A Prayer”, and “Hold On” because they not only have the ‘classic rock’ instrumentals, but they also provide smooth rock vocals. The rest of the album is just as stunning as these few songs. No song sounds exactly like the other, and you are getting a different surprise with each new song.
Be sure to catch Jeremy & the Harlequins currently on tour with Chuck Prophet, or Electric Six in October. This will be a tour you don’t want to miss! Support Jeremy & the Harlequins by listening to all of their new music!
Keep up with Jeremy & The Harlequins here!
