Tag Archives: Alternative Pop

Alt- Pop, Baroque Pop, Dream Pop, electro- pop, Indie, New Music, Synth-pop

Chaunter ‘Boo Cat’

Baltimore songwriting duo Chaunter have released their new track ‘Boo Cat’. Comprised of Jenghis Pettit and Brooks Kossover Chaunter are set to release their first full length album, “Dream Dynamics” featuring an aspirational league of Baltimore heavyweights, from Dan Deacon to Sam Herring of Future Islands to Lower Dens’ Jana Hunter, Matmos, and more.

‘Boo Cat’ is a charming catchy number whisked up in dreamy synths, sizzling guitars and luscious tranquilizing soundscapes. A soft sugar coated melody soothes and slides through light guitar twinkles and floating atmospheres.The track drifts calmly and sweetly through before a catchy sing along chorus bops in, lifting the song from hazy and dreamy to sprightly and infectious. Gentle vocals caress the soft melody delicately before a magnificent group harmony introduces the rich full chorus. There’s a flute feature mangled beautifully between reverb laced guitar and ethereal synths adding an earthy texture to this unique soothing and infectious track. A little quirky and charming this track is well crafted and rushes with a refreshing retro sound that is simply divine.

Watch the video for ‘Boo Cat’ below


Alt- Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop

The Gallerys ‘Lucid Trail’ EP

Kent alternative rock band The Gallerys have released their new EP ‘Lucid Trail’. The band comprised of James Wood (Vocals / Guitar / Percussion), Craig Barden (Vocals / Bass / Piano) and Dan Mags (Backing vocals / Drums / Percussion) have performed at Isle of Wight Festival,  supported Louis Berry, Madness, The Sherlocks, The Blinders, The King Blues, The Skints, The Rifles and The Bluetones (national tours) as well as headline shows in their own right along with over 120,000 Spotify streams and features from BBC Introducing and Fred Perry Subculture.The new EP ‘Lucid Trail’ was recorded at Squarehead Studios in Sittingbourne, Kent. It was mixed and produced by Dave Young and it was mastered by James Simpson. The EP artwork is by Estudio and the photography is by Pete Ray.

‘Lucid Trail’ blends dreamy delicate 60’s pop flavours with indie, britpop and new wave hues.There is plenty of sweet tones and ethereal vibes fluttering through this EP. Title track ‘Lucid Trail’ is a beautifully tender acoustic track which glides and wisps gently around a steady beat, warm vocals and soothing acoustic guitar. The heartwarming wholesome tones flood through each track on the EP and make it such a glorious easy listen.Each song overflows with sparkling melodies as the arrangements sustain a balance between sweet simplicity and rich intricacy.The gloomy Smiths- esque ‘Shadow Street’ showcases the trios tight harmonies and catchy melodic flow as they venture into their heavier more alternative rock side. The rhythms throughout the EP supply a steady foundation for the luscious melodies to playfully wander around while adding a joyful bounce and meaty punch at times. ‘Steady Beat’ in particular fleshes out the weighty side to their sound. It is a little punk- like as jagged guitars slice through the hefty drum whacks while the vocals become a dash more aggressive.The band bring the EP to a close with the heavenly ‘Silver Lining’. Another blast of lush harmonies, glorious melodies and a 60’s pop vibe.

The Gallerys provide something for everyone with this enthralling EP. Shredding guitar solos, cosy luscious melodies and tender emotional tones all seamlessly blended into a short four track spin.

Stream ‘Lucid Trail’ below


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Americana, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Ten Fé ‘Coasting’

Ten Fé have released their new single ‘Coasting’ taken from their upcoming sophomore record ‘Future Perfect, Present Tense’ due for release March 8th via Some Kinda Love/PIAS. This beautiful number drifts along a majestic charming melody while elegant keys flutter between a steady peppy beat and warm toned guitars. Ten Fé write music for the soul each note floods with richness and heartwarming cosiness as they blend cold fresh tones with warm glows and exquisite melodies. A little woozy, tender and dreamy -this crisp number is tight, rhythmically rich and fluid as it cruises in sweet tones and earthy flutters reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac with the glorious Ten Fé stamp driving it into its most graceful and lovable state – another heavenly track from Ten Fé.

The band have just announced their biggest-yet tour of the UK, Europe & US in Spring 2019 to promote ‘Future Perfect, Present Tense’ check out the dates here https://www.tenfemusic.co.uk/

Stream ‘Coasting’ below


Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

whenyoung ‘Never Let Go’

Following the release of their critically acclaimed debut EP, ‘Given Up’, whenyoung are back with their dazzling new single, ‘Never Let Go’, released through Virgin EMI. 2018 was a landmark year for the young band. It’s seen them perform in Dublin as part of Shane Mcgowan’s 60th birthday celebration alongside the likes of Nick Cave and Sinead O’Connor. They played a stunning set at the Other Voices festival and they’ve also supported the likes of Dream Wife, The Vaccines and Blossoms. The band are kicking off 2019 with a UK tour in February, including their biggest headline show in London to date at the Electrowerkz in Angel. Not to mention they’ll be heading out to the states to play the iconic South by South West Festival in Austin,Texas

‘Never Let Go’ is a lustrous slice of guitar driven indie pop bursting from the seams with whenyoung’s glossy musicianship, raw refined instrumentation and exhilarating soundscapes. Aoife Power’s angelic vocals caress the dreamy melody as she sweetly purrs with a soft tone of hopefulness through a steady drum foundation. Beautiful biting guitar lines are always a glorious feature in this trios songs and ‘Never Let Go’ follows this superb trend. The glistening, ethereal guitars sprinkle warm golden tones while plucking sweetly at the heartstrings with a melty tender melody. The track slowly floats and flutters around your ears delicately however the layers of chiming guitars and rich rhythm create a gripping edginess that strikes hard. Another swirling richly textured tune of bliss from whenyoung.

About the track Aoife Power explains “It’s a song about mental health and hope.It’s a message to let people know that you can share your pain with others. It’s a reminder that someone is always there for you even in the darkest times. There is always a reason to not let go.”

Watch the video for ‘Never Let Go’ below


Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Saytr Play ‘Bang Average’

Manchester Indie Pop outfit Saytr Play are back with their energetic new single ‘Bang Average’, This follows the release of ‘Fragile’, their catchy dance inspired hit with a strong message about mental health. ‘Bang Average’ is also produced by Courteeners Bass Player and long-time collaborator Joe Cross and is to be released on his own ‘Lovers Music’ label. Over the past few years the band have sold-out several headline shows at some of Manchester’s most iconic music venues as well as appearing at Brighton’s The Great Escape Festival. Last year they played Tramlines in Sheffield and Kendal Calling.

‘Bang Average’ is that catchy ear-worm that wriggles its way into your brain. It all starts  with that Pulp flavoured guitar jingle travelling suavely all the way to the punchy drum beat making your foot tap uncontrollably, then you’re singing the oh so smooth melody and before you know it the elastic bass groove is leaving you frothing at the mouth for more of Saytr Play’sjuicy blissful sound. It’s snappy and buoyant as it charmingly glissades into the intoxicating danceable chorus.Dramatic and brimming with oodles of energy these guys have provided an adrenaline rush and exhilarating number to dance, bop and sing along to.

Saytr Play headline Gorilla in Manchester on Feburary 22nd.

Stream ‘Bang Average’ below


Alt- Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Mikey Mike ‘Life on Earth’ EP

Music industry enigma and Rick Rubin-produced songwriter Mikey Mike has released his first EP  ‘Life on Earth’. With singles twice premiered as Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record, this three-song project is the precursor to ‘Mikey Mike’s Life on Earth,’ a singular album release that will be his sole body of work for his entire lifetime, released in volumes and complete only upon his death. To ensure the listeners had the full experience with the Life on Earth EP, Mikey teamed up with cannabis brand Califari to create custom pre-rolls that are one-of-a-kind, being one of the only CBD pre-rolls available.


‘Life on Earth’ is a tasty swirl of alternative indie pop with some trippy blissed out moments making this flavourful EP oh so satisfying. The feel good ‘Cooler’ struts in as the first, laid back track on the EP. Doused in chilled fun vibes with zesty guitar jangles through a danceable groove and breezy soundscape this delicious fruity track glides in, suave and ready to make your day that bit brighter. Mikey swaggers through the track with smooth vocals steeped in attitude as the vibrant backdrop slithers its way into your ears until you are hooked. It’s a charming EP that fleshes out the variety in Mikey’s musicianship. ‘Strange Times’ brings a darker side to the EP as Mikey raps over haunting backing vocals and warm guitar whines. It’s a striking number well crafted for an enjoyable listen. With a hint of soul blended throughout there is something for everyone here. Final track ‘Cut My Hair’ returns to the laid back energetic atmosphere as a clap along rhythm slaps between a delicious infectious melody. The swirling soundscapes add a dreamy quality to the track as it wisps and dances around the sun kissed guitar twinkles and vibrant vocals. 


Mikey Mike has created the perfect breezy EP that is short, sweet and trippy with the perfect blends of indie, rock, rap and pop. It’s endearing, easy on the ears and lusciously crafted. 
Stream ‘Life on Earth’ below


Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Electro, New Music

Kohla ‘S/he’

Edinburgh Electronic/Alt. R&B artist Rachel Johnson has released her debut single  ‘S/he’ under the moniker Kohla . A fine arts graduate Kohla was writing rock music until last year where she suffered a vocal injury and in turn listened to a lot of hip hop, alt R&B and rap while she was recovering. ‘Kohla’ is a debut of alternative R&B, influenced by Banks, FKA Twigs and James Blake among others, with ‘S/he’ being thematically about jealously, disdain and pride. The artwork was also drawn by Kohla.

‘S/he’ is a molten R&B hued number laced with tension as Kohla unfolds her carefully crafted fierce yet vulnerable sound over a gripping backdrop. Her gentle voice coos through the soft melody with her warm lower range or sweet frail and breathy falsetto creating a delicate easy on the ears seduction . The steady sticky beat is constant through the fluid haunting backing vocals and all round eerie dreamy atmosphere. It’s elegant, sassy and filled with refined class as Kohla announces herself with this steamy darkly coated track.

Stream S/he’ below


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Last One Home ‘Give You The World’

Pop Rock trio Last One Home have released their new single ‘Give You The World’. The band consists of singer-songwriter Tom Westlake, bassist Harry Lowndes and drummer Phil Horler. ‘Give You The World’ was written by frontman Tom Westlake. Last One Home released their self-titled EP, from which the single ‘Bring Down The Storm’ won the band the ‘Music Expo’ prize at the ‘Glastonbury FM Songwriting Competition 2018. Their most recent single ‘Land of Immortality’ made it to the semi-finals of the UK Songwriting contest. They have supported internationally famous bands such as ‘Crazy Town’, ‘Courage My Love’ and ‘Halflives’ at shows on their UK tours.

Last One Home blast out their melodic pop rock with oodles of energy against a rugged backdrop with ‘Give You The World’. Blistering guitars weave between punchy drums and elastic bass grooves creating a satisfying layered foundation. The smooth melody glides over the blustery wall of sound with effortless grandeur as Westlake slips seamless up to his falsetto range. Its catchy vibrant with just enough grit and edginess to have you jumping and moshing along. The guitars venture between a crashing vigorous assault and sweet jangles fluently, filling the track with rich textures and enough gusto to ignite a live audience. It’s a cracking pop rock number.

You can catch Last One Home live when they play The King Arthur – Glastonbury, Somerset on 22nd December 2018.

Stream ‘Give You The World’ below


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Mog Stanley ‘Twisted Pop Music’ Album

Alternative artist Mog Stanley has released his long awaited album titled, ‘Twisted Pop Music’. Mog Stanley has been writing music for many years, with his earliest release dating back to 2011. Throughout his career he has given captivating live performances in music festivals across the globe, such as Riba Rocks in Catalunya and Zine Blues Festival in France. Not only this, he has also played support slots for the likes of Danny & the Champion of the World, Guy Davis and Evan Dando.

‘Twisted Pop Music’ is a juicy collection of tracks that ooze Mog Stanley’s pure organic and rich musicianship. He drizzles a healthy dose of everything on this delicious album from steamy bluesy tones, rock n’ roll swagger swirling between psychedelic spirals and some luscious pop sprinkles for good measure. ‘Double Drop’ kicks the album off with a vaporous guitar melody whining with its blues infested tones through a meaty beat while Stanley’s lo fi vocals coo in the background. The chilling atmosphere thrillingly rebounds off the refined instrumentation to make for a satisfying rich sound. It’s one heck of an introduction into the album. Each track is a fresh new slice of what Stanley can do ‘Kevin’ fleshes out the panache driven shivering-ly suave rock n’ roll flavour as Stanley wails and murmurs through shredding guitars and punchy drums while ‘Birthday Card’, ‘Your House Doesn’t Have any Windows’ creep through with chilling vocals, eerie guitar and spooky soundscapes and ‘Scribblings of a MadMan’ struts through with a haunting funky vibe. ‘Japanese Toilet’ sounds like a rough demo as his vocals seem further away than the glistening warm guitar, however it adds character to the album. A lot of the tracks are short and sweet ‘56 BluesStyle Blues’ comes in at a short fifty eight seconds while .’I Want Something that You’ve Got’, ‘MadMan’ and ‘3:1 Alienation Blues’ spread their tasty ear drooling concoction to a little over one minute and a half. There are glorious powerful melodies throughout the album ‘Find a Happy Place then Leave’ and ‘Wait’  pack delicious melty melodies into your ears effortlessly as jangly guitars and a sprightly beat create the perfect sun kissed dreamy atmosphere to lose yourself in. ‘Hoosegow’ throws some western -esque vibes into the mix before building into a syrupy pop number. The tender ballad comes in the form of ‘Straight Down the Middle’ with soft acoustic guitars and lush vocals over a melancholic melody. Each track takes on a different character and dimension without sounding scattered or detached. They blend perfectly to make the album wholly enthralling and unique. There is an 80’s pop vibe surrounding ‘Parasite Idea Zone Corp’ – it has a Pet Shop Boys feel while still maintaining its own dark disco flecked identity. Stanley brings the album to a close with the warm foot tapping ‘Don’t Believe a Word they Say’ and the acid soaked frazzlement that is ‘Dentist Waiting Room Blues’. This track shimmies out the album dripping in swagger as shredding guitars weave their sultry way between a vibrant beat that is sure to have you up and dancing. It’s 60’s esque with psychedelic tones swirled into obscure vocal whispers- leaving you in a mesmerised daze of Mog Stanley’s creation.

‘Twisted Pop Music’ is exactly what it implies – a trippy, twisted delicious concoction of sweet moments, dizzying delusions and dance-able gems.

Stream ‘Twisted Pop Music’ below

 


Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, Indie Psychedelic, New Music, Psych-Pop, psychedelic

The Misty ‘The Lovely Dead Girl at Table Six’

London based multi-instrumentalist ‘The Misty’ has released his new single ‘The Lovely Dead Girl at Table Six’.  The track was recorded in his own home, as well as enlisting the help of La Frette Studios in Paris, the same studio chosen by rock band Arctic Monkeys for their latest LP release. Alongside the single release The Misty produced a music video, with the help of China Town Studios, featuring a French model to help put together the visual.

‘The Lovely Dead Girl at Table Six’ is a fluctuating flutter of delight as The Misty croons over a dreamy melody while vaporous guitars whine and sting between ethereal soundscapes. Filled with a rich and intense depth this track grooves and sensually sways with psychedelic hues through a delicate melodic flow. The swirling bubble of electronics set the romantic tone as the brooding vocals and sultry guitar injections add a stirring quality and meaty grit. Perfectly crafted this luscious tantalizing track transports you to a soothing dreamy state that captivates with a 70’s psychedelic rock vibe softened by whirls of jazz flickering through a pop lush melody. It’s soft and aerial with a vibrant mouth watering backdrop to tease all the senses.

Watch the video for  ‘The Lovely Dead Girl at Table Six’ below