The Iddy-Biddies - The World Inside
- English (US)
The Iddy-Biddies is rooted in folk-inspired classic rock but brushed with a gentle haze of old-school pop rock.
Groovy Shirt Club - Believe
- English (US)
Groovy Shirt Club continues to carve out a distinctive space in the indie music scene with songs that balance nostalgia and sincerity.
Blues Corner - All That We Are
- English (US)
An album made for a road trip. The songs bring with them an electric charge. The gears and the genres shift together, and you know the trip is going to be a memorable one. All That We Are by Blues Corner is exactly that.
The Nightbirds - Art.
- English (US)
An album you would put on shuffle while travelling to the countryside. The drums build with acceleration, and your car moves on the smooth asphalt just as the beat progresses. Art. by The Nightbirds is just the pick.
Gary Dranow-Twisted Minds
Gary Dranow is kicking sound into a gear many of us will never know. He already has his release Destiny Road out, a Peter Frampton style track with some manic instrumentals. Now, we look at an overlooked but rock heavy track by him. This is his superb single, Twisted Minds. Some people search frantically for a road trip rock song. When you’re sick and tired of Whitesnake and Scorpions, understand there are some other axe wielders. Here, Gary Dranow brings his Deep Purple love out, with synth and guitar heavy rhythm. The layers and mix allows the track to be appreciated for the pub swinger that it is. The guitar licks have a delicious tang to it, something that puts it apart from pop punk drillers. While some rock tracks linger around the outside, you are invited for a sound spiral with this exciting and intriguing number. The guitar solo is exceptional, tasteful and melodically phrased. You’ll be repeatedly blasting this through your car till the trip ends. Special thanks to the keys solo as well!Films like Easy Rider and Dazed & Confused with Almost Famous come to mind. These are tracks where you go the distance, face changes head on and definitely rock on. The group in question is against all odds, and brings its own dynamic that is the showstopper and essential premise. Gary Dranow is the master orchestrator, and he has managed to conjure a vibe more powerful than most chart toppers have in the past few years. Rock out to his track and follow him!
The Freight-See Ya
The Freight are appropriately named. Charging in like a train from the past, they deliver to the future. Bringing the lost sound of 80s rock, this is a revival worth raving about. Their catchy music is inspired by entire decades of music. They were born with it, grew up listening to it, and give us an unadulterated version of it now. This is their latest single, See Ya. While the riffage style might be from the classic vault by the legends, they bring the execution From Mountain to Deep Purple, you can hear the sounds sharper than a train horn. Identifiable and enviable in the ease with which they perform, you would wish to hear this live. The synths, like Jon Lord, pull you out from the moment and set you back in with purpose. The guitars bring the noise as much as they do the melody, and you’re swinging in no time. You might be a newbie to their sound, but don’t tell me you’re not an instant fan. The Boston based band clear the tracks with just their presence, and you can cash in on that. This would fit any Quentin Tarantino action flick, but I’d like to see it in Kill Bill. Nobody, starring Bob Odenkirk, would also rock this scene for the bus fight, which I encourage you to check out. Bottom line, The Freight enjoy what they make and do, and it shows. Check out their tracks like Show Me & Overrated for a good dosage of demolition drive rock. In case you haven’t boarded the train yet, see ya.
Mad Painter-Rock and Roll Samurai
Mad Painter has the pageantry and aplomb of a star group. Like Meatloaf, you can hear their songs to be visual and audio epics. Their sense of composition and arrangement is unparalleled for an indie project like this. Energy shifts from place to place in their songs, it is never lost. This is their latest single, Rock and Roll Samurai. I don’t know what visual might come to you when you hear that term. Welding a Gibson axe and an all leather karate gi, you can expect mayhem from this warrior. With a Deep Purple like intro, the synth immediately goes on the pedestal. Quick paced, energetic and full of drive, this song is only to be played on 5th gear. The organ support with the distorted guitar gives an Ian Gillian kind of edge to Mad Painter. You can expect nothing to take a backseat in this song. Right from the get-go, you’re treated to a 220V charged band like appeal, the zeal is electric. The chorus is unique and kick-ass, a balance very often lost due to trying too hard. Mad Painter’s way is to create an intensely catchy hook that you’d want to hum and sing when you feel like it. From Rock the Kasbah & School of Rock, this song bleeds rock and roll. It is an instant zap back to the late 70s, where this used to be airplay regularly. The attack and energy would make for some engaging scenes where rock-ery is in full form. Listen to Mad Painter’s self-titled debut and Illusion for some eye-opening rock revival. Devil Horns up and indulge!
Roxercat-Crime
The legacy of Roxercat will be through their fascinating music. If you haven’t heard of them, it’s a crime. You’ve never read foreshadowing like this. A trio that brings the life back to live music, we listen to their single today, called Crime. Sorry, but not sorry. Featured in their EP from earlier this year called Pearls, this is one of their hardest hitters. It is difficult to balance a groovy intro without it becoming the mainstay. However, if you have experience like Roxercat does, you’re going to live in the groove. With a bass intro leading to a swinging rock rhythm, you can feel the beat in your bones. When you thought that could be enough, a guitar solo pretty much kicks the door wide open. It’s like listening to Steve Vai, but there are incredible vocals involved. The bridge involves quite the exchange between the guitar and the vocals, and keeps the wattage of this song on max. If anything, I can guarantee you that you haven’t heard lead guitar work like that in several years from an indie band. There is a threshold of awesome that exists for a band to make a legacy. Roxercat crossed that threshold one EP ago. I can assure you this isn’t an advertisement of any sort, the proof is in the pudding. I’d have loved to have heard this one on The Italian Job, any really cool heist movie would do. I’m banking on an Ocean’s follow up just so that this band can make the soundtrack. You can listen to their EP and follow them on Spotify for more great rock and roll. For now, sign off with a calling card for crime.
Filip Dahl-Can You See the World
Sometimes it’s not enough to listen Filip Dahl belt out a song. You have to actually see it to believe it. A true rock fanatic with an ingrained essence of rock in his music, there is a special kind of sound this artist exudes. You can get to know it’s Filip with the extensive multi-instrumental madness, along with flowing melodies in any of his songs. This is his latest single, Can You See the World. With just the opening, you can hear so much. The mystery comes from a darker tone, which opens the song. It might be the dread of the current scenario we live through, narrated notationally. As the sweet solo opens it, you hear a tone maybe only Satch could control, but a soul to the sound only Gilmour could execute. The opening does sound all kinds of classic rock, like Wishbone Ash, but essentially like Filip Dahl. The lyrics are meaningful and create the pool of depth along with the guitar playing. The verse section instrumental itself has so much character, being a progression you rarely hear. I guess this is what you must expect from a virtuoso producer, performer and composer. Though the lyrics make it specific, a wonderful version of this song, maybe an instrumental, would be ideal for Blue Planet-the documentary. Filip has so much signature tone and sound with just his instruments, the original broth of the song is retained. Listen to his 2022 album Storyteller, for a masterclass in composition and narrative making. Follow him for more incredible music!
Swedish Knightingales-Never See Her Again
Swedish Knightingales are a band that can make a room move with their energy. Their music is classic rock inspired, and executed. Like a finely aged barrel of whiskey, what you get will be the highest quality always. More than elements of surprise, their rock sound creates an instant connection to the 70s and 80s. This is their latest single, Never See Her Again. From Chris Cornell like vocals to a Whitesnake rhythm feel, there are elements you’ll revisit here that you won’t see many indie bands execute this way. They have a thunderous style of making an entrance, and that’s what you hear in this love rock ballad as well. The hook and chorus, the guitar flourishes-you can almost see the MTV screen come to life. The rhythm, beats and melodies come together in energetic, swarming fashion and remind you of the last time you heard some swinging rock music. Swelling with style and a zeal to make the song memorable, you remember the lines the second time around. The production also allows you to enjoy it for the catchy song it is, all in all. This awesome movie called Reality Bites would have done a superb job hosting this song in their scenes. With a rock energy, the movie has plenty of scenes for a love rock ballad like this. A Firehouse and Whitesnake energy is clearly heard with the Swedish Knightingales . You can listen to their triple A side, Small Batch Artisan Crafted on their Spotify. Listen to more of their music and follow them for rock tracks that will change your day!
Joshua Ketchmark - Crossbone
Joshua Ketchmark, the new wave of country rock, has just released his tenth studio album, 'Blood,' which showcases his undeniable talent for songwriting and musical production. The album includes a track called "Crossbone," which features an acoustic element that is reminiscent of Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, but with Ketchmark's own country vibe. "Crossbone" is the 10th track on the album and explores themes of goodbyes and self-realization. The narrative is heartfelt and deeply personal, reflecting Ketchmark's past experiences. The track's mix is impressive, with overlapping guitar layers that fill up the soundscape and create a rich, textured sound that complements Ketchmark's vocals perfectly. The country feel of the track is consistent with the rest of the album, which was produced and mixed by Joshua Ketchmark himself and recorded in various studios across California, Arizona, Georgia, and Tennessee. The majority of the piano and organ were played by Michael Webb (Chris Stapleton), with Tony Paoletta (Travis Tritt) contributing lap steel and Sadler Vaden (Jason Isbell and the 400 unit) playing the guitar on eight of the twelve songs. Blood also includes guest appearances by drummer Zak St. John (Black Star Riders), bassist Ger Hoffman (Joe Diffie), and backup vocals by Candace Devine (Ponderosa Grove), Heather Luttrel, CC Wyle (Wyle), Kenny Wright (The Great Affairs), Dvniel, and Joey O. The new album by Joshua Ketchmark is a perfect fit for 90s' indie narratives "Crossbone" would make an excellent addition to any indie music movie soundtrack. The song's acoustic element and poignant lyrics could work well in indie classics such as "Reality Bites" or "Empire Records," both of which were released in the 90s. Ketchmark's new album, Blood, showcases his talent as a songwriter and producer, with tracks like "Crossbone" demonstrating his ability to mix genres seamlessly and create a unique sound that appeals to fans of both indie and country music. In conclusion, "Crossbone" is a standout track from Joshua Ketchmark's latest record. The song's treatment and overlapping harmonic layers create a rich, textured sound that perfectly complements Ketchmark's heartfelt vocals. With its poignant lyrics and indie music feel, "Crossbone" would make an excellent addition to any 90s movie soundtrack and will surely take the global indie market by storm.
Rich Chambers - I Found the Volume
The latest album by Rich Chambers, "I Found the Volume" is a captivating blend of classic rock and roll with influences from hard rock, garage rock, and acoustic rock. The songs on this album showcase Chambers' ability to reimagine the essence of rock and roll while infusing it with his own unique style. The mix of the album is expertly crafted, with a balanced stereo field that allows each instrument to shine. The acoustic panning creates a sense of depth, while the crisp mid frequencies of the master give the music a lively and vibrant feel. The tight snare tones provide a solid backbone to the rocky rhythm section, adding to the album's dynamics. Chambers' impressive lyrical narratives are a standout feature of this album. His anecdotal storytelling approach brings a relatable and authentic quality to his songs. Whether he's singing about love, loss, or the passage of time, Chambers has a way of capturing the human experience and connecting with his audience on a deep level. Rich Chambers unleashed a force of unstoppable rock and roll The leading track, "I'm A Fool For Loving You," captivates listeners instantly with its driving rock rhythm and lyrics. A song that resonates with anyone who has experienced unrequited love and found themselves feeling foolish. It sets the tone for the incredible album that follows. Chambers showcases his prowess in holding the essence of a classic tune with his cover of CCR's "Fortunate Son." Another standout track is the hit single "You're A Nice Guy But...," which masterfully captures the sentiment of being friend-zoned with incredible musicianship. Chambers' ability to combine engaging grooves with relatable themes is further evident in tracks like "Tender Years," a ballad reminiscent of 90's Power pop style. The song transitions into the fast-paced swinging rock and roll number "Summer Looks So Good On You," which offers a fresh outlook to make the album stand out in contemporary playlists. Finally, the album ends with the introspective number Dreams Can Come True which is a harmonic masterpiece and ends in a prayer chant. In the drama series "Miami Vice," his rock and roll reimagined sound would enhance the gritty atmosphere of the show. On the other hand, in the beloved comedy series "Cheers," Chambers' infectious melodies and relatable lyrics would provide a lively and uplifting backdrop to the hilarious camaraderie and heartwarming moments that take place in the iconic Boston bar. The album's mix is expertly crafted, reminiscent of the production quality found in films like "The Breakfast Club" and "Kill Bill." a sound that is both familiar and fresh "I Found the Volume" draws from various rock genres. His ability to blend different musical elements and create a sound that is both familiar and fresh sets him apart from mainstream artists. With his authentic and sincere approach to pop-rock music, and quirky outlook towards marketing himself, (check the album cover of his amp's volume knob that he just found!) Chambers is poised to make a significant impact in the indie music scene. Rich Chambers' musical journey is rooted in his belief that true rock and roll is a hybrid of the best elements from different genres. With this album, he continues to push boundaries and bring authenticity back into pop-rock music. Check out the new video for You're A Nice Guy But... in the trailer section! My personal favourite line has always been, "it's not you, it's me." I've heard that one a few too many times! Oh yes, you aren't that far off if you think this song might be a bit autobiographical! Lol! But regardless, it is a rock n' roll song that is meant to make you smile and give you a good laugh while you tap your toes and sing along! I hope you like it! —RC