Marlene Larsen makes a big statement with her debut single Galore. The vibe is equally exotic and intoxicating, ripe with sex appeal, and full of mystery. “What if they don’t like me, what if I’m not enough.” Larsen plays soothsayer as she foreshadows her perceived demise. It’s all just a mirage. What develops instead is her majestic arrival in the songs trademark chorus section.
Out of the chorus the narrative expands, embracing the drama and journey already developed in the songs introductory section. The ascension is cinematic with progressive emotional swings, like a chance to collect your unconscious after she screamed the makeup off your face with the songs emphatic hook.
This is a gorgeous debut that offers real radio potential. It should please fans of breakthroughs like Paramore and Florence Welsh, but what Larsen offers is something new and icon worthy in the realm of Rock, a rare feat in this new age of pop.
Hear Galore now on our Best New Rock Playlist.
Hazey Grace caught our attention with the dynamic melodic layers of their new single Old Friends. An anthemic dark harmonious vibe churns beneath the pumping rhythmic design, as the fury relents to reveal a contemplative vocal. “I’m a young man tripping over old friends…” A coming of age revelation, the artist turns over the page of youth into the realm of confusion. What is our purpose? Or do we succumb to the eastern philosophy that Life is suffering. Grace honors the conundrum with textured gritty guitar tones played ferociously. Stylistically it blends the indie rock appeal of QOTSA with a vibey shoegaze feel.
Old Friends is just one feature of the artists new 4 song EP Daydream. Eclectic and wavering between the worlds of dream pop and indie rock, the Chicago based project embraces a recording artist aesthetic, asserting themselves as notable producers in addition to their songwriting chops.
Hear Old Friends now on our Best New Rock Playlist.
The prolific rock and roll musings of Queen Daxene erupt on their expansive 13 song release Barnstormer. Collectively intriguing, there are several stand out singles that span a rich scope of influence. With urban attitude and T Rex stylistic flex their single Wabi Sabi rips with catchy appeal. This snappy classic glam punk flavor was an adaptation of Greaser rock, updated by 70s icons like Bowie and Bolen and then later reimagined by Billy Idol. Queen Doxene offer their own spin on their classic feel, adding some of the indie infectious sonic appeal known to Spoon.
The singles S-Train and Reflection offer additional garage punk and post punk references. We hear evidence of The Clash and The Replacements with some of the modern indie appeal of Franz Ferdinand. What does this collective list of similar artists have in common? They all broke through while being rooted in their punk scene. It’s a reflection of their instinctual melodic leanings and genuine vibe. Queen Daxene fits the mold.
Queen Daxene is featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.
We dig the eccentric post punk frenzy heard on Off The Record, the new single from London export The Fades. Garage rock meets art punk on this Nirvana meets Devo pick-me-up. A combination of hype and sheer relatability helps Off The Record get under your skin. The furious performance accentuates the Rock pit release threatening to ensue from the bands chaotic energy. They surprisingly keep it tight while always bordering on the brink of destruction, seemingly always pushing forward while simultaneously always on time.
A fun upbeat proto punk song in any light, it’s the singers classic disinfected performance that makes Off The Record authentic. What develops from this insecure frontman mantra is a stand out performance that asserts he belongs behind the mic. Sing your truth and it will release you. Or in this case, exercise those demons. After all, that’s what we came here for.
The Fades are featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 