Stringer have their fiery gaze set on a variety of things on their newest album My Bad, and each target that’s caught in their sights gets scorched in their vision. They jump from blistering punk on “Intro” to a song indicting the entire United States within the span of the first two songs. It’s the type of punk that’s bristling and scrappy, often shooting off solos and slamming down hooks without regard, but Stringer have managed to inject an undeniable variable into every track. The emotional core at the heart of each song can be felt in the sheer power of their musicianship, yet it’s the grander ideas and themes that amend each melody that make their impact greater. The standout song “Ghosts” exemplifies this best; thudding drums precipitate the snarling vocals and spirited hook that rail against the whitewashed memories of the old New York. They play up the decrepit and sleazy side that’s seemingly been forgotten but paint those features as the reason why you should love it. The ugliness is sacred, and their energy delivering this mantra is palpable. My Bad is a record that crafts songs with earnest themes of political unrest and change but does it with a precise volatility that’s simultaneously addicting and charming. You can stream the music video for “Ghosts” below. -Tucker Pennington
Red Francis
Red Francis are preparing to release their new album, Greatest Hits, on August 10th. This album is the trio’s homage to Chicago with each track representing a place or story that all takes place over one day and one night. The album’s first single is “Gotta Be Tough” and is accompanied by the cool Ryan Bell directed video below. Red Francis is the trio of Michael Glader, Brett Fishback, Al Fishback.
The band recently released a second single, “Bronzeville” from Greatest Hits.
Satellite Mode release dreamy single “Terrified”
Satellite Mode return with a brand new single, "Terrified", the follow-up to their previous release "Gave It All". Where the year’s earlier release hollowed out hearts with its thundering sound, "Terrified" — although about the love of fear — turns more major-key pop and highlights Jessica Carvo’s melodic talent and Alex Marko’s ear for catchy chord progressions. This marks the fourth single released this year alone, which gives fans hope that a new release following 2017’s Wild Excuses is on the way. The band hasn’t made any big announcements yet, however, they’ve spent the year bouncing from coast to coast, releasing videos and singles, and getting their music on Sirius AltNation – among other radio stations. But 2018 isn’t over yet, so there may be more from Satellite Mode still to come. Listen to "Terrified" below. – Will Sisskind
justindemus
Electronic musician justindemus is preparing to release his a new double EP called “Pre/Post” on August 3rd. The first single from the EP is called “Sunlight” and it is somewhere between Darkwave and Synth Pop. Over the next few weeks leading up to the EP released, Justin will be sharing additional songs and videos for this new project.
You can catch justindemus at The Whistler for Free on July 21st.
Dirty Princess’s Witchy Punk
Dirty Princess sounds like what would happen if the Sanderson Sisters decided to drop their wands for electric guitars instead. The band’s mix of witchy punk and fuzz rock bleeds through speakers and headphones. Although they only have three tracks on their bandcamp, each song holds its own."Street Diamonds” in particular stands out. The lead vocalist confidently bursts through the song, alternating between a subtle huskier tone and a more high pitched, confident twang. “The Man Vs. My Chevy Van” is also great. The beat is fast and steady, and the members are in great sync. Give it a listen below!
Krust Toons: “A List of DIY Promoters” by Tedd Hazard
Krust Toons: "A List of DIY Promoters" by Tedd Hazard – please feel free to drop him a line at teddandthehazards@gmail.com if you dig or have any funny ideas. You can also check out more of his illustrations and animation shorts HERE.
Soft Rain Airplane
Soft Rain Airplane released their debut album, Feast of Frenzy, last month. The band was formed two years ago, and have been slowly working on this album since that time. Their sound is a mixture of rock, folk and jazz performed by Jason Gassel, Ryan Callis, Max Kleinberg, Luci Urquiaga, Drew Bunge, and Tony Mest.
You can catch Soft Rain Airplane at The Gallery Cabaret on July 21st with Sam C & the SideFX and The Night Smokes.
New Video: “Sickness” (Live) – Lovelorn
Live footage of Lovelorn’s recent set from June 30, 2018 at Johnny Brenda’s has emerged. The video of “Sickness” captures the murky, smoke-laced haze that surrounds the trio. Akin to acts like The Kills, its suspenseful, buzzsaw guitar and percussive backdrop oozes ominous adrenaline, while giving you something to dance to in the dark corners of the mind. You can find the ex-Creepoid members performing next in Philly on Wednesday, August 1 at the Electric Factory, opening for Glassjaw and Quicksand, along with Primitive Weapons.
Footpaths
Footpaths is the work of Jon Rosenthal and his latest project is called “Old Timer (Lost & Reclaimed)” and will be released on August 24th through Monticulo Records . This is actually Austin Label’s first release and they have already sold out of the 25 cassettes they have produced.
Rosenthal recorded this album ten years ago while learning how to use a pinhole microphone. None of the tracks are titled, and the three that are available now to hear are intriguing sonic explorations of guitar and environment.
Producer Garren Sean drops spectacular SUNDRIP EP & kicks off tour with Clairo
If you’re a big Chance the Rapper fan, then it’s time to take a step back and thank Garren Sean — the Bay Area producer who worked on “Smoke Break” as well as Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama: Re-Wrapped. Where Sean really flourishes, though, is on his newest EP SUNDRIP. The eclectic project blends psychedelic (and occasionally grungey) sensibilities with catchy and modern electronica, creating something entirely fresh. Sean is at his best on tracks like “Psychedelic Soul” (streaming below), which give him the space to experiment with genre. The track is not only dance-friendly, but it’s a modern take on a groovy classic sound and shows a producer who is ready to take on the challenge of creating something completely new. Garren Sean is currently on tour with Clairo and will be back in San Francisco on August 16 for a hometown show at Brick & Mortar. – Lilly Milman
Enter Sean Rubin’s avant-folk world on debut LP “everybody shares a name”
You may recognize the name Sean Rubin from his old project Ladyhips, a Deli New England Artist of the Month dating back to 2012, but if you haven’t heard of his solo project then it’s time to catch up. Rubin recently released his debut album everybody shares a name, an avant-folk project that finds a surprising comfort in the dissonance, asking difficult questions and accepting the fact that there isn’t always an answer. It’s striking for its lack of conventionality; this project takes risks, but it’s still easy to listen to for those willing to enter Sean Rubin’s weird and intricate world. Take the leap with us, and stream our favorite track “old birds” below. – Lilly Milman
Maxwell Bailey releases live EP & heads to Noise Floor Sessions at Aeronaut Allston (7.18)
When Boston-based singer-songwriter Maxwell Bailey decided to record his EP, he kept it simple. Featuring only his own solo vocals and guitar playing, the In Between live EP is a bare bones tribute to storytelling. It combines a raw performance with relatable lyrics, resulting in a record that’s easy to listen to and even better to dive into. Primarily a live performer, Bailey thrives in the spontaneity of this project, having recorded the entire record in one day at an Airbnb. He will be playing at the Noise Floor Sessions at Aeronaut Allston on July 18. – Lilly Milman
Stream the title track “In Between” below.