Best New Rock – Brodie Milner, Chatrooms, CS Hellman, The Victory

We dig the candid fury of ididntevenwanttocometoyourparty, the new single from Brodie Milner.  A killer vocal performance, Milner tags a large scope of influence both as a singer and producer.  The music is an interesting blend of 80s alternative and Black Keys style indie rock.  His vocals a blend of LCD Soundsystem, Jack White, Modest Mouse, and Death Cab.  It’s a reflection of the influences worn like patches but adapted with Milner’s own derived scorn.  It’s a smart anger and it suits the songs bitter narrative, entirely relatable and gracefully catchy. 

Milner has a lot to unload.  His artistry is full of unbound emotional swings.  That affect comes through with the contrast of tragedy (in three parts).  More vintage Bright Eyes than post punk, it blends elegantly within the canon of his catalog.  It’s that kind of complexity that going to thrust him beyond novelty.  We see big things in the works for Brodie Milner. 

Brodie Milner is featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.  

Chatrooms – It’s Alright

We like what San Fernando based Chatrooms are doing with their blend of emo, indie rock, and 80s alternative.  Stylistically they might connect with the 5th wave emo movement known to breakthroughs like Turnover and Balance and Composure and the sound largely attributed to Philly based produce Wil Yip.  More than just a niche, Chatrooms break barriers with their single It’s Alright.  We hear the crossover appeal of Thursday, as It’s Alright has real radio potential.  The stenciled illustrated music video accentuates the songs appeal.  For us it’s their strongest work and a good place to start. 

From there we dig the dreamy contrast of Palm Reader and the catchy pop appeal of The Valley.  Intriguing songwriting is lifted by tight thoughtful performances, with each arrangement bringing progressive surprise and a fun full band ethos.  Chatrooms recalls a bygone era where bands got together and crafted songs in the rehearsal space.  Even still the songs sound just as brilliant on record, and for that we see really buzz potential. Say you heard them first! 

Chatrooms are featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.  

CS Hellman unloads on his recent single Up Til Dawn.  The Nashville based rockers has alt country instincts and a rock and roll heart.  It’s the right combination of nostalgia and fury to bless that subconscious release from this insomnia bred narrative.  Hellman reflects on the vulnerabilities and existential dread that bred this narrative. 

With rich illuminating production and a driving backdrop the production stylistically recalls the works of Delta Spirit with some of the atmospheric presence known to Lord Huron.  Hellman adds his own characteristic vocal delivery, a testament to his Cincinnati upbringing and dynamic scope of influence.  The classic tendencies reflect a childhood packed with radio cassette hand me downs, an eclectic array of pop rock and Motown.  Those instincts evolved further with an influence of modern indie troubadours like Jeff Tweedy. 

CS Hellman is a bit of a journeyman himself, a pursuit possibly derailed by a bipolar diagnosis that sidelined him before he decided to embrace this art for healing and processing.  Up Til Dawn effectively brings awareness and understanding while serving as a collective anthem.  We’ve all got some demons to work through. 

Hear Up Til Dawn now on our Best New Rock Playlist.  

The Victory are purposefully influential on their recent Making Some Music.  The uplifting appeal is all a part of their philosophical ethos.  Making Some Music is at the core of their message.  “Making some music, not just for the radio.  Music for your life, for your mind..” 

In a world where everyone is looking for their five minutes, or 9 seconds of fame, The Victory reminds us what we should really put more focus on.  It just feels so damn good to grab your instrument and jam out with the homies.  A sense of community, friendship, and a chance to release some stress should all sweeten the pot.  Follow this song like a mantra, the truth will set you free!  Stylistically the single reflects the classic rock vibes of early 70s Bowie or Grand Funk Railroad.  We can dig it! 

The Victory are featured on our Best New Rock Playlist

Leave a comment