Recently, Brooklyn-based musician IYVES – the moniker for R&B artist Hannah Taxman – released the acoustic version of her soulful track “Gold”. Her vocal range delicately and gorgeously takes the forefront with this production, where she plays with dissonance between lyrical lines. A gospel choir placed sparingly lights up this particular body of work, and we’re left in an intrinsically beautiful ambiance it creates.
Keep up with IYVES here.
Forever X2‘s new self-titled 6 track EP is thrilling, from the very first, edge-tinged lines of “Keep the Devil Waiting” through the last, soothing notes of far more ethereal sounding “Forever Times Two”. The four tracks between are simply the well-rounded center of the Oreo, AKA all some type of amazing. “Think About It” and “Walk the Ocean” have similar paces, the focal point, so to speak, of each track truly being the artist’s raspy vocals. “Mad For Me” sounds much more influenced by punk music, It’s our favorite, as it feels 80’s other-worldly and we’re more than into that headspace right now. If you take the time to sit and enjoy “God Don’t Want”, you’ll feel so much better about the world around you. And the inclusion of such varying soundscapes might inspire you in a different direction.
Forever X2 is definitely worth a listen. I mean, don’t you want to stay on top of new music?
Keep up with Forever X2 here.
Seattle-based alt-country rockers Massy Ferguson – comprised of Fred Slater (keys), Dave Goedde (drums), Ethan Anderson (Bass/lead vocals), Adam Monda (guitar/vocals) – recently released the music video for their track “Maybe the Gods”, and we’ve got it here for your viewing pleasure. Fun illustrations basked in brilliant, contrasting colors make for a gorgeous and entertaining visual. Check it out now!
Elliah Heifetz has a fresh EP titled New Folk Songs, which is reflected as such. His latest single is titled “Paranoid Blues”, and we’ve been reeling from its beauty ever since we first set ears on it! His gorgeous, rasp-tinged vocals draw you in with a sense of nostalgia, while the strings and light percussion take you on a very earthy, beautiful sonic journey.
Let us know what you think via Facebook!
Keep up with Elliah Heifetz here.
Today, we have the insane pleasure of premiering alt-rock collective James World‘s latest visual gem for the title track off their upcoming album Funny Dreams. Beginning in a rural community walking down the street, you get a feeling that something is a-brewing if not only for the edgy vocals and guitar that lead in to the core of the track. Overlays of scenes enter the frame in black and white, creating a psychedelic space for the viewer, amidst flashing lights and a sense of confusion amidst the insanity. And yet, the adventure is somehow calming as the beautiful trees lead you out.
Check it out below and let us know what you think on Facebook!
Keep up with James World here.
In the lead up to the release of Ryan Thompson & The Delicate Hounds‘ new album Waiting On a Ghost, we have a fresh new treasure to delve into. Their latest song “Stop” premiered recently, and it is one for the books. Coupled with Ryan’s robust vocals, the song is a mid-tempo dream. Rife with waning guitars that give it almost a surfer vibe, the track is the perfect amount of scrumptious for a warm weather barbecue. (Not that you needed a reason for a party, but if you want one, this is it.)
Waiting On a Ghost is out May 24th. Keep up with the band here.
If you’re asking us, May has been a phenomenal month for music. Coming in from all angles are talented new acts, incredible new singles, and visuals for miles that will make you want to get out with your camera this spring too! We’ve started compiling our favorite new releases of the month, but will continue to add in as we see new things through our inbox. Check back for more all month! And let us know your favorites in the comments on Facebook!
On May 8th, The Unlikely Candidates made a pit stop at recordBar in Kansas City, MO to entertain a full house. Before the show, Michael Porter – one of our favorite contributors – sat down and spoke with the band. Check out his video interview below!
Keep up with The Unlikely Candidates here.