This edition of LITM Rock Picks brings to you cinematic jazz-rock, bittersweet power pop, brooding post-punk, and more. The list features artists NOR.BE, CMON CMON, Thousand Pieces, Adam Eckels, and MUTE TV.
NOR.BE - Once
Some instrumental compositions manage to tell entire stories without saying a word. NOR.BE's 'Once' comes remarkably close. Featuring drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, bassist Mohini Dey, and guitarist Fawzi Chekili, the track brings together jazz, rock, and orchestral influences in a wonderfully elaborate arrangement. The interplay between the expressive percussion, fluid basslines, and sweeping strings gives the music a cinematic quality. Wordless vocal harmonies add another emotional dimension, making the composition feel almost nostalgic. What stands out is how naturally the different musical elements coexist. Despite its technical sophistication, 'Once' never loses its warmth, making it an engaging and richly layered listen.
CMON CMON - New England In Fall
There's something strangely comforting about a sad song dressed in bright melodies. Belgian indie-rock trio CMON CMON explores that contrast beautifully in 'New England In Fall'. Built around warm guitars, steady drums, and infectious power-pop harmonies, the track carries an emotional heaviness that gradually reveals itself through the lyrics. Frontman Jorrit Hermans delivers a restrained vocal performance that makes the song's themes of loss and difficult relationships feel especially personal. Recorded in Belgium's Hautes Fagnes region, the single balances polished production with genuine vulnerability. It's the kind of song that sounds uplifting initially, only to leave you contemplating its meaning afterward.
Thousand Pieces - Hey Man. Amen.
Thousand Pieces approaches a difficult subject with remarkable sensitivity in 'Hey Man. Amen.' The project, led by British singer-songwriter Jamie Smith, explores a friend's struggle with alcoholism and his eventual turn toward faith. Rather than relying on dramatic production, the song unfolds through gentle guitars, restrained percussion, and thoughtful songwriting. There's a quiet sincerity to the arrangement that allows the story to take center stage. The shimmering guitar textures and understated rhythm create an almost meditative atmosphere. What makes the track particularly moving is its compassion. It acknowledges addiction's painful realities without judgment, offering a small but meaningful sense of hope.
Adam Eckels - Don't Ask
Adam Eckels brings plenty of energy to 'Don't Ask', a punchy alternative-rock single that gets straight to the point. Running just 2 minutes and 22 seconds, the track favors catchy hooks and an engaging chorus over unnecessary embellishments. There's a refreshing simplicity to its approach, with the songwriting keeping things direct and accessible. The spirited performance gives the song an infectious quality, while its melodic appeal makes it an easy addition to an indie-rock playlist. Eckels understands the value of keeping things short and memorable. 'Don't Ask' is a lively little release that proves a good hook can go a long way.
MUTE TV - Broken Drum
After making a strong first impression with 'Drag Me Down', Bath-based trio MUTE TV returns with 'Broken Drum', a darker, more deliberate exploration of their post-punk sound. Where their debut thrived on raw urgency, the follow-up introduces brooding basslines, twisting guitar riffs, and intricate drumming that build an atmosphere of tension. Tim James' vocals bring emotional weight to lyrics exploring the complications of human relationships. Recorded with the band performing together, the track preserves the immediacy of their live chemistry. It's encouraging to hear MUTE TV developing their musical identity without sacrificing the abrasive energy that made their debut so compelling.
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