Running along the 60s rock sound to running along the experimental alternative rock sound, this edition of LITM Rock Picks will bring you the best of both worlds. The list features artists Ian Roland, Occupation Baby, Mohawk Castle, and more.
Ian Roland - Hang on to You
A song that is sure to bring a wide smile on your face, ‘Hang on to You’ by Ian Roland has all the ingredients that would be the star of the music scene in the 60s. The song will make you feel like you are in a romcom, with its bouncy piano notes, rhythmic drums, soaring guitar riffs that will fill just about any heart with joy. Diving into the idea of holding onto love come what may, the song will have you nodding and humming. The lyrics “Hanging off the edge of your stratosphere / Such a beautiful place / This loving you” are a testament to the idea of love as an anchor. With similarities to the music of Bear’s Den, the track will feel like sunshine after a gloomy day.
Occupation Baby - Satisfied
An alternative rock track with synth driven melodies, ‘Satisfied’ by Occupation Baby talks about being stuck in a life that feels like the same tape playing over and over again. The song is one with a fast tempo and sombre tones, which is further elevated by the raw vocals spread throughout the tune. The synth solo at 1:43 minutes will feel like driving fast through the city, trying to leave behind all the monotony. The song might make you think of The Neighborhood, owing to the alternative rock genre and the sombre themes, and if that interests you then you should absolutely give the track a listen.
Mohawk Castle - Cold Beat
Starting with slow piano notes which are then layered with synth notes, Mohawk Castle’s ‘Cold Beat’ features unique vocals that are sure to catch your attention. The vocals are layered, with a high pitched voice and a deeply low pitched voice playing out, marking some kind of duality in the song. The song has a psychedelic edge to it, which makes listening to the song very meditative and trance-like. The idea of detachment is dealt with in the song, with lyrics like “I don’t care if you like me / I don’t care if you love me” being sung repeatedly. Experimental music at its best, the song is to be listened to if you are looking for something fresh.
Blueprint Tokyo - Dragons
An allegorical track that’s driven with an indie rock sound powered by synths, ‘Dragons’ by Blueprint Tokyo has a rich sound texture that you can’t help but sink into. The guitar riffs in the song have a good touch of reverb which helps with making the soundscape feel expansive. The vocals are raspy and lazy which makes it quite alluring. “Attacked by a dragon on my first day at sea” mirrors the idea of setting out on a journey despite being aware of the hurdles on the way. The song is a good example of great storytelling with equally great musicality, and is one that deserves a place on your playlists.
Robert Melkumyan - Dice
With haunting piano and violin notes layered with soft vocals starting off the track, ‘Dice’ by Robert Melkumyan is a delicately impactful song. The violins in the song give it a classical touch and the electric guitar riffs come in, making the track a delightful paradox. The song leans toward the alternative rock genre, very much resembling the late 90s and early 2000s alt-rock sound. The guitar riff at 2:51 peaks and then dramatically falls at 2:58 minutes, introducing a lone standing acoustic guitar riff. The song, juggling both classical and modern influences, makes for a fresh listening experience in the alternative rock territory.
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