Helping to turning the darkness into sunshine are The Electric Stars with new album ‘Velvet Elvis: The Only Lover Left Alive’. A huge amount of love and dedication has clearly been paid to this release shown in the artwork, production and range of influences brought to the platter. Nine minute opener ‘Velvet Elvis’ sets the scene with a mid 70s Floyd opening before forging into an anthemic Roses groove. Other gems include the mid-60s stomper ‘Sunshine’, Stones thumper ‘Pop Star’ and anthemic ballad ‘Impossible Odds (Rock n Roll Saved Me)’. This long awaited album has been worth the wait.
The Crushing Violets latest album ‘A Dream Without Color’ ticks all the right boxes. Comprising six new songs plus a cover of ‘A Groovy Kind of Love’, this LP is underpinned by strong songwriting and a warm production that brings a 60s sensibility into the modern music scene.
New York-based producer Charlie Nieland releases atmospheric single ‘The Land of Accidents’ with an equally evocative video, directed by NYC-based multi-faceted artist Hypnodoll. Following up the equally impressive ‘Tightrope’ his new ‘Divisions’ LP promises much.
‘This Is Dolph Chaney‘ is an tremendous collection of heartfelt songwriting of bold guitar pop. Embodied by ‘Now I Am A Man’ this track alone shows how Dolph’s songwriting has been wrapped around with a tight inventive band.
James Baron’s debut EP as JIM today is an acoustic delight. ‘Falling That You Know’ has four home recordings perfect for summer evenings. James also breathes new life into Cult track ‘Phoenix’, which features backing vocals from Crazy P vocalist Danielle Moore.
Manifestations, the fifth studio album by Chicago singer-songwriter AJ Rosales show his well of musical ideas is far from dry. Instrumental ‘Summoner’ is the perfect wave to ease you into this acoustic led delight. ‘Waves’ and ‘Cameron’ blend a Neil Finn, acoustic Pearl Jam approach with ‘If Not Today’ and ‘On The Cusp’ showcasing AJ’s lyrical depth.
Athens psych-rockers Holy Monitor‘s new album Southern Lights is showcased by the brilliant ‘Naked In The Rain’, a track that highlights their dazzling enthusion of psychedelia, blues and rhythm.
Swedish songwriting duo Vola Tila trail their forthcoming album, Soon with new single ‘In Need My Girl’, a track the brings a dreamy cutting edge to classic harmonies.
