Hailing from the musical hub of Lombard, IL, Karla and The Phat Cats has been gracing audiences with their sonic charm for the past few years. As a denizen of the Chicago suburbs, their sound struck a chord of familiarity, a feeling that perhaps I had crossed paths with them at a local haunt or festival—a testament to their festival-worthy appeal. 

Their track "Seen" emerges as an unequivocal single, seamlessly transitioning from light and breezy verses to sharply defined choruses. The vocals instantly captured my attention, but it's the guitar work that merits special mention, evoking shades of The Edge from U2. Despite its generous five-minute runtime, the song keeps you engaged with a mesmerizing guitar solo, a gripping breakdown and an intense, epic conclusion. 

"Temptation" exudes a delightful groove from the get-go, a playful yet polished opening that possesses the potential to become a crowd favorite. The band once again showcases their prowess in crafting infectious choruses, with Karla effortlessly transitioning from subdued verses to soaring heights on the chorus. 

"Ace In The Hole" is an outright jam, exuding funkiness that beckons even the most rhythmically inclined to hit the dance floor. This track is an absolute blast, with a palpable ‘70s influence adding a delightful twist to the proceedings. 

​Karla and The Phat Cats may not be reinventing the musical wheel, but their prowess as a band is undeniable. Catching them live is undoubtedly an experience worth seeking out, as they bring a dose of musical magic that resonates with both familiarity and fresh, groovy vibes. In the ever-evolving landscape of live performances, Karla and The Phat Cats is a commendable act well worth your attention.

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Rachel Decker, Craig Roy, George Dimitrov and Tom Pearce are the Oak Hill Drifters. The band formed in 2014 and last year they released The Iris Sessions. It’s a five-song EP that lasts around twenty minutes.

The inaugural strides are orchestrated by the evocative "Carpe Dame." Here, the auditory curtain rises to reveal a soundscape that pays homage to the spaghetti western ethos. The listener is immediately ensnared in the mystique, akin to Tarantino's cinematic mastery. Rachel Decker's vocal prowess is the vanguard, an indomitable force that effortlessly guides the listener through the dusty, sun-soaked expanse. 

"Rusty," emerges as a finely-wrought synthesis of rock and country, a testament to precision in musical craftsmanship. Within its rich tapestry, there's a whisper of surf rock, subtly woven into the fabric of the lead guitar melody. Catchy vocal harmonies dance through the airwaves, inviting listeners to let loose and succumb to the vivacity of a live performance. 

"Fair Game" is a solid song, evoking echoes of Tom Waits while conjuring a vivid mental tableau reminiscent of Eastern European traveling circuses. The Oak Hill Drifters infuse their unique essence into this song, seamlessly blending elements. A tantalizing oboe flits through the composition, and towards the song's denouement, an exquisite solo unfurls, leaving listeners rapt and enchanted. 

Beneath the canopy of the most Americana-infused offering, “Believe Me, Iris,”beats the heart of a potential hit single. Infused with an unbridled forward momentum, it exudes an aura of mass appeal, a siren's call to music aficionados far and wide. The Oak Hill Drifters hit their stride here, crafting a song that promises to etch itself into the collective consciousness. "Shindig," as the name implies, bursts forth as a jubilant celebration. This exuberant composition is a sonic fiesta, marked by the delightful inclusion of the accordion—a veritable cherry on top of the auditory cake. The Oak Hill Drifters, once again, showcase their knack for creating sonic landscapes that are as festive as they are jubilant. 

​I thoroughly enjoyed this EP and look forward to hearing more in the not too distant future.

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Dave Scott, renowned for his tenure as the frontman of the wildly popular Dallas-based Van Halen tribute outfit Fair Warning, embarked on a transformative musical journey that led him from the vibrant heart of Texas to the sun-soaked shores of Southern California. With three years dedicated to honing his craft, covering classics and weaving into the tapestry of Dallas' Deep Ellum scene, Scott then embarked on a westward odyssey. In the coastal realms of San Diego, he became a fixture on the airwaves of KERI, earning a well-deserved nomination for Best Acoustic Act in the city. His talents graced the stages of the Del Mar Fair, delivering electrifying performances for three consecutive years. But life's course had more chapters in store for this talented musician, leading him to Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he set his sights on the art of songwriting and crafted his debut solo album, Music for Rednecks and Prom Queens. Following this poignant debut, Scott embarked on a soul-stirring endeavor, his second album, Carly, dedicated to his beloved girlfriend, whose memory lives on after her untimely departure in June of 2022. 

Today, we dive into his latest album, the eagerly anticipated September. Comprising eleven sonorous offerings and clocking in at approximately forty minutes, September emerges as a primarily rock-infused album, adorned with plush textures and rich tonal hues. The inaugural track, "Down with a Smile," sets the tone with a paradoxical blend of melancholy and motivation, underscored by lyrics that resonate profoundly, interwoven with rhythmic cadences. 

"Nashville" unfurls with resounding drums, melodious guitars and a steadfast bassline, inviting the listener to embark on a reflective journey through nostalgia and introspection. Scott's vocal prowess shines brightly, adding depth and emotional resonance to this profound composition. "Waiting" follows suit, offering another solid musical chapter, albeit one that beckons for a touch more sonic clarity. Within its melodic folds, memorable tunes beckon, with both guitar and vocal elements standing out prominently. 

As the album unfolds, a constellation of standout tracks emerges. Among these luminous gems, "Starving" stands tall, an epic composition dripping with dynamic richness, while "The Trinity" stands as one of the album's most irresistibly catchy numbers. 

However, it is the eponymous track, "September," that beckons as the crowning jewel of this album. Its immediate accessibility and infectiously energetic mid-level cadence make it a prime candidate for a standout single. 

​Dave Scott's latest offering, September, manifests as a harmonious, cohesive release replete with a cornucopia of solid songs. While Scott isn't reinventing the musical wheel, his prowess as a songwriter shines through with unwavering clarity. Recommended.

Hailing from the sun-soaked terrain of California, The White Collars have recently garnered attention on the musical radar. Their latest offering, "Break The Wall," arrives in the form of a captivating music video. 

The composition kicks off with an alluring guitar-picking melody and vocal harmonies reminiscent of a barbershop quartet. As the groove takes hold, anchored by the rhythmic synergy of bass and drums, a palpable sense of chill, relaxation and seamless smoothness permeates the track. It's hard not to draw comparisons to the infectious vibes of Vampire Weekend, with the vocals proving to be irresistibly catchy. 

Yet, as the song unfolds, it embarks on a compelling sonic journey, venturing into intriguing territory. The intensity gradually escalates, and one can't help but applaud the drummer for their deft handling of the dynamic shifts. A particularly delightful moment unfolds around the three-minute mark, erupting into an exuberant "nah, nah" sing-along that channels the spirit of The Beatles. 

Turning our attention to the accompanying video, it exudes an unabashed sense of youthful revelry. There's an undeniable charm in witnessing these musicians simply letting loose and having a blast. The band's agenda, it seems, revolves around pure fun and unfettered enjoyment. One can't help but be infected by the sheer joy emanating from their performance. 

​In summary, The White Collars' "Break The Wall" presents an enticing glimpse into the world of this exciting young band. With their infectious melodies, unexpected sonic twists and a carefree spirit, it's safe to say that we'll be hearing much more from this dynamic ensemble in the near future.

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Emerging from a lineage deeply steeped in the melodious traditions of pop and sixties-infused R&B Anthony Blue unveils himself as a prodigious musical talent. With Elvis as a maternal muse and Portuguese Fado coursing through his paternal veins, he has cultivated his musical prowess since his teenage years, bearing witness to life's tumultuous journey, and translating it into captivating melodies. 

In his latest song, "Distance Myself," Blue introduces us to a mid-energy rock ballad with a subtle dash of Americana. The composition gracefully commences with guitar picking, swiftly transitioning to mellower strumming patterns. 

As the song unfolds, it unveils its intricate layers, with drums and bass seamlessly weaving into the sonic landscape. The result is a heart-rending musical narrative that resonates with heartfelt emotion. 

Notably, the chorus emerges as the composition's centerpiece, deftly juxtaposing delicate vulnerability with resounding power, while Blue's vocal delivery remains impeccable throughout. With the advent of the second verse, a rhythmic groove takes root, driven by spirited handclaps and a more robust bassline. 

The pinnacle of the song arrives with a harmonica solo that electrifies the atmosphere, complemented by stellar lead guitar work. These elements combine to elevate the track to its zenith before gracefully returning to the core lyrical theme. 

​In its entirety, "Distance Myself" stands as a sonorous delight, delving into the timeless theme of romantic love and its intricate web of emotions. Anthony Blue captures these sentiments within his musical canvas, delivering a poignant and enjoyable composition.

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I was in high school in the ’90s and remember first listening to bands like My Bloody Valentine, Ride and Slowdive. The shoegaze sounds nothing like what I heard on the radio and I was attracted to the dissonance, walls of white noise and the ambiguity.

Glitter Etiquette is a young band that are keeping that flame alive with the recently released Silicone Bodies. The shoegaze aesthetic is realized right away with the titular song “Silicone Bodies.” The band sounded good and I thought the melodies were memorable. Great opener.

“Reasons” is another good one and even more catchy than the opener. In fact it felt like a “single.” They get a great guitar tone which is somewhere between Dinosaur Jr. and The Jesus and Mary Chain. The hook is infectious.

“Salud!” is the most high energy song yet. There are some elements in the song that are really intense. The song is very fuzzy and this time around the bass is leading the charge. This song in particular has some more aggression and aligns nicely with a band like Primal Scream. “What Time Is It?” has its moments and is catchy but “Cellophane” has this soft but loud quality that sounds especially good on the band. Up next is “A Portrait of Arachne” which felt like a slight pivot. It’s dark and there’s some spoken word delivered like a poem.

“Canción de cuna'' sounded like it could be a B-side from My Bloody Valentine. I loved the hook on this song. It’s really infectious. The vocalist sings “Always leave us waiting / Waiting for something.”

​Glitter Etiquette is a very solid shoegaze band. Fans of the genre should take note.

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In the waning days of 2022, we delved into Jason Khaw's Freedom Badge, an album that left a lasting impression. Now, the talented artist returns with his sophomore effort, Peace River, offering listeners a more personal and stripped-back experience. 

The journey begins with "Fun To Be Around," a track that immediately draws you in with its intimate aura, centered around intricate guitar work and emotive vocals. The addition of orchestral strings towards the end elevates the heartfelt and tender vibes. Following suit is "You," a song that exudes a sense of looseness, teetering on the edge of falling apart but never quite succumbing. 

Khaw's masterful guitar crescendos harmonize beautifully with his unbridled vocals, creating an intriguing dynamic. "Just Get It On" injects a dose of liveliness into the mix, evoking shades of Cat Stevens. 

The infectious energy is bolstered by effective bongos and a warm bassline, making it a standout moment on the album. "Feels Like I Belong" takes us on a loose, almost improvised journey through a blend of jazz and blues influences. Khaw continues to impress with the '70s-infused tracks "Lucky Magnolia" and "Hometown," providing a comforting wave of nostalgia. 

Among the album's gems, "Shoulder Shrug" shines particularly bright. Khaw's poignant lyrics resonate as he muses, "I don't think I've done much and time is running out. Does it really matter as long as I can twist and shout?" The addition of orchestral strings and backing vocals adds depth to the track, making it a standout. "We Don't Have To" emerges as one of the more contemplative and thought-provoking entries on the record, leaving a lasting impression on attentive ears. 

​"Don't Let It Flood" crackles with vibrancy and a revolutionary spirit, both in its lyrics and delivery, while "Happy Blues" delivers on its titular promise, serving as a superb closer to this musical journey. In Peace River, Khaw demonstrates his songwriting prowess, with each track finely crafted and delivered with exceptional precision. The album's crisp production quality ensures that every nuance is heard, making it a release that firmly establishes Khaw's place in the musical landscape.

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Pat The Riffer, hailing from the musical heartland of Pennsylvania, has recently graced our ears with a scintillating single bearing the title "I Know What You Want." From the very first encounter, this sonic gem seizes your attention with an unwavering grip. Embarking on its sonic journey, the composition kicks off with a syncopated groove that weaves a tapestry of guitar, drums and bass, enticing the listener into its intricate web. A brief yet tantalizing guitar solo beckons, paving the way for the verses that follow. With guitars that shimmer like stars in the night sky and vocals as smooth as molten silk, the musical craftsmanship shines. 

​But what truly sets this track apart is its ingenious use of falsetto as it segues into the hook—an artful maneuver that imbues the transition with a sense of purpose and elevation, drawing the listener deeper into its lush and atmospheric soundscape. And let's not forget the rhythm section; they do an exceptional job in grounding the composition, ensuring that the low end resonates with an infectious pulse. The zenith of "I Know What You Want" arguably manifests around the two-minute mark, where the bass takes center stage and the track ascends into an electrifying guitar solo. 

The sheer magnitude of the guitar's resonance at this juncture is nothing short of monumental. This crescendo flows seamlessly back into the hook, and the outro intensifies, culminating in an auditory spectacle that leaves an indelible mark.

​As a newfound discovery in the musical cosmos, Pat The Riffer has left a lasting impression. Curiosity piqued, I delved further into his discography, uncovering gems like "Paranoia" and "Too Much," which are equally commendable in their sonic offerings. It is with eager anticipation that we await what the future holds for this promising artist, with hopes of more sonic delights gracing our ears in the not-so-distant future.

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Sour Station, hailing from the vibrant music scene of the Philly-metro area, emerges as a promising indie pop fusion ensemble. Born from the crucible of high school camaraderie, this youthful outfit is swiftly making ripples in their local musical waters, having recently unveiled a pair of singles, "For Now And Forever" and "Melt Away." My journey with Sour Station commenced with "Melt Away," an auditory revelation that swiftly seized my attention.

Beyond its undeniable catchiness lies a remarkable amalgamation of musical elements, deftly interweaving rock, alternative and a tantalizing hint of jazz, notably embodied in that entrancing walking bassline. This composition evokes an insatiable desire to revel in the sheer joy of the moment, conjuring visions of the band executing it within the intimate confines of a mid-sized venue. A guitar solo further elevates the sonic experience, leaving me eagerly anticipating the band's forthcoming offerings. 

Segueing into "For Now And Forever," we are greeted by what appears to be a band engaged in a soundcheck warm-up, a prelude to an intricate and rapid groove that ensues. The bass work on display here is nothing short of incredible, serving as a testament to the band's collective musical prowess. What truly enamored me was the harmonious synergy between the two guitars – one sporting a fuzzy texture, the other bathed in pristine clarity with a touch of reverb. 

​The song's pièce de résistance emerges just before the two-minute mark, where an ethereal organ seems to ascend, entwined with hypnotic guitar melodies, before gracefully morphing into the frenetic pulse of the groove. The band's seamless transition in tempo here is a masterstroke. Sour Station unequivocally warrants vigilant attention, their musical trajectory undeniably set on an upward trajectory. Rumor has it that they're poised to grace our ears with yet another single in the near future, a prospect that leaves me brimming with anticipation and excitement.

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Hailing from the Bay Area but finding his creative sanctuary in the serene landscapes of Maine during his formative years, Sebastian Clegg absorbed the essence of nature and the profound musical and poetic tapestry woven by the Civil Rights and Anti-War Movement. These formative influences serve as the bedrock upon which Clegg crafts his musical narratives, a fact deeply etched into his artistic DNA. 

In our sonic exploration of Clegg's repertoire, we first embark on a journey with "Impact." The track unfurls with a jarring chord, swiftly succeeded by a resonant bassline, a relentless kick drum and a leading guitar riff. What immediately seizes the listener's attention is the production quality. The vocals emerge with crystal clarity, their melodies carving an indelible mark in memory. "Impact" possesses an unmistakable hook that beckons the ear, while a gradual crescendo of energy propels the composition towards its climax. As the song nears its denouement, atmospheric elements cascade around it, rendering the overall experience undeniably epic. It's nothing short of a musical triumph. 

In stark contrast, "Believe" casts a more contemplative and introspective aura from its very outset. The vocals adopt an intimate demeanor, as if they are mere feet away from the listener. The reverb-laden guitar work weaves an auditory tapestry that evokes a profound sense of space. Around the one-minute mark, colossal guitars and drums make their entrance, adding layers of grandeur to the arrangement. Notably, the return to the verse introduces another vocalist, seamlessly integrated into the mix to the point where one might overlook it without attentive listening. 

​"Impact" and "Believe" share a common thread in their epic aspirations, with the latter soaring to unprecedented heights as Clegg passionately asserts, "You're all that I need." While "Impact" undoubtedly stands as a commendable musical offering, it's "Believe" that catapults Sebastian Clegg into the realm of exceptional artistry. Prior to this auditory odyssey, Clegg may not have graced our radar, but these two compositions stand as a testament to his prowess in songwriting and his astute grasp of the production craft. If you're seeking a musical experience that transcends the ordinary, we implore you to lend your ears to Clegg's compelling sonic narrative. It's a journey well worth taking.

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