The Orange Drop

          From Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, The Orange Drop styles psychedelic acid-rock from the 60's with distinct overtones of 90's lo-fi garage rock.  Members Marc-Andre Basile (Vocals/Guitar), Anthony Bove (Drums), Matt Calhoun (Bass), Peter Stanko (Guitar), and Dave Johnson (Keys) come together to make their contribution to the growing umbrella genre of neo-psychedelia and have released their debut album (via their label Mega Dodo), Stoned In Love.  With all 9 tracks showing strong potential in the wider market with songs for a diverse audience, this group may just bring an underground type of music to the forefront of the rock community.

Kentucky Nightmare

          Coming from Bloomington, Indiana, Kentucky Nightmare fuses bluesy rhythm with more modern indie stylings to create a sound that is reflective of decades of musical evolution.  Having initially formed in 2004, the band currently consists of members Simon P. Moore (Guitar/Vocals), Chris Brubeck (Guitar/Organ), Casey Reuter (Bass), and Kyle Collins (drums), and have released four albums.  Most recently, In The House Facing South (April 2016) has perpetuated their musical journey.

Sex Toys

          It's not often that one comes across instrumental psychedelic pop infused with heavier progressive themes that can truly captivate an audience.  The brain child of Thomas Swing, Sex Toys does just that, showing to the world that abstract fusion genres that have fallen by the wayside are not dead, but rather teeming with life given by those with a desire to blend the past and the present.  The first and only piece of work put out by Sex Toys (every instrument is recorded by Swing, however the live band is comprised of members Ashley Viers, Jarrett Ross, and Thomas Swing), The Xhoenis exemplifies musicianship and the careful composition that is necessary to make each instrument serve a worthwhile purpose.

Frazer Spooner

          Hailing from Sheffield, England, Frazer Spooner trades in his metal background for a more indie-folk styled sound compounded by descriptive, storytelling lyrics.  Having played music from a young age, Spooner now strives to attain a working ability play a great multitude of instruments, so that he can record his own music independently.  Yes, that's right, he records every instrument and the vocals entirely by himself, thus granting his music an affinity for the complex layering that comes from long hours in the studio trying to figure out how a violin or mandolin can fit into mix.  Having released his first full-length project Only After Dark: A Short Story, I can't help but find myself excitedly waiting for the next.

Interview - Levingstone

          Music is one of my passions and one that I know will be shared by many of you.  I listen to all kinds of genres and especially to musical artists who are either not very mainstream, not widely known, or both.  Through my interviews, I hope you’ll join me on this musical odyssey of not only listening but learning about the music from the artists who love what they do, who are original, who are unique and who take you outside your own environments and give you a different global perspective.

          This week, I caught up with Sammi Su of Levingstone to discuss his music and his life as a musician.

Read the full interview below:

Levingstone

          Another band that falls into what seems to be a growing neo-soul/jazz fusion movement in Australia, Levingstone brings together diverse aspects of music to form a coherent style that resonates well.  Coming from Sydney, the group attributes its style to the diverse musical tastes of its members, Sammii Su (Vocals), Jesse Johnston (Guitar), Dominic Cabusi (Bass), Chris Dutton (Keys), and Ryan Mooney (Drums).  Their long-awaited debut EP Modern Burials serves as a testament to their musical ability, creativity, and introspective nature as the collection of songs circle around the modern phenomenon of societal isolation.

Interview - Bredd

          Music is one of my passions and one that I know will be shared by many of you.  I listen to all kinds of genres and especially to musical artists who are either not very mainstream, not widely known, or both.  Through my interviews, I hope you’ll join me on this musical odyssey of not only listening but learning about the music from the artists who love what they do, who are original, who are unique and who take you outside your own environments and give you a different global perspective.

          This week, I caught up with Raffaele Pane of Bredd to discuss his music and his life as a musician.

Read the full interview below:

Bredd

          Italian (Massa Lubrense, Italy) singer/songwriter Raffaele Pane (Bredd) comes to us with his debut EP, An End For All. Having grown up surrounded by music and, by the age of 18, having studied several instruments, Bredd brings skillful compositions and engaging songwriting to the ever-growing music scene.  With influences spanning from Robbie Williams to Foo Fighters, it is unsurprising that his first release combines elements of pop-rock with a harder, more gritty sound.

Endless Riddles

          Hailing from Namur, Belgium, Endless Riddles brings together aspects of acoustic music with alternative stylings to create an engaging blend with strong appeals to emotion.  The brother-sister duo formed in late 2014 when Pierre Schifflers (All Instruments/Vocals) asked his sister, Axelle (Vocals), to collaborate on his debut EP (Endless Riddles).  Their recent sophomore EP, Stable Ground, features the increased inclusion of Axelle's vocals and brings in more delicate elements of the Schifflers' style.

Brave At Last

           Hailing from Madera, California, Marcel Torres (Vocals/Guitar), Paul Milor (Bass/Vocals), Alex Ingram (Guitar/Vocals), and Jared Upton (Drums) come together to form Brave At Last.  Coming from various other bands and interests, they combine hard-punk, folk, and pop music together to create a strong and catchy sound, as is evident on their debut album, Overcomer.

Gabe Lehrer

          With an explorative style, Tucson, Arizona high-schoolers Gabe Lehrer (Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Steel Drums) and Ryan Kemmer (Drum Kit and Percussion) come together to blend various styles of music and entrance their audience with indie-folk styled melodies.  Having met in 2014, the duo have just released their debut album, Cuban Chevy, a compilation of simple, yet interesting folk-esque tunes and experimental, instrumental and otherwise varied tracks that delve into genres like reggae and funk.

The Coronations

          Coming out of Belfast, Northern Ireland, The Coronations make early British-rock and mod inspired music with punk influences and a harder edge.  Having been wholly formed in 2015, bassist Steve, lead guitarist Mark, rhythm guitarist Harv, drummer Dylan, and vocalist Sam have released their debut EP, Midnight In Belfast.  With strong vocals and a hard rockin' sound, The Coronations have certainly carved themselves a niche.

Cinnamon War

          Hailing from the island nation of Malta, Cinnamon War blends 90's mainstream rock with modern pop-rock sensibilities to produce a highly commercially-viable sound that appeals to both the casual listener and those who are more serious about music.  Having formed in 2011, drummer Samuel, bassist Andre, guitarist Robert, and vocalist Mike have collectively released 4 singles since 2014.  Their most recent single (released April 7, 2016) "Tell Me Now" is definitely amongst their best and accurately displays the raw talent of the band.

Cacartu

          These days, there isn't much jazz or soul music to be had in the mainstream music industry (much to my dismay).  However, Cacartu, a band out of Melbourne, Australia, is out to change this.  With their modern jazz instrumental style and neo-soul vocals and aesthetic, vocalist Kaitlyn Secker, guitarist Lachlan Leeds, secondary guitarist and synth-producer Kyle Muir, bassist Brayden Smith, and drummer Sebastian Antoine bring a fusion of old and new to create a sound that is wholly pleasing and an excellent addition to the genre.  Having formed only in recent years, Cacartu have just released their self-titled debut EP and it is certainly amongst the best debuts I have heard.

Sophie White

          Originally from Livingston, Scotland, solo artist Sophie White moved to Glasgow to pursue a musical career and attend university for music performance.  Having played guitar since she was 13 and having gigged locally during her teens, the minimalist acoustic jazz instrumentals mixed with her Amy Winehouse influenced, soulful voice creates a unique and developed aesthetic.  Her straightforward lyrics and emotionally charged vocals are key components of her debut EP, Monkey Mind, on which she plays all of the instruments.  After hearing her songs just a few times, I've already added them to my playlist and you'll soon see why.

Harry Carman

          Originally from Canberra, Australia and now based in Melbourne, solo artist Harry Carman brings his special brand of smooth, folk-esque acoustic music and pairs it perfectly with his relaxed, somber voice.  Having used music as an outlet for his creative energy in school, Carman has now started recording with the goal of creating a continuous musical story through several EPs.  His often relatable lyrics and simple production make his music truly unique and engage the audience in a meaningful way.  This is greatly reflected in his first release, a preliminary EP entitled Midnight Melodies, although it's merely a prelude to his upcoming EP trilogy.

The Subterraneans

          Having been birthed in the "city that never sleeps" (NYC), The Subterraneans bring a mix of punk and classic rock together to create music with catchy hooks, hard-hitting drum fills, and ripping guitar riffs, all wrapped up in a commercially viable album that feels right at home as we near warmer weather and ultimately summer.  Having been formed in the 1990's, guitarist and vocalist Rik Mercaldi, drummer Mike Roze, and bassist Mike Curry are no strangers to the record industry and, on their new label Pyrrhic Victory Recordings, have just released their first album (Lost)  after a 9 year hiatus.

Aree and the Pure Heart

          Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Aree and the Pure Heart commands a classic anthemic-rock sound mixed with a punk rawness and a penchant for punchy power-chords.  Formed only recently in 2015, founding members Aree Ogir (Vocals, Guitar, Bass) and 'Sheppard' (Drums) recorded their debut EP, Heartsongs, as a duo.  After gaining a following, they decided to put together a full band to begin touring and have now signed with  label Terminus City.

The Royales

Originally posted on September 18, 2014:

          In the past, Australia has given the world some incredible rock bands.  They brought AC/DC into the world with their impactful rock anthems that changed the face of rock music.  Then, they brought us INXS who ruled the pop-rock world for a decade with high-energy radio hits.  Other successful bands from Australia are Men at Work, who blended new wave, reggae, and pure rock, as well as the pop-rock and blues influenced Cold Chisel.  Today, The Royales carry on the tradition of excellent rock music from Australia, with their own blend of musical styles that makes them unstoppable.

On Til' Morning

Originally posted on June 19, 2014:

          The last 2 decades have brought about innumerable changes to the music industry.  Possibly one of the biggest game-changers has been the advent and popularization of the internet.  Though it has had both a positive and negative impact on the music industry (the ability to pirate music so easily is generally considered negative), it has, on the whole, had a largely positive impact.  Aside from the new audiences that it has allowed musicians to reach and the incredible ease of distribution, the internet has also opened the door for one of the most significant recent changes in the tried and true method for musicians to create music; the record label.  In today's world, almost anyone can create music by raising money through the use of a kickstarter, including the talented musicians of On Til' Morning.

Starved Rock

Originally posted on June 17, 2014:

WARNING

Rock may cause the shredding of air molecules strung apart by axe, minor earthquakes created by bass, and the smell of melting clocks as a result of the drumming. 

CAUTION

These sounds could result in nudity or subdominant or dominant toxicity. Please, don't leave your socks behind. - Starved Rock

The Canvas Divine

Originally posted on June 9, 2014:

          Throughout history, Germany has given us some of the greatest musicians of all time, such as J.S. Bach, and in more modern times, The Scorpions (Rock You Like A Hurricane anyone?).  In addition, who could forget the infamous techno and tekkno musical movements that boomed in Germany starting in the mid 1980's.  Today, however, I have something different for you, I have The Canvas Divine.

Stereo Feed

Originally posted on June 5, 2014:

          Post-grunge, a mid 90's derivative of grunge music, is the genre that was instrumental (pun intended) in popularizing bands like Foo Fighters, Queens of the Stoneage, The Black Keys, and Arctic Monkeys.  It has also allowed these bands to thrive in the changing musical landscape of the 2000's, with its characteristic grunge sound mixed with a pop sense.  Today, many bands try to play into that genre, but often times, their music falls flat in terms of their fan-base due to an imbalance of early grunge style and pop sensibilities.  Stereofeed is not one of those bands.

The Blue Squares

Originally posted on June 2, 2014:

          Much of the music from the 60's has a distinct sound that embodies an important time in the history of rock.  Maybe it's that haunting guitar and vocals that were recorded onto magnetic tape and run through vacuum-tube equipment.  Maybe it's the spirit of the time that was captured by music; the changing society and psychedelic youth movement.  Or, maybe still, it was the relative 'innocence' of rock and roll in that era of experimentation.  Whatever it was,  The Blue Squares have managed to capture not only a similar sonic quality, but the overall feel of good-ol'-fashioned 60's rock.

Soft Shoulder

Originally posted on May 26, 2014:

          The 90's gave birth to an era of indie experimentation; grunge.  This combination of heavy rock riffs and bluesy Black Sabbath-esque rhythms was born out of the commercialization of glam rock in the late 80's and became widely popular in the indie scene, then the mainstream.  A main selling point of grunge in the 90's was the fact that the lyrics were 'real' and reflected the musician's personal lives.  Soft Shoulder would've been right at home in the 90's (though they are certainly welcome now), with their deep lyrics and blues-influenced guitar and bass work.

Sioux Falls

Originally posted May 22, 2014:

          The late 80's into the early 2000's saw a boom in DIY indie rock.  Bands like The Pixies, Modest Mouse, and Wilco were big players in the underground music scene, while some were more successful than others.  Many of the bands in that genre had developed more eclectic styles and created a time of experimentation in music, not dissimilar to the late 60's.  They pushed the boundaries of what popular music could really be and showed that there is always something more that can be done in music.  That's exactly what Sioux Falls is doing with their music.

9 Miles Ahead

Originally posted on May 20, 2014:

          Bands like Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace have, in the past, successfully combined elements of metal, alternative, and grunge.  Their music has characteristic heavy riffs and deep bass lines, while also having melodic vocals.  Stemming from the funk metal of the late 80's, alternative metal/post-grunge began to gain mainstream acceptance in the early 90's and was a strong influence on the creators of the popular music festival, Lollapalooza.  It was, in essence, the publicly acceptable form of pure grunge.  9 Miles Ahead embraces the genre and puts their own spin on it.

Folly Fields

Originally posted on May 19, 2014:

          It's hard to think of much else from the 90's rock music scene except for grunge.  Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and numerous others dominated the musical landscape.  Very few noticed the great departure from grunge that is indie folk rock.  It isn't a genre that gets much attention, even today.  Having popped up in the 90's as an underground movement, it was never fully recognized amidst the hype of the grunge explosion and, later, teen pop.  In its most basic form, it's a mixture of country/folk music from the 50's, 60's, and 70's and the indie rock of the late 80's and 90's.  It is, however, very important that you don't let any of what I just said turn you off to the indie folk rock band that is Folly Fields. 

Mothership

This was originally posted on May 15, 2014:

          For those of us who remember the late 90's, you will not that it was a time of dramatic change in the music industry.  The widespread implementation of the Internet and music sharing sites like Napster and later YouTube changed the previously fundamental rules of how a band could again success.  There was also a shift in popular music.  The grunge movement that had breathed life back into rock scene in the early and mid 90's was overtaken in the pop charts by teen pop groups like *NSYNC, The Backstreet Boys, and, of course, Britney Spears.  These changes struck fear into the hearts of every hardcore rock fan, but fear no more, just board the mothership.

Esper Scout

Originally posted on May 7, 2014:

Have you ever wanted to start a band in your garage with some friends and some used equipment, then, eventually make it big?  Of course you have, so you get together with your best friend and maybe someone else you're close with, pickup some instruments, then start making noise in your parent's garage.  Things are going well, so you come up with a kickass catchy name and go to work writing your own material and practicing.  Everything is shaping up to be really great and you think that your band might have a real shot until you sit down and try to get some gigs and you realize...its hard.  Very hard in some cases.  After having no luck finding a place to debut your awesome band, you start to give up the idea all together, until it is just a distant memory.  Well, next time that this happens, just remember Esper Scout (a kickass name), cause that's exactly how they did it.

Boswell

Originally posted on May 15, 2014:

          Ahh, the late 60's and early 70's, what a time (even though I wasn't even born).  It was a time of change, socially, politically, and, of course, musically.  Some of the greatest and most creative music came out of this era including Bob Dylan, The Doors, The Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, The Who, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and oh so many more incredible bands.  Alas, these bands have come and gone, but their legacy and influence is still relevant, as is clear with Boswell.

Dad's LP's

Originally posted on May 4, 2014:

          All right guys, we've got one hell of a band to start off what will soon become a LONG list of incredible rock bands that deserve yours and the world's ears.  They are Dad's LPs, a 'pop/rock' band out of California.  It is a classic foursome made up of band members John Morales (drums, lead vocals), Jay Seals (guitar, harmony vocals), Chris Twomey (lead vocals, guitar, bass), and Andrew Harris (lead guitar).  They come from all parts of Cali, from the capital city of Sacramento to the warm waters down in Long Beach.  These guys released their self-titled debut album in 2011, a very solid album in its own right, but it's their next release that really got me hooked on this band.