I could write a rambling essay on the kinds of imagery that Makeup and Vanity Set music typically conjures in my mind. Suffice to say, it’s usually extremely dark and would augment the best nightmare. 

That being said, the most recent release is… different. It’s still dark and creepy feeling but, overall, it feels like a conscious effort to create a less oppressive vibe. Maybe this is because the album serves as a soundtrack to an indie game of the same name and is intentionally paying homage to the likes of Myst or Zork, 80′s exploratory games. Or maybe we’re seeing ole MAVS branch into some new aural territories. I’m enjoying the ride and look forward to what new sounds may lie ahead.

The contemplative and laid back HARI continue their tease of a slow trickle release with another song from their forthcoming EP (due this Oct). “Canyons” continues the vibe of “Days in the Sun” – contemplative, relaxed and plenty of nuanced guitar work.

This initial offering from Saunas is hypnotic, ethereal pop. They call themselves “Soul Wave Music” but that’s underplaying their tropical vibe meets Animal Collective trance. 

Loving this debut single from Yon Ort, aka ex-Wild Cub keyboardist Eric Wilson. It’s a laid back groove of psychedelic vocals pondering the Lack of Self. Heady material for a pop song but it works. Looking forward to the forthcoming EP.

Following up on their first release into the world, Hate You Now, And The Boys have released two additional songs to flesh out what to expect from them. Where “Hate you Now” was a scorching pop-rock song, “21st Century Pharaoh” has a bit more of a southern lean to it and “$1000 Bill” is a straightahead ballad.

Whatever these guys have got up their sleeves, it’s diverse and worth a listen. Oh, and their graphic design is on LOCK. Loving the single cover designs.

The new Tape Space “Single” is not a whole lot of actual NEW music, clocking in under 3 minutes, but given that  I’m still obsessively listening to the Power Up EP from back in June, any newness is a welcome treat. 

I’ve come to expect a new song or two from Bravemaker every 3 months, so it was unsettling to see a five-month gap between releases! Fortunately, the new song continues the trend of pumping a pop song through a perfectly balanced DIY bedroom production sound with just enough flair to keep it interesting. The crunchy vocals and ominous bassline are perfectly alluring.