Dean & Britta & Sonic Boom • "Snow Is Falling in Manhattan” • 2024

Dean Wareham believes Purple Mountains’ “Snow Is Falling in Manhattan” is destined to be a holiday classic. Certainly, that wasn’t David Berman’s intention when writing—on the contrary, the lyrics reveal its real purpose: a farewell. Recorded shortly after Berman’s tragic death, its beautiful, yet sparse production has a solitary feeling to it. Its inclusion on Dean & Britta & Sonic Boom’s A Peace of Us allows us to feel the bittersweet amongst all the holiday cheer.  

Magana • Dreams • 2024

 

Magana is the solo-project of acclaimed LA-based multi-instrumentalist and photographer Jeni Magaña, who is presently touring the world on bass and backing vocals for Mitski (she also recently played on Mitski’s “Coyote, My Little Brother” / “Buffalo Replaced” single), and is also one-half of the pen pin pop duo.

In March she returned from a three year-absence with the acclaimed ‘Teeth’ LP, which was released via Audio Antihero. While that return album boasted a “Witchy Rock” sound that combined Acid Folk, Synth Pop, and Indie Rock, her new project is something quite different.

‘DREAMS’ is a peaceful stroll through the inner workings of our minds at sleep. It is a collection of Jeni Magaña's dreams, recorded upon waking over a period of six months, and then set to music. Each dream is woven in between ambient instrumentals related to the various stages of sleep. It is recommended to listen to ‘DREAMS’ out in the world with headphones that are not noise cancelling, so that the ambient sounds of the world around you is able to blend with the sounds of the record. The album was released as a limited-edition cassette by the UK-based Hand Drawn Hand experimental record label, and it’s accompanied by an A5 book of Magaña's photography.

Artist Quote:

“There is a space between fully asleep and fully awake that I want to explore. This is represented in some of the ambient tracks, which I think of largely as that space between being awake and falling asleep, while the dreams more represent the transition between being asleep and waking up. This mental dusk is beautiful, and deserves its own exploration.” – Jeni Magaña (October 2024)

A collection of dreams recorded over 6 months and set to music, then weaved into ambient instrumentals all themed around sleep. Light a candle, get under the covers and explore the inner maze of DREAMS.

ifitbeyourwill S04E13 • Ben Lee

Ben Lee joins us for a fascinating journey through his life and career, offering insights into his musical beginnings and creative evolution. From the formation of Noise Addict as a teenager to the crafting of his solo debut album "Grandpaw Would". Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for Ben's knack for creating catchy pop gems and his unwavering commitment to genuine artistic expression.

The podcast delves into the crucial support of Ben's father, who played an instrumental role in his early music career. His father's unwavering dedication opened unexpected doors, including opportunities with Sonic Youth and Grand Royal, the label established by the Beastie Boys. Ben reflects candidly on the challenges he faced, balancing ambition with reality, and important career milestones, such as his experiences recording "Breathing Tornadoes."

Finally, we explore Ben's perspective on the ever-evolving music industry and the impact of emerging platforms on modern creativity. Embracing change while staying true to his indie rock roots, Ben discusses the creative freedom streaming platforms provide and the influence of 90s music on his new projects. From upcoming singles to exciting ventures like a children's TV show pitch, Ben's positive energy and passion for exploring creativity across diverse mediums shine through, offering inspiration for both artists and fans alike.

 

https://www.ben-lee.com/

“Weirder Together with Ben Lee & Ione Skye" is a weekly, 30 min podcast that gives an insight into the marriage of two offbeat creative artists who somehow make it work. It has bee called "comforting", "cozy" and "disarmingly funny”.

https://www.weirdertogether.com/gallery

John Frum Cargo Cult • Sing Sing • 2024

On Tanna island in Vanuatu people believe in a mythical man called John Frum (possibly a corruption of 'from' since he was reputed to be from Amercia) who appeared in 1937. He told the islanders that they should abandoned Western habits including money, western education and Christianity, and go back to their old traditions, living by their 'kastom' (Pidgin English for 'custom'). In exchange for this they would receive 'cargo', or wealth and prosperity. Every day in Lamakara village, followers of the cult raise an American flag which symbolises the power and material wealth which they see as still being monopolised by Westerners.

Cargo cults are religious practices in Melanesia, the Pacific region stretching from Fiji in the East to Papua New Guinea in the West, which focus on obtaining the 'cargo' (or material wealth) from the Western World through magic, religious rituals and practices. Cargo cult followers believe that their ancestors bequeathed them the cargo but crafty westerners took possession of it and deprived them of their inheritance. At the beginning of the 20th century, cargo cult devotees were constructing big wooden aircraft, landing strips and bamboo control towers, duplicating some of 'white man's rituals' in the hope they would attract real airplanes with cargo to the island. Nowadays these traditions have declined but older followers of some of the cults still remember the good old times when they would imitate the behaviour of American soldiers who came to their islands during the World War.” By @lens_pacific

https://www.vladsokhin.com/

ifitbeyourwill S04E12 • Namra Beatrix Saleem of Crybaby Claire

Namra Saleem, better known as Crybaby Claire, shares her inspiring journey from a small Norwegian town to the bustling streets of Oslo, and how a spontaneous moment at a "nachspiel" with the Talking Heads blaring sparked her passion for music. Without formal training, Namra's determination led her to pick up the guitar and bass, form a band, and explore the energetic realms of punk and Riot Grrrl music. Her story is a testament to the power of DIY artistry as she eventually took an Ableton course to create music on her own, crafting a distinct sound that combines nostalgic elements with raw emotion.

Immerse yourself in the colorful world of Crybaby Claire, where deeply personal lyrics meet upbeat, danceable rhythms. Namra shares how her influences, from Le Tigre to the DIY spirit of Molly Nilsson, shape her music-making process, which often begins with the beat before the melody finds its place. We explore her creative journey, focusing on the authenticity and simplicity that drive her art, and how she captures the raw essence of her first vocal takes to preserve genuine emotion.

The path to a solo career is paved with challenges, but Namra's story is about overcoming fears and finding joy in self-expression. A turning point came when life circumstances prompted her to embark on a solo project, using a cassette player for her first gig's backing tracks and planning to incorporate her cultural heritage into future works. As we anticipate her upcoming EP and live performances, this episode celebrates the courage of a DIY artist stepping into the spotlight, marking the start of an exciting new chapter that promises to resonate with listeners and music lovers alike.

 

With "Baby You Can Hold Me", Crybaby Claire delivers a track that perfectly strikes the balance between melancholy and playful electro pop. The song captivates with its atmospheric synths and carefree vocals, reminiscent of the lightness of the 80s. The minimalist structure and the simple but effective lyrics make the song catchy and ensure that it gets stuck in your head. electrozombies

CRYBABY CLAIRE (@crybaby_claire)Instagram

Abbie Ozard • you're like the sun • 2024

INSTAGRAM

On ‘you’re like the sun’ - the new single which leads the package, Abbie says:

“'you’re like the sun’ was an idea that I had started while I was writing the album, but I only got around to finishing it recently and I really wanted to get it out there. It’s an anthem for all of those people who don’t realise how special they are, who lift us up and make life feel a little bit better.  I hope this track can also bring a bit of light and warmth right now.”

And on the acoustic versions, she continues:

“I’m super happy to have the acoustic versions of some of my favourite songs from the album included in this package too.  A lot of the songs on the record were written acoustically so it only made sense to strip them back to the bare bones so they can be explored in a totally different way.”

Denison Witmer • "Older and Free” • 2024

Website

“One of the benefits of getting older and knowing yourself is being able to seek out the things that reset you in times when things feel off balance,” said Witmer. “For me, alone time is very important. Nature is very important. Moving my body and getting lost in my thoughts has become a must - whether it be running or, in the case of this song, hiking. I wrote this song when I was solo camping for a night at French Creek State Park not far from my home in PA. During Covid lockdown, my wife and I realized that we would burn out in the responsibilities of our day-to-day life if we didn't take time to ourselves. The melody and lyrics came to me as I was hiking the Lenape Trail back to my campsite. I have a little classical guitar that goes with me most places, and I wrote the song in completion that evening. I got so attached to the sound that the little guitar ended up being the instrument we recorded the basic tracks with.”

Anyone Awake • Late Night Driver • 2024

Website

Hailing from Rigby, Idaho, Anyone Awake is an alternative indie band comprised of Cassius Coleman (17), Rylan Sager (22), Sam Butterfield (17) and Seth Chamberlain (22). Since their inception in late 2022, the band has released a series of singles and a couple EPs. Today, Anyone Awake is sharing their debut full length LP, Bushel And A Peck.

Bushel And A Peck is a nine track project that outlines the story of co-founder Cassius (Cash) Coleman’s grandparents, from their relationship's start to end regarding the passing of his grandfather in February 2024. "Each song reflects not only their love story but also pieces of my own life and personal experiences," Cash says. He began writing the songs when he was 13, and since then has been developing his ability to compose chord progressions and vocal melodies.

Tele Novella • Vampire Cowgirl • 2024

https://pocp.co/poets-tooth

We’ve been dying to share Tele Novella’s new video for "Vampire Cowgirl," directed by the talented Vanessa Pla. Check out some behind-the-scenes shots from the making of this hauntingly captivating video, and grab a copy of Poet's Tooth on the newly announced blood-red vinyl variant—shipping in January 2025!

Hotgirl • In Your Head • 2024

https://lnk.fuga.com/hotgirl_inyourhead

Bursting beyond DIY origins in the bedroom of lead vocalist Ashley Abbedeen - Hotgirl have quickly established themselves as one of the most buzzed about acts on Dublin’s music scene. Bolstered by the angular lead guitar lines of Sophie Boxwell, the booming breakbeats of Nick Stanley and the low-end thump of Jake Hurley (Local Boy) - the quartet’s idiosyncratic take on alternative rock has seen them play at sold-out events in venues such as Dublin’s Olympia Theatre and Brixton’s Windmill, earning them supports with veterans (The Libertines) and contemporaries (Sprints, Pillow Queens, Fat Dog) alike. 

Having spent 2024 honing new material with producer Neil Kennedy (Milk Teeth, Creeper) and playing festivals at home and internationally with their typically raucous live energy; Hotgirl are gearing up for the release of their forthcoming EP out early next year, showcasing the eccentricities that set the band aside from their peers. 

On the EP’s lead single ‘In Your Head’, the group oscillates manically between sweetly melodic verses and hard, explosive hooks before shifting into an entirely new sonic backdrop for the track’s outro section. Detailing its origins, Abbedeen explained:

“This is a song about a boy I loved that really wanted me to write a song about him. I found it hard during our two years together to feel inspired enough to do it in any truly meaningful way, as I was actively suppressing what I thought of our relationship. The truth was that as much as we were in love, we were too dependent on each other to feel good about ourselves and ultimately needed to break up. It took us a long time to realise that the only thing that hurt more than being apart was being together. I am grateful for our relationship as it taught me a lot about myself. Finally giving up on it once and for all and trusting my gut gave me a newfound confidence in myself that had been dormant for way too long”

ifitbeyourwill S04E11 • Maria Maita-Keppeler of MAITA

Join us as Maria Maita-Keppeler of MAITA takes us on her remarkable journey of musical evolution and personal growth. Discover how she transitioned from playing complex violin pieces to crafting heartfelt songs with guitar and lyrics that cut straight to the heart. Learn how Maria's songwriting style has evolved over the years, moving toward a balance of figurative language and concise impact that resonates with her growing fanbase.

Maria offers a behind-the-scenes look at maintaining creative control during the production of her album "Want," especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Experience the emotional depth and introspection that shaped this collection of songs, each standing strong as a single while together forming a cohesive narrative. From discussing the aesthetics of music video production to the artistic decisions that keep her work authentic, Maria shares insights into navigating the modern music landscape with creativity and vision.

She opens up about the shift from inviting friends to her gigs to witnessing the growth of a dedicated audience eager to attend her shows. Listen as Maria explores the nuanced dynamics of relationships, emphasizing the power of clear communication and understanding each other's unspoken desires. Whether you’re a musician, music lover, or someone intrigued by the art of storytelling, Maria's journey offers a rich tapestry of insights and inspiration.

MAITA uses her songs -- bursting, overflowing with language and sharp turns of phrase -- as a forum for unvarnished expression."- KEXP

https://www.maitamusic.com/

Metal Bubble Trio • Cucumber • 2024

www.metalbubbletrio.com

Discussing the “Cucumber” single, Dost notes, "I knew the album would be called ‘Cucumber’ and that there would be a title track long before I knew what that meant. It just felt right - Cucumber. It kept percolating in my head, lyrics gradually formed, and I worked with Chris Hatfield to help bring it to life. The song kind of brings the themes of the album full-circle. It’s about the bits of information that get lost when people die, get divorced, or otherwise lose touch. The recipe only your grandma could make, that’s impossible to replicate. The breakfast spot you went to in Brooklyn that you don’t want to trouble an ex to ask about.

The Routes • Surfin’ Pleasures • 2024

The unstoppable surf-rock innovators The Routes return with their latest release, Surfin’ Pleasures, out on November 8th via Topsy-Turvy Records. Known for their "beat-you-to-death surf music" (as described by Iggy Pop), the band takes a bold new direction by reimagining the iconic music of Joy Division.

Following their successful surf interpretations of Kraftwerk and Buzzcocks, Surfin’ Pleasures is not a typical tribute album. Instead of straightforward cover versions, The Routes have carefully deconstructed 12 of Joy Division’s classic tracks—drawing subtle inspiration from the original melodies and rhythms to craft something wholly unique. The result? A head-spinning collection of 60s surf guitar instrumentals that pay homage to the post-punk legends while transforming their songs into a sonic wave of reverb-drenched, retro surf rock.

Fans can expect beloved Joy Division tracks like "A Means to an End" and "Ice Age" to get a full-on 60s drag race soundtrack treatment, while "Transmission" channels The Astronauts’ timeless sound, and "Digital" morphs into a beach party anthem. Whether you’re a surf rock aficionado or a die-hard Joy Division fan, Surfin’ Pleasures offers something fresh and exciting for all music lovers.

The album cover is a standout in itself, featuring a reimagined design from British design icons Peter Saville and Malcolm Garrett. A playful take on Saville’s iconic Unknown Pleasures artwork, the pulsar lines are reworked into the sound wave of a reverb tank, echoing the album’s retro surf vibe with a nod to Bridget Riley-inspired op art.

Is this project blasphemy or musical alchemy? You decide. One thing is certain—The Routes have delivered another future cult classic that will either delight or disturb for years to come.

https://theroutesjp.bandcamp.com/

The Bluetones • Drive Thru EP • 2024

The Bluetones, the legendary British indie rock band hailing from West London, have officially announced the release of their highly anticipated new EP, marking their first new music since 2010. This fresh release, which also inaugurates the band's very own label, Brainhole Records, is the first of a trilogy set to roll out over the next 6-8 months.

Formed in 1993, The Bluetones quickly established themselves as a force in the UK music scene with thirteen Top 40 singles and three Top 10 albums. Although the band first rose to prominence during the Britpop era, their influence and artistry have never wavered. After years of successful tours and revisiting their iconic back catalogue, the band is ready to share their next chapter with the world.

“For the first time since we formed the music isn’t driven by an outside agenda, or a need to fill somebody else’s schedule. It feels like the purest thing we’ve done since we were a signed band” says frontman Mark Morriss.

 

ifitbeyourwill S04E10 • Celina of Future Star

Celina from Future Star shares her fascinating journey from a childhood filled with music to her career as a successful artist. Growing up with a piano teacher for a mother and a musician father, Celina’s life was enriched with musical experiences that fuelled her passion. From a humorous anecdote involving Sarah McLachlan's manager to the communal joy of choir singing, she reflects on how these moments shaped her artistic path. The conversation underscores the deep connection and cultural significance of shared musical experiences, sparking thoughts on the rarity and beauty of communal singing in today's world.

Celina reveals her transition from a DIY musician to working with Men Records. We discuss the support and structure this brings, allowing her to focus more on the craft while maintaining her musical essence. Wrapping up with admiration for Celina's artistic achievements, we offer encouragement for her future endeavours and reflect on the imaginative journey through her unique lens. Filled with anticipation, we look forward to the continued evolution of her music and the shared moments that await.

futurestar.rocks

While dreaming about houses that have been torn down and shows that happened in venues that don't exist anymore, Future Star explores the space between now and then with their upcoming album It's About Time!. A retrospective on seven years of songwriting, It's About Time! reminds us that a moment can go on infinitely, a memory can be shared, and something might have changed when you weren't looking.

Willie Nelson • Do You Realize?? • 2024

https://willienelson.com/

Willie Nelson is now in his 7th decade as a songwriter, performer and recording artist, but one of his most underrated talents is song interpretation. Over his career he has tackled songs from across the world of music, making each his own. Now for his 76th solo studio album and 153rd album overall as he celebrates his 91st year, Willie turns his gaze to a collection of songs by rock legends, idiosyncratic singer songwriters, altrock heroes and indie folk artists.

 

The second single from the album is Willie’s take on “Do You Realize??” One of The Flaming Lips’ most enduring songs is an existentialist masterpiece well-suited to the tao of Willie. From their perspective, the Lips loved it. “He’s just such a unique singer,” lead singer Wayne Coyne says. “You hear one second of his voice, and you go, that’s him.” Fellow bandmember and song co-writer Steven Drozd says his only regret is that his late father won’t get to hear it: “I wish he was still alive to see this happening, that Willie Nelson is doing a Flaming Lips song I had a part in co-writing. He’d be very proud.”

Porridge Radio • God Of Everything Else • 2024

“More sprawling and subdued than their raw breakthrough LP, 2020’s Every Bad, Clouds finds frontperson Dana Margolin parsing creative exhaustion and crumbling relationships with ragged vulnerability.”

– Pitchfork, The 36 Most Anticipated Albums of Fall 2024

“The cathartic lyricism of the [songs] we’ve heard so far really stands out, as does their intensity, and that has our hopes for this album high.”

– Brooklyn Vegan, 43 Albums We're Anticipating for Fall 2024

“Where the previous single ‘Sick Of The Blues’ has the band’s main songwriter Dana Margolin seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, ‘A Hole In The Ground’ finds us right in the middle of the heartbreak, as Margolin’s voice breaks with unremitting sorrow and ache.” 

– The Needle Drop

Instagram

HotKid • Downtown • 2024

 https://hotkid.ca/

HotKid is the creative vision of Canadian producer, songwriter, and guitarist Shiloh Harrison. For over a decade, Harrison's soothing vocal delivery and knack for writing enduring pop songs have helped HotKid cultivate a cult following around the globe. With four full-length albums and multiple EPs and singles to their name, HotKid’s sound ranges from guitar-driven rock anthems to dreamy, melancholic pop ballads.

Dutch Mustard • Thank You • 2024

“A rousing, triumphant ode to individuality and empowerment” NOTION

“Dutch Mustard make listeners feel hope for the future of rock” The Grammys

"Accomplished" – Iggy Pop - BBC 6 Music | “totally infectious" Jack Saunders - BBC Radio 1

“ethereal thumper” DORK | “Dreamy alt-rock” The Line of Best Fit | “lush and beautiful” CLASH

Snowgoose • Better Listen • 2024

https://www.snowgoose.me.uk/

In the creative pastures of Glasgow’s music scene, Snowgoose stands as a beacon, helmed by the nuanced artistry of Jim McCulloch and Anna Sheard. McCulloch, with his illustrious stints with The Soup Dragons, Isobel Campbell and BMX Bandits, alongside Sheard’s compelling vocal palette, carve out a niche that feels both warmly retrospective and boldly new. Snowgoose gear up for the release of their third album, "Descendant” where they invite us into a place where the complexities of human emotion are laid bare against a backdrop of melodic beauty.

Anna describes the album: "Descendant explores the delicate interplay between the joys of love and the inevitability of loss. Each song navigates the complex emotions that connect these experiences, serving as a reflection on the beauty and pain of impermanence."

Snowgoose have consistently garnered praise for their musical depth and emotive songwriting. Uncut Magazine described their earlier work as "spellbinding," while The Scotsman praised Anna's vocals for invoking "the spirit of Sandy Denny, a soothing instrument no matter what sorrow she is imparting."

"Descendant" is crafted with their exquisite blend of folk and psych. Featuring the guitar of Raymond McGinley (Teenage Fanclub) the keys of Chris Geddes (Belle and Sebastian), the bass of Stevie Jones (Arab Strap), the pedal steel of Tim Davidson (Tracyanne & Danny), and the drums of Stuart Kidd (BMX Bandits) and Adam Stearns (Trembling Bells), this album is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Scottish indie royalty.

ifitbeyourwill S04E09 • Gary Olson of The Ladybug Transistor

Gary Olson from The Ladybug Transistor takes us on a nostalgic journey back to his first encounters with the magic of radio, which ignited his passion for music. Imagine the excitement of flipping through radio dials as a child, stumbling upon the hidden gems of college stations that would ultimately shape a lifelong musical path. Gary reveals how his unconventional songwriting methods, which rely on layering sounds with a four-track recorder rather than traditional chord progressions, have been key in the formation of The Ladybug Transistor. As he shares his unique creative process, we get a glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives his artistic endeavors, offering insight into how it all comes together to create the band's signature sound.

Gary opens up about the benefits of recording vocals solo in the studio and how working with an engineer can bring a fresh, objective perspective to the mix. We reminisce about the creation of their album "Albemarle Sound," recalling the creative energy that flowed from living together as a band. With the upcoming 25th-anniversary reissue on the horizon, Gary discusses the thrill of unearthing rare demos and b-sides that breathe new life into the album for a new audience. Tune in to explore the artistic choices and collaborations that have defined Ladybug Transistor's enduring legacy.

Titles

ifitbeyourwill • Gary Olson of Ladybug Transistor

Gary Olson Unveils the Secrets Behind the Music

Reviving the Melody Gary Olson's Way

The Creative Tapestry of Ladybug Transistor

Gary Olson's Unique Path in Song craft

Overall, this podcast episode offers a profound exploration of Gary Olson's musical journey, the creative processes behind The Ladybug Transistor, and the band's enduring impact on the indie music scene. The episode is a must-listen for music enthusiasts, offering a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and artistic insight.

https://www.instagram.com/theladybugtransistor/

Windmill • Investments • 2024

matthewthomasdillon.com

Abbey Cone • this little lighter of mine • 2024

“‘this little lighter of mine’ is a title I brought into a write with Josh Lovell and Hank Compton,” shares Cone. “I wanted to put an edgy, cheeky twist on the traditional children's hymn, ‘This Little Light of Mine.’ Ultimately, this song is about vices. We’ve all got 'em and need something to take the edge off every now and then, because life is hard sometimes.” 

Website

ifitbeyourwill S04E08 • Mary Water & Pat Maley of Guidon Bear

Join us on a fascinating musical exploration with Mary Water and Pat Maley from Guidon Bear as they reveal the heart and soul behind their new record, "Internal Systems." Discover how their 25-year collaboration began in the 90s when Pat, captivated by Mary's performances, brought her onto the Yo-Yo Recordings label. With roots in church bands and experimental Philly sounds, their journey highlights music as a therapeutic force that helps them maintain emotional balance and connection, much like a deeply personal therapy session.

Curious about how creativity thrives amidst imperfections? Mary and Pat share their insights into the unblocking of the creative mind, a process akin to embracing spontaneity in live performances. As they unfold the secrets of their dynamic partnership, listeners will gain an understanding of authentic artistic expression, far removed from the polished facades often seen on social media. Adrian Lenker's songwriting class on this very topic provides a backdrop to their unique approach to music-making.

Explore the reality of life on tour with the compelling track "Ride Into the Beast," inspired by the challenges and discoveries encountered on the road. Pat's cultural insights and musical versatility shine through, transforming simple arpeggiations into resonant soundscapes that echo shared experiences. In a world where connections are increasingly sought through screens, this episode prompts reflection on the nature of empathy and the narratives we construct to make sense of our own lives.

https://www.instagram.com/guidonbear

https://downwardlymobilesteelaccelerator.com/

"all the invention and heart we’ve come to expect from Guidon Bear, capturing the experience of real life with a unique sound" - Various Small Flames

"infused with tremendous energy and an authentic approach...exudes a warm, homemade atmosphere." - Start Track

"glistening and cheery melodies and harmonies, perfectly soundtracking lyrics from the real world and lived experiences, reflective and occasionally noir in nature. The result is all-original and

catchy compositions that have that undeniable ear-worm quality." - Aldora Britain Records

"I adore the sense here that feels seeded from 60's bohemian folk, 70's busker punk and maybe from new artists that fueled retro adorations of revisionist indie sounds" - American Pancake

TW Walsh • Wilderness • 2024

Dean & Britta & Sonic Boom • "Pretty Paper” • 2024

https://found.ee/apeaceofus

Cracker • Sick of Goodbyes • Alternative History Version • 2024

https://crackerband.lnk.to/alternative_historyPR

To the uninitiated Cracker might seem to be just another '90s alternative rock band. However, fans recognize that the band is much more than that, having skillfully explored a wide array of styles over nearly 35 years. Regrettably, when newcomers hear a Cracker song and wish to learn more about the band, they often start with algorithmic streaming playlists. These playlists are typically limited to the dozen or so tracks with the most streams. As a result, these playlists are dominated by a few albums from the early 1990s, the heyday of alternative rock radio. There are also a few “greatest hits” compilations for Cracker available, but these, at best, cover only the first third of the band’s 35-year career. Both of these sources overlook some of the band’s most critically acclaimed and fan-favorite work.

Nap Eyes • Dark Mystery Enigma Bird • 2024

Nap Eyes’ songwriter Nigel Chapman says:

"As you’ll see in the video, Dr. Cool’s imagination is intensely vivid and, perhaps it’s all right to say, mind-blowing. We are very lucky for this chance to collaborate with him, and grateful for the huge determination and patience it must have taken to create this powerful story from out of nothing, and fuse it to the ‘Enigma Bird’ song. For us it’s beautiful and moving to participate in this creation.”

“Dark Mystery Enigma Bird” is the final pre-release single from Nap Eyes' much anticipated forthcoming fifth album, The Neon Gate set for release on October 18, 2024. This disjunctive avian fable told through a stream-of-consciousness narrative provides, with its sun-dappled surreality, perhaps the most immediate earworm melodies and arrangements on the record. Unlike most vocals on The Neon Gate, which were recorded live with the band, songwriter Nigel Chapman recorded his vocals for “Enigma Bird” in a blanket-draped children’s cardboard castle in his parents’ basement.

https://www.napeyes.com/

COOL HEAT • Little Romance • 2024

linktr.ee/coolheat

Pickle Darling • The Milkman of Human Kindness • 2024

Pickle Darling lends an uplifting cover of Billy Bragg's poignant classic, "The Milkman of Human Kindness.” Lukas Mayo, the creative force behind Pickle Darling, wields the song’s socially conscious message with a delicate plucking metronome through a terrain of synths, guitar and snappy drum machine.

Instagram

Christopher Lee Lewis • My, oh, My (Summer of ’94) • 2024

Lewis’ ability to pair biting lyrics with unexpected warmth is on full display in ‘They Still Haven’t Figured Out What’s Wrong With Me.’ It’s a record that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable, capturing the messiness of life in all its complexity. psychMag

Christopher Lee Lewis returns with the follow-up to his July release, They Haven’t Figured Out What’s Wrong With Me, both on Sweet Cheetah Records. This second installment delves even deeper into Lewis’ battles and unfiltered narratives that resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Go ahead--call it a part two, if you'd like.