Who To Watch in 2014

       A trimmed down list of the bands/artists you need to be watching for in 2014.

    London Grammar- After releasing "Hey Now" last December they, more or less, exploded onto the scene and, with new tracks like "Nightcall" maintaining the same gorgeous lulls and haunting melodies that made us fall for their music in the first place, the band won't be leaving any time soon.

   Hudson Taylor- Listen to one song and you should be hooked because they're perfect. I heard "World Without You" once and now I can't stop; those vocal harmonies and the simplistically wonderful melodies of two acoustic guitars coming together makes their music undeniably addictive and more of their music will be available in the US soon (listen to this [and this] until then to hear how truly great they are).

   Palaye Royale- While on the topic of addictive music, this band has to be mentioned. The reason I am so amazed by their music is because they use classical structures for the bones of their tracks, then they flesh it out with modern tones and indie-rock riffs. The lyrics are so very amazing that I still have not found a less than perfect song from the band and those vocals are so satisfying they could not possibly be any better. Plus, the band has that ineffable 'spark' that you need if you want to be something; they have it and they'll be great (listen to "Get Higher", "Primary Propaganda" and "Die For Something Beautiful" to get started).

   Matthew Mole- His album was number one in South Africa because his music is amazing. If you've been to the blog before, you've probably heard "Take Yours, I'll Take Mine" (because it is the most viewed post, with a good three hundred view headstart on the next closest post), but buy his albums and check out his other music because it's all fantastic. Everything from The Home We Built is filled with sweet melodies and honest lyrics and his Take Yours, I'll Take Mine EP is worth the few dollars because it will, possibly, hold you over until this artist gives us some new tracks to fall in love with.

   Echosmith- Their Talking Dreams album was perfection and, by now, you should have heard "Cool Kids" or "Come Together" on some media outlet and fallen for the band's music. Check them out because they're going to rise quickly in 2014 and you want to know them before all your friends.

   Cattle and Cane- I actually might like these guys better than Kodaline. That seems blasphemous. Their melodies seem fuller, relying on the acoustic rather than the studio, and something in those vocals is more satisfying than that of Garrigan's. Kodaline is amazing, and their quick rise from last August's "All I Want" to this year's headlining international dates is proof of that, but Cattle and Cane's sound is so sweet and pure that I can't seem to get enough of them. Listen to "Red", "I Will Rise", "Sold My Soul", and "Pull Down the Moon".

   City Rain- I don't know why I'm so excited to see what's on their next album, but I just know it's going to be great and you need to be excited for it; their music's slightly amazing. Schools For A High School Dance cannot actually be anything less than near perfection because I'm Gone and Montage were so great and every song that they have released in anticipation of the album is gorgeous and even better than those earlier tracks, so be excited for this next album's release. Listen to "Join the Human Race" and "Mama I Wanna Go Home". 

   Hunter Hunted- Their vocal harmonies and songwriting abilities have always been there and, now that they're signed to a label and have re-released their debut self-titled EP, there's no way the band isn't going to be infecting your radio. Listen to "Keep Together", "Gentle Folks", and "End of the World".

   Julian Taylor Band- "Never Gonna Give You Up" and "Zero to Eleven" are impossible to listen to only once because the band's compositions are as close to perfection as they can get. Hooks that won't leave your head (in a good way) and hum-able melodies mean that the band's forthcoming album is bound to be fantastic. 

Bands to keep in mind:

Black Whiskey Union- Her voice is gorgeous and the tracks are catchy; give them time and they will win you over for sure.

For the Foxes- They just have one thing that needs to change and then they'll be set. 

The Saving Pointe- If they can devote a lot of time to the spread of this album and find someone to give them a leg up in the industry, they should be able to get something.

Gloryhound- They're just good. Really good. 

Love Like Hate- They're new, but give them time to give us an album and they'll be great.
GOVS- "Holy Infinity" promises great lyrics and melodies to come.
Night Terrors of 1927- I don't actually believe that they'll became 'famous' per say, but I do think that they will reach Ra Ra Riot cult-like levels of fan appreciation (which might even be better than widespread, all encompassing fame).

- E

You Could Be Happy

       Sahara Beck's latest EP, You Could Be Happy, is set to be released on October 31, and I couldn't be more excited for her fans to hear what she has come up with.
       The young artist, hailing from Queensland's Sunshine Coast, showed her advanced talent for song-writing by releasing her first full-length album at the age of only fifteen in October 2011 and, by 2012, had won a Queensland Music Award. Beck has performed at multiple music festivals (BIGSOUND, Caloundra Music Festival, Golden Days, Noosa Long Weekend, the SolBar, The J, Peregian Originals, Joe's Waterhole, Brisbane Powerhouse, Judith Wright Centre) and her music has received international radio play.
       The great thing about Sahara Beck is that I had no clue she was seventeen until I read her bio. Most young artists have under-developed vocals (you can still hear the 'child' in their voice when they go to hit some notes), the lyrics read like something I could have jotted down with ease, and their compositions either aren't full enough and hang awkwardly in the background or there's too much going on and it drowns out the vocals, but Beck shows no signs of these shortfalls. With balanced compositions, gorgeously full vocals, and lyrics which read mature beyond her years, this EP promises that Beck is a force to be reckoned with in the music world.
       "C'mon Man You're Dead" has an instantly addictive upbeat tempo and an opening line that grabs you and pulls you into the song before those first 20 seconds are up. A chorus which states "they don't know who you are, though they ran very far, to get away from you, we thought we knew who we were, then we got our fingers burned just to keep up with you" and the emotion in her voice when singing "what's wrong with me, look around and wonder why, people spread these dirty lies" show a young artist wise beyond her years.

       "Mary Jane" may be my favorite song on this album and, while it may reflect poorly upon me that I can't get enough of a song that discusses alcoholism and marijuana ("he wakes up in the morning, and he pours a glass of wine, and I'll tell him it's too early, and he'll say 'aw, babe, it's fine"/"I never need to question when his eyes are cherry red, and I always call her Mrs. Jane, 'cause you know that it sounds nice"), it's too great to ignore. The lyrics are amazing, but the composition makes the song perfect, because the only thing better than the haunting repetition of "now I'm all alone come find me, now I'm all alone come find me" is that back-beat.
       "Bang, Bang, Bang" places the emphasis on Beck's vocals and writing skills with only an acoustic melody to carry her through a soft, yet catchy, chorus. The refreshing maturity that flows through Beck's music is clear in an articulate verse which states "I would rather walk than run, 'cause if you chased me, nothing could grab my foot and pull my body down to the ground, you don't have to fight us, but if you don't, we all know that you're going to have to change your wicked ways eventually" and features Beck's penchant for story-telling mixed with introspective metaphors.
       "Madman" features a solid instrumentation with an alt-rock feel backing those indie folk lyrics, giving it a different feel from the rest of her songs, and it's only made better by that bridge that can't stop from overflowing with emotion; Beck's music is honest, and her willingness to share everything through her lyrics makes songs like this amazing.
       "Daisy" relies only on a soft pattern picking style and Beck's full vocals to carry out mature lines "call me happy, call me down, tell me love will come around, this is how I'll disappear, without hate, without fear", "this is your life, this is mine, going backwards all the time" and, by the time the tempo picks up for "death is peaceful, not so sad, I wouldn't bother getting mad, won't make a difference either way" I'm awestruck by the fact that she has written this at only seventeen years of age. Even if you factor out her age, focusing only on her writing ability versus that of other popular artists, these lyrics are markedly more eloquent than any other popular artist has been able to put out as of recent.
       "You Could Be Happy" features an up-tempo rhythm and a playful melody, and Beck's story-telling skills are in full swing with a verse which states "I said don't be so ashamed, don't let them push you into the shade, you replied 'well, it's all the same, have I ever told you 'bout the flame that never died? Spark arose within the darkest of nights...kept burning and burning till the sun did arise'" and I can't stop playing it on repeat.
       Of all the EP's released, or set to be released, this year, this one promises the best up-and-coming artist that you need to keep your eye on; the music's gorgeous, the vocals are flawless, and I'm blown way by the maturity displayed in this young artist's work. Start falling for her music now because you're going to want to get You Could Be Happy as soon as it drops on the 31st (or pre-order it now).

http://www.saharabeck.com/
https://www.facebook.com/saharabeckmusic
https://twitter.com/SaharaBeck
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My Song 9

       While everything else that comes from China seems to feature choreographed dance moves, everything 'cute', and candy coated pop beats so sweet they rot your teeth, Nova Heart manages to redefine our preconceptions with this refreshing indie techno that surrounds their single, "My Song 9".

       Keep your eye on Nova Heart and I'll make sure to give you more information on the band, because they're so different and so amazing.

"My Song 9" Nova Heart

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Afraid to Die/I Belong to You

       Monks of Mellonwah have released their second EP of three (titled Afraid to Die), which will lead to the release of their full length album, Turn the People. Their first EP, Ghost Stories, received international play and, after winning International Rock Artist of the Year and Best Indie Rock Band at the Los Angeles Music Awards in 2012, the band isn't going anywhere. 

       Head to iTunes to get their latest EP, Afraid to Die, and check out "Afraid to Die" for a great mix of blues, alternative rock, and a few modern twists and "I Belong to You" for a sweet song with a soft melody.

"Afraid to Die" Monks of Mellonwah

"I Belong to You" Monks of Mellonwah

http://www.monksofmellonwah.com/

https://twitter.com/MonksMellonwah

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Sunny Days & Starry Nights

       Arizona based band The Saving Pointe (Hunter Smith, Troy Sanchez, JJ Pruitt, Nate Logan) has spent the past month building hype for their new album, Sunny Days & Starry Nights, and for good reason. The band has dedicated the album to the memory of their friend and, with the band's penchant for story-like verses, strong guitar riffs, and a solid mix of dream-like alt-rock and dance-worthy punk rock, you're going to want to order your copy of Sunny Days & Starry Nights now.

       The album opens with the soft melody and retrospective lyrics of "Daydream" and lines like "is it a dream or is it a memory...is it some form of lost reality" and "my mind comes alive, my heart's anticipating" fall perfectly in line with the weaving melody, creating a hypnotic quality that will suck you into the album before the first chorus is through. And when the beat picks up around 3:07 it's impossible to not get a little excited for the rest of the album.

       "Medusa, My Queen" features the band's quick riffs, strong beats, and awesome lines like "the way you conspire, to have my heart in your hand" and "the dire needs of your beating heart, my hope, my love falling apart" that lead up to a chorus you're going to want to sing-along with.

       "2+2=5, You Suck" was released as the album's first single and with a chorus that states "I can't stand the thought of you, your tell-tale lies that misconstrue, I can't stand the thought of you, so now I'm leaving" to the beat of a solid punk rock rhythm, you can't not dance. Plus, the music video's fun and makes the band even more likable.

       "Chuffa" was written and sung (with chorus echoes from Smith [lead singer] and group vocals from the rest of the band) by Sanchez (guitar) and features, not surprisingly, an awesome guitar riff that surges the song forward, insisting that you dance around until the song ends with the great line "close your eyes and realize you're better than this".

       "The Old Man" takes a step back from the punk rock, dance-worthy beats of the previous songs to feature a soft rhythm with bitter-sweet lyrics that state "I saw the love fade before my eyes...I wanted to take the chance, but I don't know a thing about romance" and "solitude strolls right into the holes, that are left in his heart...He tells her of years he wished he had, and the way he wished he'd lived instead, but now together they'd forever rest" and I can't get enough.

       "Better Than Before" was written and sung by Logan (drummer) and features a solid beat with a dance-able melody and a chorus which begs to be sung along to with lines like "I'm not used to comin' home, and sleepin' all alone...I'm proud of my pain, 'cause I made it through today...and after all of this, I'm better than before" before drifting into a slowed down bridge and fading out.

       "Home" features an awesome melody that had me convinced I loved the song before the first lyric verse, but an articulate line like "picture all of your memories crammed into one single space, where you have no other choice but to confront your old ways, where you lived you life without a hint of regret, you know the lights are dim, but that's as bright as they get" supported only by a drum beat makes this one of the best on the album, especially after the track slips into an amazing guitar riff around the three minute mark.

     "I Wanna Live Alone" features a laid-back melody with a solid back beat and sounds best with your headphones on and the volume turned up. 

       "Dialed Down Radio" was written in memory of a friend of the band and with relatable lines like "I'm awake and it's 4 AM...I wish I'd given you one more hug, before I said my final goodbye", "strength is hard to find...I'm afraid I'll lose my mind" and "to know I'll never see you again, it rattles me to my core" and group vocals which state "I don't know how I'm gonna be alright...but given time, I'll do my best" it's a little heartbreaking and more than gorgeous.

       "The Things I Withhold" has a wonderfully strong piano melody that carries this retrospective, break-up song through to the end, before closing with the eloquently put title lyrics, "you know you can't escape, the feeling that you get, on sunny days and starry nights".

       "All Too Empty" picks the album back up from it's retrospective segue with a song featuring scream-worthy verses, a melody you have to dance to, and a chorus you'll be singing along to by its second time around.

       "The Monster" was released as the album's second single and features a solid rock anthem-esque sound that's impossible to listen to while sitting still and a chorus with the lines "give me the torch and I will burn your city down, swimming in pride, I dare to drown, chaos is my state of mind tonight, and madness is my lovely bride" that you have to sing along to before the song fades out on "I take one last breath of air".

       "The Wanderer" continues with a solid rock beat, a strong guitar riff, and background vocals that make you want to turn the song all the way up. A line like "I'm so frustrated with myself, but I just cannot help myself, I try to change but deep down I know, I'm too foolish to stop" and a chorus which states "I'm not sure what I believe anymore, I'm a wretched one, I'll find my peace when I am done" only makes the song that much better.

       "So Why Should I Sing" picks up with slow guitar chords, soft vocals, and a chorus which insists "another lyric tossed about, as if it's truth, it doesn't matter who or what, it's the why that makes it you, why can I never catch a break, in the things that matter most, why can I not get past this stupid future, I'll never get to hold" before slipping into an awesome guitar riff with a solid bass presence around 2:46 and ending with loud riffs, screaming vocals, and a steady drum beat that plays out the song. The song is unarguably amazing and has me convinced that these guys have put out a stellar album that their fans will love completely.

       The album was able to come to fruition due to the fundraising efforts of fans, so make sure to keep on supporting the band by heading over to their merch site to pre-order your copy of Sunny Days & Starry Nights (set for release November 5) and check the band out on Twitter and Facebook.

-E

Talking Dreams

       It is so rare that I find female vocals which are full enough that I can sit and listen to them for an entire album, but Echosmith's debut album, Talking Dreams (released earlier this week), features strong, clear vocals and catchy beats I can't get enough. Better still, the band is comprised of four siblings (Sydney, Noah, Graham, and Jamie Sireota) who have been playing and making music together for years, resulting in a perfect chemistry that's evident in each track (each sibling adds to the track by playing multiple instruments and singing).

       "Come Together" features an into which sounds reminiscent of Coldplay (one of the band's influences) before it sinks into a low bass rhythm with an electric back beat to create an indie punk sound, and staying just quiet enough that the vocals are allowed to take center stage.

       "Let's Love" jumps in with a clear indie pop sound (with an emphasis on the 'pop') and with the repetition of "let's love while we're young" it would be a perfect summer song.

       "Cool Kids" has a slowly building melody and lyrics which amaze me. A perfect opening verse which states "she says they're walking in a straight line, but that's not really her style, and they all got the same heartbeat, but hers is falling behind, nothing in this world could ever bring them down, yeah they're invincible, and she's just in the background" then segues into a sing-along chorus will have you dancing along and rooting for the underdog. Plus, "they don't know where they're going, in the fast lane, living life without knowing" is incredibly articulate and completely awesome.

       "March Into the Sun" has a soft, laid back beach sound (sounding a little reminiscent of San Cisco) with just enough to guitar to keep the melody interesting and a chorus that will prove impossible to not sing-along with.

       "Come With Me" builds slowly before a steady drum beat chimes in with gusto, refusing to let up. With vocals from all four siblings pleading "come with me, and I'll take you away if you let me, stay with me, and I'll cover your soul with my body, give me your heart and I'll give my love... so give your heart to me" it's hard not to fall into the rhythm of this song and it's easy to find yourself singing along by the second listen and when that bridge kicks in around 2:50, featuring Sydney's strong vocals and a solid drum beat, it only gets better.

       "Bright" offers a sweet acoustic sound with cute lyrics that you want to turn up and dance around to by the time the love song reaches the chorus the first time around.

       "Talking Dreams", the title track, features fast guitar and an insistent rhythm with lyrics which sound just as positive and sure as the beat, insisting "let's run not walk through this beautiful life... heart beats through me, through this beautiful life".

       "Tell Her You Love Her" may be my favorite from the track and with soft vocals, a weaving melody with a steady rhythm, perfect lyrics which read as simple instructions (with lines like "tell her the truth, you treat her better, make sure to see it through, don't be just everything she wants, be everything she needs...she'll tell you secrets, you tell her secrets too" and "tell her she's lovely, always tell her the truth"), and a chorus which warns "but don't you run away, run away, when you get tired, 'cus this will slip away, slip away, and start a fire", I can't get enough.

       "Ran Off In the Night" has a solid alternative rock sound and a repetitive chorus line which begs you to sing-along before the song has even got to its first verse.

       "Nothing's Wrong" has an instrumentation which picks up and drops off with ease, relying more on the lyrics which read like a story to carry out the song.

       "Safest Place" has a simple indie pop sound with a strong rhythm, a gorgeous melody, and a chorus which states "if you're looking for truth, don't come looking for me, you're better off not knowing, 'cus your own story is the safest place you'll ever be" that has me almost as addicted as "Tell Her You Love Her"

       "Surround You" features a slowly building melody with awesome background vocals and softly sung lyrics with a cute message that begins with "I searched valleys and mountaintops...never thought love could be found" and ends with the repetition of "I want my love to surround you" before circling back to the opening verse.

       There are two bonus tracks and while "We're Not Alone" has a drum beat that's made for listening with your headphones on and the volume turned up, "Up To You", with it's intro guitar riff, strong lyrics, and dance-able melody make it worth getting the Deluxe Version of the album.

       Head over to Amazon or iTunes to get your copy of Echosmith's debut album, Talking Dreams, so that you can listen to all of the great music and start falling in love with the band's sound.

- E

Black Taxi Update

       If you haven't heard of Black Taxi yet, head over to iTunes or Amazon to buy their most recent EP, Chiaroscuro, because each song is more amazing than the last. The band has two full length albums you can check out (Things of That Nature and We Don't Know Any Better) and with a sound described as party rock and dance punk, it's impossible to not get horribly addicted to their music. 

       The band recently announced a second leg of their fall tour and with reportedly energetic live performances, I'm tempted to drive the eight and a half hours to the Pensacola show and spend the weekend. Check the dates below to see if the band is going to be touring anywhere near you and watch the video for "House On Fire" if you need further convincing to buy their music. 

Wednesday 10/30 - Lexington, KY @ Cosmic Charlie's

Thursday 10/31 - Asheville, NC @ The Mill Room
Friday 11/1 - Athens, GA @ Green Room
Saturday 11/2 - Birmingham, AL @ Workplay Theatre

Monday 11/4 - Jackson, MS @ Duling Hall

Tuesday 11/5 - Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theatre

Thursday 11/8 - Columbus, GA @ The Foxhole

Friday 11/9 - Pensacola, FL @ Vinyl Music Hall

Thursday 11/15 - Mobile, AL @ Soul Kitchen

Friday 11/16 - New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa

Saturday 11/17 - Corpus Christi, TX @ House of Rock

Monday 11/19 - Houston, TX @ Fitzgerald's Downstairs

Tuesday 11/20 - San Antonio, TX @ 502 Bar

Wednesday 11/21 - Austin, TX @ Bar Mirabeau

Thursday 11/22 - Austin, TX @ Stubb's Indoors

Friday 11/23 - Austin, TX @ Lola's Saloon

Saturday 11/24 - Little Rock, AR @ Juanita's

Sunday 11/25 - Louisville, KY @ Zanzabar

"House On Fire" Black Taxi

http://www.noshame.com/black-taxi/

House On Fire

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Say Something EP

       A Great Big World has been on the rise since the release of 2011's hit New Year's Eve (that movie where there was just an amalgamation of actors/actresses who wanted a sure way to make money) where their song, "This Is the New Year", was featured. They have released all of their songs on YouTube, thus far, but will be releasing an official Say Something EP on October 15th, whose track-list includes, "Say Something", "This Is the New Year", "There Is An Answer" and "Everyone Is Gay". 

        Everyone has that one person who, for some inexplicable reason, you have given infinite chances to, despite your friends insistence that you leave them, and "Say Something" perfectly personifies that feeling when you finally realize how ridiculous it is that you've waited this long to give up on them ("it was over my head, I know nothing at all"). With lyrics like "I will swallow my pride, you're the one that I love, I'm saying goodbye...say something I'm giving up on you, and I'm sorry that I couldn't get to you" the emotion is clear, and when those vocals seem to break on "I'm giving up on you" as the strings crescendo (about 2:40), it's more than a little heartbreaking. The sentiment behind the music is sweet though, as it's written in the major chord, just slowed down to mimic the minor chord, hinting at the idea that, even though the song, or situation, is devastating, there is still a call for optimism.

       "This Is the New Year" has a fun and cute music video with uplifting lyrics that keep from falling too far into the realm of 'cheesy' with articulate lines like "do not save this for tomorrow, embrace the past and you can live for now", "in the end we have each other, and that's at least one thing worth living for" and "let's tear the walls down that divide us, and build a statue strong enough for two, I pass it back to you, and I will wait for you, 'cus I would give the world...to you", before breaking into a dance worthy guitar riff. 

       Lines like "I am just a sailor in a great big sea, searching for what's meant for me...I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be" and "there is a ripple to every wave, a rhythm to the days and nights...all our thoughts multiply, make a change... one small step is all we need", prove that "There Is An Answer" is just as uplifting as the title suggests. A soft piano interlude before a bridge which states "near or far, oh I believe that love will find us there, through the dark" and then the repetition of "I believe that love will find us there" only reinforces the optimism which surges through all of A Great Big World's songs, resulting in a wonderfully addictive song.

       "Everyone is Gay" has an adorable video and great lyrics ("if you're straight well that's great, you can help procreate, and make gay little babies for the whole human race, make a world we can live in, where the one who you love's not an issue") that make it completely irresistible. A quick piano melody, a solid drum beat, and lyrics which include "we're all just looking for love to change the world, but if the world stops spinning tomorrow, we can't keep running away from who we are" make this a perfect song to end the EP on.

       With strong piano melodies that stubbornly insist on staying in the major chord at all times, unexpected guitar interludes you have to dance to, and expressive lyrics, A Great Big World's Say Something EP is worth checking out. The band's heading out on tour tomorrow so check here to see if they'll be travelling through your town.

http://agreatbigworld.com/

Facebook

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Kodaline Update

       Kodaline's been keeping busy since the release of their first full length album (In A Perfect World) and, with it reaching the top of the charts and staying there, who could blame them? So, if you're a fan (and you should be), here's a few of the most recent updates.

       The band is setting off on their North American tour (though it's really more of a glorified 'Northernmost area of the US with a few West coast and one Canadian date thrown in' tour...) so you can check here to see if they're going to be performing anywhere near you, because I'm sure they would be amazing live (though I've gotten over missing out on seeing them open for The Airborne Toxic Event this summer because I got to find out about Leagues instead, and hearing Cockrell state that "listening to an opening band is like being stuck in a thirty minute conversation you never wanted to have" may be the best thing an opening band has ever said [plus the band's adorable and fun and their music's awesome]).

       Kodaline's been doing a lot of live sessions lately but, if I sounded that amazing, I'd be showing it off too. Honestly, no song has as an opening guitar riff as sweet and satisfying as Kodaline's live session of "Brand New Day" and "Love Like This" may sound better during this live set than it does recorded; it's gorgeous and I'm continually awestruck by this band's ridiculous talent. The band also did a live cover of Macklemore's "Same Love" and the best way I can describe is as a gorgeous mess; while Garrigan's vocals are gorgeous (as always), the female vocals were there for a reason and it doesn't carry the same rhythm as the original so it just feels off. Kodaline is amazing, but I maintain that this is the best way to listen to "Same Love". The band's acoustic set of "High Hopes" is beautiful though and I can't get over how amazing these guys sound every time they perform. When a band sounds the same live as they do recorded, you have to support them so they can continue making music. 

       "All I Want" Part 2 is set for release October 4th and, with an adorable story-line from the first video and a perfectly gorgeous song, I can't wait to see what the band premieres (watch Part 1 here). 

       Their album will be available in the US October 8th and is available for pre-order on iTunes now (if you've purchased their music previously, the album's only going to cost you around $4, which is awesome if you're embarrassingly broke). Before buying it though, you can stream In A Perfect World on Rdio for free (click on this link and start an account or check out the previews below). Take the time to check it out, if only to start obsessing over "One Day" and "Big Bad World" before the album's released.

       If you want to read more about Kodaline, just type their name in the search box in the upper left corner, because there has been a lot on the blog about this band; their songs are kind of the most amazing thing to happen to music in a while.

Kodaline

https://twitter.com/Kodaline

https://www.facebook.com/Kodaline

http://www.kodaline.com

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IamJesseScott

       With soft, full vocals that rival Michael Franti's, a wonderfully unexpected mixture of country, hip hop, and rap, and lyrics that never fail to make me smile, Jesse Scott isn't going to be a secret for much longer.

       "FML" is amazing, "Sad Songs on the Radio" makes me wish I knew the lyrics well enough after one listen to sing along, "Pushed Too Far" is completely perfect, and every single song on the album makes me wish I had heard Scott's music earlier. Listen to Scott's album, IamJesseScott, below and check him out in all the links below.

https://twitter.com/IamJesseScott

http://www.honuamusic.com/writers/jesse-scott/

https://www.facebook.com/iamjessescottofficial

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Momma Holler Album Update

       If you haven't heard Momma Holler's latest album, You Got What You Wanted, yet, you can stream it from Topspin, then make sure to head over to the band's website to download your copy for free (and sign up for their mailing list to be the first to hear about new music). 

       The album has the same gorgeously simplistic sound as the band's previous album, but is stuffed full of even more songs, laid back compositions, and perfect lyrics (not to mention those wonderfully rich vocals) and I can't get enough of it (and I can't stop replaying "Don't Think Twice").

Stream the album

Download You Got What You Wanted

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Smallpools

       Having only formed a few months ago when Sean Scanlon and Michael Kamerman moved to LA and met Joe Intile and Beau Kuther, Smallpools has already made their mark on the indie pop charts. Their indie/electropop sound is infectious and, with a fusion of summer soaked chords, dance-worthy beats, and ineffably catchy lyrics, it won't be long before their tracks are invading your radio air waves. 

       After forming in early 2013, Smallpools released their first single, "Dreaming", in May and, within a number of hours, the song was at the top of the HypeMachine charts (it reached over 20,000 plays on Soundcloud before the band's facebook page had 500 likes). The band's rise to fame has been so sudden that they did not perform their first live show until this month when they began their tour with Australia's indie pop San Cisco (whose latest album is, finally, available in the US iTunes store). While many bands who reach the charts too quickly due to internet hype are left with too little time to mature and pull out another hit to make their fame last (case in point: Black Kids), these guys don't need any more time to put themselves together to create radio ready, and lasting, music. Smallpools has already created a perfect sound (with a great balance of good lyrics, fun beats, and strong hooks) that begs to be played on repeat and screams summer; the band doesn't need any more time to harness their sound and create something that's fame worthy because they've already got it.

       Their self-titled EP was released July 16 and each song is amazing and radio ready. With lines like "we've got no place to go... we've got nowhere to run" and the ever recurring "oh no, please god tell me we're dreaming", "Dreaming" can be nothing less than perfect. The lines are amazing and align so closely to anyone in the band's fan demographic that it's no surprise that this song is a hit; plus, that hook is so awesome that you're going to be humming it for days afterwards. "Mason Jar" manages to maintain an upbeat appearance while supporting sad lyrics and I can't help but love it; the mixture of a line like "a face like stone, the pain begins to show, and it was not right I should've called them off" backed by a steady beat, major chords, and a feel good sounding chorus is too great to ignore. "Over & Over" is an adorable summer romance song. That steady piano melody and the band's ability to create a perfect hook make this song a must-have for any beach day/road trip. The album ends with "No Story Time", showing the bands love for electronically infused indie sounds and ending on a bitter sweet note, reminiscent of the end of summer, as it repeats "don't you leave me alone, don't you let go" over "no story time" as the song falls into a soft, hypnotic, guitar based melody around 1:50, before it crescendos again (slightly) on the repetition of "no story time", before ending abruptly; a pretty perfect representation of summer's end.

       The bands self-titled EP is available on iTunes and they are currently touring (check dates here) and working on their debut full length album. Check out the links to the band's webpages below and make sure to buy their debut EP on iTunes now.

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Shared Music

       One of my favorite things since starting this blog has been having a band/ PR company/ record label email me information about their work; I love it.

       Finding music is fun and amazing (I can't believe it took me so long to find bands like Family of the Year and Passenger, Kodaline continues to amaze me and, had I not found Lady Danville [now Hunter Hunted] back in '08, I would have never returned to music), but there's just something really great about being given the chance to hear music I may have never found on my own.

       Below are just some of the awesome bands who have gotten in touch with me (through Gmail, Twitter, YouTube) over the past eleven months (This blog is almost a year old! I feel like I should do something special. If you know who I am, let's go do something August 16), along with some of the bands who have so graciously reached out to me after I mentioned them on the blog; you are all amazing. I cannot wait to hear the music you continue to create and you make it worth the effort it took to turn my life back over to music and, for that, I am eternally grateful.

"Chandeliers" Our Big Plan 

"The Tide" Shake It Up (this is not on YouTube, so click on the link for good music)

"Goodbye Serenade" The Rebel Light (they were the first band to get in contact with me. They're pretty cool)

"Lionheart" Sirsy (check out "She's Coming Apart" because it's overly great too [all of their music is great])

"Boogieland" Moonshoes

"Twenty First" Drop the Anchor

"Some Kind of Fairytale" Shauna Case

"Lethal Dose" Ayah Marar

"Drinkin'" Holly Williams (songs like this show just how pure and gorgeous country music can be)

"We Love Like Vampires" Sparks the Rescue (I will play this on repeat all summer)

"Sold My Soul" Cattle & Cane (this song, and all of their music, is simply gorgeous and I can't get enough)

"Mighty Fine" Flora Cash (one of my best musical finds this year)

"Bein' Round You" Momma Holler (one good thing that came out of attending FSU at one time)

"If Worries Were Weights" Dear You (probably one of my favorite 'new' bands and, as Louis Moore [drummer] is 

       the one who got in touch with me [kind of.. found me on Twitter], he's one of my new favorite people; this 

       song, and all of their music, is pretty perfect) 

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Momma Holler Update

       I've been neglecting this band only because their information just does not pertain to me, currently (there is absolutely no way I can afford a trip to travel anywhere out of state to see them perform live [though that is at the top of my 'things-to-do-if-I-ever-win-the-lottery-if-I-can-ever-convince-myself-that-throwing-out-one-dollar-a-week-at-my-nearest-Publix-is-a-good-investment'; you know, along with paying off my new car, magically getting through this next year without having to take out any student loans, and not working at a place where women think a $60 shirt is "reasonably priced"]), but they are, nonetheless, amazing.

       Recently, the band has been finishing up work on their first full length album, You Got What You Wanted, and, while I have no information on when it will be released (because.. I'm just tired; I cannot fathom the energy which is needed to research a release date and for that I apologize), I do know that the music these guys have been putting out has never fallen short of great.

       The lyrics are stripped to their basics with a vulnerable sort of perfection that ring so true it's as if your friends wrote them (in a good way), the instrumentation contains that sort of old-timey feel that never goes out of style and which provides the perfect background music for any night, and those vocals will never be anything less than amazing.

       If you haven't yet fallen for this band, then you're really far behind and you need to get on that check out their first EP, Pack Your Bags Junior (or at least pay attention to "Robbie Robertson", "D Train [Broke My Heart]", and "Oak Leaf"). 

        You can check out this for a quick overview of the band or, better yet, go to the band's facebook page and start falling for them, because they're pretty awesome.

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London Grammar

       London Grammar formed in 2012 as an indie techno trio (Hannah Reid, Dot Major, Dan Rothman) based in London. They released their first track, "Hey Now", on SoundCloud in December (which has already received 310,496 views [as of this posting]) and released their debut EP, Metal & Dust, on February 25th through their own label (Metal & Dust). While the EP features only four songs ("Hey Now", "Metal & Dust", "Darling Are You Gonna Leave Me", "Hey Now [Dot Major Remix]"), the band has already begun to make their mark in the UK, already having sold out their first headlining concert at the Electrowerkz (taking place March 27th in London).

       "Hey Now" was released as the band's first track in December and gives a great introduction to the sound which is so central to this band. Simply amazing lyrics carried out by smooth, rich vocals and backed by a hypnotically sweet beat that steadily builds as the song progresses makes this song, and each of the band's alternate tracks, great. Lines like "you know it is frightening, you know it's like lightening" and "letters burning by my bed for you... I can feel my instincts here for you" are pretty perfect and that slow melody that flows throughout the song makes it easy to play this track on repeat. "Hey Now (Dot Major Remix)" is just as addictive as the original song, managing to maintain that same hypnotic quality achieved by those slow backing beats, while simultaneously picking up the beat and speeding it up, all without distorting those great vocals.

       "Metal & Dust" was released on February 14th through the band's YouTube and Facebook page's, only a week before the bands first EP (Metal & Dust) was released in the UK and Ireland. That slow, pulsating back beat that gradually builds to the chorus, all the while supporting great lyrics (with lines as amazing as "and all foundation that we've made, built to last, they disintegrate, and when your house begins to rust, it's just metal and dust" and "we argue we don't fight, stay awake till the middle of the night") makes this song perfect. The vocals are great, the lyrics could not be put together better, and the composition is a truly refreshing change from the alternative folk sound which has been so popular the last year or so.

       "Darling Are You Gonna Leave Me" is the only song that could possibly be better than "Metal & Dust". Lines like "I'm still holding onto your waistband, turn away and kick up the red sand" and "black crows, dusty roads, and a fire, burns in the distance is higher" which are backed by a drum beat and a great guitar riff (verses the pulsating electronic beats heard in the band's other songs) make this song stand out from the others on the band's EP. The composition is still just as refreshing (as the other songs), the lyrics and vocals are awe-inspiring, and the sound is great. 

       The most succinct way to describe this band is as simply amazing; their tracks are hypnotic and addictive with sweet slow beats that suck you in and carry you along with vocals so smooth and lyrics so great that you can't help but want to sing along. With their addictive compositions, perfect lyrics, and refreshing sound, the band has wasted no time in creating a strong fan base and they won't be staying a secret for much longer. Check out the band in the links below and support them by buying their EP (if you can; if you're in the states, or anywhere that is not the UK or Ireland, you'll just have to rely on YouTube to get your London Grammar fix for the time being).

http://www.londongrammar.com/

https://www.facebook.com/londongrammar

https://twitter.com/londongrammar

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The Rebel Light

       An indie rock trio from Los Angeles, The Rebel Light is comprised of two brothers from New York and their cousin from California (Alan Steil, Jarrett Steil, and Brandon Cooke). They released their self-titled first EP on November 13, 2012, recording the vocals in a bathroom and the drums in a woodshed and, while it features only three songs (the fourth song is simply a radio edit of the previous song), each song is great; plus, it's free on NoiseTrade.

       "My Heroes Are Dead" starts with some electronic beats before jumping into a full composition (including a sturdy chorus and guitar riff) before the first verse has begun. The composition is reminiscent of a good, early '90's, grunge that manages to sound urgent and dreamlike all at once. It's an irresistible sound and, with great lyrics like "I believe I've never been wrong, now I feel like I'm being misled", you can't help but fall into the song; plus, you have to love the juxtaposition between this song and the next one on the album. 

       "Goodbye Serenade" is probably the most addictive song I have heard this year, if only because, in a year when even the most popular artists seem to be reaching new levels of maturity and vulnerability, this song still manages to delve deeper and sound purer; the fact that "I couldn't hear what you said, falling apart at the seams" may be the best opening line I've heard in a while doesn't hurt it's potential for greatness, either. With a solid back beat, a trumpet that remains steady throughout (and crescendos only when it is needed to lift the composition [starting right before that three minute mark]), vocals that manage to sound scratchy yet clean, and good lyrics capable of evoking emotions in the listener (like "all of the reasons we make time..." and "I couldn't tell if you changed, or does the darkness remain". Not to mention the remarkable articulateness of a line like "it's not the notes that you play, it is the silence between"), it's hard not to love this song. The music video is awfully addicting, using hope, optimism, and everything you ever loved as it's central thesis, and I can't help getting sucked into it when seeing images of Falkor (The Neverending Story), Beatlemania, the Tiananmen Square protests, and Charlie Chaplin's first speaking role.

       "Wake Up Your Mind" is featured twice on the EP and has the conclusive sound that should be central to any good 'last song' on an album. The song sounds a little reminiscent of some of Muse's compositions (each track of the composition seems to have its own idea of the sound it aspires to create yet the tracks still manage to come together, in the end, to create a wandering composition that never loses focus, sticking to one main theme, throughout), just mixed with a little of that gritty rock sound. Aside from a great composition, lyrics like "what I'm feeling is just kept inside", "I can't walk away, hypnotized by endless shades of gray", and "your sacred ground has turned to ash and dust" make the song just good enough that, even with the strong competition created by the previous song ("Goodbye Serenade"), it can still stand out on this EP.

       Though it's not on the band's EP, "Cemeteries & Adversaries" is just as addictive as the band's alternate songs and contains more of that alternative rock sound heard in the composition of "Goodbye Serenade" (with little influence from the electronic indie rock featured on "Wake Up Your Mind" and "My Heroes Are Dead"). The vocals are clean, the composition is straightforward, and the lyrics are just as great as they are in every song.

        Check the band out in the links below and make sure to support them by donating what you can for their EP, available on NoiseTrade.

http://therebellight.com/

https://www.facebook.com/therebellight

https://twitter.com/TheRebelLight

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Hunter Hunted

       Hunter Hunted (born out of Daniel Chang and Michael Garner, formerly of Lady Danville) began, officially, on December 5, 2012 and, as of now, the band has only two songs (though they definitely exemplify the saying "quality over quantity"). 

        "Keep Together" was the band's first song (debuting December 15th) and has that beautiful vocal harmony which we have come to expect from these guys and is a perfect introductory song for the 'new' band. Michael and Dan were in a group before meeting Matthew Frankel and creating LD (Mikey G and Dan from Danville) and, through everything, they have stuck together as a sort of 'dynamic duo'. The song discusses a relationship where, no matter the circumstances, they're going to "keep together"; maybe the band did not mean it in this literal sense of keeping the duo together, but that's how I like to interpret it (after all, who does not like a cute song about a long term bromance? It really only adds to the band's charm).

        "End of the World" was released as the band's second song (and first music video), fittingly, on December 21st. Aside from the fun video (a great idea, executed to perfection by R.J. Sanchez), the song is kind of really amazing. Though Lady Danville had, originally, written this song together, Dan and Michael traded out the cajon for a new fast paced drum beat with a pretty backing harmony that easily flows over those chords and mixes with those perfect vocal harmonies that chant those, always great, lyrics (and Hunter Hunted's version sounds so much better than the original). The lyrics and music are amazing and it sounds as if Hunter Hunted is more than ready to be released into pop culture. 
       We're used to these two sticking with an indie pop sound, but they seem to be (once again) creating a niche in this genre that is all their own by relying on fun techno beats, creating a sort of dance/indie pop mixture (in theory, it's weird; in reality, it's amazing). As great as Lady Danville was, Hunter Hunted has the potential to be so much better.

         If you find yourself somewhere in the LA area on February 12th, make your way to the Troubadour to check them out; these guys exude charisma on stage and I can only imagine how great their first show as Hunter Hunted is going to be.

https://www.facebook.com/hunterhuntedmusic

https://twitter.com/hunterhunted123

http://www.youtube.com/user/hunterhuntedmusic

http://www.hunterhuntedmusic.com/

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