Outpost Drive capture an introspective aura on their recent single Handsome Adolescence. A cinematic affect is built in to their foundation, as the polarity of their duets strike you like a musical conversation. His voice has a strong assertive delivery, while hers has some added sultry twang that lands equally assertive. Their voices compliment each other impressively, and when they come together the vibe evolves anthemic.
Handsome Adolescence is the title track of a new 5 song EP that collects a flurry of previously released singles into one release. The duo have been releasing music for the last year. Their sound combines the candid emotion of Shovels and Rope with the polished brilliance of Fleetwood Mac and an acoustic pop sensibility akin to Noah Kahan.
Outpost Drive are featured on our Emerging Folk Playlist.
We were touched by the candid lyrical revelations offered by César Alvarez on his new single Normal, IL. As a parent, we’ve all had these kind of existential meltdowns.
Alvarez offers that this is a song for “the sad parents out there, driving to pick up their kids from school, wondering what the hell happened.”
If you’re rushing to pass judgement, then you’re probably a boring person. For the rest of us, parenthood is a serious sacrifice and sometimes we need to express that. Mostly, we need a lot of free time. Truly free. Away from the perils of social convention. Alvarez shares this plight in both simple and complex forms. Like when he offers “I found a figurine that reminded me of myself. A soldier on a surf board… can only move when the surface is smooth.” The sentiment is relatable. It’s comforting to know there are other parents out there experiencing the same peril. This kind of smart lyrical imagery should connect with fans of Bon Iver, Adrienne Lenker, and Parquet Courts.
César Alvarez is featured on our Emerging Folk Playlist.
Man Made Hills lands iconic with their new single Tomorrow Mourn. The spirit of Roy Orbison and the County Americana tradition of The Mavericks collides with an indie sensibility akin to Lord Huron on this nostalgic gem. The affect is amplified by the treble of the singers intoxicating vibrato.
The band keeps it tight while the backing singers add to the cinematic enhancement. This is our kind of Americana. It washes over you like a Southwest sunset. The tempo stays locked in so the rodeo dancers can keep moving. The melancholy lonesome feel adds to the classic aura. We simply adore it.
Hear Tomorrow Mourn now on our Emerging Folk Playlist.
Christina Gomez caught our attention with her new single No More Regrets. Simple and elegant, Gomez is convincing on this Motherly tribute.
On the heels of Mother’s day, its a timely release. The sincerity of the performance is enhanced by a candid lyrical design. No More Regrets comes from the soul, and Christina Gomez matches that intent with a heartfelt performance. Her voice is golden too. Silky Smooth and bearing some resemblance to icon Linda Ronstasdt. Hauntingly familiar, but gloriously fresh.
Hear No More Regrets now on our Emerging Folk Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 