Southern California-based Margot Polo, solo project of David Provenzano (Sherwood/Fialta), has released his new EP, ‘OOHYEAHYEAH’, The EP was mixed by L.A. veteran producer Brad Wood. Margot Polo’s singles have landed TV features on shows like Good Trouble (Freeform) and God Friended Me (CBS) and have logged over half a million streams on Spotify. This Autumn, Margot Polo heads back into the studio to brew up more material for a full length record, to be released in 2020.
‘OOHYEAHYEAH’ is a summer-fun EP saturated in vibrant soundscapes as Margot Polo spreads his delicious indie electro pop into five glorious blissful tracks. ‘Let’s Get Out’ sets the good vibes in motion. With sun kissed radiant guitars jangling between a fruity electronic backdrop and skittish beat this track is dreamy escapism in one glorious tune. Provenzano fleshes out his Justin Timberlake / The Weekend swagger and charm with the dance-able groove and shuffle of ‘Electric Girl’ and the broody more bleary-eyed electronic pop ‘Someone New’. His melodies cruise and flow fluidly through each track while the rich and intricate instrumentation and refined production sets a wonderful and engaging backdrop. ‘Poison’ takes the EP down a dark road with R&B elements smearing the bubbling electronic soundscapes with luring entrapment. ‘The Feeling’ closes the EP with an intoxicating atmosphere as Provenzano surges adrenaline and a rush of emotion through this catchy exhilarating number.
Provenzano has a mesmerising ability to create tracks to make the heart race, pulse and plummet with his lush heartfelt melodies and vivid soundscapes and ‘OOHYEAHYEAH’ displays this perfectly. Within five tracks we experience joy, euphoria and freedom as well as sadness and mystery. It’s a journey of lavish musicianship and wonderful expressive electronic pop.
While this record has a few moodier moments, Provenzano says this EP is all about escapism. “OOHYEAHYEAH is about the different ways, healthy and unhealthy, that we yearn to transcend reality. That might be through something dangerous, like substance abuse. Or it might be a road trip, a relationship. A night out with a mysterious stranger. There’s a bit of ambivalent hedonism implied here. That’s what I love about pop. These lyrics are not very autobiographical; they’re fantasy, my own preferred mode of escapism”
Country Rock band Zebra Trees have released their self-titled debut album. This follows on from their first single ‘Happy Birthday’, released in February. Zebra Trees consists of songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Jim McFarnell and vocalist Andrea French.
Zebra Trees present their wholesome country rock with sweet pop elements and warm instrumental lilts through their self titled album. From the cosy bright jingle of ‘Wild In The Country’, the balmy ‘Wanted Poster’ and uplifting ‘ Just To Let You Know’ through to the more ballad- eque tracks like ‘Nightmare’ and ‘The Busker’ we see the vibrant and well crafted musicianship of Zebra Trees. The band flesh out their sublime storytelling through lush catchy melodies and rich instrumentation. French’s vocals exude emotion and passion throughout with lush harmonies creating a beautiful texture within the album. There are wonderful guitar moments throughout from sweet jingles to infectious slinky guitar licks and sweltering western twangs. The band use the guitars to add rich and vibrant embellishments in the songs. The buoyant and infectious foot-tapping beat in tracks like The Corrs – esque ‘Summer Angel’ create a pure and radiant atmosphere and gives something to bounce and dance along to while the beautiful vocals melt upon the delightful melody. Warm, cosy and heartfelt tones are abundant as Zebra Trees blend folk and country with a peppering of rock to add an edge. ‘Broken’ and ‘Good Times Past And Gone’ bring the album to an end with the latter fully embracing the country elements of the bands style with strong guitar twangs and powerful vocals.
If country folk rock is your thing then Zebra Trees have everything you would want with peppy catchy melodies, loving, yearning tones and a strong southern edge, it’s a humdinger sure to have your feet tapping.
Dream pop two-piece Night Hikes have released their new single, ‘Vera’. This dreamy shoegaze track drifts beautifully between a pulsing beat and dizzying distorted guitars as Night Hikes create a psychedelic hued dream world. Shimmering synths wisp about the track with an ethereal sparkly sheen while the sweet vocals softly coo the delicate pop sprinkled melody. The duo create a blissful haze, glazed with sunshine and radiance however the synths and zest on guitar leave a bitter sweet after taste. As always with Night Hikes the track is precise and meticulously crafted with intricate interweaving elements presented in a laid back manner for easy listening. The band create and blend edgy indie elements into their Utopian sound making the track satisfying and utterly charming. Another beautiful track from Night Hikes.
About the track the band said: “Vera is a persona we created to reflect the commodification of the “wild-woman” archetype. Vera exists only in how she comes across, and it is impossible for anyone, including her, to tell who she is as a person. She is beautiful and carefree. She walks barefoot and loses herself in the pulsing crowd at music festivals, but she is curated. She is wistful to a fault, choosing happy slogans over a real, authentic understanding of the world around her and the work it takes to make it a better place.”
Reading Rock artist C’nergi has released his new single ‘Hope and Paradise’.
‘Hope and Paradise’ is a vibrant indie rock track which presents C’nergi’s passionate songwriting with equal parts grace and power. With a twinkling piano feature the track flutters on an ethereal atmosphere while the intricate experimental rhythms add a unique texture to the track. The guitars stride and drift with an 80’s classic rock dramatic persona and swagger. ‘Hope and Paradise’ is filled with tender verses and explosive choruses to create a rich listening experience. C’nergi’s raspy vocals coat the catchy melody in emotion as the track develops into a power rock ballad. ‘Hope and Paradise’ is a fantastic follow up to his last single ‘Give Light’, released in August 2018.
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Karma Vulture
LA-based moody rock trio Karma Vulture are relatively new players on the rock scene, but they are kicking it off with a proper bang, introducing their debut single ‘Karma Vulture’ through an edgy little vampire visual with a fun twist.
‘Karma Vulture’ announces the band with dirt stained gritty riffs and a luring beat as the track creeps into its roaring chorus. With a rooted brawny bass line and powerful vocals this track was crafted for blasting from the speakers. It’s a lean mean mammoth with slinky instrumentation and swagger dripping from its raw seams. ‘Karma Vulture’ is a strong debut track – the band hold their own frenzied heavy sound with Royal Blood – esque flirtations to create one thrilling, dark tune. The melody seeps and creeps with velvety smoothness and sensuality against a blistering debauched background. With opaque guitar lines enticing and whining between the tempting drums Karma Vulture have created one rip-roaring number that is sure to be epic live. Keep an eye out for these guys.
Dublin based indie band TV People have released their new single ‘Parasite’ and accompanying video today. The video is a mish mash of old, free to use footage found in odd corners of the internet. The concept was a collage of abstract references to the lyrics.The band have released two singles in the short time since they have formed, and are currently preparing for their upcoming recording session in Darkland’s Studio in November 2019.
‘Parasite’ is a hazy guitar-jingled charmer as TV People flirt with a more indie rock sound. With a smooth laid back melody drizzled in a sunny surf daydream the track drifts elegantly upon an infectious light guitar hook while the buoyant rhythm maintains that infectious bop. With a groove laced bass line and simplistic approach TV People create a blissful track filled with lush textures and sublime melodies. The band however keep their quirky style firmly in grasp as they create space for a punchy drum solo and thrilling instrumental break before the song reaches its euphoric crescendo. The sweet melodies superbly contrast the lyrical theme of toxic friendships as the band take their laid back sound and glide it through a nostalgic atmosphere and bright instrumentation. ‘Parasite’ is another lushly crafted delight from TV People.
Bio: Mitch Sanders is a singer/songwriter from Bristol influenced by many genres such as; Rock & Roll, Blues, Soul, Folk, Indie and many more.His band consists of Kit Lavis on Guitar, Henry Sergeant on Bass and Alex Gibbs on Drums
Track: Motherland
Why We Like It: From the thumping beat, strident guitar and intricate bass this track flows with rich musicianship and vivid songwriting. With a heart felt chilled melody cruising upon the laid back verses the band build this track sublimely. The chorus packs an anthemic punch reminiscent of OneRepublic. The steamy guitar pierces over the brooding vaporous backdrop to create a sharp sting between the dark smothering soundscape as Sanders’ velvety, soulful vocals caress the tender melody. Its an intricate, well crafted track polished to perfection. Mitch Sanders is one to keep an eye on.
Bio: Originally from Co. Armagh Rodney Owl is the moniker of Galway based artist Mark McConville. ‘The Rain On A Wave’ is his fourth release this year and is taken from his second album which is still in the recording process.
Track: The Rain On A Wave
Why We Like It: It’s an easy listening track filled with majestic instrumentation as Rodney Owl blends sweet harmonies, twinkling guitar and glistening light bass to create a delicate soothing tone and heart warming track. The intricate weaving of guitars, bass and synths creates a magical atmosphere that is feathery light and delicate while also rich in depth and tone. This warm cosy delight features luscious harmonies with Jenny Groarke on backing vocals adding a celestial element to the track. It’s a tranquil, sway-able delight that dances sweetly into the ears with ease.
Bio: Hunting is barely recognizable as the same band that released a debut album five years ago: it’s gone from a solo project to a trio, from folk to catchy electro-rock, and from wistful melancholy to buoyant exuberance.They have recently released their sophomore album, ‘Whatever You Need’ via Nevado Music
Track: Whatever You Need
Why We Like It: It’s a lush indie rock track swirling in 80’s glam rock soundscapes as the band create a dazzling melodious number, filled with meticulous intricacy. A bright uplifting melody and wispy shimmering synths fill out the jangly indie-rock backdrop. With buoyant rhythmic section, panache drenched vocals and an overwhelmingly catchy chorus Hunting blend slick, glossy, glam rock with synth pop and gritty indie seamlessly to create an invigorating, swagger-filled charmer of a track.
About the track the band said :“Whatever You Need” is about meeting someone you like so much you’d do anything to make them happier, give up anything to make their life better. For me, I met that person right before leaving town to live in Europe for two months to write songs and try to catch Bowie’s late 70’s Berlin vibe. Though, all the while I felt like it’d be way more fun if she was there tripping around with me. The lyrics ‘We’ll get high on our Fame, all stoned on our vain’ is a reference to what it must have been like to be Bowie and Iggy Pop lighting up that city.”
Bio: DAY6 is a South Korean band formed by JYP Entertainment in 2014. The band is composed of five members: Jae, Sungjin, Young K, Wonpil, and Dowoon. They made their official comeback with their single ‘Time Of Our Life’ and their 5th mini-album, ‘The Book of Us: Gravity’. This is the band’s first comeback since their ‘Days Gone By’ single at the end of last year.
Track: Time of Our Life
Why We Like It: Brimming from the seams with energy this vibrant track bounces and jingles with the bands infectious melodies and tight instrumentation from the first note. With elegant sweet keys playfully wandering through the explosive indie-jingled wall of sound these guys have the recipe for mass appeal. The edged indie blends with the bands dazzling pop sheen creating a satisfying, sweet track with enough punch to keep it fresh. The jagged guitars strike and glide throughout with relentless stamina while the punchy drums and elastic bass maintain that buoyant backdrop. Its an instant pick me up burst of vitality that will have you dancing around in no time.
Bio: Having performed with Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly, supported Fleet Foxes with Lyla Foy, and toured the UK with Munro Fox and Stella Martyr, Austel released her debut EP Unfold in 2018 – receiving critical acclaim from the likes of BBC 6 Music, BBC Introducing and The Line of Best Fit. Austel fuses classical training with contemplative songwriting and innovative electronica – enriched by collaborations with producer, bandmate and music technologist Adam Stark (MI.MU Gloves).
Track: Now We’re Here
Why We Like It: This flashing track weaves and coils with dark electronics and slapping sticky beats while Austel’s compelling vocals lure and entice. The track haunts with chilling soundscapes as Austel creates an eerie ethereal atmosphere with swirling choruses. The simplicity of the verses creates a wonderful and mesmerising contrast to the echoed tense chorus. ‘Now We’re Here’ is superbly crafted with a foot tapping mystical soundscape and crisp production.
On writing the single, Austel says: ‘’The song is essentially about the impact of toxic relationships and dismantling the pedestals we put people on. Learning to be comfortable with your own identity. Commanding a new-found sense of confidence and inner strength. It also touches on the idea that we as a society have grown so distant from each other, and ourselves. In an age where communication devices are practically glued to our hands, most of us feel lonelier than ever. We’re not built to socialise through screens; we crave a warm, human connection. So Now We’re Here is also about trying to process that, and why it’s so hard to open up and be vulnerable when you’re met with ‘cold love”.
Dublin’s punk garage rock duo Vulpynes are one of the most exciting new Irish rock bands in recent years. They have released their second EP ‘Dye Me Red’. Vulpynes’ self titled debut EP was released on UK indie label Headcheck Records last year. Since then, the band have gone from strength to strength supporting the likes of Deap Vally, Doyle (Misfits), Marmozets, Stiff Little Fingers, Sleaford Mods and the Interrupters.
‘Dye Me Red’ is Vulpynes most thrilling EP to date. The duo have refined their battering rock with acid garage elements and punk persona with such precise detail its awe inspiring. The ferocity and explosive energy shoot like acid soaked missiles from each track as the dark and foreboding wall of sound consumes you and traps you in their brand of alternative rock. ‘I Can’t Sit Still’ kicks off the EP. The gritty riffs suffocate and scorch the track in a humid harsh atmosphere while the bruising assault on drums creates a flexible and powerful foundation. Molly’s vocals are commanding throughout and possibly the most compellingly forceful female punk vocals on the Dublin scene at the moment. She has depth and subtlety in her voice that adds genuine weight to the punk rock anthems, The razor cut guitar chords in ‘Bitches Are Like Waves’ lacerate with a majestic quality while Kaz on drums keeps the rhythm fast and furious. The high intensity of their tracks make them flow together seamlessly as Vulpynes present this four track EP in a quick poisonous dose. The duo have always moved through their tracks with relentless stamina, bashing their thunderous sound through each release. However this EP showcases a shift in perception, they maintain their raucous style from previous singles like ‘OCD’ and ‘’Silica’ but now they have polished and sharpened their sound to create something more intoxicating. The second half of the EP shows this superbly. ’It Washes Out’ crawls under your skin with distortion-filled verses before the chorus strikes you into submission. There is equal measure of rough punk and smooth slinky rock to create a fierce wall of sound that encompasses Marilyn Manson with some Jack White glittering throughout. ‘The Hunt’ brings the album to a frantic close. I have never heard this band exude more swagger and brutality before. There is a hint of The Prodigy in this savage number as the drums pulverize between the dizzying guitar lines to create a brain frothing sinister number. It’s absolutely outstanding.
Vulpynes have come a long way since their early days. They display their most intense gnawing sound yet in ‘Dye Me Red’. It’s a spitting,lacerating, compelling and utterly enjoyable EP.
Birmingham band Tremendous are set to release their fourth single ‘Copycat Killer’ (produced at The Basement, Ealing, London) on November 22nd. The band have received , extensive radio play from BBC introducing, Mike Rogers Show in Tokyo, Amazing Radio and Banks Radio Chart to name a few.
‘Copycat Killer’ is a slinky glossy number as Tremendous blast out their vibrant glam rock in chic flashy style. This intense track blazes through full throttle as sizzling guitars stride and strut throughout while the thumping beat pounds relentlessly creating a thundering backdrop. The band flesh out their frenzied wall of sound with this tune while blending it through a retro rock ‘n’ roll distillery and fizzing it to perfection. It’s a snappy track that rides entirely on high voltage adrenaline with a swagger-filled, catchy melody and dynamic vocals. ‘Copycat Killer’ is another boisterous energetic number from Tremendous.
Cornwall’s The Rezner have released their second single ‘For Myself’. The four piece have been championed by Huw Stephens on BBC Radio 1 while Alan McGee (signed Oasis and Primal Scream) has personally asked them to play a show for him. They have played festivals such as Isle Of Wight, Boardmasters and Leopallooza to name a few.
‘For Myself’ swarms with buzzing indie rock as The Rezner slap attitude and adrenaline into their blistering wall of sound. With raspy vocals spiraling over the infectious melody – this speed ball, swaggering track is a force to be reckoned with. The swift bass groove and punchy drums anchor the track while the intense scorching guitars crash, soar and glide over the animated backdrop. With gritty riffs and catchy chorus ‘For Myself’ is a hook-filled anthem sure to have a live crowd going wild. The Rezner are crafting their sound and creating a name for themselves as ones to watch as they follow their exhilarating debut ‘Micky’ with an equally satisfying tune.
On creating the track frontman Sam Stone said :“For Myself’ was a song wrote for those of my generation. A song to sing whilst all the negative press gets put behind the curtain for a short while. The whole story contained within the lyrics is all about letting yourself go as a young adult and fucking the rest of the world off,freedom in other words. A release of positive energy for leaving behind the problems that shouldn’t even get to you in the first place.”
Stream ‘For Myself’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
