Josh Mackie (GUNK/Idiot Forever) has released a new self-titled recording via Ranch Records, under the moniker Prince of Yeti Mantra. The record is simply divided into two sides that are littered with an array of intriguing eclectic beat-driven landscapes – some that seamlessly cruise along and others veer into dimly lit alleys. Give it a spin, and prepare to switch lanes at a moments notice.

Released via the trifecta of Milk Beard Records, Covered Bridge Cassettes, and Sad Cactus Records, Fake Boyfriend’s debut EP Mercy is currently available for streaming and purchase. This EP serves as an uncompromising/unrestrained exposure of true emotions as the trio skips the filter, producing powerful songs that hit/hurt in a memorable way. Catch their EP release show this Friday at PhilaMOCA with Lady Parts, Shannen Moser, and Secret Mountain! (Photo by Rachel Del Sordo)

Juxtaposition plays an important role in “Of Wandering,” the latest song to surface and title track from Littler’s debut album, scheduled for release on March 25 via Birdtapes. Images of emotional closeness are contrasted with the loneliness of connections lost and a desire to break loose. Instrumentally, it stirs with a heavy, resonating grit,  which accompanies the vocal sentiments, Littler is part of a stacked billing on Friday, March 18 at First Unitarian Church that also includes Dark Thoughts, Amanda X, Cayetana, and Screaming Females. (Photo by Emily Burtner)

The shoegazing/grunge combination of Nothing have released a new single, “Vertigo Flowers,” from their upcoming album Tired of Tomorrow, which will be released on May 13 – courtesy of Relapse Records. “Vertigo Flowers” implements a smattering of percussion and cutting guitar, causing heavy, controlled surges of sonic waves. Release that pent up aggression while still remaining calm, and smell the flowers. Tired of Tomorrow is currently available for pre-order.

From the soundtrack of your worst nightmares, comes Whorid! It’s the macabre, ambient industrial-noise project from the mind of Daniel Suffering (of Theologian). Take a listen to his eerily powerful new album Bloated Pig Carcass In A Shallow Wake, which was released via Annihilvs Power Electronix.

Krust Toons: "Lower Education" by Teddy 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.

We can’t help but notice the step in the right direction that My Son Bison have recently taken in finding their voice on the band’s latest single "Two Faces and a Vase." Lovely harmonies and melodies (influenced by The Beach Boys) are accompanied by a driving backbeat, creating a joyous tune about self-discovery. The track was engineered, mixed and mastered by Ron DiSilvestro, and features Philly renaissance man Koofreh Umoren (West Philadelphia Orchestra, formerly of The Extraordinaires) on the trumpet. (BTW: Check out the neat cover art, titled "Conversation," by local street artist Joe Boruchow.) My Son Bison will open for The Shadowboxers this Wednesday, February 24 at Johnny Brenda’s.

After the disbandment of Kite Party, Russell Edling continued writing material that would eventual become his new project Cherry. He just released an impressive debut four-song EP, titled Gloom, which is available via Lame-O Records. Along with three relatable indie-rock/pop anthems, Edling also included a cover of Fugazi’s "I’m So Tired" to close out the album. He will be celebrating the record’s release on Sunday, April 3 at Kung Fu Necktie with Sun Organ, Lowercase Roses, and Cave People.

Suicide Bong Tapes celebrates the release of The Whips‘s Roots Rock Element tonight at Boot & Saddle. The Whips exude a loose (not lax) surf-garage tone – one set off by authentic, harmony-peppered, slick, subtly swerving-guitar runs and the omnipresent current of backend rhythm rumbling. It could be considered a trip back to golden-era simplicity, echoing the early rebellious edge that morphed into punk.  With semi-refined, raw materials, the sound is finished to a pronounced sheen, without masking the natural grain. Louie Louie welds the soulful, vocal-anchored pop that has a penchant toward taking a psych-rockin’ avenue. The infectious jangle of Wild Jim Banfill & His Rolling Rocks (Mark Banfill of The Tough Shits) sets sail on its inaugural journey, opening things up. Get there early as attendees will receive a free tape with admission, while supplies last. Boot & Saddle, 1131 S. Broad St., 8pm, $10, 21+ – Michael Colavita

Ars Nova Workshop celebrates the extensive catalogue of composer/musician extraordinaire John Zorn, presenting a pair of shows this weekend at Johnny Brenda’s. With the ability to blitz through at a volatile, explosive, avant-garde style or to sit comfortably in a more traditional pocket, Zorn’s prodigious production, rate and range are eye/ear opening. While a significant portion of the evening will be focusing on the Masada songbook with the Jamie Saft Trio, Saturday also showcases a new combination, Hollenberg-Millevoi Quartet, performing from Zorn’s new songbook Bagatelles. The quartet includes two-thirds of Many Arms, Nick Millevoi (The Solar Motel Band) & John Deblase, who are signed to Zorn’s label Tzadik Records, alongside Matt Hollenberg (of Cleric, whom will perform on Sunday) and Jeff Eber (Dysrhythmia). These evenings are set to delve into the lesser explored corners of the musical spectrum, celebrating and searching out the potential simultaneously. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 8pm, $15-$25, 21+ – Michael Colavita