Jon Crary’s Weekly Sound Off 5/26-5/31:
1. Rush Midnight “Fix Me Up” (Last Gang Records)– This is one of the most exciting releases of the year so far for me. It’s Russ Manning, former bass player for Twin Shadow. His new LP release is Tuesday, May 27. This single “Fix Me Up” is on non-stop repeat. It’s funky, bright and creative. It reminds me of the early new romantics of the early 80’s including that of I-Level, Duran Duran, Japan, Level 42 and others, but Rush Midnight has a gorgeous flair which makes this such a great modern funky listen. This is my big song pick of the week!
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2. Happyness “ Leave the Party” – Starting with a familiar 80’s bass line and continuing with a fantastic duet between male and female vocalists, it is sparse and yet full. There is a cool downbeat somewhat muted and grinding. There are lots of great guitar and synth sounds accompanying this song from this London based band. I feel a little Kings of Convenience shine through. Wonderful song!
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/149473821″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
3. Banks “Drowning” – She’s creating quite the buzz with her slightly quivering, beautifully interesting sounds and slightly smoky voice. Banks is making intoxicating love songs so poignant and relevant. Here is another one of my faves of the week.
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/150271464″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
4. Nightbox “Burning” – Here is another great neo-funk band, and they are from Toronto, Canada. There is a great driving bass line, a synth-like steel drum and other drum beats. This is a great synth-pop tune with great vocals. I’d enjoy taking a car ride with this song as it is high energy, cool rhythms and fun. There are lots of references to 80’ music. Great song.
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/79367475″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
5. Honest Haloway “ Eyes on Me” – Here is a cool Washington, DC indie synth-pop band that just released this single from their upcoming EP “Perigee”. This catchy single has a bright and airy feel to it, a driving beat, great melody, choppy guitar and atmospheric synths. Cool fun tune. Check it out!
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