Now Listening: February
Loose Buttons - “I Saw Jon Hamm at the Beach”
Sometimes, all it takes is one cosmically random encounter to change your outlook on life. For New York City rockers Loose Buttons, this moment was catching a glimpse of ‘the ideal man’ Jon Hamm while spending a lazy summer day at the beach. The band just couldn’t shake the encounter and instead used it as inspiration for their latest single “I Saw Jon Hamm at the Beach”. The song is both introspective and easygoing with dreamy guitar bends floating atop a relaxed indie groove. While the lyrics grapple with the illusions of perfection, the group creates a sound as hypnotic as watching waves crashing onto the shore. Loose Buttons keeps it lighthearted in the accompanying music video which features the group frolicking in sand dunes, strumming guitars in the ocean, and playing a game of pool all with their new best friend, a Jon Hamm cutout. While most New Yorkers are in the thick of a dreary winter, Loose Buttons have released the perfect pick-me-up track that brings a taste of that summer sunshine while describing the wonder of their mildly life-changing celebrity run in.
Asha Jefferies - “Brand New Bitch”
Asha Jeffries is here with a thrilling new single “Brand New Bitch”. The high-energy track immediately pulls you in with its driving bass line and brings you along for a euphoric ride. The accompanying music video features Jeffries careening around Australian streets on the back of a motorbike and getting bothered by a man with balloons. While the whole visual may have confused bystanders, it is enthralling to watch Jeffires revel in the fun of becoming a “Brand New Bitch”. The track comes to an apex towards its anthemic bridge. It’s a powerful moment where every instrument gets their time to go a little wild while Jeffries chants an inspiring mantra. You can feel the excitement and acceptance Jeffries feels as she shares her story of leaning on community and finding her way to expressing her queerness. “Brand New Bitch” is a powerful indie pop single that flirts with the intensity of a screaming rock song. Jeffries blends these elements together to create an earworm of a driving pop song that anyone who’s ready to become the best version of themselves can revel in.
Niko Rose - “Sleeves”
Niko Rose transports us to the waters edge in his latest single, “Sleeves,” even thought it was written, recorded and produced almost 400 miles from the nearest ocean.
“It’s about just having a good day on the beach, having a little reset type situation, maybe some crying, boogie boarding, all other beach activities,” said Rose.
Rose’s voice is soft and dreamy with chilled out guitar tones and lyrics that seem to float in like fragments of memory. The lack of chorus and use of breaks in the vocal delivery, mimicks the advance and recession of waves.
Rose made the song in his hometown of Cave Creek, AZ, north of the wild horses of Phoenix. Cave Creek doesn’t have any beaches but when passing the palaos and aloes sprouting out of Black Mountain, you just might acheive the sernity Rose is putting forth here. Or you can just play it next to a pool, which your much more likely to encounter in Rose’s desert home.
Rose expects to release an EP this year as well.
Nick Maas - “House For Two”
Nick Maas's "House For Two" resonates with a poignant reflection on the mundane aspects of life and the ennui that can accompany routine. The track, composed and recorded independently by Maas with the addition of drums by a friend, captures a sense of disillusionment and cynicism towards the repetitive nature of daily existence. Through Maas's introspective lyrics and emotive delivery, the song delves into the monotony of engaging in familiar activities with familiar faces, highlighting the sense of stagnation and longing for change. The composition strikes a delicate balance between melancholy and contemplation, drawing listeners into a introspective journey through its evocative melodies and raw authenticity. "House For Two" serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human emotions and the quest for meaning amidst the routine of everyday life.
Astral Bakers - “Beautiful Everything”
Astral Bakers' latest single, "Beautiful Everything," heralds a vibrant new chapter for the band, led by Sage, formerly of French trio Revolver. Comprising seasoned musicians Theodora, Nico Lockhart, and Zoé Hochberg, the group infuses their collective experience into a compelling sonic journey. Recorded live in the studio, the track exudes an upbeat vibe reminiscent of Sonic Youth, while retaining the emotive warmth reminiscent of Elliott Smith and Big Thief. As professionals with over a decade in the industry, their collaboration marks a return to musical authenticity and raw energy.
"Beautiful Everything" captures the essence of Astral Bakers' ethos: a quest for epiphanies, friendship, and purity in music. With their debut album, The Whole Story, slated for release on February 9th via Sage Music, Astral Bakers invite listeners into a world where studio intricacies give way to the raw power of live performance and genuine connection.
LICO - “BLOCKER BETA”
LICO makes their debut with "Blocker Beta," heralding the arrival of their upcoming self-titled EP slated for early summer 2024. Crafted in a bedroom in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, "Blocker Beta" is the brainchild of Fin Anderton and Declan Bodger, blending indie pop with infectious hooks and candid lyrics. The track features modern synths, gritty basslines, and pulsating drums, promising an irresistible sound.
With a comprehensive marketing strategy, LICO aims to captivate audiences with short-form, engaging content tailored to their core fanbase. Their focus on visually striking and memorable material sets the stage for an exciting journey as they prepare to unveil their debut single and pave the way for their EP release.
Subterranean Street Society - “STOP TRYING”
Subterranean Street Society brings the energy we’ve been needing this winter with their latest release, "Stop Trying”. The track, complemented by a comical video, offers a candid exploration of societal pressures and the quest for identity, echoing lead singer Louis' childhood reflections on conformity.
"Stop Trying" serves as a poignant commentary on societal norms, urging listeners to challenge the frameworks that dictate their lives. Drawing from influences like The Black Keys and The Dandy Warhols, Subterranean Street Society infused their music with raw, poetic rock, tackling pressing social issues with tracks like "God Couldn't Save The Queen" and "Focus On The Melody." With the upcoming album release of BLEEP on March 8th, the band will embark on a new chapter, inviting listeners to join them on a journey of introspection and rebellion against the status quo.
