by Madison Blom | Feb 1, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
Though her music has been critically acclaimed as “bedroom-pop” Jay Som‘s new vinyl release has broken out of the traditional mold and has moved into the spotlight. This artist’s music has been known to have a “crushing venerability” that all who know her seem to crave. Her newest hit, “O.K, Meet Me Underwater” was recently released on her 7-inch titled Pirouette, and has taken the indie-pop industry by storm. Not only has the artist featured this new song in the album, but also includes two songs originally meant for her previous album Everybody Works that were deemed “out of place” by Jay herself.
Since the start of this young artist’s career, those who know her have been raving about her debut album Everybody Works which received “Best of 2017” from acclaimed critics such as NPR Music, Rolling Stone and Billboard. Now, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Melina Duterte, under the persona of Jay Som, has once again created a cover that highlights her ability to write and produce relatable music that has blown away listeners. Though not many could predict her success early on in her career, Duterte has surely transformed how the music industry views “bedroom-pop” artists.
As a child, Melina Duterte had dreams of one day attending professional jazz programs, but decided later on to see where songwriting could take her. While enrolled in community college, Duterte created her own personal studio where she could create music the way she believes it should be done. From that small studio, under the moniker of Jay Som, Duterte has turned the corner on one of the fastest growing genres in the indie pop industry.
Pirouette is available now.
by Jai'Tyria Hatton | Jan 31, 2018 | albums, wolf tracks
Spiritus is the second album from blues rock group Jane Lee Hooker, following the band’s first album No B!.
Jane Lee Hooker consists of five women – Dana ‘Danger” Athens on vocals, Hail Mary Z on bass, Melissa ‘Cool Whip’ Houston on drums, Tracy ‘Hightop’ on guitar, and Tina ‘T Bone’ Gorin on guitar – and accepts taking on the challenge of good blues with Spiritus.
The ten track album is really good and has high energy throughout every song. The tracks are inspirational, full of high energy, and encourage the listener to live their best life. The sound of the blues is prominent in each track on the new release. “Gimmie That” has a sound that shifts from blues to pop with high energy. Tracks like “Ends Meet” and “Mama Said” contain the band’s quintessential blues influence, but also a little bit of rock n’ roll.
The name of the album means “spirit,” and follows the theme of finding yourself in life. It lends itself to the idea of taking chances and not being afraid to be yourself. It is a fun listen, and will absolutely keep you engaged from start to finish.
Keep up with Jane Lee Hooker here.
by Jai'Tyria Hatton | Jan 31, 2018 | singles, videos, wolf tracks
No Liars has released the new video for their single “Guilt Trip” off of their debut album The Cause and The Cure and is about regret and being isolated. The song talks about allowing things to get between you and your loved ones. It addresses the trials and complications that get in the way of your relationships, and the realization that it is too late to change what happened. The theme of the song is: What could I have done differently?
Depicted is a young man that gets into an argument with his dad and leaves the house, leading to a party. The argument is the last time he gets to speak to his father. The video is fast-paced but holds a powerful message behind it. The video teaches the listener that you never know what may happen at any second. “Guilt Trip” is guaranteed to pull at your heart strings with the message behind this video.
Keep your eyes peeled for No Liars’ new album here.
by Veronica DeFeo | Jan 31, 2018 | 5 to 7
Previously of Victory Records, the four piece hardcore punk band American Standards independently produced, mixed, and released their album, ANTI-MELODY in April of 2017, following a tumultuous time in the lives of the bandmates, losing their founding guitarist to suicide amongst other traumatic events.While much has changed since their founding in 2011, Phoenix, AZ based American Standards have been putting out gritty tracks, always with a drive for authenticity, and ANTI-MELODY is no exception. Currently comprised of Brandon Kellum’s vocals, lead guitarist Corey Skowronski , Steven Mandell on bass, and Mitch Hosier providing drums, American Standards has never been a band to be put in a box. Described as noise/hardcorepunk, mathcore, and/or metal, American Standards makes their own name in the music world.
With explosive vocals and instrumentation to match, ANTI-MELODY not only touches on the band’s personal problems, but also global issues and relevant conversation – all, of course, wrapped up in music.
Coming off of the release of ANTI-MELODY, we had plenty of questions for Americans Standards, so we caught up with American Standards vocalist Brandon Kellum. He decided answer our seven questions about the band in all 90’s references, and we’re here for it.
What’s your favorite snack to eat while making music?
Dunkaroos washed down with an ice cold Fruitopia.
When was the defining moment for you guys to realize, “Wow, music is my life now!”
Somewhere in the 2nd chorus of “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes.
Do you come from musical families, or was your interest in music a deviation from “normal” growing up?
The closest thing I had to a musical family was watching Jesse And The Rippers on Full House.
Favorite track on your latest album, ANTI-MELODY?
The hidden track.
With so much accessibility to all kinds of music today, how do you make yourself stand out in the wide world of music?
Lime green cassette tapes.
ANTI-MELODY was birthed from what sounds to be a very emotional time. Do you consider writing/creating or performing music live to be more therapeutic?
It’s a nice distraction and more then anything, a vessel to connect with others. It allows us to start a conversation with people we may not have met otherwise, in a place we likely wouldn’t have gone. So out and create something and revel in the experience it brings you.
Keep up with American Standards and grab a copy of ANTI-MELODY today.
INSTAGRAM – TWITTER – FACEBOOK
by Madison Blom | Jan 31, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
“Dating can be this never ending game of back and forth,” explains New York based singer/songwriter Joe Wood, “…eventually you reach a boiling point and need to let your frustrations out and move on.” The emotion in this statement is captured in the lyrics and production of Wood’s newest single “Had Enough”, which was recently released to the public. Like his other work, this song features creative loops and hypnotizing hooks and rhythms that create an atmosphere specific to Wood.
This artist’s success comes as no surprise, however, to those closest to him. As a young child, his innate ability to create art through music was apparent and was amplified by natural, perfect pitch. Since then, he has moved to the New York City to see what opportunities would present themselves there. Sure enough, during his time there he would find even more success and support, particularly from his debut on MTV and several other publications that featured his music. Wood has traveled extensively and is now avidly working toward producing a video to accompany his new track. In a recent social media post, he shared with is fans that he would be, “heading to LA in feb to collaborate with some awesome people. More live shows, singles, and continuing to try to make this dream a reality.”
With this newest addition to his musical lexicon, Wood is ready to continue making his name known in the music community — creating music that fans of all ages can relate to. This is especially highlighted in his latest single. In his own words, “‘Had Enough’ is a breakup anthem for someone frustrated and confused and who just needs to scream.”
Keep up with Joe Wood here.
by Kayla Hutton | Jan 31, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
Out of Rochester, NY is the best thing you’ve never heard of,
Ovtlier. (Though, you may have. These guys have a pretty solid and steadily growing fan base, so excuse us if we’re behind on the times here!) For fans of Shinedown, Sevendust, and Beartooth comes this break through, rock radio-friendly tune “Break” off of their E.P.
What doesn’t kill you. The music is rhythmically focused, tight, and leaves no gaps.The lyrical content is a shining moment for those who have reached that breaking point and refuse to be held down by anyone or anything. A very universal and relatable topic, the message is delivered as if it were the advice you take away from hearing the story of someone who lived it.
Just because “Break” is the pastiche of a genre they fit well into, don’t think they lack originality. Ovtlier has a very real and sincere vibe rather than the typical add-on by a major labels producer inserting commercial hooks. The chorus is powerful with a slight increase in tempo and a great unity between a punchy metal riff and applied harmony. The mixing and production quality is top notch and radio-ready. These guys aren’t missing a thing. They came prepared with a skilled arrangement, real life lyrical content, a good balance of originality and commercial appeal. They even look the part with a semi-harsh but freshly showered image. It’s not about “if” these guys will be signed and be the next big thing, it’s when. They have every right to be the ones who choose their deal and guys, don’t let any label take away that true honesty that sets you apart.
So, listeners, if you want bragging rights, “I heard them before they were huge”, here it is, it’s Ovtlier‘s “Break”.
Keep up with the band
here.
by Katie Pugh | Jan 31, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
Pop newcomer Maria Lynn’s “Petty” is the epic vengeful breakup song we’ve all been craving. If you’ve ever wished ill thoughts onto an ex or felt bitter after a relationship ends, this is the song for you.
Catchy vocals overlay an effortlessly flowing instrumental that creates the perfect song to sing (or scream) to the image of any and all ex lovers. A breezy guitar melody combined with beautifully composed lyrics and smooth vocals powerfully invoke feelings of strength and fortitude.
The upbeat tempo, electro drops, and synthesizer blends transform this personal breakup song into a spirited dance mix that somehow emits feelings of reassurance. There is a flawless balance between the calm of the verses and the hard-hitting chorus which, at first listen, is unexpected yet satisfying.
“Petty” exquisitely and refreshingly unites heartbreak with feelings of vulnerability, power, and empathy.
Keep up with Maria Lynn here.
by Veronica DeFeo | Jan 30, 2018 | 5 to 7
Austin, TX rock/pop/r&b/guitar/soul artist Jackie Venson is coming off an an exciting national solo tour for her EP, Transcends, which was released in September of 2017. It was highlighted by shows with Gary Clark Jr. She has also dropped the music video for her song “Mysterious” off of Transcends.
With confidence and phenomenal guitar skills, Jackie brings a mix of genres to the table. After attending Berklee and playing piano for most of her life, Jackie took up guitar in 2011, and has been performing for over five years. She brings authentic, soulful feels to every song, at times with a playful twist. Her latest EP, Transcends, is teeming with talent-filled tracks. Be sure to check out Transcends .
Recently, Venson curated a playlist exclusively for Imperfect Fifth. Check it out – and the inspiration behind it – below!
Folks always ask me ‘what do you listen to Jackie?’ and I can never answer their question. I don’t believe in genres, I believe in great music and I think confining oneself to playing or listening to only one genre is dooming oneself to a life of monotony. Here is my super random playlist of songs I love that I have listened to all throughout my life.
africa – toto
come around – marc broussard
maggot brain – funkadelic
multiply – jamie lidell
soul rebel – bob marley
shade of a shadow – teitur
addicted – amy winehouse
unthinkable – alicia keys
defying gravity – Wicked
young blood – the naked and famous
to zion – lauryn hill
retrograde – james blake
waltz between eva and che – Evita
We wanted to speak with the voice behind this wonderful music, so we caught up with Jackie, who answered a few questions from us about her musical career, fears, and inspirations.
- What’s your biggest fear? – Getting pregnant anytime within the next 5 years. It would impede on goals I have for sure which horrifies me because I have worked so hard.
- How was your tour with Gary Clark Jr.? – it was really fun, exhilarating, and eye opening. It was cool to see how things work on that level.
- Who would you call your favorite biggest musical inspiration? – hmm pretty impossible to narrow it down to 1. It’s a mixture of Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill, and Disney.
- How much does social media affect your musical journey? – tremendously. It is responsible for about 90% of the opportunities I get as well as the fact that folks even show up to my shows on tour.
- Do you prefer to be put in a genre, or make your own type of genre? – I like hybrid genres, I consider myself rock/r&b/soul.
- Favorite song on “Transcends”? – gotta be Flying. We were able to capture the groove so well, it feels like how we play it live.
- Favorite instrument to play? – definitely the guitar by a long shot. It feels like it’s a part of my body.
Keep up with Jackie Venson
INSTAGRAM – FACEBOOK – TWITTER
by Meredith Schneider | Jan 30, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
Thank goodness for incredible musical collaborations, as we enjoy indie hip hop sensation Aire Atlantica‘s new track “On My Feet”, which features the vocal stylings of Emily Terran. Beginning with an earthy, robust percussion section and Terran’s smooth as honey vocals, you’re aware even before Terran croons, “I’m just fine on my own” that she might feel that way, but this musical pairing is where it’s at.
With the slight tempo tweaks and fun beat, this song is enjoyed best as smooth listening, though we wouldn’t knock dancing to it. And whether you bust a move in a social setting, or just belt out the empowering and accepting lyrics in your mirror while you’re getting ready, this track should be a staple for every independent person.
Keep up with Aire Atlantica here.
