9 Dead Alive by Rodrigo y Gabriela RIYL Astor Piazzolla, Metallica, Muse
The flamenco guitarist duo (arguably two of the greatest guitarists making music right now) Rodrigo y Gabriela’s third release manages to maintain its rhythmic and theme driven song writing style while avoiding rehash of previous albums. They bring great energy and beauty with each guitar strike.
Rookie by The Trouble With Templeton RIYL Radiohead, Conor Oberst, Fleet Foxes
It’s hard to classify the album Rookie, because no 2 tracks are alike, and each one shows the versatility of “The Trouble with Templeton”’s sound. The lead singer’s voice carries this group, but he’s got incredible talent so that’s not really a bad thing. From vaulting pop, to ballads and grungy distortion, there’s something on this genre-bending album for everyone.
Out of My Head by The Rich Hands RIYL Pony Time, No Age, The Ramones
Fuzzy and Chunky. Neo-punk songs about guys tryna get some. Sounds west coast as fuck, but they are from Texas. The drums kick hard and the guitars are unrelenting. On ‘No Harm Blues’ they switch it up with an organ and savory southern vocals.
III by BADBADNOTGOOD RIYL Miles Davis, Kanye West, James Blake, The Roots
The Toronto jazz trio is back with more influences than ever, blending funk, soul, electronic, and hip-hop with their distinctive jazz style. The album fluidly transitions between all kinds of awesome grooves, and fits any time of day, although they probably belong in a brick-covered basement. The keyboard is entrancing, the bass drives the mood with vigor, and the inventive drums kick ass. If you like the word “beats” or “grooves”, do yourself a favor and check them out, along with the entire album.
II by Makthaverskan [SAFE HARBOR] RIYL gospel gossip, the smiths, the pains of being pure at heart
Female vocal ring and reverberate in these shimering compositions. Punk is reincarnated when inner pain is manifested as “fuck you…” Revved up catchy progressions sustain the songs long enough for the endearing “…I need you” recoil. Recommend if you are young and have ears and feelings.
Clear Lake Forest by The Black Angels RIYL Tame Impala, Velvet Underground, Foxygen
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The Black Angel’s use simple arrangements of two guitars, bass, drums, and a couple vocal tracks to make psychedelic rock with a strong 60’s feel. The backing tremolo contrasts with other rhythms to keep the feel almost dizzying (in a good way), like when a 4 dimensional being travels into the 5th dimension, allowing for them to see the passage of time through the iteration of the image of particles.