by Veronica DeFeo | Feb 19, 2018 | videos, wolf tracks
If you’re looking for a video unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, we’ve got you covered: Tide Pods meet Britney Spears. For Elisabeth Donaldson’s directing debut, the multi-talented artist teamed up with indie piano rockers Molly Rocket to create a cover of Britney Spears’ legendary hit, “Toxic” while simultaneously creating satire that brings the current state of affairs in America to light. The video utilizes the infamous 2018 Tide Pods trend to show how crazy it is that, while there are much more important things to be worried about, America is focused on tiny balls of laundry detergent.
Exposing cultural decay while creating entertainment can be a tricky thing to pull off, but Donaldson achieves it. Visually, the video sticks to a Tide Pods themed color scheme, outfits, and locale (aka the laundromat). Who wouldn’t want to try some of the tasty meals shown in the video: Tide Pod cereal, eggs, pizza, etc?? Props to Donaldson for a directing debut worth noting, and Molly Rocket for a unique and unforgettable performance.
We think Britney would approve.
Keep up with Molly Rocket here: Instagram – Facebook – Twitter
by Veronica DeFeo | Feb 19, 2018 | albums, wolf tracks
Need a little pick me up as this winter drags on? Check out the new record from John, Jack, and Charles of Monsterwatch! The Seattle-based punk band is soon to release their sophomore four track EP called Z O T, featuring “Brain Twist”, “I Don’t Get It”, “Lost My Car” and an already-released single, “Big Sin”. Z O T was produced and engineered by Steve Fisk and displays the flexibility of Monsterwatch’s music following their previous record, Blabbermouth, and a few other singles. From a classic, intense punk song like “Brain Twist” to a more mellow, but still upbeat track like “Lost My Car”, Monsterwatch has created a treat for fans and new listeners alike.
“Brain Twist” is the leading track on the EP, and will do just as the title suggests for the listener. With authentic screamo-punk sound and emotion, it is reminiscent of Carbon Airways’ “Razor Edge”.
“Brain Twist” is followed by “I Don’t Get It”, which follows the vein of the previous song. If you’re feeling angsty, this is the track for you. Filled with “you just don’t understand” vibes and a head bobbing beat, this is punk at its purest.
“Lost My Car” is one of the most approachable songs for those not used to heavier punk, tinged with some perfectly placed piano moments. “Lost My Car” has a slightly nostalgic sound to it. If The 1975 were a punk band, this is a song they’d put out; however, it is still 100% Monsterwatch’s own sound. It’s a great transitional song into the next song on the EP, a single which has already been released: “Big Sin”.
“Big Sin” has a bit of a Talking Heads sound to it, and along with “Lost My Car” definitely fits what Monsterwatch labels itself as: groovepunk.
Every track is filled with killer guitar and screamo vocals that are controlled yet unapologetic. We can’t wait to see what Monsterwatch does next.
Z O T is available March 2nd.
Instagram – Twitter – Facebook – Website – #monsterwatch
by Abby Trapp | Feb 19, 2018 | videos, wolf tracks
LA based Little Monarch captured attention and success with the release of their self-titled EP in 2016. There is no slowing down for the indie pop trio though. They recently flew into 2018 with a new video for the song “No Matter What”. The video starts with a group of friends traveling to the beach and hiking through the hills. It captures the essence of nature while encompassing the solidarity of friendship.
“For the video we simple wanted to capture the care free sun kissed feeling of the song,” say Little Monarch of the video.
Keep up with Little Monarch here.
by Madison Blom | Feb 19, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
Skylar Fri has hit the music scene with a single that has caught the attention of fans and the general public worldwide. Not only does the new single, “Gold Rush,” feature some of her most coveted talents, but also lyrics that are repeat worthy. With her unique sounds and beats, Fri brings something different to the table. She is constantly associated with a Lana Del Rey-esque sound combined with some of the latest trends. Another aspect of this track that is sure to send shivers down the spines of fans everywhere, is Fri’s ability to glide over her synth-laced melody with such ease that it seems unreal. Unlike many of the other artist in this genre, her voice brings a vintage feel to a rather new brand of music.
Not only has this artist brought it big when it comes to her music, lyrics and sound, but she also has high expectations and big plans for her career in music. She has most recently been booked to perform on a stage in Copenhagen, Denmark and expects to tour around the world to perform live for all of her fans. With talent so unique, surely there is nothing that can stand in the way of this dream.
Keep up with Skylar Fri here.
by Abby Trapp | Feb 19, 2018 | wolf tracks
Brooklyn-based quartet Citris recently released their infectious new single on NPR Music “Driving Me Crazy”. The track begins as something you think is going to be a melancholy, distressed, breakup song with lines like “You were my favorite lover, you kept the city fun.” However, the sweet, slow vocals by Angel Torreano are just preparation for the forceful chorus as she proclaims, “…yeah you’re driving me crazy; stop lying to me”, and then, of course, the track sneaks back to Angel’s reminiscent dialogue on her ex lover. The style is really unique and may be the perfect “yeah I’m sad, but never talk to me again song.”
To keep up with Citris, check them out on Facebook.
by Madison Blom | Feb 19, 2018 | videos, wolf tracks
Since the beginning of his career, Greek-born artist Leon of Athens has used his poetic lyricism to share a message through his music to people and fans across the globe. Most recently, Leon has released a brilliant new video for the title track off of his latest album, Xenos. Not only is this video a visual spectacle, but it is laced with dreamy scenes and raw emotion that match the emotion and intensity of the track. Wild, flashing lights are a key element in the production of the music video that match the beat and rhythm while fast, animal like men and women race towards something that seems to be unachievable. These elements, however, were not surprising to those who have seen and heard Leon in the past. In fact, riveting graphics and intensity are both signatures of this indie-pop artist that is taking the music community by storm.
Throughout his career on the stage, Leon of Athens has received praise from some of the greatest and most well-known names in the industry. Recently, the New York Times has named him an, “Immensely appealing Greek pop star.” Also, The Guardian also hailed him as a, “Brainy pop inspired by Bernardo Bertolucci, inflected with electronic, folk and other flavors.” Clearly, with such overwhelming support from international fans and critics, the future for Leon of Athens is secure and bright.
Keep up with Leon of Athens here.
by Jai'Tyria Hatton | Feb 19, 2018 | albums, wolf tracks
Joanna Teters is setting a place in music for herself following the release of her EP Warmer When It Rains. Teterz started off as a bandleader perfecting her craft as front woman for Mad Satta, Drew ofthe Drew, Lowtone Society, and iLa Mawana. I must admit, the entire EP is a rollercoaster love story, beginning with the song “Ride with You” which takes the listener on a ride for whatever. After “Ride with You” comes “Midnight”, in honor of what really happens after midnight. Teters takes to listener to the supreme with “Supreme” which is a song that leaves the listener yearning for more.
The lead single from the album is titled “Memories Remain”. “Memories Remain is a song inspired by a friend’s break up. The song is a song that is relatable to anyone that has ever gone through heartbreak. Warmer When it Rains is a phenomenal album that is a great start to Joanna Teters’ solo career.
Keep up with Teters here.
by Meredith Schneider | Feb 19, 2018 | 5 to 7
The Temptations gave so many generations of music lovers some of the most infectious, intriguing music to enjoy. But that’s not all they’ve bestowed on us, as Temptations member Ali Woodson’s daughter – Aliah (Lia) Ali – is a quadruple threat (singer / actress / songwriter / dancer) and making her mark on the entertainment industry.
What was it that inspired you to start writing music?
Different artists inspire me in different ways, but singing and writing music has always been a passion of mine ever since I was a little. As a little girl, I would always spend hours in my room just singing and coming up with the most random lyrics/music of my own and as I got older, I took it more serious and realized it’s something that I want to do for the rest of my life. Although, my writing skills can improve a lot, it will always be something that I strive to get better at because it’s my passion and my therapy.
In a hundred years, how do you want people to remember you and your music?
In a hundred years, I want people to remember me and my music as a light to the end of their tunnel, something they can listen to and still get that feeling they got when they first listened to it. I want to put smiles on people’s faces eternally and make people feel good about themselves when they listen to my music!
When you are having a mental writer’s block, is there something that you do to get those creative juices flowing?
One of the hardest things about having mental writer’s block sometimes is figuring a way out of it, but my go to remedy for it is taking time to myself to meditate and pray to God to help me get my creating juices flowing again and that always works.
Being an up and coming artist also means a flood of new fans and social media contacts from people who appreciate your music–has there been an experience that has stuck out to you with your fans?
Becoming a new artist can be stressful sometimes, especially introducing yourself and your music to the world and just hoping and praying people will love it as much as you do. So far, I’ve been blessed with amazing people by my side supporting me along with a small fan base, at the moment, but I know eventually it will grow and more people will hear and love my music and that’s just a feeling I long for.
Out of all of your songs, which one is your favorite to perform or the one that gets the band pumped?
I love all of my songs, but the one song that gets me pumped up so far when I perform it is “Work It.” It has such an old school vibe to it that people automatically love and I just love to see people vibe and dance along with me while I’m performing it!
What is your current guilty pleasure song or album?
My current guilty pleasure song at the moment is “Frozen” by Sabrina Claudio. I literally listen to it at least 5x a day. It’s such a soothing song and it gets me in my feelings, good feelings for sure!
Anything else to add?
I would love to tell people who are reading this to follow your dreams no matter what people tell you. Whatever you dream about yourself doing, DO IT and be the BEST at it because the sky is your only limit. Most importantly, believe in yourself. Believe in the passion that you have for your dream and ask yourself this, if you believed in Santa Clause, The tooth fairy, and the Easter bunny as a child then why can’t you believe in yourself? Follow your dreams.
___
Keep up with Lia Ali
here.
by Katie Pugh | Feb 16, 2018 | singles, wolf tracks
Austin based duo, Bronze Whale, who have gained popularity through a variety of originals and remixes, just released their first track of 2018 called “Exposure.” The duo, comprised of Aaron Jaques and Benny Alley, has been feature in Entertainment Weekly and have even had numerous number ones on Hype Machine. Not only does the duo write their own music, they also manage their own label, handle their own artwork, and mix and master each track.
At the end of 2017, Bronze Whale decided to head jack to Colorado with their team to crest a new, fresh sound which focuses less on lyrics and vocals and more on instrumentation. This concept is very apparent in “Exposure” which features a multi-faceted electronic blend, synthesized rhythms, and a looped vocal chop.
The song features Bronze Whale’s signature energetic vibes and variety of electronic pop elements. There’s a growing anticipation throughout “Exposure” as the song continuously build, adding small variations. Once it leaks, the instrumentation dies down a little bit showcasing a flawless transition between dynamics. Fans are bound to be impressed with “Exposure” and Bronze Whale’s versatility and creativity.
Keep up with Bronze Whale here.
