Speedrun knights her inner hero
New York indie artist Speedrun, also known as Nina Lüders, found solace and expression in music during the COVID lockdown. Her debut EP "Love’s Latest News," influenced by early to mid-aughts indie rock, explores various facets of love and draws inspiration from French poet Jean-Michel Maulpoix. In our Q&A with Speedrun, we talk about her DIY journey, evolving the project into a multi-dimensional creative endeavor, balancing social media and mental health, and more.
Jade. reaches for familiarity on Autumn Electric
New York indie Jade. debuted their album Autumn Electric last year. The band, fronted by William States Langham, formed after Langham turned to music for solace. Drawing on influences like Tame Impala and The Smashing Pumpkins, the album melds crunchy distortion with introspective lyrics. Read our Q&A with Langham where we discuss new music, live shows and nostalgia.
Hot Mud searches for truth on Rehab Rock
Ottawa artist Hot Mud confronts addiction on his debut album Rehab Rock. The album is a raw and honest portrayal of addiction and recovery. Influenced by indie rock, stoner rock, art rock, and psych-pop, Hot Mud blends harsh truths with humor, addressing the emotional journey of healing. Hot Mud, who turned to creative pursuits during recovery, discusses art as therapy, mental toughness, and influences in our Q&A.
Best Songs of 2023
This year we compiled a list of our favorite releases from 2023. Our picks for best songs include poetic hip-hop from LPTHERAPPER and psychedelic rock from Holy Wave. Check out our full list!
Best EPs of 2023
This year we compiled a list of our favorite releases from 2023. Our EP picks include post-punk/industrial duo Polevaulter and London indie rock act Peter Xan. Check out our full list!
Best Albums of 2023
This year we compiled a list of our favorite releases from 2023. Our pick include shoegaze sounds of DAIISTAR to the bewitching rhythms of Karen y Los Remedios. Check out our full list!
The Seshen Finds Release on Nowhere
The Seshen, the six-piece electronic/R&B/indie rock band out of Oakland, has been around for over a decade. Their new album Nowhere, reflects the emotional journey of band members Lalin St. Juste and Akiyoshi Ehara. The two found solace in music when their marriage came to an end. The album explores the unwinding of the pair’s relationship through deeply personal and introspective lyrics. Despite their challenges, the album showcases the band's unbreakable bond. In our interview, we discuss turning to songwriting to find release, the album’s production, the definition of success, and more.
Photo Credit: Ginger Fierstein
Holy Wave's Album Five of Cups Marks the Band’s Profound Reexamination
Austin psych rock outfit Holy Wave, comprised of Ryan Fuson, Kyle Hager, Joseph Cook, and Julian Ruiz, boasts a rich musical history. Rooted in surf-rock, lo-fi garage, and dream pop, their intricate compositions blend pop sensibilities with experimental sounds. Their latest album, Five of Cups stands as some of their best work. Tracks like "Five of Cups" and "Hypervigilance" showcase their ability to craft immersive sonic landscapes. The album's inspiration arose from a tarot reading, prompting the band to reassess their path forward after pandemic-induced uncertainty.
Photo Credit: James Oswald
Been Stellar Shines In A Crowded City
Been Stellar, the 5-piece indie rock band from Brooklyn, is onto something. The band turns everyday observations into fascinating stories of city life. By resisting to emulate their influences, the band has tapped into a new sound. Vocalist Sam Slocum and guitarist Skyler St. Marx talk to us about authenticity in songwriting, playing shows in the US and NYC’s power to inspire and interfere with the band’s creative process.
Photo Credit: Nicole Osrin
Puck revisits their past on the introspective Best Friend
Puck chats with us about their debut indie rock / alt pop album Best Friend, the influence of the Pacific Northwest, bringing down the patriarchy and the economics of touring.
Photo Credit: Joule Seventeen
Screaming From the Top of the Mountain: Q&A with Ask Carol
Q&A with alt-rock / psychedelic Norwegian band Ask Carol.
Photo Credit: Ask Carol