Sundays at 8pm UK, repeated 8pm EST on Primal Radio
Tracklist:
Shonen Knife – Jump into the New World
Buy: 'Jump into the New World'
Mayflower Madame – Weightless
Buy: 'Weightless'
SULK – Drifting
Buy: 'Drifting'
The Magnetic North - Signs
Free download: 'Signs'
Sons of the Void – Kolliderscope
Buy: 'Sons of the Void' (album)
Foxtails Brigade – No Fate
Buy: 'No Fate'
Obligatory Record Of The week: Plastic Flowers – Mary (Del)
Buy: 'Mary (Del)'
Palace Winter – Positron
Buy: 'Positron'
Ashley Shadow – Tonight
Buy: 'Tonight'
Lull – Cicada
Buy: 'Cicada'
The Orange Kyte – Which Vivian?
Buy: 'Which Vivian?'
Psychic Ills – I Don't Mind (feat. Hope Sandoval)
Buy: 'I Don't Mind'
Tacocat – Men Explain Things To Me
Buy: 'Men Explain Things To Me'
Pure Joy – Katie's Gone Home
Buy: 'Katie's Gone Home'
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Monday, 11 April 2016
Sunday, 10 April 2016
Tacocat - Lost Time
Article by KevW
You don't have to search for long to find a band making fuzzy, punky garage tunes at the moment, nor will the references used to describe Tacocat's new album, 'Lost Time', be particularly unusual. For starters, the quartet are from Seattle, which even 25 years on can bring up certain notions, and sure enough, there are grungy elements to be found here, as well as nods to other scuzz-rock groups of that era (Veruca Salt, The Breeders...). On paper, therefore, Tacocat are nothing spectacular, but the tunes prove otherwise.
In terms of music they have an extra punch, and it's not one that's arrived at by simply going heavier with their sound. A prime example of this is 'The Internet' where they crank up a simple, buzzing riff that has a familiarity but sounds fresh at the same time (a hat-tip to producer Erik Blood for the extra invigoration), and then lifts itself further with a crisp burst of additional guitar in the chorus. Purely and simply, Tacocat have a better sound that most others in their field. The lyrics are another factor that sets them apart. There's nothing here that's dumbed-down or vacuous, with more thought being given to subject matter and viewpoint. Take single 'I Hate The Weekend', where the mess that occurs in so many towns and cities isn't celebrated in the usual way: "a two day fun permit, let loose like your life depends on it/at the end of every week, you're screaming in our streets". Party-poopers? Not really, because the album is bags of fun, and to be honest, I can't help but agree.
We're told that the title, 'Lost Time', is a reference to 'The X-Files', so opening it with the catchy 'Dana Katherine Scully' seems fitting, and from there we get half an hour's worth of sugar-coated bullets where the three-minute barrier is only broken twice. This may not be the most diverse record you'll hear all year, but it certainly doesn't outstay its welcome, and time after time these songs hit the mark. The bubblegum melodies of 'I Love Seattle' and gorgeous hooks found on 'Men Explain Things To Me' are particular favourites. Really though, 'Lost Time' is a riot from beginning to end and, in the best possible way, is like having a bucket of icy water thrown in your face. Top stuff.
Tacocat's website
Buy: 'Lost Time'
Catch them live:
2. May UK, Nottingham / JT Soar
3. May UK, Edinburgh / Electric Circus
4. May UK, Glasgow / Broadcast
5. May UK, Cardiff / The Moon Club
6. May UK, Brighton / Sticky Mike's Frog Bar
7. May UK, London / The Lexington
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
You don't have to search for long to find a band making fuzzy, punky garage tunes at the moment, nor will the references used to describe Tacocat's new album, 'Lost Time', be particularly unusual. For starters, the quartet are from Seattle, which even 25 years on can bring up certain notions, and sure enough, there are grungy elements to be found here, as well as nods to other scuzz-rock groups of that era (Veruca Salt, The Breeders...). On paper, therefore, Tacocat are nothing spectacular, but the tunes prove otherwise.
In terms of music they have an extra punch, and it's not one that's arrived at by simply going heavier with their sound. A prime example of this is 'The Internet' where they crank up a simple, buzzing riff that has a familiarity but sounds fresh at the same time (a hat-tip to producer Erik Blood for the extra invigoration), and then lifts itself further with a crisp burst of additional guitar in the chorus. Purely and simply, Tacocat have a better sound that most others in their field. The lyrics are another factor that sets them apart. There's nothing here that's dumbed-down or vacuous, with more thought being given to subject matter and viewpoint. Take single 'I Hate The Weekend', where the mess that occurs in so many towns and cities isn't celebrated in the usual way: "a two day fun permit, let loose like your life depends on it/at the end of every week, you're screaming in our streets". Party-poopers? Not really, because the album is bags of fun, and to be honest, I can't help but agree.
We're told that the title, 'Lost Time', is a reference to 'The X-Files', so opening it with the catchy 'Dana Katherine Scully' seems fitting, and from there we get half an hour's worth of sugar-coated bullets where the three-minute barrier is only broken twice. This may not be the most diverse record you'll hear all year, but it certainly doesn't outstay its welcome, and time after time these songs hit the mark. The bubblegum melodies of 'I Love Seattle' and gorgeous hooks found on 'Men Explain Things To Me' are particular favourites. Really though, 'Lost Time' is a riot from beginning to end and, in the best possible way, is like having a bucket of icy water thrown in your face. Top stuff.
Tacocat's website
Buy: 'Lost Time'
Catch them live:
2. May UK, Nottingham / JT Soar
3. May UK, Edinburgh / Electric Circus
4. May UK, Glasgow / Broadcast
5. May UK, Cardiff / The Moon Club
6. May UK, Brighton / Sticky Mike's Frog Bar
7. May UK, London / The Lexington
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Wednesday, 6 April 2016
Twin Haus - Nothing Lavish
Article by Del Chaney
Brisbane-based noisy, ambient psych rockers Twin Haus have just released their sophomore EP entitled 'Nothing Lavish' (22nd March 2016) via Bedlam Records. This release follows on from their successful debut EP, the sonically sublime seven-track 'Waxen Myriad' (2014), and see's the band continue on with their sonic manifesto of not pigeonholing themselves into any one particular musical genre. With a sound that expertly skips through noisy, psych-tinged highs but also has subtle, atmospheric post-rock strands that are infused with stunning atmospheric ambient low points, Twin Haus successfully produce wonderful sonic soundscapes that deserve to be listened to over and over again. 'Nothing Lavish' is available to buy/download right now from the band's Bandcamp page.
The EP opens up with an addictively melodic guitar build, carefully cushioning that impressive vocal performance before collectively streaming into a gorgeous chorus break. Yes, I am hearing Radiohead here from the beginning, but 'Synthetic Egg' morphs into something completely new sounding, as we're treated to a thrilling musical break that is full of golden-hued sonic swirls and that brilliant saxophone line that both thrills and interests all at once. The track builds into a maelstrom of atmospheric instrumentation as it deftly works through its sonic gears with aplomb. Is it really strange that I'm hearing hints of Jeff Buckley swirling within those addictive vocal lines? Absolutely stunning. Coming in at nine-minutes-plus, 'Synthetic Egg' is by far my favourite track on this entire release.
Track two, 'Self-Love', is an extension of sorts to the opening track but it has its roots firmly stuck deep within a cacophony of swirling, droning guitar swells and explosive instrumentation. It drives a sonic trench through proceedings and expertly bookends that opening track. Wild but atmospheric percussive hits announce the arrival of track three, 'I Used To Think', before that soaring vocal line becomes the focal point as reverberating guitar structures circumnavigate the entire track giving off a brilliantly vivid ambient hue as they swirl within the sonic whirlwind. Both the guitar and vocal tracks systematically loop and arc side by side, right across the sonic ether as the track meanders and dances expertly like some imaginary ballroom dancing couple. A brilliantly executed track.
The EP's closing piece, entitled 'The Revue', leans more towards noise-rock as its driving opening patterns take shape, before the veil falls away and we're treated to a beautiful cacophony of addictive guitars, stunning vocal production, sparse percussion and intense atmosphere. 'The Revue' is a sonic journey all in itself, as its eleven-minutes-plus of shimmering psychedelic brilliance envelopes the listener, lifts you up and carefully pulls you with it into its inner swirling cyclone. This is sonic heaven of immense proportions and it's recommended that you listen to it via headphones just to experience its sheer sonic abandonment that it holds. It explodes from the break into a stalking sonic cheetah chasing down its prey. A stunning finale to an utterly brilliant EP. As sophomore releases go this is worthy of much bigger praise than I can give it. I simply cannot recommend this EP enough. Bravo!
Twin Haus' website
Buy: 'Nothing Lavish'.
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Brisbane-based noisy, ambient psych rockers Twin Haus have just released their sophomore EP entitled 'Nothing Lavish' (22nd March 2016) via Bedlam Records. This release follows on from their successful debut EP, the sonically sublime seven-track 'Waxen Myriad' (2014), and see's the band continue on with their sonic manifesto of not pigeonholing themselves into any one particular musical genre. With a sound that expertly skips through noisy, psych-tinged highs but also has subtle, atmospheric post-rock strands that are infused with stunning atmospheric ambient low points, Twin Haus successfully produce wonderful sonic soundscapes that deserve to be listened to over and over again. 'Nothing Lavish' is available to buy/download right now from the band's Bandcamp page.
The EP opens up with an addictively melodic guitar build, carefully cushioning that impressive vocal performance before collectively streaming into a gorgeous chorus break. Yes, I am hearing Radiohead here from the beginning, but 'Synthetic Egg' morphs into something completely new sounding, as we're treated to a thrilling musical break that is full of golden-hued sonic swirls and that brilliant saxophone line that both thrills and interests all at once. The track builds into a maelstrom of atmospheric instrumentation as it deftly works through its sonic gears with aplomb. Is it really strange that I'm hearing hints of Jeff Buckley swirling within those addictive vocal lines? Absolutely stunning. Coming in at nine-minutes-plus, 'Synthetic Egg' is by far my favourite track on this entire release.
Track two, 'Self-Love', is an extension of sorts to the opening track but it has its roots firmly stuck deep within a cacophony of swirling, droning guitar swells and explosive instrumentation. It drives a sonic trench through proceedings and expertly bookends that opening track. Wild but atmospheric percussive hits announce the arrival of track three, 'I Used To Think', before that soaring vocal line becomes the focal point as reverberating guitar structures circumnavigate the entire track giving off a brilliantly vivid ambient hue as they swirl within the sonic whirlwind. Both the guitar and vocal tracks systematically loop and arc side by side, right across the sonic ether as the track meanders and dances expertly like some imaginary ballroom dancing couple. A brilliantly executed track.
The EP's closing piece, entitled 'The Revue', leans more towards noise-rock as its driving opening patterns take shape, before the veil falls away and we're treated to a beautiful cacophony of addictive guitars, stunning vocal production, sparse percussion and intense atmosphere. 'The Revue' is a sonic journey all in itself, as its eleven-minutes-plus of shimmering psychedelic brilliance envelopes the listener, lifts you up and carefully pulls you with it into its inner swirling cyclone. This is sonic heaven of immense proportions and it's recommended that you listen to it via headphones just to experience its sheer sonic abandonment that it holds. It explodes from the break into a stalking sonic cheetah chasing down its prey. A stunning finale to an utterly brilliant EP. As sophomore releases go this is worthy of much bigger praise than I can give it. I simply cannot recommend this EP enough. Bravo!
Twin Haus' website
Buy: 'Nothing Lavish'.
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Tuesday, 5 April 2016
Eric Bachmann - Eric Bachmann
Article by KevW
In the lead-up to his latest album, Eric Bachmann talked about feeling the need to "metamorphose", and it won't be the first time in his career that there have been changes. Alongside solo work, he's perhaps better known for being the frontman of Archers Of Loaf as well as Crooked Fingers, but for 'Eric Bachmann' the idea was to leave little to hide behind, both lyrically and musically. The result is an album that feels incredibly personal and honest, as well as containing some expertly-crafted songs which already have a classic feel to them.
Piano plays a large part in these intimate tracks, but the guitars haven't been thrown out completely. 'Belong to You' works as an ideal opener, introducing you to this more heartfelt style with vocals coming through crisp and clear as the main focal point. With the side guitar, piano and female backing, there's a similar aura to that created by Neil Young circa 'Harvest', and, like Young, Bachmann really shows his mettle as a songwriter. 'Masters of the Deal' feels quite light, playful and at times shimmering, but it's also very thoughtful and one of the more instant tracks here. More tinkling piano follows it on 'Modern Drugs', but again the music tells a different story to the lyrics which deal with serious illness. Although these two aspects might seem at odds with each other, they in fact compliment one another other perfectly.
The outstanding 'Mercy' is perhaps the most powerful statement of all. Lyrically it's the sound of a man who's experienced much of what life can throw at you; a little battered and bruised, but philosophical and with his head held high. On this occasion the backing is a beautiful gospel/doo-wop hybrid with powerful chords that elevate it to another level. It's quite stunning. A similarly rich backing can be found on 'Separation Flight' which seems to fuse traditional alt-country with the kind of Americana mined by Bruce Springsteen, and that influence is felt more subtly on the simmering 'Small Talk'. 'Dreaming' is another soul-baring tune, but this time the arrangement is more spacious and it's this that makes it work so well.
'Eric Bachmann' works best as a full album, but for an easy entry point, the more upbeat alt-rock tinge to 'Carolina' might work best (alongside 'Mercy') and really shows the combination of personal lyrics with arrangements that manage to be both lush and spacious, giving a grandeur but allowing these songs to breathe. You almost feel as though an album like this should have a proper ending rather than seem like an open book, and 'The Old Temptation' does come across that way. Or it at least feels like the end of this particular chapter, if not the story as a whole. This may be a kind of musical reinvention, yet you get the sense that the Eric Bachmann we hear on these songs was there all along, and that it was his previous work that was a reinvention of the person he really is. Whether metamorphosis or realisation, it feels truly timeless.
Eric Bachmann's website
Buy: 'Eric Bachmann'
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
In the lead-up to his latest album, Eric Bachmann talked about feeling the need to "metamorphose", and it won't be the first time in his career that there have been changes. Alongside solo work, he's perhaps better known for being the frontman of Archers Of Loaf as well as Crooked Fingers, but for 'Eric Bachmann' the idea was to leave little to hide behind, both lyrically and musically. The result is an album that feels incredibly personal and honest, as well as containing some expertly-crafted songs which already have a classic feel to them.
Piano plays a large part in these intimate tracks, but the guitars haven't been thrown out completely. 'Belong to You' works as an ideal opener, introducing you to this more heartfelt style with vocals coming through crisp and clear as the main focal point. With the side guitar, piano and female backing, there's a similar aura to that created by Neil Young circa 'Harvest', and, like Young, Bachmann really shows his mettle as a songwriter. 'Masters of the Deal' feels quite light, playful and at times shimmering, but it's also very thoughtful and one of the more instant tracks here. More tinkling piano follows it on 'Modern Drugs', but again the music tells a different story to the lyrics which deal with serious illness. Although these two aspects might seem at odds with each other, they in fact compliment one another other perfectly.
The outstanding 'Mercy' is perhaps the most powerful statement of all. Lyrically it's the sound of a man who's experienced much of what life can throw at you; a little battered and bruised, but philosophical and with his head held high. On this occasion the backing is a beautiful gospel/doo-wop hybrid with powerful chords that elevate it to another level. It's quite stunning. A similarly rich backing can be found on 'Separation Flight' which seems to fuse traditional alt-country with the kind of Americana mined by Bruce Springsteen, and that influence is felt more subtly on the simmering 'Small Talk'. 'Dreaming' is another soul-baring tune, but this time the arrangement is more spacious and it's this that makes it work so well.
'Eric Bachmann' works best as a full album, but for an easy entry point, the more upbeat alt-rock tinge to 'Carolina' might work best (alongside 'Mercy') and really shows the combination of personal lyrics with arrangements that manage to be both lush and spacious, giving a grandeur but allowing these songs to breathe. You almost feel as though an album like this should have a proper ending rather than seem like an open book, and 'The Old Temptation' does come across that way. Or it at least feels like the end of this particular chapter, if not the story as a whole. This may be a kind of musical reinvention, yet you get the sense that the Eric Bachmann we hear on these songs was there all along, and that it was his previous work that was a reinvention of the person he really is. Whether metamorphosis or realisation, it feels truly timeless.
Eric Bachmann's website
Buy: 'Eric Bachmann'
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Monday, 4 April 2016
UK ALBUM PREMIERE: The Old Adage - Cycles
Article by Karla Harris
Late last August we hosted the UK premiere of 'Red', the first track to be taken from The Old Adage's debut album 'Cycles'. Like the caterpillar to the pupa and from the pupa to the adult butterfly, 'Red' was an indication that the Detroit-based outfit had once again, sonically evolved. From the gentle acoustic pop of their earliest workings, to the heavier, brasher pop/rock of the 'Matches' EP (which was largely borderline industrial influences), 'Cycles' now sees the band progress beyond their older material, embracing a sound that is alternative but popular, eclectic but accessible. Still familiar and identified as The Old Adage, but the focus has shifted onto the mood, the melody, the lyricism, the diversity.
'Get Loose' opens the band's 10-track labor of love and its introduction is almost sombre, slow tempo. All gentle buzzing synths, lazy synthetic drum beats and sedate male/female vocal harmonies accompany the opening lyrics, "Truth is I don't really know the truth...", before the track bursts into vibrant bouts of alternating tribal and cosmic synths, warrior cry female vocals, and lyrics that "circle in cycles" around family issues, youthfulness, the world at large, religion. This is one of many feelgood tracks on the album. 'Brother' makes a clunkier introduction, juggling synthetic and natural sounds in its production. The main melody is catchy pop with saccharine vocals against a backing of warped electronic samples and ethereal harmonies. Then there are tracks like the soulful and jazzy 'Twas The Fall', all snappy clicks and tiptoeing beats, and 'Real Word', a fantastic adrenaline building track to mark the middle of the album. It's a scrappy track full of fight, triumphant electronic arrangements, glitches and some great piano beats. This is one of the most diverse tracks on the album and is composed of a number of genres, moods and world sounds within its lovely layers.
'Dragon Breath' is a track I have a huge soft spot for, it's all woozy electric guitar riffs, dangerous electronics and fierce vocals. This is the biggest nod towards the 'Matches' EP era and also a little bit alt-metal and Atreyu in its driving rhythm and darkness. Which is great to hear considering the band are named after an Atreyu track. Penultimate track, 'Records In Our Room', takes the album to a cabaret Caribbean level and by this point, any assumption that you might have figured out the flow of the record is cast aside. This reminds me of what might happen if Malibu burst out of its liquid form into a person and started making music with The Dresden Dolls. 'Higher Places' brings the album to a close with a contemporary electronic pop sound where the vocals and soundscapes take it in turns to control the driver's seat and set the mood, before completing the bands cycle where they end in the way they began; sparse acoustic guitar strums and poignant DIY vocal distortion.
'Cycles' is an exhausting listen, like some of the best records are. Mimi Chavez' vocals are delightfully as versatile as the album's sonic arrangements. Its soundscapes seem to travel across all seven continents and across a vast ocean of genres, but, are blended with such precision that the traditional (and even classical) influences hidden within don't dictate that this is anything but original. 'Cycles' is out now but is largely a futuristic production. The Old Adage have created their own universe within 10 individualistic tracks. They've created an album that is more of an anthology. Of course, it crosses into societal themes, but it has a deep nostalgia and personal meaning that leaves the record somewhere between drawing a connection with its listener, and shrouding them in elusiveness.
The Old Adage's website
The Sound of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Late last August we hosted the UK premiere of 'Red', the first track to be taken from The Old Adage's debut album 'Cycles'. Like the caterpillar to the pupa and from the pupa to the adult butterfly, 'Red' was an indication that the Detroit-based outfit had once again, sonically evolved. From the gentle acoustic pop of their earliest workings, to the heavier, brasher pop/rock of the 'Matches' EP (which was largely borderline industrial influences), 'Cycles' now sees the band progress beyond their older material, embracing a sound that is alternative but popular, eclectic but accessible. Still familiar and identified as The Old Adage, but the focus has shifted onto the mood, the melody, the lyricism, the diversity.
'Get Loose' opens the band's 10-track labor of love and its introduction is almost sombre, slow tempo. All gentle buzzing synths, lazy synthetic drum beats and sedate male/female vocal harmonies accompany the opening lyrics, "Truth is I don't really know the truth...", before the track bursts into vibrant bouts of alternating tribal and cosmic synths, warrior cry female vocals, and lyrics that "circle in cycles" around family issues, youthfulness, the world at large, religion. This is one of many feelgood tracks on the album. 'Brother' makes a clunkier introduction, juggling synthetic and natural sounds in its production. The main melody is catchy pop with saccharine vocals against a backing of warped electronic samples and ethereal harmonies. Then there are tracks like the soulful and jazzy 'Twas The Fall', all snappy clicks and tiptoeing beats, and 'Real Word', a fantastic adrenaline building track to mark the middle of the album. It's a scrappy track full of fight, triumphant electronic arrangements, glitches and some great piano beats. This is one of the most diverse tracks on the album and is composed of a number of genres, moods and world sounds within its lovely layers.
'Dragon Breath' is a track I have a huge soft spot for, it's all woozy electric guitar riffs, dangerous electronics and fierce vocals. This is the biggest nod towards the 'Matches' EP era and also a little bit alt-metal and Atreyu in its driving rhythm and darkness. Which is great to hear considering the band are named after an Atreyu track. Penultimate track, 'Records In Our Room', takes the album to a cabaret Caribbean level and by this point, any assumption that you might have figured out the flow of the record is cast aside. This reminds me of what might happen if Malibu burst out of its liquid form into a person and started making music with The Dresden Dolls. 'Higher Places' brings the album to a close with a contemporary electronic pop sound where the vocals and soundscapes take it in turns to control the driver's seat and set the mood, before completing the bands cycle where they end in the way they began; sparse acoustic guitar strums and poignant DIY vocal distortion.
'Cycles' is an exhausting listen, like some of the best records are. Mimi Chavez' vocals are delightfully as versatile as the album's sonic arrangements. Its soundscapes seem to travel across all seven continents and across a vast ocean of genres, but, are blended with such precision that the traditional (and even classical) influences hidden within don't dictate that this is anything but original. 'Cycles' is out now but is largely a futuristic production. The Old Adage have created their own universe within 10 individualistic tracks. They've created an album that is more of an anthology. Of course, it crosses into societal themes, but it has a deep nostalgia and personal meaning that leaves the record somewhere between drawing a connection with its listener, and shrouding them in elusiveness.
The Old Adage's website
The Sound of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
This Month's Playlist: April 2016
The amount of music being created appears to be endless right now, but that's far from being a bad thing. Check out some of our album reviews or listen to our radio shows if your appetite's as insatiable as ours, but in the mean time, here are a dozen new tunes that have caught our ears recently. Check them out individually below, or hit the player on the right of the page for a continuous stream.
Crows - Whisper
London's Crows spent much of last year touring alongside names like Wolf Alice, Metz and Slaves. They've just put out their debut EP, 'Unwelcome Light', and there's every indication that they'll be the headline act before long. Single 'Whisper' is a pounding hybrid of alt-rock and post-punk with dark psychedelic flourishes.
Crows' website
Buy: 'Whisper'
The Raveonettes - EXCUSES
The Raveonettes' monthly singles series is showing many new sides to the band. Released on the last Friday of each month, they've so far dabbled in '80s electro-pop, spoken word, doo-wop and the urban flavour found on latest edition 'EXCUSES'. A few different approaches maybe, but the end results couldn't be mistaken for anyone else.
The Raveonettes' website
Buy: 'EXCUSES'
Laakso - So Happy, So Sad
On April 22nd, Swedish group Laakso will be releasing their new album 'Grateful Dead'. Their fifth full-length will be the first since regrouping after taking a break in 2007. The record's second single, 'So Happy, So Sad', is classic indiepop with a synth undercurrent and, mirroring its title, is an upbeat and jolly song, but with lyrics that speak of heartache.
Laakso's website
Buy: 'So Happy, So Sad'
Sundara Karma - A Young Understanding
Having recently completed an extensive UK tour, Reading's Sundara Karma are certainly a band on the rise, and new single, 'A Young Understanding', really shows why. Keeping an alternative indie/rock edge, the track also dips its toes in more commercial waters, making for a sound that is both energetic and powerful, but easily capable of catching the attention of the wider world.
Sundara Karma's website
Buy: 'A Young Understanding'
Prints Jackson - Calliope Fuxwar
In the world of Welsh wizard Prints Jackson, the ideas just keep on flowing. His quest to release a new song every month until the day he dies has yet to throw up a dud, and 'Calliope Fuxwar' is no exception. Perhaps more experimental than some past tracks, here we see him fusing together electro-rock and alternative pop with aplomb.
Prints Jackson's website
Free download: 'Calliope Fuxwar'
Eddi Front - Prayer
The alias of Ivana Carresica, Eddi Front released her self-titled debut EP back in 2012, and last month followed it up with new album 'Marina'. Single 'Prayer' belongs in a fantasy land where all is sparkly yet shrouded in mist. This is an enticing piece of dreampop that borders on being a lullaby at some points. Lovely escapism.
Eddi Front's website
Buy: 'Prayer'
Dead Stars - Unpopular
Taking '90s alt-rock titans such as Dinosaur Jr., Teenage Fanclub and Weezer as a starting point, Brooklyn's Dead Stars grab scuzzy guitar music bring it up to date on 'Unpopular'. The track is taken from the band's second album, 'Bright Colors', which was released at the start of last month on their own Weird Tree imprint.
Dead Stars' website
Buy: 'Unpopular'
Sans Parents - Can't Stop Moving
On paper, '70s soft rock anthems and indie music seem to be at odds with each other, but Brisbane's Sans Parents combine the two as if they go hand-in-hand on new single 'Can't Stop Moving'. The fusion of big, singalong choruses and chugging powerpop that these guys create could be classed as a guilty pleasure, but it's still a heck of an earworm.
Sans Parents' website
Buy: 'Can't Stop Moving'
Stupid Cosmonaut - Salvia
Manchester's Stupid Cosmonaut consist of Steven McNamara, Sam Read and Mark Hawnt, and their mission is to create ambient, psychedelic, electronic soundscapes. Debut single, 'Salvia', fades gently into view, before gradually building with fuzzed guitar and vocal samples, until it becomes a thing of slow-burning majesty.
Stupid Cosmonaut's website
Free download: 'Salvia'
Exsonvaldes - Horizon
Exsonvaldes are one of those bands that we've been following for a few years now, and they're always inventive and interesting in the way they mix conventional indie sounds with alt-pop and electronica. New album 'Aranda' is another great listen, and with catchy numbers like 'Horizon', it also reaps instant rewards.
Exsonvadles' website
Buy: 'Horizon'
Soft Wounds - See the Sun
Toronto shoegazers Soft Wounds were recently named Obligatory Record Of The Week on our radio show for excellent single 'Baby Blue', and they have plenty more where that came from. The soaring, yearning 'See the Sun' is another cut from their self-titled debut album, a record that lovers of scuzz and melody should definitely invest some ear time in.
Soft Wounds' website
Free download: 'See the Sun'
Wildhart - We Made Up A Dream
This delightful single by Swedish band Wildhart takes the sounds of electronic pioneers and uses those gently bubbling synths along with a dreampop vibe to form a sweet and interesting wide-eyed psych-pop song. 'We Made Up A Dream' is taken from Wildhart's debut release, 'EP1', which is available now for your sonic enjoyment.
Wildhart's website
Buy: 'We Made Up A Dream'
The Sound of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Crows - Whisper
London's Crows spent much of last year touring alongside names like Wolf Alice, Metz and Slaves. They've just put out their debut EP, 'Unwelcome Light', and there's every indication that they'll be the headline act before long. Single 'Whisper' is a pounding hybrid of alt-rock and post-punk with dark psychedelic flourishes.
Crows' website
Buy: 'Whisper'
The Raveonettes - EXCUSES
The Raveonettes' monthly singles series is showing many new sides to the band. Released on the last Friday of each month, they've so far dabbled in '80s electro-pop, spoken word, doo-wop and the urban flavour found on latest edition 'EXCUSES'. A few different approaches maybe, but the end results couldn't be mistaken for anyone else.
The Raveonettes' website
Buy: 'EXCUSES'
Laakso - So Happy, So Sad
On April 22nd, Swedish group Laakso will be releasing their new album 'Grateful Dead'. Their fifth full-length will be the first since regrouping after taking a break in 2007. The record's second single, 'So Happy, So Sad', is classic indiepop with a synth undercurrent and, mirroring its title, is an upbeat and jolly song, but with lyrics that speak of heartache.
Laakso's website
Buy: 'So Happy, So Sad'
Sundara Karma - A Young Understanding
Having recently completed an extensive UK tour, Reading's Sundara Karma are certainly a band on the rise, and new single, 'A Young Understanding', really shows why. Keeping an alternative indie/rock edge, the track also dips its toes in more commercial waters, making for a sound that is both energetic and powerful, but easily capable of catching the attention of the wider world.
Sundara Karma's website
Buy: 'A Young Understanding'
Prints Jackson - Calliope Fuxwar
In the world of Welsh wizard Prints Jackson, the ideas just keep on flowing. His quest to release a new song every month until the day he dies has yet to throw up a dud, and 'Calliope Fuxwar' is no exception. Perhaps more experimental than some past tracks, here we see him fusing together electro-rock and alternative pop with aplomb.
Prints Jackson's website
Free download: 'Calliope Fuxwar'
Eddi Front - Prayer
The alias of Ivana Carresica, Eddi Front released her self-titled debut EP back in 2012, and last month followed it up with new album 'Marina'. Single 'Prayer' belongs in a fantasy land where all is sparkly yet shrouded in mist. This is an enticing piece of dreampop that borders on being a lullaby at some points. Lovely escapism.
Eddi Front's website
Buy: 'Prayer'
Dead Stars - Unpopular
Taking '90s alt-rock titans such as Dinosaur Jr., Teenage Fanclub and Weezer as a starting point, Brooklyn's Dead Stars grab scuzzy guitar music bring it up to date on 'Unpopular'. The track is taken from the band's second album, 'Bright Colors', which was released at the start of last month on their own Weird Tree imprint.
Dead Stars' website
Buy: 'Unpopular'
Sans Parents - Can't Stop Moving
On paper, '70s soft rock anthems and indie music seem to be at odds with each other, but Brisbane's Sans Parents combine the two as if they go hand-in-hand on new single 'Can't Stop Moving'. The fusion of big, singalong choruses and chugging powerpop that these guys create could be classed as a guilty pleasure, but it's still a heck of an earworm.
Sans Parents' website
Buy: 'Can't Stop Moving'
Stupid Cosmonaut - Salvia
Manchester's Stupid Cosmonaut consist of Steven McNamara, Sam Read and Mark Hawnt, and their mission is to create ambient, psychedelic, electronic soundscapes. Debut single, 'Salvia', fades gently into view, before gradually building with fuzzed guitar and vocal samples, until it becomes a thing of slow-burning majesty.
Stupid Cosmonaut's website
Free download: 'Salvia'
Exsonvaldes - Horizon
Exsonvaldes are one of those bands that we've been following for a few years now, and they're always inventive and interesting in the way they mix conventional indie sounds with alt-pop and electronica. New album 'Aranda' is another great listen, and with catchy numbers like 'Horizon', it also reaps instant rewards.
Exsonvadles' website
Buy: 'Horizon'
Soft Wounds - See the Sun
Toronto shoegazers Soft Wounds were recently named Obligatory Record Of The Week on our radio show for excellent single 'Baby Blue', and they have plenty more where that came from. The soaring, yearning 'See the Sun' is another cut from their self-titled debut album, a record that lovers of scuzz and melody should definitely invest some ear time in.
Soft Wounds' website
Free download: 'See the Sun'
Wildhart - We Made Up A Dream
This delightful single by Swedish band Wildhart takes the sounds of electronic pioneers and uses those gently bubbling synths along with a dreampop vibe to form a sweet and interesting wide-eyed psych-pop song. 'We Made Up A Dream' is taken from Wildhart's debut release, 'EP1', which is available now for your sonic enjoyment.
Wildhart's website
Buy: 'We Made Up A Dream'
The Sound of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
The Sound Of Confusion Radio Show - 3rd April 2016
Sundays at 8pm UK, repeated 8pm EST on Primal Radio
Tracklist:
Jake Evans – Glorious
Buy: 'Glorious'
Acid Dad – Don't Get Taken
Buy: 'Don't Get Taken'
Lust For Youth – Stardom
Buy: 'Stardom'
Palehound – Molly
Buy: 'Molly'
Lake Ruth – The Inconsolable Jean-Claude
Buy: 'The Inconsolable Jean-Claude'
Baywaves – Marsupilami
Buy: 'Marsupilami'
Obligatory Record Of The Week: SULK – No Illusions
Buy: 'No Illusions'
Bernays Propaganda – Armija
Free download: 'Armija'
Matt Reagan – All Right
Free download: 'All Right'
STAY – Dirty and Alone (feat. Andy Bell)
Buy: 'Dirty and Alone' (feat. Andy Bell)'
Friendship Club – Different
Friendship Club's website
The Vryll Society – Self Realization
Buy: 'Self Realization'
Clast – Feel Free
Free download: 'Feel Free'
The Dandy Warhols – You Are Killing Me
Buy: 'You Are Killing Me'
Stina Tester & Cinta Masters – Deep Sleep
Buy: 'Deep Sleep'
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
Tracklist:
Jake Evans – Glorious
Buy: 'Glorious'
Acid Dad – Don't Get Taken
Buy: 'Don't Get Taken'
Lust For Youth – Stardom
Buy: 'Stardom'
Palehound – Molly
Buy: 'Molly'
Lake Ruth – The Inconsolable Jean-Claude
Buy: 'The Inconsolable Jean-Claude'
Baywaves – Marsupilami
Buy: 'Marsupilami'
Obligatory Record Of The Week: SULK – No Illusions
Buy: 'No Illusions'
Bernays Propaganda – Armija
Free download: 'Armija'
Matt Reagan – All Right
Free download: 'All Right'
STAY – Dirty and Alone (feat. Andy Bell)
Buy: 'Dirty and Alone' (feat. Andy Bell)'
Friendship Club – Different
Friendship Club's website
The Vryll Society – Self Realization
Buy: 'Self Realization'
Clast – Feel Free
Free download: 'Feel Free'
The Dandy Warhols – You Are Killing Me
Buy: 'You Are Killing Me'
Stina Tester & Cinta Masters – Deep Sleep
Buy: 'Deep Sleep'
The Sound Of Confusion on Twitter and Facebook
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