Chappell Roan • Tiny Desk Concert • 2024

https://www.iamchappellroan.com/

Roan’s marvelous debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, came out last September — just in time to fit into the window of eligibility for the 2025 Grammys, hint hint wink — and it finds the singer toying confidently with a persona inspired in part by drag performers. Flanked by a pink-clad band, she wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity to serve up an absolute look, complete with white makeup and a towering wig (bolstered by a wadded-up trash bag tucked inside, as well as an assortment of stubbed-out cigarette butts), which now sits comfortably atop a skull Cypress Hill left us.

It’s only appropriate that Roan would forever alter the Tiny Desk. Because, at the risk of sounding hyperbolic, this is a stunning set: Performing five songs from Midwest Princess, Roan worked through songs of youthful heartache (“Casual”), queer liberation (“Pink Pony Club”), mournful alienation (“California”) and two decidedly different forms of chaotic seduction (“Picture You,” “Red Wine Supernova”). In every mood and every song, she’s utterly commanding — witty and whip-smart, vocally assured and charismatic beyond words.

She didn’t just leave her wig; she left a mark.

SET LIST

“Casual”

“Pink Pony Club”

“Picture You”

“California”

“Red Wine Supernova”

My Best Unbeaten Brother • Pessimistic Pizza • 2024

‘Pessimistic Pizza’ is the debut mini-album from My Best Unbeaten Brother. This is a new project from the returning Ben and Adam Parker of Nosferatu D2. The past work of the Parker brothers has been lauded by Pitchfork, Drowned in Sound, Los Campesinos!, The Line of Best Fit and DIY Mag, while their unconventional legacy was the subject of radio stories for BBC 6 Music and Public Radio International (“The World”). 

“Seven songs by three men from Croydon. Inspired by getting older, getting sadder, getting angrier with a post-Brexit world where The Smiths have been ruined by the actions of the ex-singer. Learning to let go; learning to be Spider-Man; trying to understand The Fall; trying to understand life and death, and trying to understand records by The Steve Miller Band.” – Ben Parker (Guitar & Vocals)

The Felice Brothers • Crime Scene Queen • 2024

https://www.thefelicebrothers.com/

“A few years ago, I started revisiting old demos that had never seen the light of day and recordings that hadn’t found a home on previous albums, and I started thinking of them as the Valley of Abandoned Songs,” explains Ian Felice. “At a certain point, I realized that I had a particular group of tunes that worked really well as an album, and so I shared it with Conor, along with my idea to post it online, but he immediately texted back that he loved it so much he wanted to start a new record label just to put it out.” 

nathaniel russell • Songs Of • 2024

This record began with a funny and sad idea I had about a funeral. I imagined a picture of a funeral with a merch table. Mourners could buy a souvenir t-shirt or a poster. They could purchase a book of the deceased’s writing and artwork and a record of their songs and music. I thought about a bored teenager running the merch table, tired of being on tour and trying to keep up. It was an idea full of darkness and sweetness to me. 

ifitbeyourwill S03 E38 • Tyler Burkhart

Tyler Burkhart discovered his passion for music while balancing a fulfilling career as a social worker – a journey that we explore in our latest episode. From his beginnings in a musically rich household to his collegiate epiphany with recording and producing, Tyler shares the evolution of his artistic identity. We delve into his extensive catalog on Bandcamp, his DIY ethos, and the profound impact his day job has on his songwriting. Tyler’s candid reflections offer a glimpse into the intimate and honest nature of his songs, revealing the heart and soul behind his music.

As life grows fuller, finding time for creativity becomes a delicate dance, a topic Tyler knows all too well. He opens up about the challenges of balancing responsibilities while carving out Monday evenings for focused music work. His creative process, often inspired by guitar experiments and artists like Nick Drake, has matured technically while retaining its emotional core. We dive into the beauty and impermanence of life, relationships, and self-love, themes that resonate deeply in Tyler’s poignant lyrics and stirring guitar solos. Don't miss this enriching conversation that promises to leave you reflecting on life's fleeting moments.

Instagram

 

Cloud Cult • As Beautiful As It Hurts • 2024

https://www.cloudcult.com/

ifitbeyourwill S03 E37 • Mutual Benefit

What if your musical journey could take you from church bands in Ohio to pioneering an ethereal genre called "Astral Folk"? Join us as we sit down with Jordan Lee from Mutual Benefit to explore his evolution from a childhood steeped in Christian hymns and rock classics to discovering the sonic landscapes of Fugazi and Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Jordan takes us through his early songwriting days, fueled by an urge to impress and the magic of GarageBand, painting a vivid picture of his formative years and the nostalgic influences that shaped his unique sound.

Uncover the raw vulnerability and personal discovery central to Jordan's music as he shares intimate stories from his artistic journey. We discuss the impact of pivotal albums like Bright Eyes' "I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning," and the delicate artistry of Sufjan Stevens and Joanna Newsome. Jordan opens up about the challenge of performing deeply personal songs as an introvert, revealing his technique of retreating inward during performances to deliver heartfelt music. His candid reflections provide a deeper understanding of his creative process and the emotional layers within his work.

Journey with us to the genesis of Mutual Benefit's album "Growing at the Edges," a creation born from the turbulence of lockdown and a transformative political climate. Jordan tells us how personal and political experiences, including mutual aid and Black Lives Matter activism, influenced his music during this period. We also explore the significance of connecting children with nature, inspired by the teachings of Robin Wall Kimmerer's "Braiding Sweetgrass," and the intimate essence of releasing both polished records and raw demos. Ending with poetic musings on resilience and growth, Jordan leaves us with hopeful reflections on life's unexpected journeys and the possibilities that lie ahead. Don't miss this episode packed with compelling stories, heartfelt conversations, and the poetic richness of musical growth amidst adversity.

 

https://www.mutualbenef.it/

linktr.ee

ifitbeyourwill S03 E36 • Diamond Day

In this riveting episode of the "If It Be Real" podcast, hosts dive deep into the musical odyssey of Diamond Day, an innovative band that marries traditional folk roots with modern electro-pop and shoegaze influences. The episode opens with a detailed exploration of the band's genesis, featuring intimate conversations with the creative duo behind Diamond Day, Beatrice and Quinn. Their story is one of artistic fusion, where Quebec's rich folk traditions meet the eclectic beats of modern music.

Beatrice, who was raised in the folk music scene of Quebec, shares her upbringing surrounded by traditional music. Both her parents were folk musicians, which significantly influenced her musical style. She recounts how her childhood was filled with fiddle music, accordion, and acoustic guitar, elements that subtly permeate Diamond Day's music. On the other hand, Quinn's musical journey began with a fascination for guitars crafted by his luthier father and a vast collection of records that exposed him to a diverse array of genres from an early age. This blend of backgrounds creates a unique soundscape for Diamond Day.

The episode delves into the formation of Diamond Day, born out of the creative divergence within their previous project, Rosier. Beatrice's songwriting didn't always align with Rosier's traditional framework, leading her to collaborate with Quinn. This partnership allowed them to explore new, experimental realms while still honoring their musical roots. Their creative synergy is palpable as they discuss how they meld their distinct influences to produce intricate yet accessible soundscapes.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is Beatrice's inventive approach to songwriting. She introduces the concept of "crooked" tunes, where measures or beats are added or removed, challenging mainstream norms. This unconventional style draws comparisons to artists like Kevin Shields and Elizabeth Fraser, who are known for their unique musical structures. The freedom of working as a duo enables Beatrice and Quinn to balance maximalist and minimalist arrangements, creating music that is both complex and inviting.

The podcast also celebrates the enchanting allure of French lyrics in Diamond Day's music. The cultural landscape of Quebec, where French and English coexist, profoundly influences their bilingual songs. This fusion of languages adds an exotic flair that resonates with audiences worldwide, enhancing the band's global appeal.

As the conversation progresses, Beatrice and Quinn discuss their upcoming projects and live performances. They share their excitement about touring the West Coast, from Vancouver to Los Angeles, and hint at new music releases, including remixes by artists they admire. The episode closes with a heartfelt thanks and best wishes for Diamond Day's ongoing success, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating their next musical venture.

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide transcript samples from key chapters, offering a glimpse into the rich, engaging dialogue that characterizes this captivating conversation. The blend of personal anecdotes, musical insights, and forward-looking aspirations makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic interplay of folk traditions and modern music.

In conclusion, this episode of the "If It Be Real" podcast offers a deep dive into the artistic journey of Diamond Day, a band that masterfully blends the old and the new. From Beatrice's folk-infused upbringing to Quinn's eclectic musical influences, listeners are treated to an intimate look at how these elements come together to create a unique, refreshing sound. The discussion of "crooked" tunes, the allure of French lyrics, and the band's upcoming projects all contribute to a rich tapestry that celebrates the fusion of languages and genres. Don't miss this enthralling episode that highlights the creative evolution of Diamond Day and their innovative approach to music-making.

https://diamondday.ca/

From janky glitch-pop drums to jangly guitars on the verge of explosion; Montréal’s Diamond Day reshape shoegaze into their hazy electro dreamworld.

Islands - "The End” • 2024

islandsareforever.com

What Occurs is Islands' 10th album. It was recorded, mixed and mastered entirely on Vancouver Island, the birthplace of Islands' songwriter Nick Thorburn and his first record made on the island. The album functions like a collection of short stories, each song telling a different tale: A man steals a billionaire's painting, ("David Geffen's Jackson Pollock"), a woman is terrified of intimacy but great at dancing ("Arachnophobia"), and a lovelorn loser does everything wrong ("Drown A Fish").

ifitbeyourwill S03 E35 • The Brother Brothers

https://www.thebrotherbrothersmusic.com/

How does the unique bond between identical twins shape their musical journey and creative process? Today's episode features the Brother Brothers, David and Adam, as they walk us through their deeply intertwined musical experiences. From the early days influenced by their parents' eclectic record collection to the significant impact of the Kerrville Folk Festival on their songwriting, you'll hear firsthand how these elements have molded their sound. We'll explore the pivotal moments that nudged them from instrumentalists to celebrated songwriters, and how the songwriting community at Kerrville served as a catalyst for their development.

In the second half of our conversation, we uncover the intricate dynamics that make their collaboration so special. Adam opens up about David's role as the principal songwriter and how their sibling synergy fosters an environment of creative growth. We delve into their meticulous harmonizing techniques and how they balance simplicity with complexity in their melodies. Finally, get a glimpse into their future plans as Adam prepares for a bustling year touring with Levi Turner and David embarks on a series of intimate solo performances. Don't miss this intimate and insightful discussion with the Brother Brothers about music, family, and what lies ahead.

“the warm harmonies and silky melodies of identical twins David and Adam Moss evoke the kind of ’60s-era folk tunes that reverberated through dark, wood-paneled bars in the Village… If these brothers aren’t among the Americana Music Association’s nominees for Emerging Artist or Duo-Group, I want a recount.” — No Depression

Max Blansjaar • False Comforts • 2024

https://beanietapes.club/

Yahtzee! There doesn’t always have to be a solution, or a resolution; it can be rewarding, even necessary, to linger in a snapshot of a feeling for a while. In that sense, I knew these songs would be False Comforts. They wouldn’t fix anything, they wouldn’t give me answers, they wouldn’t help, they were pointless, unproductive hideouts, explanations lasting forever. And I found a strange comfort in them for that. Maybe someone else will, too.

Checkout ifitbeyourwill Podcast S03 E20 with Max! It’s a beauty ♥️ 

deary • The Moth • 2024

Dreampop duo deary have released a single – ‘The Moth’ – their first brand new material since last year’s eponymous debut EP.

Produced by the band with Iggy B (Spiritualized) and recorded at the 4AD studio in London and the Bella Union studio in Brighton, the song finds the band going through an appropriately titled metamorphosis.

‘The Moth’ is dark and direct with howling guitars atop a strident breakbeat – more Curve than Cocteau Twins.

7ebra • "Daybreak” • 2024

Beautiful but punk, minimalist but epic, the duo had previously made their mark on the Swedish music scene, with support slots for Future Islands, Bob Hund and The Dandy Warhols already under their belts. They also played shows at End of the Road, Bluedot and SXSW festivals last year, as well as for an extensive UK tour with Teleman.

“they zap delicate pop tunes with a jolt of electricity” Pitchfork

“hypnotic and hooky” Brooklyn Vegan | “an enticing proposition” Under The Radar Magazine

“7ebra are here for the long haul” So Young Magazine

M. Vaughan • 'Keep in Touch’ • 2024

“This record is about these past few years of transition, trying to reckon with my own musical roots while making sense of life abroad, and eventually landing in a new place and making it home...The songs on this record are a fusion of my experience as a dance music producer and rock songwriter. Compared to True Life, my last LP as M. Vaughan, they’re more songs than tracks. Even if they have more of a pop structure, I couldn’t help but bust out the synthesizers and fuck up some samples—I use the tools of electronic music to make rock songs.“  – M. Vaughan (Full EP Statement Available Here)

LUMBEROB • "MAYBELLE” • 2024

shimmy-disc.com

" Barnacles are sessile, meaning they lack a means of self-locomotion.

The MAYBELLE video juxtaposes these busy barnacles dancing with their feathery feeding appendages against the static, monolithic Manhattan bridge

as seen from the rooftop of 68 Jay in DUMBO.

Laura has always wanted to make a dance on the roof of her studio.

MAYBELLE is a song about movement, about connection, about both loss and discovery. As a musician rarely concerned with writing songs that mean much, I am happy to find some depth here…" - LUMBEROB on "MAYBELLE"

John Prine and Iris DeMent • In Spite of Ourselves • 2018

https://smarturl.it/treeofforgiveness

She don't like her eggs all runny

She thinks crossin' her legs is funny

She looks down her nose at money

She gets it on like the Easter Bunny

She's my baby, I'm her honey

I'm never gonna let her go

He ain't got laid in a month of Sundays

I caught him once and he was sniffin' my undies

He ain't too sharp but he gets things done

Drinks his beer like it's oxygen

He's my baby, and I'm his honey

Never gonna let him go

Las Nubes • Tormentas Malsanas • 2024

“Las Nubes are far and away the hottest band in Miami, and the most socially relevant. Like the children and the young at heart across North and South America, they rock from the soul, covered in tattoos and attitude. They represent an uncompromising lifestyle trend that is the future. They’re fucking loud, too.”

ifitbeyourwill Podcast S03 E30 with Las Nubes rocks!

ifitbeyourwill S03 E34 • Kee Avil

Welcome to the latest episode of "If It Be Your Will" podcast with today’s special guest, experimental artist Kee Avil! In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of music improvisation and the creative processes with experimental music. Montréal producer and guitarist Vicky Mettler is Kee Avil, sharing her captivating journey into improvisational music, with emphasis on its spontaneous and collaborative nature. The discussion expands to encompass Vicky's music production process, her new musical setup, and the visual aesthetics intertwined with her music and videos. They also dissect the creative evolution behind Vicky's albums, from individual songs to layered compositions, and her upcoming plans for shows and new music...

https://keeavil.com/

Kee Avil’s music is both adventurous and intimate, intellectually challenging and emotionally resonant. The Montréal guitarist and producer’s 2022 debut LP Crease garnered plaudits from outlets like The Wire, The Quietus, Mojo and Foxy Digitalis, picking up a Canadian Juno Award nomination and Bandcamp Album Of The Day and Albums Of The Year along the way. Its intricate construction, unnerving atmospheres, and knife-edge take on avant-pop prompted comparisons to early PJ Harvey, This Heat, and Gazelle Twin. A remix EP with work by claire rousay, Ami Dang, Cecile Believe, and Pelada brought collaborative perspectives to four Crease tracks, offering new pathways within those songs.

The American Analog Set • The Wait • 2003

amanset.com

On the first day

I was aching

It was okay

If you were faking

It's not worth it

Just don't try

Love so perfect

You just get by

Now it's all day

My hands are shaking

It's on the airwaves

And that news is breaking…

It's not worth it

You just don't try

Love so perfect

You just get by

It's not worth it

You just don't try

Through the nineties

We just got by

It's not worth it

You just don't try

Cardinals • Twist and Turn • 2024

This week, Cardinals shared the EP's focus track "Twist and Turn", an upbeat tune, driven by a tambourine beat and laced with poppy guitar melodies. The band says the track "is a song about how writing has become a highly therapeutic practice for us all. It’s got some poppy melodies and a danceable backbeat, but the lyrics though, they’re all about grief.”

piglet & Jemima Coulter • panic • 2024

piglet's previous work has garnered significant attention and acclaim. His seven songs EPreleased via Blue Flowers featured standout tracks such as "it isnt fair," which addresses the injustices of British healthcare for trans people, and "to you tonight," a celebration of queer identity. The EP and follow up single “building site outside,” also a deeply personal exploration about the trans experience, led to piglet being selected as part of The Face's One To Watch 23 series and profiled by notable publications So Young and Loud & Quiet. Additionally, his music videos, created in collaboration with trans filmmaker Harv Frost, have supported fundraising efforts for the We Exist charity.

IDAHO • "Kamikaze" • 2024

“A brutally beautiful return to form…Lapse lives up to IDAHO’s legacy as slowcore pioneers. Across 10 songs, the trio have truly outdone themselves with a collection of subdued elegance that makes the past come flooding back.”

– PASTE (8.0)

“Martin sounds totally inspired as he dishes out his seasoned drawl, glacial-paced clean guitars, a little bit of psychedelia, and lyrical references to heroes like Ultravox, Bill Nelson, Brian Eno, Iggy Pop, and Magazine. Lapse could believably be a lost gem that IDAHO actually released during their mid ‘90s era, and it sounds just as timely in 2024 amidst the Duster revival, TikTok-viral slowcore acts like sign crushes motorist, and indie rock frontrunner Alex G. It’s great to have Idaho back in any capacity, especially with a new record that genuinely adds to their legacy.”

– BROOKLYN VEGAN

https://www.idahoband.com/

Little Kid • Bad Energy (Live at Hugh's Room) • 2024

I don’t like perfect rhymes. I spent a lot of time working as many imperfect internal rhymes as possible into each line of this song. It was a rewarding process, but it may have ruined songwriting for me because I no longer feel content rhyming only the last word of each line. Finishing songs has become much harder since I wrote ‘Bad Energy’. But I’m proud of what I was able to do with this one, and it’s generally the first song people talk about when they hear the new album.

https://littlekidmusic.com/

ifitbeyourwill Podcast Celebrates 75th Episode!!!

 

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

Wow! small ideas sure grow in fertile ground  🌱 

ifitbeyourwill S03 E33 • Annabel Gutherz

https://annabelgutherz.com/

Introducing the effervescent Annabel Gutherz! Born and bred in Montreal, Annabel's musical journey intertwines seamlessly with the vibrant tapestry of her hometown. On this episode we chatted about Annabel’s familial roots nurturing her love for storytelling through music to her transformative songwriting odyssey, Annabel's creative essence radiates through every chord and lyric. As they delve into her artistic process, collaborative endeavours, the stage is set for an enchanting exploration of Annabel's musical world. Enjoy 🎙️ 

Annabel Gutherz is a singer-songwriter hailing from Montreal, Canada. Combining her compelling and diaristic storytelling with honeyed melodies, distinct vocals and her keen musical ear, Annabel’s songs take listeners on a heartfelt journey packed with raw honesty and emotional conviction. SoundCafe

ifitbeyourwill S03 E32 • Good Looks

Good Looks, a band spearheaded by Tyler Jordan, is back with a bunch of new songs with their upcoming record “Lived Here For A While (June 7th). Tyler's multifaceted musical journey began by chance encounters at the Kerrval Folk Festival, surviving a band’s metamorphosis, all the while adapting to the new era in the music business, lend themselves to this amazing episode. The bands collaborative process, honed through vocal care and a shared passion for experimentation, culminates in a dynamic fusion of Americana and post-punk. As they navigate the challenges of a delayed release amidst the pandemic, Good Looks anticipates a transformative musical journey, with a European and US tour on the horizon to showcase their evolution. Enjoy 🎙️ 

goodlooksband.com

Lucius • Go Home (feat. Marcus Mumford) • 2024

Wildewoman (The New Recordings) re-imagines and expands Lucius’ dazzling debut album with enhanced instrumentation and deeper renditions of these remarkable songs. This 13-track set features guest appearances from Marcus Mumford on “Go Home (The New Recording)” and Devon Gilfillian on “Tempest (The New Recording).” The CD and vinyl editions also include a previously unreleased fan favorite, “Housewarming (The New Recording),” featuring close friend and collaborator Brandi Carlile.

Tyler Burkhart & Fancy Numbers • Chumprie 286 • 2024