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August 5, 2018August 5, 2018 Tommy Leahy Metal Monday

METAL MONDAY: 6 AMAZING NEW ALBUMS YOU MAY HAVE MISSED!!!

Axis of Despair–Contempt for Man
Genre: Grincore, Powerviolence
FFO: Napalm Death, Nails, Infest

Southern Lord has got a new trick up its sleeve and it comes in the form of a brutally intense, new Swedish Grindcore act known as Axis of Despair.

Featuring ex and current members of Nasum, Coldworker, Infanticide, Volturyon, Livet Som Insats, Nervgift, and Overtortu, it comes as no surprise these guys are equipped with familiarity regarding every nuance and complexity when approaching horrifyingly heavy tunes.

Enter Contempt for Man. It is the quartet’s debut and features twenty tracks of absolutely punishing, thrashy Grindcore. No gimmicks here.
<a href="http://axisofdespairsl.bandcamp.com/album/contempt-for-man">Contempt for Man by Axis of Despair</a>

Extremity–Coffin Birth
Genre: Death Metal
FFO: Entombed, Exhumed, Bolt Thrower

Following up their mini LP from last year titled Extremely Fucking Dead, Oakland’s Extremity efficiently contributes to the renaissance of the classic Death Metal sound with their debut full length.

Coffin Birth doesn’t rely on technical proficiency or lightning-paced instrumentation. It’s all about riffage here.

Stream Below.
<a href="http://listen.20buckspin.com/album/coffin-birth">Coffin Birth by Extremity</a>

Inexorum–Lore of the Lakes
Genre: Black Metal, Melodic Death Metal
FFO: At the Gates, Dark Tranquility, Harakiri for the Sky

Inexorum is a project helmed by Minneapolis-based musician Carl Skildum that aims to take a genre as malevolent as Black Metal and create something beautiful and different through layers of melody and emotion.

Lore of the Lakes serves as Skildum’s debut release for the project that shimmers bright with five powerful, unpredictable movements that will captivate its listener from start to finish.

Be sure to stream below.
<a href="http://gileadmedia.bandcamp.com/album/lore-of-the-lakes">Lore of the Lakes by Inexorum</a>

Mutilation Rites–Chasm
Genre: Black Metal, Death Metal
FFO: Skeletonwitch, Full of Hell, Magrudergrind

Brooklyn-based Blackened Death quartet, Mutilation Rites, return for a fourth LP that officially marks a departure from their nostalgic worship of second wave of Norwegian Black Metal.

Chasms toys heavily with Death Metal, Thrash, Crustpunk, Grindcore, and other subgenres of heavy music.

Stream below.
<a href="http://gileadmedia.bandcamp.com/album/chasm">Chasm by Mutilation Rites</a>

Talons–We All Know
Genre: Post Rock, Post Metal
FFO: Russian Circles, Pelican, This Will Destroy You

The British Post Rock sextet known as Talons deliver unto us a menacing yet mesmerizing LP. We All Know consists of a much more aggressive take on the instrumental movements the group illustrated to listeners on previous records replacing their intricate Math Rock sound with a crushing, sludge, Blackened Post Metal record.

It appears the group has taken the energy previously utilized for musical complexity and has since applied it to heavy, crushing, metallic soundscapes.
<a href="http://gotalons.bandcamp.com/album/we-all-know">We All Know by TALONS</a>

Thou–Rhea Sylvia EP
Genre: Black Metal, Alternative Rock, Grunge
FFO: Full of Hell, The Body, Planning for Burial

If Louisiana’s Blackened Sludge act Thou was a restaurant, they would be just as well known for their appetizers as they are for their main course meals.

While fans have been drooling over the group’s highly anticipated fifth LP Magus due to be released this year, Thou has been tithing us over with numerous EPs with running times ranging between 30-40 min.

The Rhea Sylvia EP is the latest addition to the band’s appetizer menu featuring re-worked songs from band member Matthew Thudium’s solo material and closes with an incredible cover of Crowbar‘s “The Lasting Dose.”

The original songs found in the EP combine Thou‘s signature take on Blackened Doom/Sludge with ’90s Grunge Rock along the lines of Alice In Chains. True fans will be decently well-versed with Thou taking on Grunge because they have covered Nirvana in the past landing spots on multiple tribute compilations.

For those unfamiliar, stream below for a unique listening experience.
<a href="http://deathwishinc.bandcamp.com/album/rhea-sylvia">Rhea Sylvia by Thou</a>

August 2, 2018 Tommy Leahy Recent Rock/Pop Releases

Recent Rock/Pop: 10 Amazing New Albums You May Have Missed!!!

Bellini-Before the Day Has Gone
Genre: Indie Rock, Noise Rock, Punk Rock, Post Punk
FFO: Bikini Kill, Drive Like Jehu, Pavement

Italian Indie Rock quartet, Bellini, return with their first release in almost a decade.

Before the Day Has Gone showcases the group’s ability to seamlessly blend 90’s-flavored Indie Rock with subtle yet mathy, intricate instrumentation.
<a href="http://bellini.bandcamp.com/album/before-the-day-has-gone">Before The Day Has Gone by Bellini</a>

Champagne Superchillin‘-Beach Deep
Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Indie Pop
FFO: Tame Impala, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Temples

Champagne Superchillin’ is a new band to watch out for that uniquely blends Psychedelic Rock with ’60s era French Pop. French-born frontwoman, Juliette Buchs presents a marvelous, dreamy vocal performance accompanied by equally dreamy instrumentation.

Despite the trio being currently based in New York, Buchs’ lyricism remains in her native language and it compliments their desired sound to the greatest extent.

Beach Deep is a sexy, mysterious, lush LP guaranteed to captivate the listener from start to finish.

Clearance–At Your Leisure
Genre: Indie Rock
FFO: Pavement, Shellac, Beach Skulls

Clearance has always been the type of act to just tell it like it is in the most straightforward yet efficient way imaginable. At Your Leisure is LP#2 in the band’s discography and marks a more laid back, mature sound for the Chicago-based quartet presenting cleaner guitar tones, and more poppy songwriter.

Each track calls forth the sounds of ’90s Indie Rock with just the right amount of raw, garage-y feel as their previous efforts.
<a href="http://clearance.bandcamp.com/album/at-your-leisure">At Your Leisure by Clearance</a>

Deaf Wish–Lithium Ion
Genre: Indie Rock, Noise Rock, Post Hardcore
FFO: The Stooges, Sonic Youth, Wavves

Melbourne’s Deaf Wish unveils their Sub Pop sophomore effort (and fifth overall) titled Lithium Ion. The Australian quartet’s sound brings Sonic Youth to mind rather quickly, but succeeds in turning this sound into their own.

Each song feels like a slab of raw, unapologetic, fuzzy Punk Rock-concrete straight to the face.

Be sure to stream below!
<a href="http://deafwishstyle.bandcamp.com/album/lithium-zion-2">Lithium Zion by Deaf Wish</a>

Dentist–Night Swimming
Genre: Indie Rock, Jangle Pop, Punk Rock
FFO: Alvvays, Makthaverskan, FRIGS

New Jersey-based trio, Dentist, manages to execute a striking yet cohesive juxtaposition of pleasant, fun surf rock and abrasive, anxiety-filled Punk.

Night Swimming will bring to mind the charming sounds of Alvvays, the abrasiveness of Makthaverskan, and the fuzzy chaos of FRIGS in one neat package.

Be sure to stream below!
<a href="http://dentist1.bandcamp.com/album/night-swimming">Night Swimming by Dentist</a>

Tony Molina–Kill the Lights

Genre: Indie Rock, Indie Pop, Indie Folk
FFO: The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkle, Elliot Smith

Known primarily for his obsessive impulse to write songs as short as humanly possible, this Californian singer/songwriter keeps the trend going with a noticeably more mature sound this time around.

Kill The Lights strays a bit from the fuzzy, Power Pop sounds of Blue Album-era Weezer and various other bands of the era, and now channels a different decade altogether. Tony Molina seems to have a newfound interest the sixties calling forth the legendary songwriting influences of The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Simon & Garfunkle. The instrumentation is more acoustic-based at its core yet somehow feels more layered than ever.

Despite its brief stay with ten tracks barely gracing the 15 minute mark, Molina’s latest record is his strongest and most memorable.
<a href="http://tonymolina650.bandcamp.com/album/kill-the-lights">Kill The Lights by Tony Molina</a>

Ovlov–Tru
Genre: Indie Rock, Alternative Rock
FFO: Guided By Voices, Dinosaur Jr., Sebadoh

Connecticut fuzz rockers, Ovlov, strike again with their first record in five years and boy, was it worth the wait! Despite approaching a more steady, mid tempo style of songwriting, it is everything an Ovlov record should be: grungy, catchy, and filled to the the brim with five years of pent up aggression.

There is an endless list of acts in 2018 that rely on ’90s era nostalgia for their sound to thrive, but whenever I give Tru a spin I am convinced each time I am listening to a band that probably opened for Nirvana during their prime.
<a href="http://ovlov.bandcamp.com/album/tru">TRU by Ovlov</a>

Trash Boat–Crown Shyness
Genre: Punk Rock, Hardcore Pumk
FFO: Sum 41, Trophy Eyes, Basement

Trash Boat is an extremely underrated Punk Rock group from the UK that would have blown up to heights we could barely fathom had they come into existence a decade earlier.

Crown Shyness is an emotionally explosive sophomore LP that will please fans of the Tony Hawk video game series soundtrack and fans of the 2011-2014 Run For Cover emo revival alike.

Vinyl Williams–Opal
Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Indie Pop, Dream Pop, Space Rock, Ambient
FFO: MGMT, Beach House, Toro Y Moi

With just a quick glance of that album art, you can probably take a guess that the latest record from Vinyl Williams has some Psychedelic vibes going on.

Opal implements varying soundscapes ranging from Space Rock to Trip Hop to deliver one of most laid back, alluring musical experiences available in 2018 thus far.

Stream select tracks below!
<a href="http://vinylwilliams.bandcamp.com/album/opal">Opal by Vinyl Williams</a>

White Ring–Gate of Grief
Genre: Synth Pop, Witch House, Drone
FFO: Crystal Castles, Grimes, Salem

NYC’s White Ring unveil a spooky debut that is as alluring as it is unsettling.

Similar to other acts in the “Witch House” movement (such as Crystal Castles), the trio summons a dark atmosphere with harsh vocals and electronics.

The result is a beautiful mess.
<a href="http://whitering.bandcamp.com/album/gate-of-grief">Gate Of Grief by White Ring</a>

July 15, 2018July 15, 2018 Tommy Leahy Recent Rock/Pop Releases

RECENT ROCK/POP RELEASES: 11 Incredible New Albums You May Have Missed!!!

Culture Abuse–Bay Dream

Genre: Indie Rock, Alternative Rock

FFO: The Strokes, Interpol, Diamond Youth

San Franciscan quintet, Culture Abuse, returns for a sophomore LP and Epitaph debut. Ironically, the group shed their Punk sound after switching to one of the most well-known Punk labels. Luckily, Bay Dream serves as a beyond worthy successor and pushes the group in a much more suitable direction.

The mood and lyricism of the record paints a very clear portrait that Culture Abuse just wants to have fun. All ten tracks gleam with bright, positive, and upbeat vibes.

‘Tis the season to start blasting your summer anthem. Make it Bay Dream.
<a href="http://cultureabuse.bandcamp.com/album/bay-dream">Bay Dream by CULTURE ABUSE</a>

Dark Thoughts–At Work

Genre: Punk Rock

FFO: The Ramones, Misfits, Angel Du$t

Philly Punk Rockers Dark Thoughts strike back with a sophomore LP of pure, unhinged, nostalgic punk rock.

At Work does not try to reinvent the wheel, but does succeed in creating a wonderful return to form for catchy, abrasive Punk Rock that could have easily landed a spot on the Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2 soundtrack had it been released in that era.
<a href="http://dark-thoughts.bandcamp.com/album/at-work">AT WORK by DARK THOUGHTS</a>
Deep Cuts–Slip Off in the Dark

Genre: Synth Pop, Jazz

FFO: Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Yellow House

Self-described as “Houston’s most beautiful boy band,” Deep Cuts provides listeners with a very relaxed combination of ‘80’s worshiping synth pop delicately mixed with jazzy instrumentation.

Whether you want to groove out or have your heart melted by the band’s heart-wrenching ballads, Slip Off in the Dark is a fantastic new addition to the band’s catalog that has you covered.
<a href="http://deepcuts.bandcamp.com/album/slip-off-in-the-dark">Slip Off in the Dark by Deep Cuts</a>
dumb-“Seeing Green”

Genre: Indie Rock, Post Punk, Art Punk

FFO: The Clash, Wire, Parquet Courts

The Canadian post punkers known as dumb share a new LP brimming with color. Seeing Green is a sonic poster child for the striking juxtaposition of the blueprint Post Punk. A large majority of the recent releases within the genre I have discussed tend to lean towards darker tendencies embracing gothic influences taking leads from Joy Division.

dumb illustrates to listeners just how bright and energetic Post Punk can still be. The album encompasses themes of personal growth and insecurities while sonically taking cues from Wire or The Clash with its upbeat, mostly clean rhythm section and half-spoken, shouted vocals.
<a href="http://dumbband.bandcamp.com/album/seeing-green">Seeing Green by dumb</a>Floating Room–False Baptism

Genre: Indie Pop, Dream Pop, Art Rock, Noise Rock

FFO: Pity Sex, Alvvays, Japanese Breakfast

Portland, Oregon based rock outfit Floating Room present a sophomore LP full of emotional twists and turns and guitar work that contrasts between clean euphoric dubs and noisy, powerful distortion.

This former bedroom project recently transformed into an old church project (the group literally recorded this record utilizing the acoustics of an old church building) giving False Baptism a more full sound than previous releases.
<a href="http://floatingroom.bandcamp.com/album/false-baptism">False Baptism by Floating Room</a>

Hana Vu–How Many Times Have You Driven By

Genre: Indie Pop, Dream Pop

FFO: Local Natives, Japanese Breakfast, Alvvays

The latest album from LA-based indie pop artist Hana Vu provides lush, pleasant soundscapes to match its mentally pleasing artwork.

The 17-Year-old crafts alluring instrumentation to comfortably match her angelic vocal performance with track after track of powerfully written pop tunes that manage to be both mesmerizing and catchy.

The overall sound reminds me of the sophomore album Local Natives titled Hummingbird with a sound also comparable to the hypnotic sounds of Alvvays.
<a href="http://hanavu.bandcamp.com/album/how-many-times-have-you-driven-by">How Many Times Have You Driven By by hana vu</a>

Modern Rituals–The Light That Leaks In

Genre: Alternative Rock, Stoner Rock, Emo

FFO: Title Fight, Cloakroom, Solids

UK altrock ensemble, Modern Rituals, unveil a fun debut LP with bright, colorful, and powerful-sounding anthems.

Stylistically, Title Fight’s Floral Green may come to mind as each one conveys a sense of emo tinted rock tunes with thick, massive instrumentation.

The thickness reaches a point of pure sludgey goodness similar to that of Cloakroom coupled with an emotional vocal performance that tends to burst in pure aggression as the tracks reach their respected crescendos.

<a href="http://modernrituals.bandcamp.com/album/the-light-that-leaks-in">The Light That Leaks In by Modern Rituals</a>Self Defense Family–Have You Considered Punk Music

Genre: Post Hardcore, Indie Rock, Experimental Rock, Post Punk

FFO: Brand New, Interpol, Tigers Jaw

With members sprawled across the globe and releases being fired out what seems like every other month, it is puzzling Self Defense Family is as criminally underrated as they are despite sharing a label with acts such as Tigers Jaw, Basement, Citizen, and the like.

Not only that, but the group’s sound is truly unique and cannot be pigeonholed to a single genre. Dark, introspective lyrics and soundscapes encompass this experimental package. Fragments of Post Punk, Alt Country, Post Hardcore, and various other genres peak their heads in and out of each of these tracks to flow with the mood and subject matter.

Stream Have You Considered Punk Music below.
<a href="http://selfdefensefamily.bandcamp.com/album/have-you-considered-punk-music">Have You Considered Punk Music by Self Defense Family</a>So Stressed–Pale Lemon

Genre: Indie Pop, Jangle Pop

FFO: Death Cab for Cutie, Pavement, Pinback

Fans of the Sacramento-based trio known as So Stressed are probably extremely puzzled at my genre description and for fans of for this release. Don’t get too stressed because despite the group’s blatant sound shift, Pale Lemon is an incredible record that works really well.

The California-based three piece has grown up and the only thing that seems to not work about this release is the band’s name because it is quite a relaxing, melancholic experience. So Stressed pulls from early 2000s melodic indie pop influences akin to the tranquil sounds of early Death Cab and Pinback with the occasional complexities of Pavement’s take on Indie Rock.

Give Pale Lemon a spin below!

<a href="http://sostressed.bandcamp.com/album/pale-lemon">Pale Lemon by So Stressed</a>

Them Are Us Too-Amends

Genre: Dream Pop, Goth Rock, New Wave

FFO: The Cure, Cocteau Twins, Lush

2015’s Remain illustrated a truly captivated blend of modernism and nostalgia for the Dream Pop/Goth Rock genre provided by two young musicians from California with infinite potential, promise, and an uncanny ability to take a shot at a style that had its popularity peak around the time they were born and craft a masterpiece worthy of its influences.

Unfortunately, Cash Askew (one of the two artists) passed away tragically in the Ghost Ship fire in Oakland back in 2016, leaving behind a few unfinished songs that never saw the light of day. Until now.

Surviving member, Kennedy Ashlyn, proudly resuscitates these previously unfinished tracks in a heartbreaking, haunting farewell EP titled Amends.

Send Them Are Us Too off the right way and stream below.

<a href="http://themareustoo.bandcamp.com/album/amends">Amends by Them Are Us Too</a>

Vacationer–Mindset

Genre: Indie Pop, Psychedelic Pop, Electronic

FFO: The Starting Line, The Avalanches, Person L

I am pleased to announce I am appropriately penning this album description while on vacation, and this record has helped me achieve cloud nine.

Mindset is the latest effort from Starting Line frontman Kenny Vasoli that crafts tropical sounding, orchestral production similar to that of the Avalanches with upbeat, electronic pop tracks that are guaranteed to make you feel like you are dancing on a beach.

July 15, 2018July 15, 2018 Tommy Leahy Metal Monday

METAL MONDAY: 5 Incredible New Releases You May Have Missed!!!

Bongripper–Terminal

Genre: Doom Metal, Sludge Metal, Stoner Metal, Post Metal

FFO: Sleep, Sunn O))), Weedeater

The criminally underrated mammoth musical act known as Bongripper has returned for their seventh LP released independently through the band’s own label. If you are unfamiliar with this band I will attempt to describe their sound to the best of my ability: prepare to have whatever speakers you are using to listen to this get completely annihilated.

Everything that has encompassed Bongripper’s sound is present in Terminal. We have two absolutely devastating, sprawling tracks of unapologetic Stoner/Doom/Sludge that with plenty of twists and turns and horrifying moments that your attention span will remain fully intact.

Light up and stream below.

<a href="http://bongripper.bandcamp.com/album/terminal">Terminal by Bongripper</a>Invoke–No Law Beyond

Genre: Hardcore, Death Metal

FFO: Entombed, Jesus Piece, Disgrace

Hailing from North Carolina, Invoke burst through the gates of hell equipped with a debut EP blending Death Metal and Hardcore Punk in perfect harmony.

No Law Beyond is short but sweet yet does quite a bit of damage during its brief stay.

Invoke present a solid debut effort encompassing crushing riffage, powerful leads, and overall very well-written heavy tunes guaranteed to force the listener to bang their head.

<a href="http://invokehc.bandcamp.com/album/no-law-beyond">No Law Beyond by Invoke</a>Khemmis–Desolation

Genre: Doom Metal, Stoner Metal

FFO: Black Sabbath, Baroness, Pallbearer

This Colorado doom metal act has returned with a third full length that expands the group’s sound even further. Similar to their counterparts, Pallbearer, Khemmis embraces a more poppy, upbeat approach to their sound this time around and it is packed with plenty of 80’s era heavy metal flare and beautiful melodic solos.

If you’re hungry for some doom metal but not necessarily in the mood for the crushing heavy tendencies of the genre, Desolation was made specifically for you.

Secret Cutter–Quantum Eraser

Genre: Sludge Metal, Stoner Metal, Grindcore

FFO: High On Fire, Converge, Black Tusk

Hailing from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, sludge trio Secret Cutter unsheathe a bludgeoning sophomore LP.

The riffage found on Quantum Eraser is absolutely brutal with a thick, mud-like tone, the bass is powerful and groovy and the kit sonically resembles a horrifying, booming thunderstorm.

The three piece delivers track after track of atmospheric, dark sludge with some fast-paced, grindy suprises on this one. I highly recommend you stream this record below.
<a href="http://secretcutter.bandcamp.com/album/quantum-eraser">Quantum Eraser by Secret Cutter</a>

Vein–Errozone

Genre: Metalcore, Mathcore

FFO: Converge, Code Orange, Dillinger Escape Plan

Local metalcore act Vein unveils the debut LP everyone was waiting for. Errorzone maintains polished production with unhinged instrumental insanity channeling even the likes of Iowa-era Slipknot or early Mudvayne with just enough modern flavor to win over fans of acts such as Code Orange, Knocked Loose, and so on.

I have followed this band since they first stormed the scene with their demo about five years ago, and since then the Massachusetts hardcore scene has waited with great anticipation to see what this young act would evolve into.

Errorzone is here. Stream below and expect it to wind up on your year end list.
<a href="http://veinband.bandcamp.com/album/errorzone">errorzone by Vein</a>

June 26, 2018June 26, 2018 Tommy Leahy Recent Rock/Pop Releases

Recent Rock/Pop: 7 Awesome New Albums You May Have Missed!!!

Birthright–Let Me Down Easy

Genre: Post Hardcore, Melodic Hardcore, Screamo

FFO: Touché Amore, Being As An Ocean, Worthwhile

Baltimore-based Melodic Hardcore act Birthright present a stunning debut encompassing melody, passion, and beauty.

Let Me Down Easy tugs at this heart strings with its unparalleled, explosive emotion and deserves your attention immediately.
<a href="http://birthrightmd.bandcamp.com/album/let-me-down-easy">Let Me Down Easy by Birthright</a>

Black Thought-Streams of Thought Vol. 1

Genre: Hip Hop, Rap

FFO: The Roots, Mobb Deep, 9th Wonder

After over three decades of fronting the legendary “jazz rap” act The Roots, Tariq Trotter (most commonly known as Black Thought) decided 2018 was the year to present his very first solo release.

Streams of Thought Vol.1 boasts the layered complexities the Philadelphia-based MC is known for including multi syllabic rhyme schemes and emotionally and politically-charged lyricism.

Additionally, 9th Wonder does a fantastic job with the production on this one capturing the essence of the Roots‘ sound while maintaining its own identity.

Haunted Horses–”Cold Medicine”

Genre: Post Punk, Industrial Rock, Noise Rock

FFO: A Place to Bury Strangers, King Krule, The Body

Seattle-based Experimental Rock group, Haunted Horses, offer an EP one could describe as Post Punk but executed in a very uniquely, not accessible way. The vocals match up to the genre quite well but the instrumentation here basks in ugly, Industrial-esque noise more similar to bands such as The Body.

Don’t get me wrong. “Cold Medicine” is an awesome EP, but it’s not necessarily something you can dance to.
<a href="http://hauntedhorses.bandcamp.com/album/cold-medicine">“COLD MEDICINE” by HAUNTED HORSES</a>

Jo Passed–Their Prime

Genre: Indie Pop, Psychedelic Rock

FFO: Silversun Pickups, Beach House, The Dodos

Sub Pop presents yet another band to watch out for. The Canadian Rock outfit known as Jo Passed offers a debut LP filled with rough-around-the-edges, reverb-soaked, dreamy guitar pop.

Their Prime entertains the listener with many twists and turns matching a sugary sweet vocal performance with guitarwork shifting from easily accessible to ear-grating noise (in a good way.)
<a href="http://jopassed.bandcamp.com/album/their-prime">Their Prime by jo passed</a>

Protomartyr–Consolation EP

Genre: Post Punk, Noise Rock, Art Rock

FFO: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Parquet Courts, Iceage

Detroit-based Post Punk act Protomartyr follow up 2017’s Relatives In Descent with four of the strongest songs they have ever written.

The band’s trademark gloomy, introspective style remains as focused as ever on Consolation and features additional vocal duties from Kelly Deal (The Breeders) for two of its four songs.

Stream Below!
<a href="http://protomartyr.bandcamp.com/album/consolation-e-p">Consolation E.P. by Protomartyr</a>

Sun June–Years

Genre: Indie Pop, Alternative Country

FFO: Norah Jones, Mazzy Star, Mojave 3

Sun June is a delightful-sounding musical collective from Austin, Texas with a debut LP in dire need of your eardrums’ attention. The quintet’s subtle, gentle yet powerfully effective instrumentation serves as a beyond fitting backdrop for the charming, beautiful vocal performance by front woman Laura Colwell.

Years is a charming record I strongly recommend to all.

Please stream below.
<a href="http://sunjune.bandcamp.com/album/years">Years by Sun June</a>

Wand–Perfume

Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Noise Rock, Garage Rock

FFO: The Beatles, Ty Segall, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard

California rockers Wand step up to the plate again with a new EP encompassed by a nostalgic 60’s era Psych sound sprinkled with numerous modernized, more abrasive tendencies. Perfume finds a well-executed balance of upbeat, noise-fueled bangers and feel-good, accessible tunes that will remind many of Lennon and McCartney’s writing style.

Wand is a perfect band for fans of any era of Psych Rock.

Check ‘em out below.
<a href="http://wand.bandcamp.com/album/perfume">Perfume by Wand</a>

June 19, 2018 Tommy Leahy Metal Monday

METAL MONDAY: 6 Crushing New Metal Records You May Have Missed!!!

Baptists–Beacon of Faith

Genre: Hardcore Punk, Crust Punk

FFO: Converge, Cursed, Young and in the Way

Hardcore outfit Baptists return from the darkest depths for a third LP drenched in pure malevolence. Beacon of Faith is an adrenaline rush of punishing blackened crust punk that will enthrall fans of Converge to the fullest extent.

The Canadian quartet devastate eardrums with their mastered execution of metallic Hardcore blending upbeat Punk Rock with powerful, sludgey riffage.

If you love bands like Converge or Cursed (or are seeking an alternative to Young and In the Way in the aftermath of them being outed as horrible human beings) look no further. Beacon of Faith will fill every possible void you can think of.
<a href="http://baptistssl.bandcamp.com/album/beacon-of-faith">Beacon of Faith by Baptists</a>

Necros Christos–Domedon Doxomedon

Genre: Death Metal, Black Metal

FFO: Incantation, Morbid Angel, Vallenfyre

Legendary German Blackened Death act close the final chapter of their career in the most massive way possible.

Domedon Doxomedon spans across three separate discs (for those who still believe in or remember purchasing physical music other than vinyl) of pure, unapologetic Blackened Death nailing the high points of the group’s run.
<a href="http://necroschristos.bandcamp.com/album/domedon-doxomedon">Domedon Doxomedon by Necros Christos</a>

Nocturnal Graves–Titan

Genre: Death Metal, Thrash Metal

FFO: Grave Miasma, Hooded Menace, Destroyer 666

After a five year break, Australian Death Metal act Nocturnal Graves emerge from the depths of hell equipped with a new record. Titan lives up to its name by once again demonstrating the level of expertise the quartet successfully brings to the table of solidified writing.

This may not be a record for those seeking experimentation, but it is a record to bang your head hard to.
<a href="http://nocturnalgravessom.bandcamp.com/album/titan">Titan by Nocturnal Graves</a>

Sectioned–Annihilated

Genre: Metalcore, Mathcore, Hardcore Punk, Grindcore, Powerviolence

FFO: Converge, Weekend Nachos, Vein

Scottish Hardcore act Sectioned unsheathe a mighty debut LP that successfully encompasses pure chaos. Annihilated is a bludgeoning listening experience with a lightning-fast pace featuring frequent yet effective uses of feedback, blastbeats, crushing riffage, drum and bass sections, and many more. This band is the whole package and this record will make your jaw drop.
<a href="http://sectioned.bandcamp.com/album/annihilated">Annihilated by Sectioned</a>

Svalbard–It’s Hard to Have Hope

Genre: Melodic Hardcore, Black Metal, Post Rock

FFO: Deafheaven, Harikiri for the Sky, Rolo Tomassi

UK-based Hardcore act Svalbard unleash an emotional, politically charged sophomore LP that you should drop what you’re currently doing and listen to.

Ignore the goofy song titles. This band has a serious message and their passion is clearly evident by the intensity of the music and the execution of the lyricism.

Stylistically, Svalbard causes two vastly different yet clearly complimentary genres together in perfect harmony: Melodic Hardcore and Black Metal.

Anyone that follows this blog knows I hate the term “Blackgaze” but for the sake of making sure you listen, I will humbly proclaim It’s Hard to Have Hope comfortably matches that description.
<a href="http://svalbard.bandcamp.com/album/its-hard-to-have-hope">It’s Hard To Have Hope by Svalbard</a>

Wayfarer–World’s Blood

Genre: Black Metal, Post Rock

FFO: Burzum, Agalloch, Wolves in the Throne Room

Profound Lore presents the third LP from Colorado Black Metalheads Wayfarer. World’s Blood features five sprawling tracks of folk-inspired atmospheric Black Metal that will remind many of the writing tendencies of Agalloch, but the folk aspects here seem more sonically linked to themes of old western films.

Get lost in the grim, cohesive movements that make up World’s Blood and stream below.
<a href="http://wayfarercolorado.bandcamp.com/album/worlds-blood-2">World’s Blood by WAYFARER</a>

June 17, 2018 Tommy Leahy Uncategorized

Shoegazm Saturday!: Four Awesome New Albums You May Have Missed!

Ceremony–East Coast

Genre: Post Punk, Psychedelic Rock, Noise Rock, Shoegazing

FFO: Nothing, The Cherry Wave, Weekend

No, this is not the latest record by the Hardcore Punks that received a Smiths/Joy Division makeover back in 2015.

This Ceremony in particular has been putting out some of the best modern Shoegazing records since 2005 (coincidentally the same year the other Ceremony formed).

Rather than change their name, this Virginia-based project feels more inclined to just constantly remind listeners of their differing geographical location as evident from their latest album title. Works for me.

East Coast features a more Post Punk-centered sound (sounds familiar) but effectively utilizes pummeling walls of sound present in previous releases for a wonderful Postgazey (I use this term ironically) sound.

Stream below and indulge yourself in the “other” Ceremony.
<a href="http://ceremonyeastcoast.bandcamp.com/album/east-coast">EAST COAST by CEREMONY east coast</a>

Echo Ladies–Pink Noise

Genre: Indie Pop, Synth Pop, Dream Pop, Shoegazing

FFO: The Cure, Cocteau Twins, Purity Ring

Swedish trio Echo Ladies provide a charming debut record bringing together the forces of bright, dreamy synthpop and pummeling shoegaze.

Pink Noise is short but very sweet. Immerse yourself in these thirty minutes of pure sonic bliss.
<a href="http://echoladies.bandcamp.com/album/pink-noise">Pink Noise by Echo Ladies</a>

Launder–Pink Cloud

Genre: Indie Rock, Dream Pop, Jangle Pop, Shoegazing

FFO: Diiv, Day Wave, Wild Nothing

With guest riffs by Diiv‘s Zachary Cole Smith and production duties by Day Wave‘s Jackson Phillips, it comes as no surprise that LA’s John Cudlip starts musical career off on a strong note with his debut LP Pink Cloud.

Utilizing the stage name Launder, Cudlip presents five solid tracks of feel-good, dreamy, Indie Rock.

<a href="http://launder.bandcamp.com/album/pink-cloud">Pink Cloud by LAUNDER</a>

Magic Wands–Abrakadabr

Genre: Indie Rock, Dream Pop, Psychedelic Rock, Jangle Pop, Synth Pop, Dark Wave

FFO: Beach House, Crystal Castles, Diiv

LA-based duo Magic Wands present a darker, more ethereal take on their signature sound with LP #3.

Abrakadabra invokes the spooky, witchy-based soundscapes its imagery and title suggests moving away from the more polished, upbeat, Black Keys-esque sound,

The two piece plays with grim atmosphere, pristine guitar licks, synth, and more to achieve what I consider to be their strongest release thus far.

June 6, 2018 Tommy Leahy Recent Rock/Pop Releases

Recent Rock/Pop Released: 12 Amazing Albums You May Have Missed!!!

Audio Push–Melange EP

Genre: Hip Hop, Rap

FFO: Smoke Dza, CyHi The Prynce, Hit-Boy

I am a huge fan of Frank Herbert, and Dune references tend to appeal to me heavily. California duo, Audio Push, treat fans to a small batch of tracks packed with tight production and complex bars.

Check out their single “High Note” below.

The Beat Escape–Life is Short The Answer’s Long

Genre: Electronic, Synth Pop, New Wave

FFO: M83, Drab Majesty, Grave Babies

Montreal electronic duo, The Beat Escape, unveil a dazzling debut LP permeating with luscious electronic soundscapes and a grim yet ethereal vocal performance.

All nine tracks are guaranteed to plunge the listener into a deep trance with layers of captivating songwriting and lyricism.

Be sure to stream Life is Short The Answer’s Long below.
<a href="http://thebeatescape.bandcamp.com/album/life-is-short-the-answers-long">Life Is Short The Answer’s Long by The Beat Escape</a>

Blueprint–Two-Headed Monster

Genre: Hip Hop, Rap

FFO: Soul Position, RJD2, Eyedea & Abilities

Columbus MC Albert Shepard (known better by his stage name Blueprint) once again reaffirms his strong proficiency in melding rapping and producing on his latest LP.

Blueprint explores the nostalgic boom bop sounds of Hip Hop with a modernized twist featuring other legendary acts including Slug of Atmosphere, Aceyalone, Mr. Lif, Wordsworth, and Supastition.
<a href="http://printmatic.bandcamp.com/album/two-headed-monster-retail-version">Two-Headed Monster (retail version) by BLUEPRINT</a>

Deeper–Deeper

Genre: Indie Rock, Jangle Pop, Noise Rock

FFO: Diiv, Hoops, Beach Fossils

Chicago collective Deeper unveil a dreamy self-titled debut.

The quartet exemplifies nine solid Indie Rock tracks ranging from clean, jangley leads to noise, drone-fueled movements.

Deeper does not attempt to reinvent the wheel, but rather illustrate strong promise with this solid, fun collection of tunes.
<a href="http://deeperchi.bandcamp.com/album/deeper">Deeper by Deeper</a>

Fotocrime–Principle of Pain

Genre: Post Punk, Synth Pop, Dark Wave, Goth Rock

FFO: Cold Cave, Death of Lovers, Drab Majesty

Former Coliseum frontman, Ryan Patterson, exhibits his range of talent and powerful songwriting with his debut solo record using the newfound stagename Fotocrime.

Principle of Pain tackles Goth-flavored Post Punk complemented by upbeat synth and Patterson’s imposing, baritone vocal display.
<a href="http://fotocrime.bandcamp.com/album/principle-of-pain">Principle Of Pain by FOTOCRIME</a>

Girls in Synthesis–We Might Not Make It Tomorrow EP

Genre: Punk Rock, Noise Rock

FFO: The Clash, Agent Orange, The Wytches

London trio, Girls in Synthesis, offer fans a new EP that matches the explosive intensity of their live performances.

We Might Not Make It Tomorrow boasts four tracks of unforgiving, noise-fueled, abrasive Punk Rock.
<a href="http://girlsinsynthesis.bandcamp.com/album/we-might-not-make-tomorrow-e-p">We Might Not Make Tomorrow E.P by Girls In Synthesis</a>

Ice Baths–Ice Baths

Genre: Punk Rock, Post Punk, Noise Rock

FFO: Joy Division, Killing Joke, Ceremony

UK Post Punkers Ice Baths storm the scene with a promising, fun debut full of catchy hooks and ambient drone.

If you’re a fan of any of the above bands you owe it to yourself to stream Ice Baths below.
<a href="http://blankeditions.bandcamp.com/album/ice-baths">Ice Baths by Ice Baths</a>

Inner Tongue–Favours

Genre: Pop

FFO: Frank Ocean, Inc. No World, How to Dress Well

In 2013, Vienna-based artist Inner Tongue was diagnosed with a rare vocal cord disorder. After traveling the world in search for a cure, he was able to finally find a surgeon capable of healing his voice.

Following months of recovery and forced silence, Favours marks the top of long-climbed mountain. It is a beautiful, forward-thinking pop album written to reflect the artist’s struggling experience, crisis of identity, and unique methods of experimentation to explore means of providing melody without the use of singing.

reveries–s/t

Genre: Post Hardcore, Screamo

FFO: City of Caterpillar, Touche Amore, Pianos Become the Teeth

With members based out of Boston and New York, reveries is a Screamo/Post Hardcore equipped with a fantastic debut flawlessly channeling passion, anger, and melody.

Be sure to stream the band’s hard-hitting, self-titled debut below.
<a href="http://reveriesma.bandcamp.com/album/s-t">s/t by reveries</a>

The Sidekicks–Happiness Hours

Genre: Indie Rock, Indie Pop

FFO: Saves The Day, Tigers Jaw, Modern Baseball

I cannot be the only one who saw sponsored ads featuring this band on my social media timeline for months straight. I briefly remembered them doing a split release with Tiger’s Jaw years back, but have failed to follow them since. After being brutally bombarded by a clip of the “Don’t Feel Like Dancing” music video about four hundred times, I finally decided to give Happiness Hours a spin and I am glad I did.

The Sidekicks channel Pop-infused Rock tunes similar to In Reverie era Saves The Day guaranteed to put you in a good mood even on the cloudiest of days.
<a href="http://sidekicksohio.bandcamp.com/album/happiness-hours">Happiness Hours by The Sidekicks</a>

Slow Mass–On Watch

Genre: Indie Rock, Post Hardcore, Emo

FFO: Joan of Arc, Tigers Jaw, You Blew It!

Chicago quartet, Slow Mass, unveil a debut LP that provides an entirely new spin on the term “emo.”

Sadness is not the only emotion, and On Watch proudly explores the entire spectrum shifting its writing and sound with each track whilst maintaining a strong, cohesive flow.
<a href="http://slowmassmusic.bandcamp.com/album/on-watch">On Watch by Slow Mass</a>

Soft Kill–Savior

Genre: Post Punk, Goth Rock

FFO: The Cure, Sisters of Mercy, Protomartyr

Portland collective Soft Kill return with another solid LP to add to their already impressive catalog.

Savior embraces the darker sides of the Post Punk movement with Gothic inspired tracks of dread and despair.
<a href="http://anopendoor.bandcamp.com/album/savior-2">Savior by SOFT KILL</a>

May 15, 2018May 15, 2018 Tommy Leahy Metal Monday

METAL MONDAY: Six Amazing New Releases You May Have Missed!!!

Abraham–Look, Here Comes the Dark!
Genre: Post Metal, Sludge Metal, Progressive Metal, Post Hardcore, Doom Metal, Black Metal, Death Metal
FFO: Cult of Luna, Neurosis, Pelican

Hailing from Switzerland, Abraham earns the vote for “Least Likely to be Pigeonholed” by The LookOut for 2018 Metal releases.

Look, Here Comes the Dark! is equally rewarding as it is ambitious featuring a whopping 19 tracks and over two full hours of material. The group shifts from all different sorts of styles on the metallic spectrum throughout this massive work of art depending entirely on the mood and subject matter of each track grouping.

Despite an unorthodox running time, this LP is full of energy and refuses to waste single second.
<a href="http://abrahamband.bandcamp.com/album/look-here-comes-the-dark">Look, here comes the dark! by Abraham</a>

The Body–I Have Fought Against it, But I Can’t Any Longer
Genre: Sludge Metal, Electronica, Industrial, Drone
FFO: Swans, Godflesh, Thou

Portland, Oregon’s The Body push beyond sonic limitations yet again with their latest LP. The two piece paint a horrifying portrait of dread, pain, and suffering through their instrumentation via harsh, unexplored methods of samples and droney white noise.

The Body boasts an expansive catalog of hard-to-swallow, avante-garde listening experiences, and I Have Fought Against It, But I Can’t Any Longer fits comfortably within its ranks.
<a href="http://thebody.bandcamp.com/album/i-have-fought-against-it-but-i-can-t-any-longer">I Have Fought Against It, But I Can’t Any Longer. by the body</a>

Bong–Thoughts & Existence
Genre: Stoner Metal, Sludge Metal, Funeral Doom, Drone
FFO: Sleep, Boris, Sunn 0)))

UK Drone Doom outfit, Bong, release yet another gargantuan LP.

What Thoughts & Existence may lack in track amount, it more than makes up for with its extremely thick, and massive presence.

Bong‘s material is not for the impatient and demands a front to back experience with only two tracks hovering near the twenty minute mark.

While it is a commitment of a listen, it is rewarding in every sense.
<a href="http://ritualproductions.bandcamp.com/album/thought-and-existence-2">Thought and Existence by Bong</a>

Homewrecker–Hell is Here Now
Genre: Death Metal
FFO: Entombed, Bolt Thrower, Obituary

Similar to Of Feather & Bone‘s latest release, Ohio’s Homewrecker abandon their crusty Hardcore roots to present a more straight forward, nostalgic take on Death Metal.

Hell is Here Now proves the band has hit an all time high in their songwriting abilities, with production and riffage guaranteed to smash your face in like a slab of concrete.
<a href="http://goodfightmusic.bandcamp.com/album/hell-is-here-now">Hell Is Here Now by Homewrecker</a>

LLNN–Deads
Genre: Post Metal, Sludge Metal, Space Rock
FFO: Neurosis, Amenra, Sumac

Copenhagen’s LLNN launch the listener’s consciousness deep into the furthest, darkest, loneliest limits of deep space with their sophomore LP.

Deads is a Science Fiction-themed epic utilizing soundscapes and samples that provide the listener with a protagonist role in this layered, complex sonic journey across the galaxy. LLNN‘s influences range from the staple Avante Garde approach of Post Metal titans Neuoris to the influential scores of John Carpenter.

The juxtaposition of droney synth and attention-grabbing, powerful riffs create an overwhelming, abrasive ambiance will keep your mind heavily occupied from start to finish.
<a href="http://llnn.bandcamp.com/album/deads-2">Deads by LLNN</a>

Thou–The House Primordial
Genre: Sludge Metal, Doom Metal, Drone Metal, Black Metal
FFO: Grief, The Body, Bongripper

Louisiana’s Thou presents a new EP this year taking their malevolent soundscapes to the next possible level of unrelenting harshness. Thou and The Body are often compared following a history of collaborative projects and tours.

Side by side, both groups have pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a heavy band further and further, borrowing elements of pop music while somehow distancing themselves from the farthest points of accessibility.

The House Primordial balances beauty and ugliness in a profound way and deserves your attention as it may be one of best releases in Metal this year to date.
<a href="http://thou.bandcamp.com/album/the-house-primordial">The House Primordial by Thou</a>

April 25, 2018 Tommy Leahy Recent Rock/Pop Releases

Recent Rock/Pop Releases: Six Awesome New Albums You May Have Missed!!!

Animal Flag–Void Ripper
Genre: Alternative Rock
FFO: Manchester Orchestra, Balance & Composure, The Hotelier

Boston native, Matthew Politoski, has crafted album after album of alluring tunes for the better part of a decade.

Since his instrumental debut under the Animal Flag moniker titled Flood of Sunlight, Politoski has illustrated a unique ability to communicate his emotion to listeners brilliantly.

Void Ripper is undoubtedly the loudest, most raw record found throughout his catalog thus far. It is a record that tackles faith, doubt, loss, and depression in a very open way.

If you are a fan of Manchester Orchestra or Balance & Composure, you would be a fool to not stream Animal Flag’s latest LP in the link below.
<a href="http://animalflag.bandcamp.com/album/void-ripper-2">Void Ripper by Animal Flag</a>

Dusted–Blackout Summer
Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Indie Pop, Lofi
FFO: Kurt Vile, Ty Segall, Golden Daze

When Toronto-born artist Brian Borcherdt isn’t testing the limits of how noisy noise can be in Holy Fuck, he relies on his solo project Dusted to offset the chaos.

Blackout Summer is a laid back, relaxing record filled to the brim with dreamy soundscapes.
<a href="http://totallydusted.bandcamp.com/album/blackout-summer">Blackout Summer by Dusted</a>

Facs–Negative Houses
Genre: Post Punk, Post Rock, Art Rock, Avante Garde, Kraut Rock
FFO: Joy Division, The Cure, Sisters of Mercy

Formed from now the defunct Disappears, Facs is a trio of Chicago-based Post Punk rockers that push the boundaries of the genre even further than in their previous project.

Negative Houses is a profound debut bathed in dark abstraction and complex songwriting.
<a href="http://wearefacs.bandcamp.com/album/negative-houses">Negative Houses by FACS</a>

Fiddlehead–Springtime & Blind
Genre: Post Hardcore, Punk Rock
FFO: Quicksand, Lifetime, Title Fight

It almost seems as if anytime a new Boston Hardcore band emerges, Pat Flynn of Have Heart fame is at the helm.

Flynn has fronted Clear, Sweet Jesus, Wolf Whistle, Free, and more in his Have Heart retirement and somehow always manages to offer deeper, more thought-provoking lyricism than most vocalist of the genre.

Fiddlehead is a new super group featuring members of Basement, Death Injection, and of course Have Heart. Springtime & Blind is a bright, fun, poppy record where Flynn surprises fans with a more melodic vocal approach.
<a href="http://fiddleheadma.bandcamp.com/album/springtime-and-blind">Springtime and Blind by Fiddlehead</a>

Foilage–III
Genre: Indie Pop, Jangle Pop, Dream Pop
FFO: The Smiths, Ride, Hoops

Californian musician Manual Joseph Walker presents a third LP with soundscapes as bright and colorful as the album art suggests.

Each track implements pristine, synth-laced jangle pop extremely reminiscent of Jonny Marr’s stapled style.

Give this a spin and I guarantee and it will be the soundtrack to your summer.
<a href="http://foliagemusic.bandcamp.com/album/iii">III by ❀ Foliage ❀</a>

Holy Wave–Adult Fear
Genre: Psychadelic Rock, Indie Pop
FFO: Wilco, Ringo Deathstarr, Night Beats

Austin’s Holy Wave returns with a third LP that is guaranteed to usher your ear drums comfortably into the spring season.

Adult Fear offers nine tracks of bright, euphoric, reverb-soaked psychedelia for anyone patiently waiting for winter to finally end.
<a href="http://holywave.bandcamp.com/album/adult-fear">Adult Fear by HOLY WAVE</a>