Ghost Fan Club • 2024

Knifepunch Records

“With a soft and cautious style, the track tiptoes forward with something between bummed out slacker stillness and a kind of weighted trepidation, as sad and scared and bored as any spirit unable to pass on. But the ghost here is still very much living, the life slipping past before his eyes very much his own.”– VARIOUS SMALL FLAMES

“While on its surface, the statement feels like it reflects an empty way of moving through the world—there is a richness to the lived experience of drifting. Costolo puts words to the current way many of us are experiencing everything today, no longer real participants in our lives, but spectators of them.” –DOUBLE NEGATIVE

“Inspired by emo bedroom music and released through the Florida DIY label knifepunch records, we hear elements of Elliott Smith, Sparklehorse and The Antlers in the poignant guitar sound as Tyler discusses the never-ending pressure of life and reveals how painful it is when you feel that you are just drifting as life passes you by.” – SPECTRAL NIGHTS

https://linktr.ee/ghostfanclub

“I wrote these songs during a point of major turmoil in my life. I was mostly drifting along, trying to make peace with so much of my existence being out of my control and time slipping by while I was trying to catch up. I started working on a lot of the songs all the way back in 2021 but wasn’t in a situation where I could comfortably record. I felt desperate to get the tracks finished but was bouncing around unable to find any footing, which I think you can feel in the songs themselves. 

I wanted actual drums for the first time in my music making journey which is where Tom Morris came in. I think that addition really makes a difference between these songs and my previous body of work.” – Tyler Costolo (Ghost Fan Club)

Pleasant Mob • 2024

At a glance Pleasant Mob evokes a carefree spirit, but below the surface, their uncluttered compositions are a comforting utopia. Their judicious use of tone, color, and melody strike the perfect balance between masculine and feminine energy - take that Piet Mondrian. Their clarity and resolved tension has smoothed down the sharp edges of rock and roll into a joyous flower powered jangle.

Sad Eyed Beatniks • You Belong With Us • 2024

Ten Brocades pulls from songs written and recorded over the last two years. Mike Ramos (Tony Jay, Flowertown) and Karina Gill (Cindy, Flowertown) played on and helped record the backing tracks for "Barong Mask," "Nail In The Coffin," "The Broken Playwright Waits," and "Barefoot On The Burning Marble." All of the recordings were started on cassette 8-track or cassette 4-track, then expanded upon digitally. 

linktr.ee/kevin_linn

Anna McClellan • "Like a Painting” • 2024

New Anna McClellan Alert ✧ “Like a Painting” a palpable interplay between emotion and melody is out now

McClellan’s lyrical narrative unfolds like a series of snapshots, each verse a glitchy reminiscence of a love once fervently embraced

https://www.instagram.com/annamcclellan/

ifitbeyourwill Podcast S01 E04

Lonesome Shack (feat. Tom Walbank) • Monsoon Lightning • 2024

Lonesome Shack conjures a spirit that drifts between city and desert, navigating trials of love, loss and the natural world. With an ear to folk and blues traditions, they craft songs that stir the heart and shake the soul. On their eighth studio album Song Of The Horse they dig deeper into forces of nature and elemental grooves. Song Of The Horse was recorded by Johnny Goss in a three day session at Dandelion Gold on the outskirts of Tucson, AZ. The band was joined by their old friend and legendary Tucson musician Tom Walbank on harmonica for the session. MW

Website

Human Interest • Better Press Repeat • 2024

Hailed by The Sunday Times as “an intriguing musical concoction that doffs its cap to grunge, The Kinks, Iggy Pop and T.Rex”, and following substantial press backing from the likes of DIY, Dork, Clash, The Line Of Best Fit, So Young, CMU, Rough Trade, The Forty-Five, Human Interest have fast become mainstays on the BBC 6 Music (Steve Lamacq), Radio X (playlisted) and Sirius FM airwaves. With their biggest ever headline show announced for The Lexington, London this September (13th) to coincide with their EP release, the quartet are primed to capitalise on their acclaimed summer festival run with a slew of tastemaker festival appearances later this year.

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ifitbeyourwill S03 E39 Finale • Idaho

Thanks for listening to season three… off for the summer! Back in September for another great season.

What happens when a band defies the constraints of time and still remains relevant after four decades? Join us for an intimate conversation with Jeff Martin of the band Idaho as he opens up about their cult status, the unique bond with fans, and their long-standing influence on the slowcore genre. We explore Jeff's recent whirlwind of creativity, including a new record, a remastered box set, and a heartfelt documentary. Discover how Idaho's stripped-down, textural guitar sound continues to captivate both long-time followers and new audiences alike.

Jeff delves into the evolution of Idaho's songwriting craft, highlighting the deliberate pace and melodic bass lines that have become their hallmark. He shares the challenges and rewards of creating music at a slower tempo, enhancing the band's distinct sound. Our discussion also touches on the natural progression and subtle improvements in Idaho's lyrical content and cohesiveness over the years, reflecting their growth and experience. Jeff provides insights into the band's early days, his high school friendship with co-founder John Berry, and the enduring legacy they've built together.

Reignite your passion for Idaho as Jeff recounts the creation of their album "Lapse" and the renewed energy brought by guitarist Robbie Bronzo during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeff reveals the motivations behind releasing a new album after an 11-year hiatus and the emotional significance of music creation. We also explore the meticulous process behind their remastered box set and the making of their documentary, capturing the band's journey through extensive personal archival footage. Whether you're a die-hard fan or discovering Idaho for the first time, this episode offers a heartfelt appreciation for the band's enduring artistry and legacy.

 https://www.idahoband.com/

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.

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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