Release Date: 29 May 2024
BADBADNOTGOOD
Mid Spiral: Growth
The final installment in their three-part ‘Mid Spiral’ EP series, this is an interesting finale to the series. Whilst not groundbreaking, this has a raw live element to it and I really enjoyed it. Tonally, it’s got a bit of skank to it, and it made me feel quite reminiscent, which fits well with the title of growth, and perhaps the band reflecting on where they have come from and the amazing journey they’ve had up to this point in their careers. The three EP’s with one coming each week have been a real treat and I love the concept. I think they’re all getting slapped together as a vinyl release, which is interesting as it could lack a bit of continuity, with three definite distinct parts.
Genre:
Jazz
Tasting notes:
Relaxed easy listening, good for getting lost in thought.
Standout Tracks
Audacia, the guitar riff at the beginning reminds me of the wild west for some reason, I love it!
Looking for more:
Check out the other two EP’s in this series if you haven’t heard them yet!
Release Date: 24 May 2024
Don't Thank Me, Spank Me!
Don't Thank Me, Spank Me!
A debut here from Melbourne based duo. This one blends post-rock, indie, pop and Aussie surf rock, nodding to everything from the 70s to ’00s (Dollars And Cents has a great one to ‘Short Skirt/Long Jacket by CAKE from 2001). The simple yet effective drum patterns and driving guitar are a perfect backdrop for the thoughtful and crack up lyrics which are allowed to take the forefront due to the minimal approach. Watch this space, these girls could be going far!
Genre:
Indie, Rock, Post-Rock, Australian Rock, Alternative
Tasting notes:
Fun, Groovy and a bit sexy!
Standout Tracks
Dollars And Cents – Sums up the funny, cheeky vibe across the album and is just super groovey
Looking for more:
Reminds me of the Ting Tings from back in the day, they nod to heaps of older indie work as well and give me some Wet Leg vibes.
Release Date: 15 March 2024
BALTHVS
Sun & Moon - BALTHVS
Colombian Psych-Rock?! Sign me the fuck up! Only just found these guys and am obsessed now, this one is from their 2024 album ‘Harvest’ and is a tuuuune! As you can imagine, this trio has a pretty unique sound, but the roots are firmly embedded in the modern psych-rock scene and inspired by legends like Santana, which the band put in their top 3 albums of all time (Abraxas) along with Grateful Dead and Sade. Great taste, great talent.
Genre:
Alt-Rock, Indie, Latin
Tasting notes:
Mostly Spanish lyrics, calm and cool vibes
Looking for more:
Honestly, the closest thing I’ve heard to Khruangbin at points and Arc De Soleil
Release Date: 25 May 2024
Loyle Carner
hugo: reimagined (Live from the Royal Albert Hall)
I had a look at the single, ‘A Lasting Place’ a few weeks back, now this is the performance from Royal Albert Hall, with interludes and crowd interactions and all. It’s a beautiful piece that his fans can enjoy, and really transports you to the performance. Carner is raw and open with the crowd and gives context on what many of the songs mean to him, something I always appreciate. It’s jam-packed with guest appearances from the likes of Sampha, JNR Williams and Jordan Rakei to name a few. Great listening to his fans, especially those who haven’t had the chance to see him live. I’m sure those who haven’t will be making sure they don’t miss his next local show.
Genre:
Hip-Hop, Rap, Conscious Rap
Tasting notes:
An intimate showing from Carner, where he puts his heart on display for audience and fans.
Looking for more:
I can’t think of many rappers that have put out live albums that are this intimate, I’d love to know if you have any recommendations!
Release Date: 24 May 2024
JACKBOY
Trust The Process
I’m pretty selective with the Trap I listen to these days, I think it’s become pretty saturated and new releases tend to miss for me. In saying that, I’m from New Zealand so it’s not my lived experience, each to their own and no hate, I appreciate the music. But, there are some artists I appreciate and Jackboy is one of them. Coming up with Kodak Black (they grew up together, once you know you can’t unhear it) out of Florida with Sniper Gang, I actually think he’s releasing better stuff than him these days. His new album Trust the Process has quite a few good tunes (2 Chainz has a great feature later on), but this was the standout to me.
Genre:
Hip-Hop, Rap, Trap
Tasting notes:
Lit af, will get you pumped up. Great for a night out or if you’re hitting the gym.
Standout Tracks
Styled by Meech
Looking for more:
Kodak Black
