Tag: rock

EP Review: Missing Pieces – Sleeplust

Four-piece band SLEEPLUST put their new-found sound to the test through their latest EP, ‘Missing Pieces’, released last month.

Unlike their previous self-titled EP, which possess a carefree combo of electro pop/rock, ‘Missing Pieces’ boasts a rich downtempo (ish)/electronica drive, making it more of a hypnotic affair.

That deep electro-bass unapologetically takes the stage and goes all in with the introductory effort, ‘Flood Gates,’ before easing up in the following tracks, ‘Organized Mess’, ‘Lights’ and ‘Tiny Raindrops.’

The pot of gold is, by far, the concluding offering ‘Forever and Always’, where their infamous drive is stripped away, making way for an intimate acoustic setting that will helplessly draw in any listener; a great way to end an EP.

Gotta say their decision to shift towards an emotive sound is a massive plus and I reckon this little package will resonate with people who really appreciate good music. Have a listen for yourself.

Must Listens: Flood Gates, Tiny Raindrops, Forever and Always.

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Album Review: Meesh – Tunnel Traffic

It’s been some time (I think roughly a year and a half) since Adam Hachey, the brainchild of TUNNEL TRAFFIC, appeared on NEW LEASE MUSIC with his 2015 album, ‘Absolute Dreams’. Out of nowhere, this alternative folk-rocker recently emailed his new album, ‘Meesh, in which he produced while making his big shift to the City of Brotherly Love.

Unlike his previous collection, which was an atmospherically intense affair, ‘Meesh’ gets right down to it with bursts of zesty guitar licks through the first few tracks, ‘Lesson Learned’, ‘Pockets’ and ‘Anew’.

The psychedelic ride passes and makes way for a softer journey of lo-fi/new wave(ish) arrangements and the rich influence of that  70s inspired soulful rock, before turning up the tempo through efforts, ‘Maxwell’ and ‘All Day, Err Day.’

The latter part of the album is what I personally think is classic TRAFFIC TUNNEL. With the return of the zesty guitar plucks, the almost stripped back pieces becomes intense and personal, where you can not only hear, but FEEL every word uttered.

‘Meesh’ sees Adam comes out of his comfort zone and go down the experimentation route, which is great – but personally, he’s at his best when he perform songs that hone right into the soul.

Must Listens: Familiar, Slope Day, Mitch, Memorial

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New Music Video: 2 Lovin U – Miguel x DJ Premier

Having dropped the audio online last month, which was instantly picked up by the online music tastemakers and shakers, including Rolling Stone, Hot New Hip-Hop, Pitchfork, XXL Mag, Consequence of Sound, Spin and even the Guardian making it their Track of the Week; Hip-Hop icon, DJ Premier, and R&B superstar Miguel, reveal the video for ‘2 Lovin U’.

With the video opening to the vision of Miguel, there is almost an instant sense of relief to know that both parties are bringing everything to the table for the visuals of this worthy record. With Preemo taking his certified position behind the decks, there’s a dreamlike glow to the video that throws back to some 80’s inspiration with the movement of scenes and flashes of gold and light throughout.

Ever the revolutionaries in their own fields, the pair have no hesitation in creating unpredictable music together that is destined to strike a chord. Having previously teased fans with the collaboration via a video snippet on Miguel’s instagram during his Wildheart album campaign, the release of the album, (which was later nominated for two Grammy Awards), left fans in suspense as the track mysteriously eluded the tracklisting.

With the mystery now resolved, we get to enjoy the fruits of their labour via the stirring new single, which comes edged with rocky guitar riffs and splashes of hip-hop undertones as DJ Premier scratches through the beat.

As Miguel has previously stated, he and Premier were always going to find a special way to release this track, now entitled ‘2 Lovin U’; and true to their words, they have. “The track having a different title gives it a new light” DJ Premier stated; a statement reflected perfectly in the video too.”

Here your chance to check out the video for ‘2 Lovin’ U’

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Song of the Day: Friday Afternoon – Love Ghost

love-ghost

Managed to find another dish of the day – that’s twice in one week, you lucky people! This time it’s from Los Angeles-based alternative/cinematic rockers LOVE GHOST.

Inspired by the 90’s grunge subculture, the five-piece band pays tribute to the most influential genre of alternative rock, while creating a unique and modern sound. Having grown up together, they’re able to poignantly express both the hardships and joys of suburban teenage culture within their music.

The band was formed by 15-year-old frontman Finn Bell,  who demonstrates maturity beyond his years with his soulful lyrics and arrangements. Despite the band all being teenagers, their raw musical skill creates a nostalgic triumph of distorted guitar melodies, heavy drums and emotionally stimulated lyrics. LOVE GHOST’s musical composition is inspired by a mix of old universal horror films meshed with iconic grunge artists such as Nirvana and Alice in Chains.

Smashing Pumpkins inspired Friday Afternoon aims to reflect the importance of standing up for oneself especially during a time of hardship in teenage years. Written in the Spring of 2015, Bell reflects upon his own experiences through creation, and actively urges his audience to do the same.

Lead vocalist and lyricist, describes his process as a continuous stream of consciousness, drawn from his emotional response. Bell expresses ‘It’s a shame that people tend to shy away from anything that feels too personal, because those types of things let you know who you really are.’

Despite only being together for a little over a year, the band has seen tremendous success, opening for such artists as The Tubes, Berlin, Ozomatli and Buckcherry. LOVE GHOST has also played several high-profile festivals including Make Music Pasadena and Echo Park Rising.

 

 

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