In this edition of LITM Rock Picks, we bring soundscapes bursting with dynamic tones and rich textures of melodies, gripping themes, and expressive performances from artists Songs for Sabotage, No Curse, Vanilla Franco, Herman Martinez, and Northern Trails.
Songs for Sabotage - KILLER
Songs for Sabotage, a Los Angeles-based duo revive the mystique and energy of 80s punk, goth atmosphere with an electro-pop edge creating soundscapes that intrigue and indulge. In KILLER we get the best of both worlds, pulsing energy and enigma in the music, and contemplative, poetic lyricism. It is the kind of song that suits any mood, whether you want to dance, sing out loud, or sit back and introspect. Reverb-soaked solos, ethereal ambiance, fuzzy guitars, and high-octane drumming produce a musical backdrop teeming with textures and tones. As the song progresses, gritty basslines, vocal harmonies, and mesmeric new elements emerge, giving you more sonic dimensions to lose yourself in. The vocals, dreamy and fluid, flow across the music with a melodic presence that is so alluring and engaging, the tunes linger in your mind long after the song ends. And that in essence captures the signature style of Songs for Sabotage, music that moves you. Listen to KILLER by Songs for Sabotage here!
No Curse - Paths
Dance to the driving rhythms of mystical dark realms that No Curse conjures. The allure of lush atmospheres, ghostly vocals, reverb-soaked guitars is irresistible, and No Curse has a way of helping you embrace the deeper and murkier inner feelings that is enthralling and addictive. In Paths, you can expect just that. The track is an intoxicating blend of post-punk, new wave, and synth-pop with distinct goth flavors that just engulfs you in the haze of its melodies. Airy drums and echoey riffs form a translucent yet deep melodic medium through which driving basslines and synth tunes appear in a blurry yet evident way. The vocals, distant and hazy, descend on the soundscape like heavy, cold fog at dawn, enveloping you in its cold comforting vastness. It is a bewitching and invigorating experience listening to No Curse. Listen to Paths by No Curse here!
Vanilla Franco - Monkey on a Mission
Vanilla Franco kicks up a storm through songs. The explosive soundscapes are a combination of calculated recklessness in sonic energy and unapologetically raw instrumental expression. Joey Quinn, the brains behind the musical banner Vanilla Franco, unleashes the might of his creativity and skill to bring us riotous alternative indie rock sounds. Monkey on a Mission, a single from the debut album, TRACTION, is a shot of adrenaline, sending your conscience and mood into a frenzy with its melody and message. Distortion-soaked riffs, thunderous drums, and tight basslines splash the backdrop with bright, harsh tones while raucous, passionate vocals assert the lyrics with unabashed conviction. The upbeat rhythm takes over you, the catchy chorus burrows into your mind, and the song wins over you. It is uninhibited, revelrous sonic hysteria that is unforgettable and pure thrill. Listen to Monkey on a Mission by Vanilla Franco here!
Herman Martinez - Immortal Jellyfish
Herman Martinez has created one of the finest pieces of Prog Rock art in Immortal Jellyfish. The title track encapsulates the intricate beauty and sublime brilliance of the instrumental design that defines Herman Martinez’ artistry. Otherworldly, hypnotic, and mellow interludes that lull you into a reverie are contrasted with vibrant, grand, and passionate sections that violently jolts you with life, back to a reality that is full of kaleidoscopic melodies, soaring strings, fuzzy riffs, and pounding rhythms. Caught in this oscillation, you are lost in an artful and adventurous world that is full of bright tones and immersive textures of sound, which can only be wielded through mastery and skill. Each element of this world, fiery, airy, earthy, and fluid comes together in a seamless, majestic sense forming an animated, grand expanse that is bursting with emotion and energy. Herman Martinez continues to enthrall the audience with his bold, sophisticated, and signature sonic style. Listen to Immortal Jellyfish by Herman Martinez here!
Northern Trails - Through the Grain
Northern Trails serve a delectable feast of Americana, 90s Britpop and Swedish indie pop flavors through their rich, immersive soundscapes. Through the Grain is an emotive and energetic track that is decorated with reflective strums, electrifying riffs, driving drums, and passionate vocals. The song starts on a somber, mellow tone with a heartfelt vocal performance and soft, contemplative musical backdrop. The music slowly builds in intensity, with gritty guitars, radiant ambiance, and emphatic drums heightening the emotional appeal and spiritedness of the music. As we approach the finale, soaring solos rouse your spirit, moving you with the grace and mastery with which it scales the high and lows of melody. Through the Grain consumes you in its sound and story, one that will stay with you long after the song ends. Listen to Through the Grain by Northern Trails here!
Follow the playlist for all new artist updates!
Discovered via https://app.musosoup.com #sustainablecurator