Weekly Release Spotlight
That one perfect album that we (and you) almost missed.
Kabutomushi by Mei Semones
Mei Semones’ newest EP, Kabutomushi, effortlessly blends both genres and languages. No single genre can define this Brooklyn-based artist’s project, with influences stemming from bossa nova, math rock, and indie pop. Semones’ deeply heartfelt lyrics, sung both in Japanese and English, layer beautifully over her masterful guitar tracks. Though short, this EP is filled with sonic bliss that captures the vast range of emotions that stem from chaotic fallings-out and into love.
The Road to Hell is Paved With Good Intentions by Vegyn
Paying homage to 1990’s trip-hop sound and translating it into 2024’s musical sphere, Vegyn creates a lush and vast soundscape with ‘The Road to Hell is Paved With Good Intentions.’ Joseph Winger Thornalley, known professionally as Vegyn, uses his background as a producer and DJ to influence the sound of the album, as well as collaborate with artists from the likes of Léa Sen to Matt Maltese. Though his production style is distinct (think Frank Ocean’s ‘Blonde’) it doesn’t fall short or get repetitive. ‘The Road to Hell is Paved With Good Intentions’ is paved with winding, intricate musicality.
Something in the Room She Moves by Julia Holter
Julia Holter’s latest release, ‘Something in the Room She Moves,’ reflects upon motherhood, as well as grief and love. Each song brings the listener on an entrancing, floating, bubbly journey, flowing gracefully into the next. Holter’s careful attention to detail is prevalent throughout the album–in both lyrics and instrumentation. ‘Something in the Room She Moves’ is an album of complex and, often conflicting, emotions woven together in a perfectly realized.
Castro Raw Fullback/Tear Pusher by YHWH Nailgun
Experimental project YHWH Nailgun, born during the early days of the pandemic lockdown, has released two new singles. These singles serve as a follow up to their 2022 debut EP, and provide a refreshing experimental sound that keeps you wanting more. With sporadic, percussive instrumentation and equally punchy lyrics, both songs prove to be an exciting glimpse into this young band’s future!
I Got Heaven by Mannequin Pussy
Mannequin Pussy has released their fourth and most emotionally intense album yet: I Got Heaven. Full of ripping guitars and yearning vocals, I Got Heaven represents the band’s commentary on heartbreak and political issues through a multigenred lens. Lead vocalist Marisa Dabice perfectly delivers gut-wrenching lyrics about the perceptions of femininity and postmodern loneliness. In all, this project is fully realized and delightfully complex.
The Past is Still Alive by Hurray for the Riff Raff
Alynda Segarra’s ninth studio album under the moniker Hurray for the Riff Raff proves to be
heartfelt, queer Americana. Segarra left home at age 17 and hitched rides until reaching New
Orleans, where they eventually settled. This album is personal, and as the title suggests,
influenced by Segarra’s past—with complex emotions. Down to the minute, this album is packed
with every emotion from nostalgia to rage to homesickness. The biggest emotional crescendo,
however, comes from the closing track, entitled “Kiki Forever,” which is a sweet voicemail from
their grandfather and serves as a simplistic reminder to hold onto and appreciate loved ones
while they’re still around. Hurray For The Riff Raff has once again delivered a warm, authentic
project.