By Chad Miller - Summit FM Music Director
What's everyone been listening to out there? There's been an AVALANCHE of great new songs coming at us to start the new year, as per usual, with STILL more to come! Easily the most exciting time of the year in our world of music, that I get to sort through and play them for you on the radio. So much new music coming at us, so little time...however, these songs that might fly under the radar to most are what I've been diggin' most especially these past few weeks!
Like what you hear? Please email me at chad@thesummit.fm and let me know what you think!
Alejandro Escovedo "Bury Me"
One of the more interesting ideas for beginning to write an album was the thought that 73 year old Alejandro Escovedo had recently, where he decided to do things a little bit differently. The new album he's just released, "Echo Dancing," out now on Yep Roc Records, came from changing his mind on going about it in a conventional sense. He was planning on writing a record of new material, but then changed his mind, and realized that instead revisiting songs from various past albums would be far more interesting. Almost a way of turning old songs inside out to get a new sense, and understanding, of them. The lead single from the album is "Bury Me", a song he wrote while in his 40s, for his 1992 debut album "Gravity", but now is looking back at himself as a younger man. The almost menacing and mysterious vibe this song gives off is terrific, and one that I haven't been able to get enough of as of late. See this legend performing live on September 10, opening for Jason Isebell & the 400 Unit, at Jacobs Pavilion, in Cleveland.
Bully "Atom Bomb"
After releasing one of my favorite albums of a year ago, "Lucky for You," hard rockin' Nashville based band Bully, the project of Alicia Bognanno, really started to get out of a comfort zone. She started performing more concerts solo, which forced her to confront her nerves and anxiety about just the simple act of presenting herself onstage. It was an incredibly vulnerable thing that led to other challenging things for her personally, and in her music career, as ways to better herself. The new single "Atom Bomb," via Sub Pop Records, showcases that in a different way, and one that few probably saw coming. A piano ballad from someone who's known to rock so hard, and with a rough around the edges sandpaper-y sounding voice? It's true, and she totally pulls it off. The candid lyrics in such an unexpected stripped-down setting, only makes the raw emotion of this song stand out even more so, especially toward the end, where she just lets it all out. So powerful, and a song that'll stop you in your tracks upon hearing it. We'll all be very lucky to see her making a return appearance to northeast Ohio as the headliner for the tenth annual Federal Frenzy Music and Arts Festival, in downtown Youngstown on Saturday, April 27.
Faye Webster "Lego Ring"
It can be really fascinating to see how the ever-growing buzz can manifest itself around an artist on the rise, lifting them to new heights, and forcing people to take notice. This has certainly been the case for young 26-year-old Atlanta based indie-rock singer-songwriter Faye Webster, who is most certainly poised for a breakthrough in 2024. This new song, off her new fifth album "Underdressed at the Symphony," available now on Secretly Canadian Records, also shares an understated vocal delivery from Atlanta based hip-hop artist Lil' Yachty, two luminaries, in their respective musical genres, who actually went to high school together. Things are very much happening for this young woman, but her music is still so grounded in a low-key manner that combines rootsy sounding indie-rock along with modern sounding production from the world of R&B that has made her a huge favorite amongst younger crowds, who've come of age seeing those genre lines blurred. As an artist who's kind of blowing up in an "under the radar" sense, having sold out her entire tour last fall, your next chance to see what the fuss is all about will be July 29 at Stage AE, in Pittsburgh. I plan on being there myself.
Iron & Wine "All in Good Time"
There's always been something so comforting and soothing about the music that singer-songwriter Sam Beam creates with his project known as Iron & Wine, and with his upcoming seventh album due out on April 26 titled "Light Verse," via Sub Pop Records, we will thankfully be getting more of that goodness soon. One of the big surprises that came recently, was this new song that includes backing vocals from the great Fiona Apple! This is no small feat as Apple has been somewhat of a recluse in recent years, really only surfacing for her 2020 album "Fetch the Bolt Cutters,” which was her first album in eight years. The combination here is truly striking as Beam and Apple engage in a sort of call and response duet, that brings to mind well known examples of the past like Kenny and Dolly, but in this instance, one for the cool kids! It's a stunning song to begin with, made even better with the trademark husky sounding vocals of Fiona Apple, that are delivered in such an effortless manner, that it all just melts together so flawlessly, and is a joy to listen to and take in. Much credit goes to Beam for reaching into his rockstar Rolodex to coax Apple out of hiding. Iron & Wine also have a summer tour planned, which will include a stop at the Agora Theater, in Cleveland, on August 20.
MRCY "Lorelei"
This brand new soulful duo, out of the UK, has got quite a feel for easy going comfort on this debut single "Lorelei," available now via Dead Oceans Records, and is introducing themselves to our world of music in grand fashion. With a very similar sound to that of the Austin based duo Black Pumas, who are in fact opening for them on their current tour, MRCY is the duo of producer Barney Lister and vocalist Kojo Degraft-Johnson, both coming from different parts of England, and different cultures as well. Coming together with a shared musical vision, these two evoke comparisons of Marvin Gaye, Khruangbin, and some of those soul classics that you're sure you know, but might not be able to put your finger on necessarily. The two of them connected over Instagram during the pandemic, then met up in Brixton, between lockdowns, to discuss ideas, get to know each other, and see how each other's previous work and connections in the music industry could help draw them together as artists, while cultivating their own sound collectively. After hearing this debut single, I'd say they nailed it, and I can't wait to hear more!
Warpaint "Common Blue"
The ladies of the indie leaning dream-pop band, Warpaint, have sort of slowed down in recent years, save for the release of their fourth album "Radiate Like This,” in 2022, which came after a hiatus of six years, prior to their previous album, where they all sort of took a pause to focus on life and other pursuits. Still very much beloved in their home city of Los Angeles, and by indie rock fans alike, Warpaint have emerged once again to essentially acknowledge and celebrate their twentieth anniversary as a band, by releasing this single, via Rough Trade Records, perfectly combining their psychedelic, low key post-punk, and chill dream-pop influences. The band even noted the occasion themselves by saying, "With these [two] new songs we tie a bow around this time in our lives, and all the experiences and songs we've shared over the years. It's been an incredible journey and taken us all over the world sharing good times with beautiful people. Our hearts are full!" While a quote like that makes me apprehensive that it may sound like an unofficial way of saying goodbye, I really hope it doesn't, as Warpaint really do sound better than ever!
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
One thing for certain about Canadian rock music, it's all over the map! And that's a good thing! If there is a 'Canadian sound,' it would have to slot somewhere in between Neil Young, Rush, Nick Gilder, the Guess Who, Voivod, Nash The Slash, Thundermug, and, well, you get the idea. None of those bands sound alike, and there is no Canadian sound, which in turn, makes perfect sense that Barenaked Ladies are among Canada's favorite sons.
Formed in 1988, just outside of Toronto, BNL rose up from the underground in a highly unprecedented manner. After recording a handful of demo tapes, the band's reputation had grown to the point where demand for fans to get their hands on those demo recordings went sky high. This led to the band self-releasing their official unofficial debut, self-titled though known as 'The Yellow Tape.' The songs on this recording were made to coincide with the band's appearance at SXSW, but fans kept buying the demo tape, which then made history as the first independent release to go Gold in Canada.
With all this in their favor, it wasn’t long before the big labels came calling. The band eventually signed with Sire/Reprise Records, in the States, who issued their proper debut album, 'Gordon,' in 1992. The band re-recorded the songs from 'The Yellow Tape,' most of which are still among their most well-known. 'Be My Yoko Ono,' 'Brian Wilson' and 'If I Had $1,000,000,' make up 3 of the album's 16 tracks.
Barenaked Ladies, with a name that came from a list of imaginary bands the guys had compiled, immediately found a home in the alternative rock landscape, which included just about anything under the sun at that point, so why not some clever, catchy, smart pop music from these Canadian rabble rousers. The songs are colored with just about every instrument within reach, making it even more difficult to categorize their quirky brand of folk/pop.
Clever lyrics with humor often at the center, the band was an admitted product of its upbringing, surrounded by pop culture. "Some much of what we grew up in was pop culture in the 70s and 80s,” said vocalist Stephen Page, in a 1992 interview with the CBC. "That's the atmosphere we grew up in. A lot of our music comes from knowing about those things. We make fun of a lot of stuff."
Guitarist Ed Robinson concurs, "Like the song 'Be My Yoko Ono’ is just a love song in the disguise of a quirky little pop culture joke. We thought it was just a joke, but people kept saying 'that's a great, really sweet love song."
Yet, for every goofy pun or silly reference, there is often much more lurking under the surface in their songs. The New York Times called that point upfront in their initial review, "It's not easy to be hyperactive, brooding, and whimsical all at once, but the Barenaked Ladies do just that." ‘Gordon' hit the number one spot in their Canadian homeland, and sold well in the U.S., paving the way for a long running, happy fan base here in America, and eventually, two years later, turning Gold here as well.
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
New York. London. Paris, and of course, Munich. Everybody, go on now, talk about Pop Music! What is Pop Music? Certainly, one would think pop, being short for popular…however, so much amazing pop music had nothing to do with popularity contests. It was meant to define music in a popular idiom for mass consumption, however, the craft so often involved in what makes truly great pop music, could never be tolerated by the masses. What then, makes a great pop song? Hooks, melodic invention, dynamics, and so on, all add up. Could be something as sweet and innocent as 'Sugar Sugar,' by the Archies, or something as dynamic and gravity defying as '21st Century Schizoid Man,' by King Crimson. Coincidentally, both those records were released in 1969, worlds apart, and yet closer than one might think in the large scheme of things.
Roxy Music were, by definition, a 'Pop' group, however, the definition of pop had been remade and remodeled in the post-Sgt. Pepper world. It was the golden age of anything goes Pop music. By 1973, Roxy Music had released their stunning debut, and equally stunning follow-up, 'For Your Pleasure.' It's at this point in the game that sound craftsman, special effects coordinator, and visual flashpoint, Brian Eno decides to leave the band, to begin his most interesting odyssey as a solo artist.
Released in early 1974, 'Here Come The Warm Jets' was Pop Music, ENO style. Direct links to pop's golden past collided head on with futuristic bravado to create not only one of the most interesting debut albums ever, but one of the most art driven, fully realized Pop albums of all time. Kicking into high gear with track one, 'Needles In The Camel's Eye,' things are off to a grand start. With a two chord Velvets style groove at its root, it is awash in the Glam-era colors, with a simple Kinks-ian melody. In other words, it's a perfect pop song, co-written by Eno and Roxy guitarist Phil Manzanera, who lends his guitar prowess to the mix as well. 'The Paw Paw Negro Blowtorch' follows, with some prime Eno nob twiddling for the solo, welcoming the future a few years early.
By track three we are settled in but hardly prepared for the attack that is 'Baby's On Fire.' A deceptively simple song that is, even 50 years on, still a house rattling good time. Guitar overload courtesy of one Mr. Robert Fripp who provides, dare I say it, one of the top recorded guitar solos in history. If this doesn't rattle your windows, and your soul, at full volume, check your pulse.
'Cindy Tells Me' is about as pure pop as ENO gets, again using a Velvet style template, but in sweeter tone, which helps prepare for the side one closer, 'Driving Me Backwards,' which somehow combines a Kurt Weill-esque backdrop, with some Lennon ‘White Album’ tones, all the while predicting and predating post punk. Side two runs the gamut from the lush and sophisticated 'On Some Faraway Beach,' to the pre-punk ramblings of 'Blank Frank,' to the Kinks-meets-avant-garde of 'Dead Finks Don't Talk,' and the exotica futurism on 'Some Of Them Are Old,' before washing away with the glorious title track, which rides us off into the sunset.
ENO would make another stunning LP, 'Taking Tiger Mountain By Strategy,' by the end of year. 1975 would find him off on new sonic adventures like the varied ‘Another Green World,' and 'Discreet Music,' his first real dive into ambient music, a genre he in many ways is the father of, not forgetting the pair of albums made with Robert Fripp, 'No Pussyfooting,' and 'Evening Star,' both sonic landscapes of guitar tones and tape loops, unlike anything else attempted by rock or pop stars. 1977 would see the last of his pop albums for a while, the also wonderful 'Before And After Science.' For many years, he would follow the ambient muse as an artist, while his role as producer grew and grew. In fact, he is likely better known for his producer tag, in the large scheme of things, but we must not forget his insanely great contributions as a pop artist.
'Here Come The Warm Jets' is Pop Music as Pop Art. It fills that role as much as the Beatles 'Revolver,' the Kinks' 'Face To Face,' and the Who 'Sell Out,' to name a few. And ok, yeah, I admit, it is one of my all-time favorite albums! I vividly remember first hearing it back in 1975, and feeling like I had connected to some other frequency out in the cosmos. It was so modern sounding. It was the sound of the future, yet of that specific moment in time as well. It has worn incredibly well over the years, and still sounds like it's being beamed in via some distant signal from some faraway place. The whole album still gives a chill and a thrill. Thank you ENO! On behalf of The Summit FM, I am more than happy to call ‘Here Come The Warm Jets’ essential!
By Matt Anthony - Summit FM Digital Media Specialist
Lucky to have met,
When we did.
“Now Is The Time” - Jade Bird
In the early 2000’s, I was working as Imaging Director for WTEM-AM, in Washington, DC. It was our second opportunity to be in the nation’s capital. Seven years earlier, I was the PM Drive host for CBS’s Classic Hits station, Arrow 94.7, but at SportsTalk 980, my work was done primarily behind the scenes, writing copy, producing promos, and taking care of the imaging, for our role as the flagship station for Washington Capitals hockey.
Our station was in Rockville, Maryland, situated along one of the most congested roads in Montgomery County. Sometimes for lunch, I would walk down the street, try to avoid the traffic, and snag a sandwich at, what was then, a small chain of restaurants, ones that eventually became ubiquitous nation-wide: Subway.
That day the store was crowded. I waited with the others, and I noticed a young girl being tutored on how to make the various sandwiches. She was obviously a new employee. And the closer I inched towards the person taking orders, I kept my eyes on her. I noticed that she was having trouble communicating in English. She appeared frazzled, and unsure of herself, but I admired her willingness to learn, especially during a very hectic time-period.
I placed my order, and then moved on down the line towards her. She would occasionally ask a customer if they wanted onions or cucumbers for their sandwich, but it seemed easier for her to point at vegetables and wait for the customer’s response.
Finally, it was my turn. I guessed that she may have been of Hispanic origin, but I wasn’t sure. My Spanish is abysmal, but I thought I would try my best to help her out, if that was indeed the case. I mumbled a quiet ‘Hola’, and a brief smile crept across her face. She would point to the various containers of vegetables, such as onions and I responded, “Ceballo…no. Pero, pimientos, por favor.”
Down the line I walked, forgetting the Spanish words for ‘mustard’ and ‘cheese,’ but doing enough pointing and head-nodding to be able to complete my order. Once done, she slid it towards the person ringing out orders, and then tossed me a gentle smile before turning to her next customer.
“If you can’t find the truth right where you are, where do you expect to find it?”
- Dogen Zenji, Zen Master. 1200-1253
Her expressive brown eyes haunted me for the remainder of the day, and on the long drive home back to our small apartment in Annapolis, I thought of that moment during lunch. I wondered how difficult it must have been for her to completely change her life to come to a country where she was unfamiliar with the language and the customs. How chaotic her world must have been, standing there in a fast-food restaurant, on a crowded, busy street, near one of the great cities in the whole world, trying to learn to make American sandwiches in the throes of a lunch-time work-crowd.
Entering Anne Arundel County, I increased the volume on the radio. U2 had just released ‘All That You Can’t Leave Behind,’ and ‘Stuck In A Moment You Can’t Get Out Of’ filled the interior of my car. I considered it a moment of serendipity.
For whatever reason, I’ve thought of that moment several times since then. A few times over the decades, I’ve wondered what happened to that young girl. Did she stay in this country? Was she married? Did she own several Subway franchises? Did she go back to her country of origin?
Right here, right now
There is no other place I want to be.
“Right Here, Right Now” - Jesus Jones
When I was riding motorcycles, I would encounter other riders at gas stations, diners, or rest areas. Being on two wheels without the protection of a steel frame is an automatic invitation to a unique club, a dangerous club, and yet, a fulfilling, bliss-inducing one. Those momentary conversations were instances that I would think about later in the evening, or when I would be trying to fall asleep.
I would think of riders who would pass me going in the opposite direction, and as is sometimes the custom, I would drop my left hand towards the ground, and he or she would do the same, the motorcycle ‘wave.’ As their gust of wind gently nudged me, I would be reminded that the moment…that moment, with that fellow rider…would likely never happen again.
In Zen meditation, we’re taught to try to settle our minds and to focus on the present moment, simply being aware of the act of breathing in and breathing out. It’s tougher than it sounds. We’re taught to be ‘open’ to the present moment. Dogen says, “If you open your hand, you may receive anything.” While I fail repeatedly, I do try to keep in mind that the big, broad brushstrokes of experience are, certainly, to be expected and appreciated. Weddings. Concerts. Funerals. But it’s the instantaneous, one-off moments for which I’m most grateful…or try to be. I believe they help teach us to concentrate on the present. Those moments that, for whatever reason, we can’t get out of. They are experienced, and then, like us, they’re gone.
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
No lying, no pretense, no hype sheet, just the facts! The Pretenders self-titled debut album stands as one of the greatest, most fully formed debut's in rock and roll! Way back upon its release in 1980, every note, every guitar chord, and every word rang true, and all these years later, that all remains intact. It was the sum of the parts, great songs, with great players, attitude, style, and bravado, all adding up to a pretty much perfect album.
Chrissie Hynde has always been, quite simply, one of the coolest rockers on the docket. From childhood, she knew she wanted to get the hell out of Akron, Ohio, and pursue her rock and roll dream. Upon moving to England in the early 1970s, she found herself hanging out with the 'in-crowd,' including members of the soon to form Sex Pistols, and their whole entourage. Hynde stood out, as it was obvious she was genuine, she began gaining a reputation among other aspiring rockers.
Inspired by the energy of the punk movement, but with her deepest love in mid-60 rock and roll, like The Rolling Stones and The Kinks, Hynde began writing songs, very good songs, which opened more doors, and soon signed a record deal. She assembled what seemed to be the perfect band for her songs and style; drummer Martin Chambers, bassist Pete Farndon, and guitarist extraordinaire James Honeyman-Scott. Their attack was simple, yet sophisticated, and Hynde's sharp and sultry vocals made their signature sound what it was.
It's interesting to note, that Hynde never seemed to make the fact that she was a woman the issue. Not unlike Patti Smith, she just got up and did her thing, being a rock and roller, and in the process, shut down any naysayers. Her talent as a songwriter and performer instantly made people shut up and take notice.
From the opening raw salvo of 'Precious,' it was clear this band meant business. As song after song came blasting out of the speakers, the listener was more and more captivated. 'The Phone Call,' 'Up The Neck,' 'Tattooed Love Boys,' (which contains one of the coolest guitar breaks ever!), 'The Wait,' and that's only side one! The first single released from the album was a beautiful cover of the lost Kinks classic 'Stop Your Sobbing,' Initially one of the songs the band sent producer Nick Lowe as a demo, after recording the track with them, he left the project with the remaining tracks to be produced by the legendary Chris Thomas. The next single, 'Kid' made the UK Top 40, but it would be the LP's third single, 'Brass In Pocket,' that hit pay dirt in America, clocking in at No. 14, and the video for the song got heavy rotation on the new MTV channel.
The album proved to be a big hit, making it into the Top 10 in the U.S., and number one in the UK. The band more than held their own on tour, proving they could rock it out with the big boys of the era. One more album featuring the original line-up would follow before personal issues and substance abuse would take its toll, with both Farndon and Honeyman-Scott losing their lives to drug issues. Hynde and Chambers would pick up the pieces and soldier on. The Pretenders carry on to this day, with Hynde as the sole original member. It’s encouraging to note that her most recent couple of LPs have been among her best, but that first album was truly something special. Essential? To say the least!
By Michelle Charles - Summit FM Development Director
While it's true that anyone can listen to The Summit FM and enjoy our diverse range of music, being a member adds an extra layer of significance and connection to the experience. Here's why membership is special and integral to our station:
Enhanced Connection: Membership offers a deeper connection to The Summit FM's musical journey. When you become a member, you're not just a listener; you're part of a passionate community that shares your love for alternative music.
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Support and Influence: By becoming a member, you directly contribute to the station's ability to bring you exceptional music and experiences. Your financial support plays a pivotal role in shaping the content we provide and the community we foster.
Joining a Community: Membership isn't just about the music; it's about joining a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate the artistry, creativity, and depth that alternative music brings to our lives.
A Personal Investment: When you become a member, you're making a personal investment in the station's success. You're saying, "I believe in what you do, and I want to be a part of it."
Nurturing Creativity: Your membership helps us create an environment where artists and listeners can come together to celebrate creativity and musical expression. Your contribution supports emerging artists and diverse genres.
In essence, being a member is about embracing the unique opportunity to go beyond being a casual listener. It's about actively participating in a musical movement, sharing your voice, and helping shape the future of The Summit FM.
While anyone can tune in at any time, being a member allows you to delve deeper into the heart and soul of the station. It creates a more meaningful and lasting connection to the music, the artists, and the community that makes The Summit FM truly special.
Click here to become a member.
By Chad Miller - Summit FM Music Director
What's everyone been listening to out there? There's been an AVALANCHE of great new songs coming at us to start the new year, as per usual, with STILL more to come! Easily the most exciting time of the year in our world of music, that I get to sort through and play them for you on the radio. So much new music coming at us, so little time...however, these songs that might fly under the radar to most are what I've been diggin' most especially these past few weeks!
Like what you hear? Please email me at chad@thesummit.fm and let me know what you think!
Cigarettes After Sex "Tejano Blue"
While it may sound like an oxymoron, this exceptionally lush sounding dream pop band out of El Paso, Texas, has exploded in popularity the last few years in the world of "under the radar" music. Yes, I know that sounds odd to say, but with an in imitable sonic style led by the completely androgynous sounding vocals of lead singer Greg Gonzalez, who sounds so unique it's almost as if he's an alien come to earth, Cigarettes After Sex have cornered the market on the ethereal and romantic sound they excel at. They'll be releasing their third album "X's" on July 12th, via Partisan Records, and this first single ever so slightly changes up the formula for a more subtle slow dance type of feel, with this song portraying an old long-term relationship that's still really stuck with Gonzalez. Fair warning…this song is a HOT one, in its lyrics and subject matter, but I'd expect nothing less with this band as they truly thrive at this, their signature style of sensual slow burn love songs. With their first hit single from 2017 "Apocalypse" (highly recommended) having over a billion streams on Spotify, that justifies a true arena world tour for this album, which besides North America and Europe, will also take them to southeast Asia, South Africa, and Australia, with South American tour dates still to be added. Who goes that far out on tour anymore?! With a cult following such as theirs, they deserve every bit of their adoration and success.
Gary Clark Jr. "Maktub"
It's been a few years since we've heard from Austin, Texas based, and four-time Grammy winner, Gary Clark Jr. He's known not only as one of the most innovative blues guitarist around today, but also for never being shy about being creative and unapologetic with social commentary inherent in his songwriting. A song that deals specifically with forging a path ahead, no matter the cost, in addition to holding a steadfast belief in committing to the reasons to be in pursuit of such a personally stated mission or goal, it all lends itself to the title of the song "Maktub," which is an Arabic word meaning fate or destiny. Never one to be pigeonholed into any exact style or genre, the forthcoming fourth album "JPEG RAW," out March 22nd, on Warner Records, sees Clark Jr. dipping into a rather adventurous and varied combination of sampling, collaborators, and different styles, ranging from world music and jazz, to more traditional rock, hip-hop, R&B, and blues influences we've come to expect from him. The urgency in this song is nothing short of invigorating, and marks a solid return for this towering figure in our world of music.
Good Morning "Just in Time"
I'm totally a sucker for completely melodic songs that have sticky sweet choruses or hooks that really attach themselves into your brain, serving the need we all have for true ear candy. This song absolutely and unequivocally has all of that in a perfect example of lush retro sounding power-pop goodness, but with a gentle flourish throughout. One listen to this one and you'll see as this song, by the Melbourne, Australia based duo, grabs hold of you and won't let go, while offering up a terrific preview of what's to come on their upcoming seventh album "Good Morning Seven," to be released March 22nd, on Polyvinyl Records. The two bandmembers, and real life best buds, Liam and Stefan made all this themselves, in their homemade studio, as a self-produced double album. With upcoming tour dates opening for Waxahatchee as well, this new album will be a nice way to again get acquainted with American audiences who, like me, enjoy songs that will literally put a smile on your face every time you hear it, much like this one does for yours truly.
METZ "Entwined (Street Light Buzz)"
Sometimes what we all need is a veritable blast of really loud straight up rock and roll sounds, which is exactly what this Toronto based, by way of Ottawa, post-punk band has excelled at for just over a decade now. Loving this sound in general, I've been a fan of the band from the beginning, dating back to their debut album from 2012, and their punk rock fury and aesthetic is unparalleled. If that's your style, and the level of decibels you require, this is a band you'll love without a doubt. I also very much appreciate bands like this who are always ever so slightly adapting and evolving their overall sound without sacrificing who they are, which is exactly what's happening on this new song from the forthcoming fifth album "Up On Gravity Hill," out on April 12th, via Sub Pop Records. Turning now from loud songs about joyous rage, METZ have slightly altered the formula on this song to where, while still being loud, it's also imbued with more subtle atmospherics, and a hint of nuanced melodicism, not quite seen before from the band. A song that's about the ways of deep connection that people can have with one another through friendships, and how that can last a lifetime, even carrying those memories with us after the death of a friend, this might be the most powerful offering yet from a band using the raw power of rock music in a rather affecting way on a song that will hit you in all the feels.
Shannon and the Clams "Bean Fields"
One of the more unique sounding bands out there, Shannon and the Clams evokes the sounds of a vintage garage rock style of yesteryear, really leaning into Shannon Shaw's perfectly raspy vocals, along with a perfect blend of doo-wop, surf rock, and old school R&B tinged psychedelia, that brings to mind girl groups from the '60s, and even influences from the very early days of rock and roll, all with their own unique spin. An overall sound that attracted the ears of Dan Auerbach, who has been working and collaborating with the band for quite a few years now. This new single of theirs from the soon to be released album "The Moon is In the Wrong Place," out on May 10th, via Easy Eye Sound Records, is rooted, in an unspeakable tragedy that befell Shannon several years ago. Back in late August 2022, Shaw's fiancée Joe Haener was sadly killed in an automobile accident just outside his family farm in Oregon, which also caused the band to understandably back out of their scheduled performance at the Nelsonville Music Festival, in southeast Ohio, that Labor Day weekend. This song, which is a tribute to Haener, and the bean fields he planted, is a true emotional high point for the band, and a celebration of his life, in addition to a very sentimental, yet rockin', way to remember his presence.
St. Vincent "Broken Man"
There is no one in popular music today quite like St. Vincent, the musical project of Annie Clark. Not only an incredibly talented, innovative, and absolutely killer guitar player, she's also become a pillar in the world of art-rock, by keeping everyone guessing as to what persona and direction she takes from one album and collaboration to the next, throughout her decade plus career. With all that being said, she's gotten a lot of comparisons as being the David Bowie of our time, in the way she changes things up as a true rock and roll chameleon. She’s also gained respect in our greater world of music, by her fearlessly and confidently standing in for the late Kurt Cobain, while delivering vocals for the Nirvana song "Lithium," during the band's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2014. St. Vincent has now returned with this new song from her forthcoming self-produced seventh album "All Born Screaming," due out April 26th, via Virgin Music. Coming across on this new song, with a decided industrial edge, Clark evokes the sound of something like Trent Reznor would've done with Nine Inch Nails several decades ago. A tone-setter of a song for this upcoming new album, Clark herself sums it up best by describing it as "There are some places, emotionally, that you can only get to by taking the long walk into the woods alone – to find out what your heart is really saying." For me, it's one of my most anticipated albums of the year.
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
Straight outta Columbus, Ohio, Twenty One Pilots have certainly made, and maintained, a name for themselves over the past fifteen years or so. After entering the game with a couple of independently released albums, the duo of Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun got snapped up by a Warner Brothers subsidiary, which aided their ongoing ascension with their third release, ‘Vesser.’
Released in 2018, their second major label release, 'Blurryface,' put them over the top in a handful of ways, not only outselling their previous releases, scoring over a million copies sold, it also hit the top spot on the Billboard charts, and ultimately won a Grammy Award for “Album of the Year.” Not bad for a couple kids from mid-Ohio!
'Tear In My Heart,' 'Lane Boy,' 'Fairly Local,' 'Ride,' and 'Stressed Out' were all released as singles, each one generating a buzz with 'Ride' hitting Top 5 and 'Stressed Out' making it all the way to the top. Perhaps part of the secret in not even a secret, but simply the way their fans relate to their music and lyrics.
“Music can connect people on an intimate level. What Josh and I are trying to do is represent anyone who has some of the questions that we have,” Tyler Joseph told The Standard, back in 2015. “When you write music that expresses doubt or concern, or talks about some of the darker things that a developing human goes through, people will come out of the woodwork to listen to someone else say it out loud.”
While touring the album, the band went from playing clubs to hitting arenas around the world. “When you zoom out, you might think, ‘Oh that was pretty nuts’”, Josh told NME. “But we’d been on tour since 2011 playing shows every night so you’re too close to realize it." Though the two albums that followed were also big success stories, they failed to match the glory of 'Blurryface,' which seemed to have been the right album at the right time. Their tale is far from over, however, a new album, 'Scaled and Icy’ is set for release in May of 2024.
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
What with it being 'National Women's Month' and all, though, come on, women should be celebrated each and every day of every month! I thought it a good time to mention a new book just out for space on your shelves. It's a book about a great rock and roll band who, yes indeed, were all women!
The Bangles burst out of an unassuming garage, in Los Angeles, back in 1981. It was an ad placed in the local music paper ‘The Recycler,’ which brought guitarist Susanna Hoffs together with sisters Vicki and Debbie Peterson (guitar and drums respectively), as well as bassist Annette Zilinskas. The four members had previously played in bands, but nothing ever caught fire. It all started to gel when Hoffs answered the ad and got immersed in conversation with Peterson about music, as they shared favorite songs and artists, as well as commiserating over the recent assassination of John Lennon.
Initially christened The Colours, the girls soon changed their name to The Bangs, and began hitting local clubs. Their seamless mix of 1960s pop and garage tinged rock and roll, spurred on by a punk inspired DIY energy, quickly became their signature. They used to say it was "the B bands" that really influenced them, those being Beatles, Byrds, and Buffalo Springfield, but it was their vocal abilities in spot on harmonies that added the right topping to the mix.
The band issued their debut single in 1981 on their own label, Down Kiddie Records. 'Getting Out Of Hand' b/w 'Call On Me.' After learning there was already a New Jersey based band called The Bangs, they decided to borrow a few letters from their beloved Beatles, to become The Bangles. The single received heavy airplay on the local KROQ, which was enough to catch the attention of Miles Copeland, of I.R.S. Records, who signed them to his Faulty Records imprint, and released their debut self-titled EP in 1982.
The five song EP was a mini masterpiece of sorts, each song a shimmering example of great Pop music, that was awash in the colors of a previous era, while simultaneously glowingly modern. They had their own sound and weren't a second tier Go-Go’s, or any such creation. They had discovered they weren't alone in their pursuit of a musical future that owed to the past, as other like-minded bands such as The Salvation Army (later the Three O'Clock), Dream Syndicate, Rain Parade, and Long Ryders, were all thinking and creating along similar lines. An offhand quote in the local press from the Three O'Clock's Michael Quercio had this lot of bands labeled as 'the Paisley Underground,' a moniker that adheres to this day.
With the EP receiving heavy play from college radio, the band was soon snapped up by Columbia Records. At the same time, original bassist Annette Zilinskas left the band and was replaced by Michael Steele, a veteran of the LA music scene, having been a member of the very first line-up of The Runaways. 1984 saw the release of their major label debut, 'All Over The Place.' The album had a slightly harder edge and punchier production while retaining the 60s pop glow. Singles from the album 'Hero Takes A Fall' and 'Going Down To Liverpool' didn't sell in tons, but did get the ladies on to MTV, and ultimately to radio.
As all the original 'paisley underground' bands began to sign to the majors, and alter stylistic approach, so too did The Bangles. Two more albums followed, 'Different Light' and 'Everything', both hugely successful and adorned with hit singles like 'Manic Monday,' 'Walk Like An Egyptian,' 'If She Knew What She Wants,' and 'Eternal Flame.' The band had crossed over to the pop world with ease, though lost much of their own personality in the process. It all took its toll on them, and following the 'Everything' tour, The Bangles had called it a day.
All members have kept active in music along the way, working on a variety of projects. In 1998, a decade after packing it in, The Bangles reformed, sans Steele, and continue occasionally to this day, sporadically releasing new material - 'Doll Revolution,' in 2003, and 'Sweetheart Of The Sun' in 2011. To complete the circle, in 2014, Zilinskas rejoined as the original lineup lives on! Hoffs, meanwhile, has become an author. Her first book, ‘This Bird Has Flown,’ was published last year to rave reviews. A new book, 'All Over The Place – The Rise of The Bangles From the LA Underground' has just been released, by Hozac Books, and covers their complete history. Author, and unofficial band historian, Eric Shade started work on this project back in the 1990s. Seemingly every stone is unturned, and nook and cranny dusted for info here. His meticulous research and contagious enthusiasm provides a wide scope portrait of the band. Interviews with early bandmates, detailed information from forgotten fanzines, and overseas interviews, leaves no stone unturned.