MusicFreaks

Tag: Music Artists

  • 10 New Songs Out Today

    In the ever-shifting landscape of indie music, new sounds keep pouring out every week, offering a fascinating collision of intense emotion, witty observation, and raw sonic texture. From deeply personal reflections to anthemic declarations about freedom, this latest wave of releases is proving that there is always something new and utterly compelling waiting to be discovered.

    Take Laura Veirs, for instance. Her latest track, PULSE”>“PULSE”, dives deep into the feeling of being alive—a reminder that trust and momentum persist even amidst chaos. Veirs describes the creation process as a layered experience, pulling in familial energy from her blended family to create a sound that is both dense and deeply resonant. It’s a sonic journey that balances tension and release perfectly.

    Meanwhile, other artists are exploring similar themes of internal pursuit. Susannah Joffe tackles the elusive nature of fulfillment with her single HAPPINESS IS JUST A MYTH”>“HAPPINESS IS JUST A MYTH”, arguing that chasing external success often leaves us empty. Her production and unconventional structure make this track a standout exploration of the modern quest for meaning.

    The emotional landscape also shifts dramatically when we look at artists grappling with routine and self-discovery. Hurry’s latest single, THE DUMBEST PERSON YOU’VE EVER SEEN”>“THE DUMBEST PERSON YOU’VE EVER SEEN”, captures that pivotal moment when someone pulls you out of a well-worn path, forcing a reevaluation of the composed version of yourself.

    In a world demanding constant movement, other sounds offer escape. Angela Autumn’s single MOUNTAIN STREAM”>“MOUNTAIN STREAM” acts as an anthem for escape, echoing the feeling of being otherworldly during personal journeys. Her forthcoming album, Believer”>Believer, is set to explore these themes further.

    The soundscape also features powerful, weighty releases. The veteran group The Wolfgang Press are back with Asylum Variations”>Asylum Variations, marking their second album since reforming nearly three decades ago. It’s a testament to enduring quality and experience, proving that some sounds simply age better.

    On the alternative end of the spectrum, bands like Twin Bloom continue to hone their craft. Their janglepop sensibilities find a fresh voice with tracks like SUMMER’S GONE”>“SUMMER’S GONE”, promising a bright yet wistful take on fleeting moments.

    And for those looking for melodic intensity, New England band Stab is delivering an immediate punch with their debut album, Lost in Maine”>Lost in Maine. Their single, IRISH GOODBYE”>“IRISH GOODBYE”, showcases a melodic hardcore energy that’s both anthemic and undeniably powerful.

    Even rock veterans are making appearances. Sadurn has released their second album, The Underworld”>The Underworld, featuring the indie-country track WHOLE THING”>“WHOLE THING”, adding another rich layer to their catalog.

    From the layered experimentation of Laura Veirs to the raw energy of Stab and the reflective tones of Hurry, this batch of new music reminds us that the story of modern sound is one of intense feeling, personal journeys, and finding beautiful, often chaotic, truths.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • ‘A Capitol Fourth’ Celebrates America’s 250th a Day Early: Which Artists Are Playing This Year’s PBS Special?

    For nearly five decades, the spirit of American celebration has been broadcast live from the halls of power. Every July 4th, A Capitol Fourth brings beloved performers and spectacular fireworks to life from the U.S. Capitol, shared across PBS.

    This year, marking the nation’s Semiquincentennial, the tradition is kicking off a little early. Moving the annual festivities to July 3th allows the excitement to build before the big day, setting the stage for an early celebration that captures the energy of American culture in a timely fashion.

    Executive producer Michael Colbert notes that this early start is already generating excitement among public television stations, though they plan to return to the traditional July 4th observance next year. Despite the shift in date, the core mission remains exactly the same: bringing together incredible talent from across the musical spectrum.

    The concert lineup is a dazzling display of American artistry, featuring a roster that proves there is something for everyone. Artists scheduled to perform include Chicago, Alan Jackson, Patti Labelle, Trace Adkins, Kool & The Gang, Carly Pearce, Loren Allred, Angel Blue, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the Broadway cast of Just in Time, alongside notable actors like Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna.

    Colbert emphasizes the inclusive nature of the event, stating that the goal is to create a celebration for everybody. “You start out with a blank sheet of paper, and you end up with just an unbelievable group of artists from so many wonderful genres,” he says, highlighting the diversity woven into the tapestry of the performance.

    While the focus remains firmly on American performers, the tradition has always welcomed friends from around the world to share in the joy. Furthermore, this year’s commemoration of the 250th birthday introduces unique festivities across the nation, including the Disney Celebrates America broadcast and President Donald Trump’s Great American State Fair/Freedom 250 celebration.

    The spectacle continues with a change in tradition for the grand finale. To commemorate the 250 years since the nation’s founding, the concluding fireworks will launch not from the National Mall, but from George Washington’s historic home in Mount Vernon, Virginia, as actress/singer Loren Allred sings “God Bless America.”

    The event remains resolutely nonpartisan. As Colbert affirms, there is no division in celebrating this important day; everyone is united in honoring the country and fostering a sense of shared community. It is a powerful reminder that at its heart, the celebration is about love of country and love of one another.

    The special concert airs commercial-free on PBS starting at 8 p.m. ET, with additional streams available on YouTube and the American Forces Network, ensuring this historic celebration reaches a wide audience across the country.

    Credit: Billboard

  • Fans Choose Katy Perry’s ‘Watch It Burn’ as This Week’s Favorite New Music

    Katy Perry’s “Watch It Burn” Ignites New Music Poll

    The latest music poll has delivered some serious heat, with Katy Perry’s track “Watch It Burn” taking the top spot for new releases. Listeners voted in a recent poll to crown their favorite fresh sounds, and Perry’s fiery single emerged as the crowd favorite, securing 27% of the vote.

    This victory signals a strong appetite for music that tackles intense emotional territory. “Watch It Burn” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s an exploration of catharsis, rage, and the complex process of moving past pain. Perry channels this intensity into the track, delivering lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners grappling with difficult emotions.

    The song’s narrative is raw and honest, featuring lines that reveal an internal struggle and a determined push forward. The chorus asks listeners to embrace the fire: “Tonight’s the night, I light a match / Throw it hard behind my back / Gonna try to forgive and forget / Light a cigarette, and watch it burn / With the past, I’ma breathe in the ash.”

    This emotional depth is amplified by the accompanying music video, directed by Christian Breslauer, which visualizes Perry’s intense expression. The visual element works hand-in-hand with the music to turn the track into a powerful statement about letting go and rebirth.

    The success of “Watch It Burn” positions it as a compelling follow-up to Perry’s previous work, particularly her single “Bandaids.” This demonstrates an ongoing ability for the artist to evolve her sound while maintaining massive appeal.

    While Perry dominated the top spot, other artists also made significant waves in the poll. TEEKS’ “My Boy” secured a strong 18% of the votes, showcasing impressive traction among new releases. Sombr’s track, “My Body Isn’t Ready,” also performed strongly with 16% of the vote, further highlighting the diverse and compelling sounds currently dominating the charts.

    The results underscore a vibrant musical landscape where artists are successfully connecting with audiences through authentic, emotionally charged narratives. Whether it’s the searing intensity of Perry’s pop anthem or the reflective tones of emerging acts, the current music scene is anything but dull.

    Credit: Billboard

  • Bodywash – “Come And Go”

    Montreal’s dream-pop architects, Rosie Long Decter and Chris Steward, continue to weave their signature sonic tapestry, offering fans another delightful dose of jangly, melodic bliss. The duo Bodywash has cemented their place in the indie landscape with a catalog that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.

    Their journey includes a compelling 2023 release, I Held The Shape While I Could, an album that captures the ephemeral beauty inherent in dream-pop sensibilities. Following this success, they embraced a playful nod to pop history with a 2024 release, covering Wham!’s classic hit, “Last Christmas.” This move perfectly encapsulates their ability to blend introspective moodiness with bright, infectious hooks.

    But the creative energy doesn’t pause there. Recently, Bodywash has delivered a fresh, enticing one-off titled “Come And Go.” This latest offering is a perfect example of their knack for crafting beautifully simple yet emotionally resonant songs. It arrived just when listeners were craving more of that airy, shimmering sound that defines the band’s unique voice.

    Whether diving into the sprawling narratives of their albums or exploring the charming simplicity of new tracks like “Come And Go,” Bodywash proves that dream-pop remains a vibrant and endlessly appealing genre. They continue to set a high bar for melodic songwriting, proving that gentle sounds can carry some of the most compelling emotional weight.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Nicole Atkins Announces New Album Drama: Hear “When The Night Falls”

    Nicole Atkins doesn’t just sing; she crafts sound. Hailing from New Jersey, her musical fingerprint is steeped in classic pop sensibilities, yet it shimmers with a vitality and charisma that elevates it far beyond mere pastiche. She possesses a rare gift for writing unforgettable hooks, seamlessly weaving emotional depth into her melodic structures.

    With over two decades immersed in the music world, Atkins has built a career defined by collaboration and enduring artistry. Her history includes working alongside iconic figures, lending her work a distinctive, soulful texture through partnerships with artists like Britt Daniel of Spoon and the late Mark Lanegan.

    Her journey is marked by thoughtful releases, most recently highlighted by her 2021 album Memphis Ice. This body of work established her as an artist capable of delivering both nostalgic warmth and contemporary edge.

    Now, Atkins is stepping into an exciting new chapter, aligning with a legendary lineage. She has signed with Wicked Game Records, the new imprint operating under the historic Sun Records label, promising a rich sonic foundation for her next endeavor.

    Anticipation is building as she prepares to release her forthcoming album, Drama, later this year. Fans are already getting a taste of this forthcoming project, with tracks like “When The Night Falls” offering an evocative glimpse into the mood and melody that awaits.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Odd Okoddo and Ogoya Nengo Give Their Dreamscape an Edge

    In a musical landscape that is constantly shifting and evolving, finding truly exceptional talent can feel like an archaeological dig. Yet, amidst the ceaseless currents of change in folktronica, two names continue to resonate with a distinct, undeniable brilliance: Odd Okoddo and Ogoya Nengo.

    They aren’t just contributing to the genre; they are redefining it. Their sound cuts through the noise of progressive and experimental music, offering an authentic depth and innovative texture that sets them apart from the surrounding sonic landscape.

    The world of folktronica is always in motion, embracing new rhythms and technologies. But while other artists chase fleeting trends, Odd Okoddo and Ogoya Nengo have anchored themselves firmly in a realm of pure, inimitable artistry.

    What makes their contribution so remarkable is not merely the complexity of their compositions, but the sheer emotional weight they carry. Their music manages to blend traditional sensibilities with cutting-edge sonic exploration, creating something uniquely rich and deeply compelling for the listener.

    Their work serves as a powerful reminder that even in the most progressive musical realms, true innovation often lies in recognizing and amplifying inherent, authentic talent. The sounds emanating from Odd Okoddo and Ogoya Nengo are not just tracks; they are masterclasses in artistic vision and sonic mastery.

    Credit: PopMatters

  • Dari Bay – “On Your Side”

    Dari Bay’s Surprise Wish: A Symphony of Hits Arrives This Friday

    Get ready, music lovers. This Friday marks the highly anticipated arrival of Dari Bay’s brand new album, Surprise Wish. The wait is almost over for fans eager to dive into what promises to be a vibrant and memorable musical journey.

    But the buzz surrounding this release isn’t just about the album itself—it’s fueled by the incredible success of the singles that have already dropped. Before the full collection lands, Dari Bay has given us a powerful taste of the talent packed into Surprise Wish through tracks like “The Joke,” “We’re Gonna Be Okay,” and “Chevy.”

    These individual songs have quickly established themselves as absolute bangers, setting an incredibly high bar for the full LP. Each track offers a distinct flavor of Dari Bay’s artistry, showcasing versatility and genuine musical appeal that has captivated listeners.

    Adding even more excitement to the anticipation is the latest preview: “On Your Side.” This single offers yet another glimpse into the depth and quality that fans can expect from the upcoming album. It serves as a perfect final whisper before the full experience unfolds.

    Fans are already buzzing, eager to experience the complete narrative woven by Dari Bay across Surprise Wish. Whether you’re a longtime follower or new to his sound, these preceding releases have proven that this new work is set to be a major event.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Frankie Rose Announces New Album Hila: Hear “Cant Be Wrong”

    Frankie Rose has carved out a distinctive space in the music world, weaving nostalgia and futuristic soundscapes into a career defined by shimmering synthpop. While her roots are firmly planted in the indie scene, her sonic evolution has seen her masterfully embrace the bright, shimmery sounds of the eighties.

    Long before she became a celebrated voice in modern indie circles, Rose was an integral part of the Brooklyn scene. She contributed to influential bands such as Dum Dum Girls, Vivian Girls, and Crystal Stilts, laying a foundation built on raw, compelling songwriting.

    But her artistic journey is anything but linear. Today, Frankie Rose is recognized for her ability to deliver rapturous synthpop, a genre she handles with undeniable skill and flair. She has evolved into a sought-after figure in the scene, often serving as the perfect opener for major acts like the Jesus And Mary Chain and Swervedriver.

    Now, as she steps into her next creative chapter, anticipation is high. Rose is preparing to follow up her 2023 album Love As Projection with fresh material.

    Adding further excitement, Rose recently announced a new project titled Hila, featuring the track “Cant Be Wrong.” This announcement has already sparked buzz, with the music making its debut on Stereogum.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Sam And Louise Sullivan Announce New Album Love & Devotion: Hear “Down On Love”

    The world of independent music is currently buzzing with a wave of incredibly prolific creativity, particularly from artists operating within the Philadelphia scene. At the heart of this vibrant output are projects that demonstrate relentless musical output and genuine artistic synergy, inviting listeners to dive into some truly memorable sounds.

    Consider the work of Emily Moales, a musician whose recording project, Star Moles, continues to set high standards. Her latest offering, Highway To Hell, is already recognized as one of the must-hear albums of the year so far, showcasing her ability to craft compelling and intense musical narratives.

    The momentum doesn’t stop there. Fellow Star Moles contributor Kevin Basko channels similar creative energy through his project, Rubber Band Gun. Their collaboration recently yielded the track Frodoboy, a piece that highlights the dynamic interplay between these prolific musicians.

    Adding another layer to this fascinating musical landscape are Sam and Louise Sullivan, a sibling duo whose collaborative efforts are equally compelling. They have been busy developing their sound, and they are now bringing their latest work to listeners with their new album, Love & Devotion.

    A standout track from this new release is the song Down On Love, which offers a glimpse into the emotional depth of the Sullivan siblings’ evolving sound. These interconnected projects—Star Moles, Rubber Band Gun, and the work of Sam and Louise Sullivan—underscore a rich ecosystem where musical talent flows freely and constantly produces exciting new material.

    Credit: Stereogum