PLAYLIST // THIS MONTH [JANUARY 2017]
Californian alternative band Bad Suns are finally starting to pick up more attention since the release of their sophomore album, Disappear Here, in September 2016. Bad Suns have always been innovators in this genre, starting right from their debut album, Language & Perspective. "Matthew James" is the opening track on this album, and in my opinion, one of their best. This underrated gem is the perfect way to fall in love all over again with this band's uniquely incredible rhythm section, powerful vocals and lyrics, and unforgettable guitar lines.
"1234" by Colony House
Colony House started off 2017 in a big way with the release of their second album, Only The Lonely. The band is back with their unique brand of guitar-driven indie rock, and their uplifting, motivational lyrics. "1234" is one of my favourites on the album, because it's instrumentally incredible, but also the lyrics are just so relevant at this time of year. Not only is it the start of a new year, but we could also use "More of joy and less of sadness / More of love and less of madness" in this current political situation. Songs like this remind us that at the end of it all, love is all that matters.
Believe the growing hype about this British indie rock band. Their absolutely huge debut album, Youth is Only Ever Fun in Retrospect, came out at the beginning of January, fostering one of the most exciting sounds you'll hear. "Vivienne" is a single that they've had out for a while now, and it's been stuck in my head for over a year now. It's a song that will never fail to immediately improve your mood, making you want to sing your lungs out and dance around your bedroom.
"Aquaman" by WALK THE MOON
Ever since the start of the new school year in September, I've been re-listening to this band's 2014 album, TALKING IS HARD, and found it to be very motivational. "Aquaman" has been a constant favourite, with lyrics like "You gotta risk your neck / But know in your heart it will be worth it" and "I guess we could breathe all along" brought to life by Nick Petricca's leaping vocals. The song is lyrically perfect for keeping you going through the new year, while the slower tempo peaks interest, and the key change makes you feel alive.
"Brooklyn" by Fickle Friends
I stumbled upon this British band on Spotify a while ago, and recently, I can't stop listening to them. Lead vocalist Natassja Shiner has a voice that's so full of passion that you just can't help but become obsessed. "Brooklyn" is the most recent release of the up-and-coming indie pop-rock band, and with infectious guitar riffs, bright synth, and solid percussion, it's sure to become your newest favourite jam.
"Credit Card Baby" by Wham!
Ever since I was fairly young, I always loved listening to George Michael. He was always ahead of his time, with music that's unbelievably unique, an absolute staple for lovers of any genre. So many alternative artists of today are drawing inspiration from the 80's and 90's, so why not go where back to where it all began? "Credit Card Baby" hosts such a classic 80's pop sound, and is one of my ultimate Wham! favourites. George Michael will continue to inspire for many years to come. He is dearly missed.
"What's It Gonna Be?" by Shura
I discovered British alt-pop artist Shura by coming across the music video for "What's It Gonna Be?" on Youtube about a month ago. Driven by silky smooth vocals and irresistible synths, the song expresses the feelings of having a crush. In her music video, Shura has taken an LGBT spin on this storyline, where archetypal 80's teen movie-type characters end up falling in love with their best friends. Videos like Shura's are so important for LGBT representation in media and for helping everyone celebrate love no matter their sexuality. "What's It Gonna Be?" is a must-watch and listen.
"Know the Feeling" by HalfNoise
HalfNoise is an artist I discovered on Spotify a while ago. An indie rock project founded by former member of Paramore, Zac Farro, HalfNoise has the most mesmerizing, synth-driven sound that's impossible to resist. Single, "Know the Feeling" is one of my favourites on the album, Sudden Feeling, released in September 2016. Steady percussion paired with jumping falsetto over the addictive synths create the perfect electronic-feeling jam.
The first time I heard this song, I could tell that it was going to become one of my all time favourites. As I've written a few times on this blog, From Indian Lakes are a band with such a wide repertoire of genres, and "I Don't Know You" seems to hit the perfect middle ground of an upbeat, yet still soft and acoustic feeling alternative. Frontman Joey Vannucchi's falsetto is completely addictive, while the strong and intricate percussion typical of this band is a constant. This song is a must for making you feel at peace during this cold and bleak time of year.
Young the Giant's debut self-titled album came out in 2010, but I've been listening to it a lot recently. "Apartment" has always been one of my favourite songs of theirs, and lately, I can't stop listening to it. Driven by lead vocalist Sameer Gadhia's compelling vocals, strong bass, and intriguing guitar lines, the song is one that never fails to make me feel alive. It's the type of song to blast with the windows down, yelling the lyrics with your friends. If you haven't yet had a chance to check out this popular alt band, be sure to listen to "Apartment" first.
If you liked any of the songs you heard in this post, be sure to follow the January Spotify playlist here.
If you liked any of the songs you heard in this post, be sure to follow the January Spotify playlist here.
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