Halo Kitsch gets appropriately visceral on her new single I was a virgin (on drugs). Kitsch embraces an anthemic modern electro rock dynamic, bringing energy and inspiring emotion fit to enrage a stadium. This is a big rock sound and the narrative adds to the dramatic influence.
Kitsch spares no punches, but these aren’t haymakers. Her moves are smart and calculated, dressed within an intriguing construct that will appeal to underground and mainstream rock fans alike. She brides the gap between Muse and Wolf Alice elegantly. We think it’s a smash. And it’s relatable in a way that’s needed. Dig in.
Halo Kitsch is featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.
Boutique recording enthusiasts will delight in Myth, the new album from Sun Q. The Moscow based duo understands their homelands sonic legacy. They visited different studios in search of rare Soviet synthesizers, vintage tape instruments, and anything that could enhance their sound. The result is a convincing nostalgic analog brilliance. In the vein of the classics Myth is very much a living breathing work. The way that these classic synths blend into this rock design is simply unmistakable. Stylistically we hear evidence of an influence of Led Zeppelin. Their use of synths adapts that influence with some modern indie appeal in a way that’s unparalleled.
The female vocal adds an additional dynamic. She’s got the presence of Grace Potter with some added classic rock sensibility. Most notably, the collective work sparkles without ever trending too theatrical. Whether you’re in need of the slow burn of Tree or the big crash of the introductory Jane Doe or Children Singing, Myth delivers front to back. It’s impressively eclectic, with traditional influences breaking through on Animals, while the immersive synth tendencies erupt on I Am The Sun and with convincing progressive appeal on the majestic Crystal Doors. Get to know this hidden gem.
Sun Q are featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.
Canadien shoe gazers SWiiMS are a true 2023 breakthrough. Their penchant for dreamy melodic shoegaze suits their intriguing makeup. Singer and guitarist Mai Diaz Langou could just as effectively front a soft rock band.
Offering her voice to this furious immersive design offers elegant contrast. It’s heard on their new single In Puzzles. For us it blends the realms of Smashing Pumpkins and ALVVAYS impressively. We find it irresistible.
Swiims are featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.
Finish export aeonatan caught our attention with their new single Sad Pisces. They effectively meld an influence of grunge and indie rock in a way that connects like a Shoegaze style Queens of the Stone Age.
There’s dreamy contrast between the smooth vocal and the brash crash of the music. It’s a testament to the lush distortion and inspired playing, as the guitarist bends into his notes convincingly. Hear for yourself.
Sad Pisces is featured on our Best New Rock Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 