This edition of LITM Rock Picks has it all as it delves into classic rock pieces to ones that feel like sunshine on your face to ones that will wreck you emotionally. The list features artists Coolonaut, True North, Barry J Walsh, and more.
Coolonaut - Dark Energy
Deeply inspired by the 60s and 70s rock music scene, ‘Dark Energy’ by Coolonaut will take you back to the glory days of rock. The fuzzy guitar riffs throughout the track add to the atmosphere the song’s trying to create, one that’s gritty and urgent. The song reflects on the lack of human compassion in the current times and a world that’s thereby being taken over by darkness. “The box is opened / And it’s on its way / You won’t find it as it stalks its prey” mirror the dystopian dark themes of the song. The erratic layering of instruments at 1:37 minutes is one you will not see coming but it is one that you will enjoy, and one that will have you returning to the track.
True North - No Exit Wound
True North’s debut single ‘No Exit Wound’ leans towards a blend of rock and soul, and is a remarkable piece that will leave you anticipating more from the band. The starts out in an airy manner which soon gets into a lovely piano and percussion rhythm. The fusion of two genres of music gives it a lazy, dark sound, which is further heightened by the mixed gender vocals that beautifully complement each other. The occasional sound of the organ gives a fresh appearance to the track. The lyric “I’m shot by your love” keeps recurring throughout the song, making it emotionally intense. Musically, it shares a resemblance with Dead Man’s Bones’ music which also leans towards this organ based rock soul fusion.
Barry J Walsh - Suddenly June
Barry J Walsh’s latest single ‘Suddenly June’ is one where upon listening to it you can’t help but have a smile on your face, like your heart’s been filled with sunshine after days of gloom. Set heavily in the classic rock sound from the 60s, the track is a refreshing authentic sound away from the various genre blendings. The song, undoubtedly, is a summer anthem, and a perfect one at that. The harmonies, the guitar layering, and the happy vocals, with a consistent drum pattern will make you think of the music of The Beatles and The Beach Boys. The song will take you back to simpler days, and will thereby wash you with nostalgia.
Apache Rose - Hello
Reminiscent of the early 2000s rock sound, Moscow based Apache Rose’s ‘Hello’ is a must listen to if you call yourself a rock music lover. With lyrics and vocals full of emotional depth, with amazing, soaring guitar riffs, and impactful drum patterns, the track will have you turning up the volume on your speakers and singing along. “You’ve been away for so long now we all stopped reaching” reflects how people grow apart and how difficult it becomes to try to reconnect. The track has similarities with Carolina Liar and Simple Plan due to its sound that’s drawn from the 2000s rock scene. Add it to your playlist now if you wish to have an intense, passionate guitar driven listening experience.
Caring Less - So Sick
Brimming with 90s alternative rock influences, ‘So Sick’ by Caring Less is a track that’s both lyrically and musically brilliant. Dealing with the themes of emotional vulnerability, the lyrics are extremely raw and honest, and make no attempt at subtlety, making the track an intensely poetic piece. Talking about opening your heart to someone and thereby opening yourself to the chance of them hurting you, lyrics like “Tell me you’ll never hurt me / Whisper it sweet and slow / Then carve your teeth into my throat” paint that picture in a way you can’t ignore. The track will remind you of the music of The Cranberries for such emotionally vulnerable lyrics and equally emotional instrumentation. Listen to this song if you want your heartstrings tugged at.
Follow the playlist for all new artist updates!
If you would like to submit your music for playlist or review consideration, please submithere