It’s been a while since we’ve let you know what new tracks we’re digging as of late, so here’s five that range from rockin’ to soulful to downright delicate. Listen on, dear reader.
1. Rose Windows – “Glory, Glory”
Crunchy guitar textures and methodical, plodding drums keep Rose Windows’ newest song “Glory, Glory,” released in advance of their upcoming, self-titled, sophomore album, due out on Sub Pop on May 5th. The song churns through some deep grooves and hits glammed out highs in the chorus, borrowing sensibilities from 70s rock. The group will play both Sasquatch Festival in Seattle as well as Levitation 2015 in Austin. Listen to “Glory, Glory” below.
2. Joanna Gruesome – “Last Year”
You probably know what you’re getting into with a new track from Joanna Gruesome, but that doesn’t make their brand of distorted garage pop ringed with saccharine melodies less rocking or fun. The song moves from barked, strained shouting to twinkling guitar and smooth crooning a little less than half way through. The band’s new album Peanut Butter drops June 2nd on Slumberland in the U.S.
3. Guantanamo Baywatch – “Too Late”
I know, I know, two punny names for garage rock bands in one post. Take it easy, this one’s worth it. Taken from their upcoming album Darling… It’s Too Late, due out on May 12th, “Too Late” taps soulful 60s pop for a slow, steady groove of retro pop blended with modern psychedelic garage production tendencies. Cue the bittersweet, late-night barroom slow dance. Stream the track below.
4. The Mary Onettes – “Sharkbrains (Skewed Studio Takeout)
To make up for a couple of cancelled tours, The Mary Onettes have shared a watery dance pop track with windswept synths and shimmering guitar lines. With distant production values, the song balances somber pop tones and upbeat rhythms. Heads up fans of Wild Nothing. Check out the track below.
5. Iron and Wine – “Everyone’s Summer of ’95”
Easily the most disparate song on this list, “Everyone’s Summer of ’95” comes with the news that Iron and Wine frontman Sam Beam’s own Black Cricket Recording Co. will release an album called Archive Series Volume No. 1, intended to be a companion to Iron and Wine’s The Creek Drank the Cradle. The record will consist of songs culled from forgotten and never released Iron and Wine material. Although Iron and Wine doesn’t seem to share the same status as the project did when indie folk began its heyday in the early 2000s, the song’s simple production, warm guitars, and velvety vocals made me nostalgic for the many, many times I’ve listened to Beam’s debut effort. Listen below.
