Q2mix - Step Up the Stream
Fair warning, the music you are about to hit play on is highly infectious and addictive. Q2mix is unafraid of bold beats in Step Up the Stream, their latest number
The Burton D'agostini Procedure - Before and After Three
If anyone has done a dissertation on slow rock, it is The Burton D'agostini Procedure and their latest release, Before and After Three, is a masterpiece.
AnnaBella-Liar, Liar
AnnaBella is a duo you won’t find very often. A songwriter duo of a vintage doll, Anna and the singer/performer Bella, who have a symbiotic relationship in music. The doll writes, the singer performs. This results in a volatile combination of hard rock and voluminous guitar sounds. This is the latest single from this duo, Liar, Liar. There is more than a hint of contempt from AnnaBella. The truth can be evaded, but only for so long. They wait for judgement day, with hands clasped in joy. This is a rock song that brings slowly burns into the chorus, and is a rocking one. The chords strike hard and relinquish, trying every effect to bring in the drama for the lyrical push. The verse section has some simple, luring electric guitar groove. The drums help in leading the track to the punch of the chorus, the bridge almost reminiscent of a choir. The hook is in the chorus, brimming with the energy necessary to power the track through. The production allows the kick to be felt, not only heard. I would definitely chart this for the biography for AnnaBella. This is an interesting tale that would have an intriguing story, and the scene almost looks too perfect. As the guilty is traced, you see these masterminds cackling with joy. You can hear this intense combo in their other singles like Homewrecker & Replaced. They are just getting started, and we can’t wait to see where they go. Till then enjoy their single and watch your back!
Coma Beach - The Scapegoat's Agony
The debut album by German punk band Coma Beach, "The Scapegoat's Agony," is a haunting exploration of shock, chaos, pain, rage, and isolation. The band draws on influences from punk and alternative rock, including the Sex Pistols, Ramones, The Cure, and Guns N' Roses. Their lyrics, written in English, incorporate themes from various authors such as Samuel Beckett's existentialist worldview, Douglas Adams's satirical approach to human absurdity, William Shakespeare's tragic conflicts, and Arthur Schopenhauer's metaphysical pessimism. The album boasts raw energy. From manic vocals, fuzzy guitar riffs and off-the-charts pounding drumming, "The Scapegoat's Agony," by Coma Beach has everything that is required to make a solid punk record. It is not every day that you discover a band that is ready to revisit the roots of punk music. The German band does just that, and more! Tracks like 'Mind Descending' and 'Extreme Masochist' are articulate interpretations of the exceptional songwriting skills of Coma Beach. Furthermore, the band effortlessly blends punk rock with thrash metal influences, the result of which is a debut record that sets them apart from the rest of the pack. A refreshing take on new-wave punk music Punk music is arguably on the verge of extinction. While giants like Green Day are still putting out new music, the sound has become more influenced by modern times. The artistic vision of punk bands is constantly evolving to suit the needs of the fickle-minded global audience. Amidst all of this, it is refreshing to see a band staying true to its roots. With in-your-face lyrics and a no-holds-bar style of songwriting, Coma Beach is one of the finest acts to emerge from the German music scene. The band, still in its nascent stages have made a record that immaculately portrays the mindset and musical direction that punk has long lost in the waves of time. The music is aggressive, yet maintains the subtle tonal characteristics that remind us of Ramones and Sex Pistols. God might not have been able to save the queen, but Coma Beach is surely making a conscious effort to save the future of Punk music. The new LP is already on the right track to becoming a work of art that shall be remembered for years to come by Punk traditionalists. Coma Beach is the anti-thesis to post-structuralism "What is the meaning of life? What is the meaning of death?" Coma Beach screams. The energy of the record is infectious. With tracks like 'Bliss' provide a moment of respite for the listeners to truly appreciate the music. The production is top-notch with a sonic soundscape that encompasses the stereo field beautifully. In addition, each instrument shines while also staying true to the artistic vision of the record. With intense energy and themes of existentialism etched into its narrative, Coma Beach's debut LP is suitable to become a part of action movies like John Wick. It may also find a place in off-beat comedy-horror flicks such as Scream. Overall, Coma Beach offers a clear-eyed artistic vision that blends genres and influences to create a unique and thought-provoking musical experience. Released in 2021, "The Scapegoat's Agony," is an album that will find a place in every indie-punk playlist. At a little over 46 minutes, the album presents an apt representation of the band's varied influences. In conclusion, Coma Beach is indeed a band to watch out for in the underground punk and metal scene.
No Coffin-DCxPC Live Vol. 15 No Coffin Live at Lou's
No Coffin have never left a pocket of silence in their doom thrash. It is a genre that many don’t touch, for execution has to be near perfect. Maybe this is one band that was just fated and slated to blow minds. This is their live album, DCxPC Live Vol. 15 No Coffin Live at Lou's. Get ready for a neck wreck. No Coffin/God Killer opens the track, with a lot of feedback. From the crowd, and the guitars. As the drums thunder in, ominous vocals giving some of the best gutturals that can be heard, live. The evil riff is a Kerry King badge winner, with some blistering pace immediately hit. With the instruments, you can hear the excitement in the gig, with the ultra tight recording that has been done. Reverse Prayer follows, doubling down on the energy that was being dissipated. It has more of a doom tone, even getting in some Tony Iommi sludge tones and melodies. As you can hear it bounce off the walls, the niche explodes. With blast beats and a roaring bridge, you’re initiated into where the adults mosh. No Coffin are ridiculously tight for a live performance that demands so much energy. No Coffin-Metal you can't handle .45 continues the descend into doom. The riff is one of the best I’ve heard in thrash in a long time. If I was in that crowd, you could imagine losing a few teeth. It brings the best of old school thrash, Slayer, Candlemass and the likes. Bringing an energy that seems like an exploding lithium factory, it breaks down to something even more addictive. My neck could never survive this. Fire Is the Cleanser Into All Life Must End brings some more ravenous riff power. At this point, we’re operating on rage and suffering-the prime fuel for doom thrash. A 3-piece band is putting even the big league guys to shame. They are more organised and tight here than many seasoned bands on their records. Next comes a cover of Portishead’s Over. Performed with class and an ode to one of their favourites, it is an explosive performance with a raw, real energy that they tap into like animals. The catchy riff rings out in the back, the vocals in the spotlight for the energy harnessed for something like this. A well-rounded, soulful cover, from tones to the inspiration drawn. Money Brings Tragedy closes out a bombastic set with class and style. One of their best performances, and you never see the zeal dip down. The riff is menacing, drawing blood with the kind of groove they’ve chosen. I’d have loved to have seen these songs feature in a show like Cobra Kai, tipping their hats to metal and rock. A live album like this would be best for a biography movie of the same. No Coffin want to bring thrash back to the place of power it held. This album sure as hell made it till there.
Mooncult - Ghost Song
The latest release by Mooncult, "Ghost Song" is a post-punk masterpiece that incorporates garage rock and alt influences, showcasing the band's evolution since their start in LA before moving to the bustling musical scene of New York City. The band members, consisting of Raven Mystere on vocals, Rajeev Ananda on lead guitar, Tia Cestaro on drums, and Grover Doyle on bass/rhythm guitar, have come together to create a track that is sure to leave listeners wanting more. From the moment the song begins, the mix of the track is impressive, with each instrument standing out while still blending together perfectly. The punk drumming drives the song forward, while the overdriven bass tone sits just right in the mix, adding depth and texture to the overall sound. The catchy guitar hook adds a distinctiveness that makes this track stand out from the crowd. Raven Mystere's soaring vocals are a highlight of "Ghost Song," adding a unique touch to the upbeat and fast-paced track. Her "mono-croon" style creates a haunting, almost otherworldly atmosphere that is perfectly complemented by the driving instrumentation. This combination creates a sense of urgency that makes it impossible not to move to the rhythm. "Ghost Song" which comes three years after the band's last release would be a perfect addition to the soundtrack of movies such as "Lost in Translation" and "The Haunting of Hill House." The fast-paced, yet moody instrumentation would fit perfectly into the introspective and emotionally charged scenes in these visual works. Especially the overlapping vocals that create an eerie soundscape reminiscent of the horror genre. Furthermore, Mooncult has created a track that is sure to make a comeback in the Brooklyn indie scene. "Ghost Song" is an upbeat, catchy, and memorable addition to their discography that showcases the band's impressive musicianship and unique sound.
Abisso - Cradle of Ice
The latest full-length studio effort by Italian artist Abisso is a true work of art. The album, titled Cradle of Ice, is an experimental instrumental record which seeks to push the boundaries of new-age ambient music. The soundscape of the record is dark and alluring, evoking a sense of void and paranoia that will remain etched in your memory long after the record ends. Furthermore, with 10 songs clocking at 28 minutes, the album strengthens Abisso's hold on the global indie music market after the initial success of their 2022 debut, 'Son of Abyss' The Sardinian artistic duo EryaV & D'avy creates a sonic landscape with a dark mood, that will drive you to explore the darkest corners of your own psyche. Their music is primarily ambient, incorporating subtle piano and VSTis with long morbid pauses. It is as if the artist wants you to take a moment to reflect on their sound. And it truly works wonders! Abisso have managed to personify silence through sound, a real achievement in how to perceive ambient music. Vivid Dark Atmospheres by Italian duo Abisso From the very first track titled Atrium, the band begins to paint a vivid picture of sonic tapestry that leads you to the depths of your imagination. With an eerie and dark textural palette, they dish out one track after another in this record, that enhances the visuals bit by bit. Abisso takes things slow, and as a result each element of their sound, starting from the haunting chordal progressions, reverberating percussions to the dark hollow ambient pads, is all extremely carefully crafted. Every little change in the dynamics of their music is accentuated to hit the listener like a pinprick. Cradle of Ice is an album that requires patience. It is a mesmerizing experience of experimental music that thrives in melancholia. Standout tracks from the album include Transfer, Moaning, Cave of Tears, Among the Ruins and the title track, Cradle of Ice. While each track has its unique mood, the overall feel of the album never escapes beyond dark and sombre. The iconic top-end 'crackle' which is reminiscent of old record players evokes a sense of nostalgia. It is a recurrent theme in the production of most of the songs in this album. Additionally, dare we say that Abisso is a master of stereo production? Take a listen to this album in surround sound or a pair of headphones with a wide frequency response, what you'll notice is immaculate detailing of the stereo field. Songs of suspense and horror The album's morose tone creates a sombre setting. Cradle of Ice would fit well into a psychological suspense thriller movie or contemporary horror flick. Iconic movies that come to mind while listening to EryaV & D'avy's work are 2016's Split and the more iconic The Prestige. In addition, TV shows such as Dark would also greatly benefit from the addition of Abisso's work. In conclusion, the sophomore album by Abisso is a true work of art. Abisso prepares a narrative unlike any other and consolidates their place as one of the best ambient acts to watch out for in the contemporary global indie music scene. Fans of experimental soundscapes and producers with a knack for pushing the boundaries of acceptable industry standards, would find a lot to cherish here. The "Abisso" project goes beyond the dimension of mere collaboration, translating itself into an authentic artistic symbiosis. According to a recent press release, the artist stated that: The pauses (sometimes quite long) and sudden interruptions, are intended to make the listener dwell on the emotional intensity carried by the sounds, to the point of perceiving it under the skin; moreover they intend to make themselves suitable also and above all, as support and/or accompaniment compositions (soundtracks).
Liv Crash - Wonderland
Liv Crash turns heads with a snap of his fingers in Wonderland, his latest single. The number is a pop-jazz-musical number that transports you to a realm where things get "curiouser and curiouser". This whimsical musical ballad expertly weaves together elements of pop and jazz. Giving us a shimmery soundscape that leaves you hitting the replay button. The listeners are greeted with a vibrant set of notes as the curtains of the song are drawn up. Every single element in the song takes on a persona of its own that blends and syncs beautifully. Similar to the cast of a story, the vocals, the instrumental, and the production, each element come together to form a symphony. The melody slowly cascades over you. With every note infused with jazzy overtones and theatrical undertones, you discover something new with every listen. It breathes life into every corner of your body. The Italian guitarist and songwriter will have you tap dancing to the characterized singing of Alice In Wonderland. All sorts of references to the film is made throughout the song. Saying Wonderland would fit into Alice In Wonderland would be a cop-out. Therefore it must be noted that the track would be a wonderful addiction in Supernatural. Specifically, the episode where they have a crossover with Scooby Dooby Doo! The song has you hooked right from the first note. Wonderland is the testament to the magic of music, every inch of the song has excellent carved. Check out Wonderland and more of Liv Crash and allow yourself to be swept off of your feet!
Love Ghost / Blnko - Veneno
Love Ghost and Blnko's collaboration on the new song "Veneno" has made a fast-paced, hard-hitting Post-punk anthem that redefines modern punk music. The track immediately grabs your attention with its screaming distorted guitar tones, creating a sense of raw energy and intense emotion. In addition, the lyrical narrative is dark yet introspective, delving into personal battles of mental health, and the bilingual lyrics in English and Spanish add a unique flavour to the song. One standout aspect of "Veneno" is the impeccable mix, which showcases a remarkable dynamic range. The saturated preamps bring out the grit and intensity of the instrumentation, while still allowing for moments of clarity and precision. The sonic landscape created by the track is immersive and captivating. From the clean tones to the screaming backing vocals, from the pounding drums to the quieter sections, everything fits perfectly as a cohesive whole. Love Ghost is dedicated to addressing personal battles of mental health through their music. The band wishes to resonate with the misfits, providing an outlet for their struggles. Furthermore, Mexican artist Sergio Moraila Espinoza, aka Blnko, on the other hand, brings his own artistic touch to the collaboration, infusing elements of his pop-punk and emo influences into the mix. Describing himself and his style, Blnko uses terms like "urbano post-kawaii." Punk's resurgence and a sick combo of genres "Veneno" would find a fitting place in movies or TV shows that explore themes of inner turmoil and self-discovery. It could be a powerful addition to a coming-of-age film like "Eighth Grade," capturing the essence of adolescent angst. Additionally, the single would find a place in a modern horror flick, creating a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere with its intense sound. Picture the song featured in a contemporary horror film like "Get Out," where the combination of the dark, fast-paced Post-punk instrumentation and the bilingual lyrics adds to the sense of unease and intrigue. Overall, "Veneno" showcases the best of the modern punk music scene. With its dark yet introspective lyrical narrative and loud instrumentation, it is a captivating offering from Love Ghost and Blnko that combines elements of post-punk, pop, and emo-metal, leaving the listener in a state of helpless rage and craving for more. Also, it's a testament to the power of indie music in capturing raw emotions and delivering a sick groove.
Snakedoctors - Why Don't
Snakedoctors, the Polish indie band formed in Gdansk in May 2020, continues to captivate listeners with their latest single, "Why Don't." This alternative rock track ventures into the realms of nu-metal and post-punk, showcasing the band's versatility and their ability to push musical boundaries. With a dark lyrical narrative and chords selected over a minor tonality, the song serves as a testament to the emo resurgence, immersing listeners in its haunting atmosphere. From the very first note, the mix of "Why Don't" demands attention. The cymbals sound pristine, cutting through the mix with a sharp and powerful presence. In addition, the track exhibits a perfect balance of the frequency spectrum, with rumbling lows, raging mids, and pristine highs. As the song unfolds, the listener is enveloped in the intense and brooding atmosphere created by Snakedoctors. Additionally, the blending of alternative rock, nu-metal, and post-punk elements adds depth and complexity to the composition, keeping the listener engaged and intrigued throughout. "Why Don't" is a song typical of the genre, dealing with relationships and problems associated with them. The versatility of "Why Don't" allows it to seamlessly integrate into various cinematic contexts. The song's dark and atmospheric nature would make it a perfect fit for a horror movie like "Hereditary." Additionally, it could find a home in a psychological thriller such as "Gone Girl." Furthermore, the song's brooding energy and introspective lyrics would complement the suspenseful and psychological aspects of the film, amplifying its emotional impact. Snakedoctors' impact on the Polish indie music scene has been significant since their formation. With a prolific output of twenty-four singles, four albums, and successful chart performances across multiple countries, they have solidified their position as trailblazers in the scene. "Why Don't" is the third single promoting Snakedoctors new album "Waiting", which is out now. It features Nik Hughes - the drummer of the band Bush. Furthermore, the song was mixed by Dawid Gorgolewski at Osso Studio and mastered by Stephen Marcussen. In conclusion, "Why Don't" by Snakedoctors is a captivating and genre-defying track that showcases the band's artistic growth and musical prowess. Snakedoctors' relentless dedication to pushing musical boundaries and their remarkable contributions to the Polish indie music scene continue to shape their legacy. Finally, as anticipation builds for their upcoming album, "Waiting For," fans eagerly await the new artistic endeavours and collaborations that Snakedoctors have in store.
Stefan Certic - Human
The fresh and gripping anthem- Human produced by Stefan Certic invites you on a journey through a raw ad electrifying soundscape. Every beat in the track resonates and bounces off of the walls in your ear. The immersive track is a dynamic blend within the Rock genre that leaves you with an adrenaline rush. The spellbinding track starts off with a slow hypnotic melody, setting the stage for Stefan’s voice. Immediately he brings with him a hazy vibrant energy that adds so much emotional depth. He weaves a moving narrative that hits a chord within each listener. The song has an eerie texture just by the nature of the lyrics. He speaks of a very real and imperfect human psyche. He says “This is no love letter to the gods. Human, I am only human.” giving it a cathartic touch. The emotional intensity within the lyrical ballad is soul-purging. While the song might sound bleak, I believe there is so much depth because Stefan celebrates the complexities of human existence. He fearlessly explores the convoluted labyrinth of humanness, the production makes it all very palatable. The track would be a wonderful addition to the world of The Haunting of Hill House series, specifically the first season. Flanagan puts on display every trick of the trade making it a gripping watch. There is no room for ignorance with Human, Stefan Certic makes space and demands to be heard. And rightfully so. Every word and beat is meticulously placed and you can hear this refreshing track in the links attached below.
Powers of The Monk - Firefly
Oh, When I tell you that I was not ready for what Powers of the Monk has in store, I mean it! They really took the world by surprise in this comeback single- Firefly. It is one of 4 of their songs. While they have experience, the band is fresh with youth but has the experience of a well-preserved wine. This particular Alt-blues number ignites a spark of intrigue within its listeners. They build anticipation with every strum of the guitar. As you hear David’s raspy vocals you are transported into a hazy bar where the only light is the spotlight on him. He glides in through your ear and before you know it, the anticipation is pumping and pulsing in your veins. The song is about a wanna-be terrorist who sees messages in the blinking lights of fireflies in the night. While the plot line is strange, the music is wildly gripping and catchy. It is impossible to resist and you let the music take over your senses. The music is designed that way as well, it’s incredibly immersive and interactive in its own way. A film that has a similar plotline as Firefly is Dahmer - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. The only difference is that the series is based on reality and has taken a few creative liberties. So, keeping the theme in mind, Firefly would work wonderfully in the series. This intoxicating track by Powers of the Monk deserves to be heard across the world. It is unlike anything I’ve heard before yet strangely familiar with its old-timey jazz influence. You can only understand what I mean if you’ve hit the play button by now. So, have you?