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Little Rock-based duo Cliff & Susan showcase an anthemic country-rock appeal on new single “Spitfire,” immersing with electrifying fiddle infusions. The track celebrates fearless and unstoppable women in its lyrical drive, drawing particular inspiration from one-half the duo, Susan Prowse. The other half of the married duo, Cliff Prowse, wrote the track. “‘Spitfire’ started as an idea I had for the line ‘fiddle and steel your heart away,” Cliff says. “I thought, ‘How can I make that work in a song? So I came up with a riff, some chords and started writing. I realized I had the perfect inspiration,
Delving retrospectively into one’s past and how it shapes them today, Memory Shapes is a consuming new album from Moth Traps. An artful pop disposition takes hold, immersing across various realms — from piano-fronted balladry to atmospheric synth jaunts and string-laden elegance. The solo project of Robyn McIntosh, who was also lead vocalist in Brighton band The Happiness, impresses with his third album; its thematic fixations on memory and death sharply complement melodic productions with eclectic tonal pursuits. Opening track “The Dress Rehearsal” wastes no time in establishing a captivating soundscape. Vibrant piano trickling and wordless vocal intrigue assemble beautifully,
German band Coma Beach enthrall with a stylish, impassioned rock sound throughout their new EP, Passion/Bliss. The release represents the third and final installment from their Scapegoat Revisited EP series, which celebrates the 30th anniversary of their debut album, The Scapegoat’s Agony, released in 1995. The band notes this new EP’s title as “an allusion to the play “Waiting for Godot” by Irish playwright and novelist Samuel Beckett and points towards the – for the most part – painful and excruciating emotional odyssey of the unnamed antihero.” “Passion” opens the EP with compelling intrigue. Hazy guitar strums and spoken-word ruminations
A hazy, fuzzy rock appeal enamors throughout Bougainvillea, the new album from Darren Sullivan. Classic, garage, and grunge influences impart an engaging passion alongside lusher contemplation, resulting in a sound that appeals in its diverse emotional arsenal and melodic consistency — at points reminding fondly of The Replacements in that sense of rock-minded variety. “Part of the Flow” kicks off the album with a more vigor-full rock mind, melding awakening vocal contemplation with a steady dose of brisk percussion and warming guitar distortion. A hypnotic rock edge stirs past the two-minute turn, as the vocals momentarily fade. In the more
Compelling in its emotive, retrospective pop and rock intertwining, “Do You Still Remember?” is the memorable second single from Khynan Rhys. Based in Norwich, England, the 18-year-old Rhys describes the release as “about someone who is afraid to open-up in a relationship and the efforts of trying to understand the person more.” The result is fully resonating, conveying a sincere desire to connect with meaningful clarity alongside a hooky, atmospheric production. Glistening keys pulse alongside lush, subtle strings as the melodic vocals open with the title-touting question: “Do you still remember, the nights of November?” A striving to “forget her,”
A radiant, emotive pop showcase from multi-instrumentalist Colseth, Stellar Illusions impresses with a dynamic tonal prowess across its 12 tracks. Glistening lushness and anthemic vigor intertwine cohesively throughout. “Would you give me another chance if I asked you?” yearning vocals ask on one of many highlights, “Blooming Moon.” Multiple vocal layers and prancing keys arise into that appeal to emotion, swelling thereafter into expressive vocals that ponder if they’re better off without them. Thereafter, a gripping hip-hop vocal feeling arrives, intensifying in ardency prior to a gorgeous blend of guitar and piano. It’s one of several examples within of engaging
An expressive and gripping pop sound unveils on “am I the only one? (Lonely),” a newly released single from Mjoy. The Bay Area/Sacramento-based singer/songwriter combines jangling guitars, airy synths, and self-empowering lyrical prowess for a wholly memorable sound. The track represents the first release featuring Mjoy’s own arrangement, crafted entirely on her own. Mixing and mastering is from Evernia Creative (Daylen Brinkley). Its heart-on-sleeve vocals and crisp pop/rock arsenal reminding fondly of The 1975, “am I the only one? (Lonely)” builds into a title-referencing questioning with sincere passion. “My heart is heavy; I just want some company,” the vocals yearn,
A brightly reassuring pop/rock success from Chicago-based singer/songwriter Sarantos, “You Have You” emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself and using that confidence to navigate life’s rockiest terrain. ’80s rock and modern pop influences intertwine on this melodic, escalating production — complemented by a music video that visually captures the track’s commendable, loving ethos. “Every day’s the same,” the opening vocals lament, commenting on day-to-day tumults and a resulting lack of self-respect. Brighter encouragements follow. “You’re the lighthouse in the storm, shining through the darkest night,” a welcoming radiance shifts, arising beautifully into a melding of electric guitars, strumming acoustics,
Vancouver-based singer/songwriter The Vlade pairs a dynamic sound with poignant thematic resonance on the new album Bring Me to The Light. An emphasis on resilience, hope, and the power of shared humanity lingers within productions that span from rock ardency to jazzy suaveness. “It’s been incredible to see how music can create these emotional connections across borders,” says The Vlade, who notes that the album’s title track has resonated with listeners in Ukraine, especially. “Bring Me to the Light” opens the album with enjoyable intrigue, melding twanging guitars and sturdy acoustics amidst an introspective vocal. “Your love will set me
A range of spirited, twangy rock and moving string-laden balladry immerse across Man on the Corner, the debut from Los Angeles-based artist TT. With personal obstacles arisen from a chronic kidney condition, diagnosed as a child, TT places particular emphasis on seizing moments and treasuring the time we have. Personal experiences with this battle — in addition to “working like a dog,” at times to pay the bills — have provided TT with an affirming outlook on life, with a carpe-diem mentality. The self-produced album resonates in its quality songwriting and consistent thematic outlook. “There’s an overall feeling of using
An ominous post-punk atmospheric prowess lingers throughout Automatic Writhing, the new album from Washington, D.C.-based project Zabus. Aptly, the darkly impactful soundscapes complement a poignantly morose thematic pursuit, revolving around the future’s bleak uncertainty and consequent desires for escapism. Specifically, the release explores “escapism vs introspection” — pondering various mediums against the temptations of a virtual reality. Will one succumb to the tailor-made comforts of virtual reality, or be led into more organic ventures like meditation and astral projection? The lofty consciousness melds with stylish productions for a resonating success from Zabus. “Truth Table” commences the album with a delectably
A dynamic ambient-driven spell emanates from “Lulla By – [Modulo#5 Vs.],” a single released today from Italian composer and sound designer Guido Affini. Also excelling in the fields of contemporary art, sound installations, and other productions throughout his career, Affini melds an array of musical influences — including post-rock, drone, free jazz, and noise — within artistic tendencies for gripping atmospheric exploration across his musical works. This track also features the guitar work of friend and collaborator Federico Fantuz, and was created specifically for a show by the ballet theater company Balletto Civile / Michela Lucenti. Spacey, illuminated textures pair
A stylish, debonair rocker from Portland-based artist Vonnie Kyle, “Here and Still Alive” explores the lingering effects of a toxic romantic relationship within a memorable production that sounds parts spy-theme and garage-rocker. “Hold me one more time while we’re here and still alive,” Kyle’s vocals yearn amidst steady guitar pulses, cementing a replay-inducing hook. “It’s not necessary,” the fervent vocals rise elsewhere, complementing prancing piano and stirring guitars into the “here and still alive,” emotion — playing with cathartic, invigorating impact. A crawling bass line during the “see you dancing,” sequence also enamors. “Here and Still Alive” is a stirring
Another memorable track from D.C.-based artist Hays Dowdy, “Only on the Inside” fuses buzzing guitars and dual-vocal immersion into a stirring title-touting hook. Abby Sevcik‘s gorgeous harmonies return, marking another successful collaboration with Hays; “Voodoo Doll” caught our ears last summer. “Only on the Inside” succeeds with a power-pop and rock intertwining. Perky, vibrant keys and fuzzy guitars cohesively complement the magnetic vocal presences, alluring especially during the “only on the inside,” repetition. — This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
A riveting journey of a track from Washington DC-based musical collective Talk to Your Neighbor, “Knock” stirs in its eclectic range — immersing from haunting folk minimalism to jazz-touched rhythmic intensity. “I’m getting used to people leaving,” ghostly vocals lament alongside haunting acoustic trickles to start, building with steady intrigue as mellow keys and slight rhythms come into play. The second half is especially enthralling, infusing a brisk percussive presence amidst emotively gripping vocal expanses. The project comprises ex-Dope Francis members Jeremy Padow (guitar, bass guitar) and Andrew Carlson (percussion, backing vocals); Ana Ruess (lead vocals) and Lukas Keel (guitar,
Drew Elder unveils a stylish chamber-pop immersion on recent single “Narrow Creek,” described by the artist as taking inspiration “by the value of being in nature.” Pit-pattering percussion and heartfelt, cinematic strings align enjoyably into Elder’s introspective vocal emergence. “Beyond the streets, that’s where you’ll find me,” Elder sings. “Where the river runs deep, beyond the narrowing creek.” The melding of folk-pop enchantment and orchestral passion pair with melodic vocal pursuits for a sound fondly reminiscent of Andrew Bird, particularly during the escalating “outside of town,” brass-laden envelopment. “Narrow Creek” marks a stirring success from Drew Elder. — This and
Lush synths and soaring guitar ardency intertwine on “Weirdo,” a memorable track from Mad Bad World. The project comes via multi-instrumentalist Matt Battle. Originally from Rochester, NY, Battle has worked as a producer and drummer in the Los Angeles and NYC scenes, in addition to drumming for psychedelic-soul band Chicano Batman. “Weirdo” dazzles in its escalating tonal charm, ranging impressively from the “tell you that you’re beautiful,” synth engrossment — conveying palpable yearning — and more psych-rock energy. The vulnerable lyrical pursuits — “I need you more than ever,” — complements the melodic drive with sincere qualities. “Weirdo” is amongst
A compelling track that infuses traditional Celtic charm amidst a memorable folk/rock fusing, “Another Sunny Day/Star of Monster” comes via Jack O’ the Clock. They describe the release as a “character-based song about getting through the day while working a retail job.” Twangy guitars and sturdy acoustics build a timeless-sounding intro, with references to “putting the customer at ease,” and trying to discover “a thread,” exuding a heartfelt relatability in its working-day laments. The second half dazzles with its incorporation of the traditional Celtic melody “Star of Munster,” recorded on fiddle and recorder. “Another Sunny Day/Star of Monster” is a
Immersing with its brisk bass lines, debonair vocal rises, and erupting guitar lines, “Breadcrumbs” is a melodic rock success from Portland-based band Risley. Twinkling guitar twangs pair with the vigorous rhythms as the vocals ascend from suave contemplation into more soaring enthusiasm, moving into a delectable final 30 seconds with particularly magnetic guitar work. The success marks the first song from their upcoming album, Umbra Penumbra, and was followed up by the track “Walls.” — This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
New York-based multi-instrumentalist Lucas Player exudes a wintry, tranquil mystique on new single “More Than You.” Calming piano layers accompany a slight, trickling ambient effect underneath as the haunting vocals emerge. Steady percussive additions bolster the ghostly captivation, expanding steadily into solemn strings that cohesively complement that piano and rhythmic interplay. “More Than You” is a resonating success from Lucas Player, who previously made music under the moniker Kibishi at age 15, and now succeeds with this project at age 21. — This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify
Astral Jade casts a haunting, dreamy spell across the debut album OpalEssence. Amongst its highlights are the tracks “daydream deathnote” and “unbecome,” both impressing in their grasp of atmosphere and melodic momentum. “daydream deathnote” unfolds with sleepier captivation, easing in slowly as lethargic guitar trickles complement sporadic shimmering and daydream-referencing lyricism. A bass-y darkness weaves in prior to the first minute, melding throughout with the atmospheric guitars and click-clacking rhythmic subtleties for a strong atmospheric entrancement. “unbecome” is another standout, this time unveiling a delectably heavier side of Astral Jade. Spacey synths and higher-pitched vocals emit ghostly chills, jangling into
Soulful vocal entrancement and expressive guitar twangs enamor throughout “San Miguel,” a standout new single from Swedish duo Van Dame. Idiz Love provides her exceptional vocal talents, while Bruce — a former punk-rocker — contributes his guitar work and knack for brilliant productions. They describe “San Miguel” as being born from ’90s nostalgia, and also taking inspiration from high school what-ifs — like that one crush, and thoughts of what could have been. “Smoking cigarettes on my back, you laugh and roll your eyes,” Idiz sings with soulful enthrallment, lamenting “none of this can save me,” as lush synths glide
An EP out today from New Jersey-based duo Tiny Cities, The Wind Can Be So Cruel presents a stirring folk sound across its four tracks. The project’s debut EP showcases the strong songwriting of both Melissa Anthony and Dennis King (SONOFDOV), who met at a Jersey shore cafe and debuted with the single “Hologram.” That track opens the EP with compelling immersion, quickly establishing Tiny Cities’ powerful songwriting. Anthony’s haunting vocals reflect on “days we used to celebrate,” then asking: “how did you forget my name?” There’s a palpable sense of yearning for the past, captivating in the “feeling like
The Love is Real is an affecting new album from Jimmy B Fearless, enveloping with a memorable blend of hip-hop, pop, and soul. The impactful release explores the pivotal role of love in everyone’s life, whether in the form of romance, friendship, or family. These various expressions of adoration are conveyed across the 13 tracks — from emotional and physical connections, to forms of admiration and family bonds. There’s also an acknowledgement of how love’s power can result in emotional damage, leading to feelings of helplessness and heartbreak. Love makes our worlds go round, and The Love is Real ventures
A melodic range of soundscape-heavy, piano-driven tracks compel across An Electric Evening with Jonny Rythmns and The Magical Motif, the newly released album from Elevated Focusion. The collection of songs was crafted over two decades ago, representing recordings from 2001 to 2004. The New York-based project caught our ears a few months ago with the grippingly dynamic album Dark Nights, venturing into a wide range of styles — from synth-pop to funk and reggae — and An Electric Evening… now succeeds with a more consistent tonal arsenal; the Yamaha Motif Classic is featured prominently throughout, blending seamlessly within a range
A stylishly contagious pop appeal shows throughout EXclusive club, a magnetic new EP from songwriter/producer duo Tangerine Cassette. Recalling the confident, charismatic pop of Charli XCX, as well as Sophie’s electro-pop ingenuity, the EP navigates meaningful themes amidst hook-filled productions. Divorce, betrayal, and eventual recovery from heartbreak enamor within these standout tracks. “I know I’m a problem!” the charismatic vocals declare on opening track “EXclusive club,” which takes pride in “being a lot,” as buzzing synths pair with dynamic vocals — appealing across both spoken-word suaveness (“I got athletes in my DMs,”) and more melodic vigor. This infectious opener traverses
Depicting heartbreak following a brief yet intense relationship, “Hey Siri” is a resonating new single from Neon Massacre. The North Walian project is the moniker of singer/songwriter Chloe Ferguson, who melds poetic lyrical introspection with a catching folk/pop fusion. The result proves stirring, capturing a victim of heartbreak pouring their heart out to “her confidante, Siri,” and embarking on a quest for closure. Dreamy piano and serene vocal introspection pair enjoyably, reflecting on the past while acknowledging present heartbreak. “He took me for a ride…” the vocals begin, then admitting: “I’m wondering how and when I’m gonna lose this feeling.”
A gripping conceptual exploration of growing up and various life stages, Music For Imaginary Friends is the new album from The Farewell Step. The project of Mario Bisignani excels with a dynamic instrumental rock prowess, set amidst tonal variety reflective of childhood and adolescent experiences — from personal awakenings to inner turmoil. Specifically, each track imparts the role of an imaginary friend; their roles as companions, with each possessing a different personality and role, bolsters a narrative that proves relatable and impactful. Bisignani — who wrote, played, mixed, and composed every note on the album — thoroughly impresses with a
Italian artist Gianfranco Malorgio shows further atmospheric intrigue with new track “Phoenix,” impressing across both wailing guitar entrancement and calming late-night acoustic/synth interplay. The composition was created with a potential film adaptation in mind, also taking inspiration from detective films from the ’70s, much like previously featured track “WOP.” “Phoenix” plays as another rousing success from Malorgio, who founded the group Hot Club Roma in 2005 and has since succeeded in a wide variety of musical realms — including collaborations with Italian guitarist Dario Pinelli and French musician Noè Reinhard. Rock-ready percussion moves into a more introspective arsenal of instrumentation,
Commanding with a memorable rock sound, Chasing The Dragon is a recent EP from the band Shaven Primates — based in Oxford, England. The EP’s primary theme revolves around desire, attaining a relatable engrossment following previous albums Birds Aren’t Real and Child of Dirt, which covered alternative thinking and childhood trauma/addiction, respectively. Chasing The Dragon rouses with its memorable original songwriting, in addition to a lovely take on a Kate Bush classic. “Airwaves” commences the EP with moody guitar traversals, escalating thereafter into a “dreaming of airwaves,” invigorating vocal reveal. Quickly, the band showcases a strong grasp of both lusher
An enthralling new album from _SHOE, THE RITUAL immerses across spacey synth lushness and powerful guitar soaring alike. The Castelcucco, Italy-based artist takes narrative inspiration from the first season of the Devisal Story, described as “a multifaceted project that involves filmmaking, music and comic book development.” Rogue malware and its arrival into the physical world are at the forefront of the narration, complemented aptly by a sharp synth-led production with sporadic vocal and guitar involvement. “ROBOTIC_CAPTIVITY” is amongst the album’s numerous standouts. An invigorating electro-pop drive complements a vocal desire to “see the light,” beckoning to ’80s synth-pop nostalgia as
The debut single from NYC-based act Weird Magazines, “Yves Klein Blue” unveils their consuming dreamy, textured rock sound. Hazy jangles and debonair vocals envelop to start, reminding fondly of the ’80s jangle-pop band Felt. Solemn guitar pulses and steady percussion craft a meditative pull throughout, particularly as twangy guitars adorn a concluding title-touting refrain. We’re excited to hear what’s on the horizon from this promising rising act. — This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
A strongly memorable debut album from Natural Born Actor, Andrew Robertson Is… embraces a beautiful middle ground between ’70s guitar-driven rock/pop and ’80s synth-laden charms. The project represents the alias of London/Berlin native Andrew Robertson, who cites Bowie as a prominent influence, in addition to guitarists like Jimmy Page, Rich Robinson, Marc Ford, Keith Richards, and beyond. Andrew’s brother Jimmy, a noted sound engineer, also contributed to the album’s mixing and engineering — marking one of many standout guest collaborations on this stellar album. A melodic, brass-forward invigoration takes hold on opening track “Steve Jobs Song.” The album’s first single
A fantastic track out today from Melbourne-based act Silent Income, “Sweet Pea” builds upon twanging guitars and lushly magnetic vocals within a palpable lyrical yearning. The project comprises singer/lyricist Marcella Wright and multi-instrumentalist/producer Sam Billinghurst-Walsh — who draw from ’70s, ’80s, and modern pop influences on this alluring new single. Hazy guitar twangs and a debonair bass line complements a melodic vocal lushness, striving to “get to know you,” and driving into a magnetic central hook. “I wanna see you every day,” the smitten sentiments continue, admitting the powers of a beloved — and how they can turn them into
A dreamy, heartfelt success from Someone Called Sarah, “Lesson” achieves a gripping retrospection in its depictions of falling in love — and exploring how “starting over,” can be daunting though necessary when that adoration is unrequited. The Portland, Oregon-based artist melds trickling guitars and faint backing keys, within vocal insights that explore how a lack of reciprocation can be especially heartbreaking — ultimately leading into the “if loving you’s a lesson that I may never learn,” acknowledgement. “A year ago, I was falling for you just like powdered snow,” the solemn vocals let out initially, with the “never know,” remarking
“Being Good Is Supposed To Be Easy” is a warming, melodic rocker from See Night, the project of Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter Linda Sao. Released ahead of the project’s album Just Another Life, out in February, the single was written by Sao following the sudden death of someone close to her. Perspectives on love, loss, and regrets linger within a compelling production that succeeds across both spacious contemplation and fervent invigoration. A textured, exhilarating guitar-fronted emotion takes hold immediately; crunchy warmness and melodic feedback intertwine with a glowing allure. The track traverses seamlessly into a crisper, melodic ferocity past the one-minute
Immersing with a memorable rock and pop fusing, Romeo and Juliet is a stellar new EP from Ubiquity Machine, a Washington, DC-based band comprising The Rabbit and Howard Rabach. The EP represents the first half of the band’s upcoming full-length, set to release later in 2025. They caught our ears last year with the I Think It’s Funny EP, and Romeo and Juliet continues to showcase their high-quality output of songwriting. The EP’s opening title track compels in its “not when I’m with you,” refrains of adoration, enjoyably representing the band’s dynamic arsenal between playful synth work and rock-forward approachability;
Not That Girl is the captivating new album from Filipino singer/songwriter Barbie Almalbis, who wrote the release during one of the most difficult times in her life. Resulting themes capture “holding on to faith through struggles, finding hope through surrender, and celebrating the joy that comes from love and friendship,” per Almalbis. A mature poise is evident in this pursuit, capturing personal growth and healing relative to past releases, which more often drew upon experiences such as heartbreak. This artistic direction culminates in Almalbis’ most introspective sound yet, all while retaining her knack for melodically immersive approachability. Alongside producer Nick
Philadelphia-based artist Eddy Mann shows an insightful, harmonious folk sound across new single “String of Pearls.” A biblical inspiration resonates within, taking particular influence from Romans 3:10-18. An emphasis on human sinfulness persists in the lyrics as result, exploring how humanity finds themselves longing for redemption, peace, and meaning. “The lyrical idea draws from an old rabbinical form of teaching scripture,” says Mann, who draws deeply from his Christian faith. “Many of us are searching for answers to today’s questions. Where better to look than in life’s manual?” “Searching vastly; gleaning diamonds, from life’s different worlds,” Mann sings with comfortingly