New Releases: Issue 1
This fall has brought a fresh wave of new releases, and a few standout tracks from Texas-based bands deserve your attention.
LABELS by Jolea Bradshaw
There’s no sugar coating the message behind LABELS’ new single, “Traitors”. Throughout the duration of the 4-minute track, Tyler Waller’s vocals lay bare a powerful indictment of those responsible for the state of chaos that the world is currently in. The band leaves no doubt about where they stand— making a declaration of disgust towards injustice and inequality with a sound equally as powerful as the strength of their message.
The song begins with an eerie intro that captures the collective anxiety that many of us feel due to the issues we’re currently facing. Around the 30-second mark, Braden Burgan’s heavy guitar riff comes in, shortly followed by Tyler calling out the ‘Traitors’ in question, leaving no trace of ambiguity. Taylor Burgan’s dynamic drumming drives the momentum forward, adding layers of strength.
In a time where voices are being silenced and rights are being stripped away, continuing the fight to be heard grows more essential every day. LABELS have once again succeeded in using their artistry to stand up for what they believe in– with honesty, courage, and undeniable passion.
Primo Danger by Jolea Bradshaw
“Waiting”, Primo Danger’s most recent single, is a call to action towards the movement to end gun violence. The song’s high-energy sound contrasts drastically with the heavy message, urging for a change.
Kalypso by Jolea Bradshaw
Kalypso’s latest release, “Proton,” is the official single for their upcoming LP Lost Dogs, which is set to release on November 14th. The song originated as “Proton Accelerator”, a riff jokingly dubbed by Matt Frandsen while messing with the rest of the band during one rehearsal. As the song evolved, the band started referring to the song as “Proton”, and after several live performances, they felt the title was inseparable from the track’s identity.
Sam Caseras (drums, vocals) comes in with soft vocals 30 seconds into the song, as Matt’s guitar and Jesse Gonzales’ bass slowly layer in, building an anticipation for the chorus. In just under three minutes, “Proton” wraps you in a captivating haze, an intoxicating experience I’ve found myself returning to time and time again since first hearing it months ago.
Phantomelo by Jolea Bradshaw
Phantamelo’s newest release, “You’re So Clever", is an indie pop-rock anthem dedicated to everyone who thought they had the final word. It’s a lively, danceable track with tongue-in-cheek lyrics such as “You’re so clever over my head /You’re so special over my head / You’re so clever it’s insane / You’re so empty over my head”.
“Welcome to The Void” is Flight by Nothing’s newest single, recently released this past Halloween. The groovy Indie rock song, anchored by an electrifying bridge that puts Pacco’s guitar skills center stage, delivers a burst of brilliance in just under three minutes.
Keep your eyes peeled for more coverage on releases in the future. In the meantime, I urge you to listen to the tracks featured in this article and to support your local scene! Show up for your local creatives, go to shows, and continue to build our community!