HHL – Collected Works 2013

Some might argue that this is just noise but that’s exactly the point. There’s something oddly enjoyable about a complete audible onslaught. While I have a hard time actually listening to this sort of thing, I appreciate that it exists and it’s coming out of Nashville. 

Repeat Repeat – “History”

Remember Repeat Repeat’s first track “12345678” with it’s highly infectious melody infused with surf rock sounds? Yea, well, they did it again with “History.” Mic, dropped.

D. Striker – “Country Dance Off”

Speaking of D. Striker and the RR Party.. here’s his latest single. It’s everything you’d want and expect from a D. Striker song – an engaging tale, a bit of self degradation and a healthy amount of slide guitar.

It’s Friday the 13th – which means it’s time for a RR Party. Get yourself to The 5 Spot tonight for Chris Crofton, Ole Mossy Face, Tue Mommies and D. Striker himself. If you’ve never attended said event, do yourself a favor and do it tonight.

Mystery Twins - Ghost in the Ground due November 5th.

MantraMantraMantra – Before You Came / After You’re Gone

The new EP from MantraMantraMantra is an enjoyable romp. It’s psychedelic, it’s catchy, it’s accessible but still weird. Oh, and it has various samples interjected throughout from “Freaks and Geeks” – so you know it’s coming from a good place. 

Tommy & The Ohs – “Living in the Swamp”

There is a lot to love about this Tommy and The Ohs track. It features gorgeous Jim McGuire photography for the cover art, it was recorded direct to 2" tape at RCA Studio C and, best of all, the songs are damn good.

You know what’s NOT great about it? A $9 pricetag for three digital files. I can forgive the $20 sticker price for a direct-to-acetate 7" – that’s a collector’s item – but I’m really shocked about the digital price. Maybe even offended? 

Despite that, it really is enjoyable to listen to.

What Up English – …Play The Hits

It may be a little early for a band like What Up English to be releasing a Best Of or Rarities compilation but they’re cleaning house in preparation for a bunch of new recordings coming soon, so why not? Also, it acts as a great sampler introduction to the band.Â