Revel in the enlivening sounds of LITM Rock Picks from artists Gary Dranow, Rusty Reid, Moon Worm, and others

This week’s edition of LITM Rock Picks brings infectious melodies, lively rhythms, and emotionally charged lyrics from artists Gary Dranow, The Named Drivers, Rusty Reid, Moon Worm, and Madam Who?

Gary Dranow - Hadrian’s Wall

We’re no strangers to Gary Dranow’s evocative and immersive blues rock compositions. In Hadrian’s Wall, Gary Dranow and The Manic Emotions wield the power of spirited instrumentation and gripping songwriting to create a musical experience that feels intricate and emotionally resonant. Chronicling the life of a Roman soldier stationed at Hadrian’s Wall, the song explores themes of love, longing, and endurance. The music encapsulates the intensity of the inner turmoil that plagues the soldier's psyche in soaring distortion-bathed riffs, emphatic drumming, and passionate lead vocals. Possessed by rock vigor, the song also offers soulful and reflective moments, showcasing Gary Dranow’s mature and skillful artistry. Listen to Hadrian’s Wall here!

The Named Drivers - At That Stage

At That Stage is a compelling new indie-rock release from The Named Drivers, a Scotland-based three-piece band. It is the opening track of their second album, “Modern Technology.” The music bursts with energy and vibrancy, brought on by the elaborate instrumental showcase and fervent vocal performance. Intricate and heavy, the song has a punk-driven attitude coupled with nostalgic rock sensibilities. Gritty riffs accompany invigorating solos in their journey across an evolving landscape of lively tempos. The vocals, reverb-soaked and full of life, evoke feelings of elation, zeal, and freedom. The drums morph in texture, from airy shimmers to thumping bass, injecting dynamism into the rhythm. Listen to At That Stage here and allow its infectious spirit to take over you!

Rusty Reid - American Villain (Remix)

American Villain (Remix) by Rusty Reid is a riotous reflection on the state of socio-political affairs in the modern day. Rusty Reid, an indie-rock sensation, is known for his fearlessly honest songwriting and moving instrumentation, often dabbling with themes of modern liberal philosophy, politics, and spirituality. American Villain (Remix) is all that and more, exposing the slow decay of a nation through provocative music and poetic lyricism. The instrumental prowess is unmissable—sweltering hot guitar riffs, pulsating drums, resounding basslines, and the riveting voice of Rusty Reid craft a dramatic and spirited soundscape that incites inspiration. The music reflects the seriousness and intensity of the lyrical message, evoking feelings of angst, despair, and melancholy. Listen to the song here!

Moon Worm - Not Poor Just Broke

Moon Worm conjures up a spacey realm in his latest sonic manifestation, Not Poor Just Broke. The track is a testament to the evolving artistry of Moon Worm, weaving foundational influences in indie-rock with innovative iterations of post-punk, synth-wave, and dream-pop to create a mesmerizing tapestry of swirling melodies, uptempo rhythms, and echoey vocals. There is an airiness to the music that engulfs you in a soft embrace, as the swooshing vocals reverberate the essence of carefree spirit, youthful exuberance, and costless luxuries. The musical landscape is lush, with vast expanses of guitar progressions, flourishing synth meadows, and currents of buoyant drums. Not Poor Just Broke consumes you in a kaleidoscope of tunes and you can listen to it here!

Madam Who? - Peter Meter

Peter Meter captivates you with its rock-driven charisma and irresistibly catchy melodies. Madam Who?, a genre-fluid humanist music artist, brings us a refreshing new single, Peter Meter, which narrates a tale of elderly wisdom on love and romantic relationships with a drizzle of humor. The music is a potent blend of pop aesthetics and rock fervor, gluing the two worlds together with the emphatic performance of the singer. Bold and boisterous, the track features stunning vocal acrobatics, revelrous drumming, and joyous melodies. The lyrics, honest and playful, bring light-heartedness and cheer to the music, allowing the listener to soak in all the aural bliss. Listen to Peter Meter by Madam Who? here and don’t forget to take notes during the lessons on love!

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